The University of Alberta (U of A) has partnered with Bayer Crop Science Canada to research the genetic diversity of canola, Canada’s most exported crop. The goal is to create stronger hybrid canola, leading to increased yields for Canadian farmers. Antoine Bernet, President and CEO of Bayer Crop Science Canada believes that there is a prosperous future for canola in Canada.
To achieve this, the research team at U of A is currently studying the genes of brassica vegetables like broccoli and kale to identify the best ones for breeding new canola lines. These vegetables are closely related to canola and offer a wide range of genetic diversity for canola development. By determining which genes and backgrounds result in the highest yields, the team hopes to enhance canola production.
Canada is the leading producer of canola, and with demand expected to rise significantly in the next decade, supporting research to strengthen this crop is crucial. Though developing these hybrids will take time, Antoine is optimistic about the team at U of A’s work to improve the genetic diversity of canola in Canada. Once developed and proven effective, the new genetic material and research knowledge will support Bayer Crop Science’s long-term efforts to create new commercial hybrids that could be a game changer for farmers.
