Drought-tolerant maize

Definition

Drought-tolerant maize refers to genetically modified or selectively bred varieties of maize (corn) that can withstand periods of water scarcity, allowing for better crop yields in dry conditions. This type of maize plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and adapting to climate change, as it helps farmers maintain food security in areas prone to drought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drought-tolerant maize is developed through traditional breeding techniques or modern biotechnology, focusing on traits that enable the plant to use water more efficiently.
2. This maize variety can significantly increase yields in arid and semi-arid regions, which are increasingly affected by climate change.
3. Farmers adopting drought-tolerant maize can reduce their reliance on irrigation and mitigate the economic impacts of droughts.
4. The development of drought-tolerant maize has been supported by international organizations, aiming to improve resilience among vulnerable farming communities.
5. In addition to conserving water, drought-tolerant maize can help enhance soil health and reduce the need for chemical inputs.

Review Questions

• How does drought-tolerant maize contribute to agricultural productivity in regions experiencing water scarcity?
  • Drought-tolerant maize improves agricultural productivity by enabling farmers to cultivate crops even during periods of limited water availability. By enhancing the plant's ability to withstand drought conditions, it helps ensure more consistent yields in areas that may otherwise suffer significant losses. This adaptability allows farmers to maintain food production, which is crucial for local economies and food security.
• Discuss the impact of genetic engineering on the development of drought-tolerant maize and its potential benefits for farmers.
  • Genetic engineering has played a pivotal role in the development of drought-tolerant maize by allowing scientists to introduce specific traits that enhance water efficiency and stress tolerance. The benefits for farmers include increased crop resilience during droughts, potentially leading to higher yields and reduced crop failure rates. Furthermore, this technology can empower farmers in vulnerable regions to improve their livelihoods by minimizing the adverse effects of climate change.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of adopting drought-tolerant maize on global food security amidst climate change challenges.
  • Adopting drought-tolerant maize could have significant long-term implications for global food security as climate change increasingly threatens agricultural systems. By improving crop resilience and reducing dependence on irrigation, this technology can help stabilize food production in vulnerable regions. This stability is essential for maintaining food access and preventing hunger as changing weather patterns may lead to more frequent and severe droughts, ultimately supporting sustainable development goals related to poverty alleviation and hunger reduction.

Related terms

Genetic Engineering: The process of altering the genetic makeup of an organism, often to improve traits such as disease resistance or drought tolerance.

Agroecology: A holistic approach to agriculture that integrates ecological principles into farming practices, emphasizing sustainability and resilience.

Food Security: The condition in which all people have consistent access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for an active and healthy life.