Smart Breeding

Smart Breeding is a method based on the results of genomic research. Smart Breeding is precision breeding: When selecting the plants, the breeders do not rely on outward features (phenotype). Instead, the genetics are analysed in detail (genomic research) in order to either select suitable partners for crossing or offspring featuring the desirable traits. For this, plant breeders use molecular diagnostic tools - the so-called molecular markers. In contrast to Genetic Engineering, Smart Breeding does not introduce any new genes into the genome. The resulting organisms are not transgenic.

Smart Breeding enables the detection of desired performance features irrespective of environmental influences. The analysis of the trait in question is a quick and easily automated process allowing a high throughput. Moreover, the existence of a trait can be analysed in earlier generations and in earlier development states (germ bud). Traditional methods can only decide upon resistance by carrying out infection trials in breeding nurseries or laboratories and by analysing yield and quality of the harvested crop. Genomic research can supplant such time- and cost-intensive laboratory or field tests and can speed up the selection process. All in all, breeding results have become much more predictable.