The Genetics, Plant Breeding and Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory has always been the pride of the research division and the spearhead of research in Buzau. Starting from nothing, alongside the other laboratories, its work began with the inventorying and use of local vegetable landraces, from which the first varieties were obtained. It takes pride in achievements of national significance, among them the onion varieties for direct sowing – „Aurie de Buzau” and „Diamant” – and the first tomato hybridisation seed plots in Romania (10xBizon).
The varieties developed here are distinguished by a stable genetic constitution, which gives them lasting durability. Varieties created 30-40 years ago have thus retained their identity unaltered and continue to be valued by growers. The laboratory now holds a solid genetic base of germplasm for most vegetable species and has obtained more than 50 registrations, bringing the institution the largest number of certificates of registration and patents of invention.
The objectives of the laboratory are:
The development of superior vegetable varieties and hybrids adapted to climate change through genetic improvement. This objective involves the selection and crossing of plants in order to obtain characteristics such as resistance to diseases and pests, tolerance of adverse environmental conditions, high yield, improved nutritional quality and attractive organoleptic properties.
The conservation of traditional vegetable varieties and cultivars as valuable genetic resources, through the collection, characterisation and storage of seed or genetic material under optimum conditions.
The study of the genetic and ecological diversity of vegetables, with the aim of gaining a better understanding of the genetic characteristics of populations, the interactions between plants and the environment, the evolution of vegetable species and the identification of their specific traits.
Public education and awareness-raising regarding the importance of vegetable biodiversity and its role in nutrition and health.
Research topics include:
- Specific activities relating to the breeding and development of new varieties;
- Testing of promising varieties in order to assess their potential;
- Phenotyping of the lines held in the germplasm collections;
- Screening for tolerance of biotic and abiotic stress factors in vegetable crops;
- Determination of fruit quality for the main vegetables, by means of physico-chemical analyses;
- Development of new methods of physico-chemical analysis;
- Maintenance breeding of the varieties and hybrids in the portfolio of the Vegetable Research and Development Station Buzau;
- Preparation of scientific papers and dissemination of the results at national and international symposia and congresses, as well as through specialist publications.