The incessant search for innovation: the evolution of biotechnologies in corn

Corn cultivation is present in the most diverse environments in Brazil. Most recent estimates from the National Supply Company (Conab) indicate that the area with the cereal could exceed 20,8 million hectares in 2021/2022, combining the three harvests. In addition to the diversity of environments, corn assumes different roles in cultivation systems - succession or rotation -, being a fundamental component for farmers' profitability.

Productivity is the result of the appropriate choice of germplasm, the use and management of agricultural practices and climatic conditions which, among the three elements, is the only one that the farmer cannot control.

Each corn seed brings with it a set of characteristics selected and developed through the combined use of classical breeding strategies, the use of genomic tools and biotechnology tools, such as transgenics.

Bayer's corn hybrids are evaluated under specific environmental growing conditions that determine the cycle, plant architecture, resistance to lodging/cracking and tolerance to diseases and pests, thus seeking to customize the variety to the challenges that farmers face in their regions. This selection and improvement process is continuous, with updates to the present and future needs of rural producers, always seeking greater productivity, with economic and environmental sustainability.

The development of a new biotechnology - identification and introduction of genes for a new protein for the control of insect pests in germplasm - is a process of high complexity and intense collaboration, involving in the experimentation process a series of regulations and legislation that regulate aspects environmental safety and human health. Due to this complexity and the long time involved (around 10 years), this process is also something that occurs continuously.

Since 2008, Bayer has been working on launching and improving biotechnologies in corn. In the 2020/21 harvest, the company commercially launched the VTPRO4® technology, which guarantees maximum protection against caterpillars - in the cartridge and in the stalk -, greater protection against root pests, protection against damage to the ears and greater efficiency and flexibility in plant control. weeds. All this, combined with elite germplasm, guarantees greater protection against health challenges and productive potential.

We are already working on the next generations of biotechnologies for corn. It is important to remember that this occurs continuously and is not triggered by possible reductions in the efficiency of technologies. The VTPRO3® technology, which precedes the new technology launched, still guarantees adequate levels of control against insect pests and should be considered an important tool in the management of corn crops. To do this, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of insect populations in the area (species and population levels) and available management options (insecticides).

With the continuous launch of technologies, we seek to bring more options to farmers. Thus, according to their specific needs, our customers are able to choose the most suitable ‘germplasm & technology’ set for their crops. To this end, the role of the agronomist, consultant or our market development researchers, who can assist in choosing the hybrid, will always be important.

Our mission in research & development is to ensure that, together with farmers, we can evolve and reach new levels of productivity, even in increasingly challenging environments. The profitability of crops and the sustainability of cultivation systems guide us in this continuous search for innovation.

Pierri Spolti, leads the corn breeding team for Brazil at Bayer Crop Science