Development and Use of Multiple-Pest Resistance to Improve Production Efficiency of Peanut. (UFL 16P)

Approach

The goal of UFL 16P is to improve peanut production efficiency through higher-yielding pest resistant varieties beneficial to Bolivia and the U.S. The approach was to use greenhouse and field experiments of newly introduced genotypes, local crosses and traditional Bolivian peanut varieties, field surveys to determine yield gaps, and level of resistance to diseases, as a basis for recommended interventions.

Achievements

ANAPO released a new variety (Mairana, a white-seeded type) in 2004, a selection from the earlier introduced U.S. genotypes, and seed production is underway for distribution in the Mairana Valley and other zones. Three potential lines (Accession 32, 72, and 75) are being tested in three zones (Mairana, 26 Agustos, and Saavedra) and a new variety could be released from these lines in 2005. A good range of germplasm has been developed through crossing, both in the U.S. and Bolivia, and some derivatives show potential for resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus in the U.S., and Aspergillus flavus (producer of aflatoxin) fungal invasion. A package of improved agronomic practices has been developed by ANAPO researchers to introduce to farmers whose practices are very traditional. These include: 1) planting density, rows closer together and more plants per meter of row, 2) one pre-emergence and one post-emergence herbicide spraying based on weed species and growth intensity, 3) one or two fungicide sprayings based on disease and intensity of inoculum, and 4) zero tillage technology for sustainable peanut production. Prototypes of small-scale machinery for digging, threshing, and sorting peanuts have been developed with support from the Peanut CRSP, and demonstrated to farmers during field days. A National Peanut Program and a Peanut Seed Production Program are in place in Bolivia due to the support of the Peanut CRSP, and the government has recognized ANAPO as the national reference institution for peanut research and development. A consumer’s survey showed a lack of commercial processors; peanut soup preferred by 70% of the respondents is generally produced in the home with traditional recipes; and roasted and salted peanuts are desirable. Most peanuts are consumed in the first six months after harvest. This shows the potential for processing to expand the farm production potential.

Focus

Producer Values