This study has highlighted the significance of investigating genetic diversity in Catharanthus roseus by exploring how genetic variations influence the evolution of trait like petal color and pattern. Understanding this genetic diversity is crucial for improving plant breeding, and conservation. The research addresses the challenge of identifying meaningful genetic markers that can distinguish among cultivars and help map their evolutionary relationships. This work contributes to the broader goal of advancing our understanding of plant evolution within the Apocynaceae family.

This article belongs to the collection: Plant breeding- and genetics-based tools for food security under changing climate.

Revised strategies are required to sustainably control blackleg disease of canola (Brassica napus) with earlier sowing and flowering times, and conservation of stubble. Stubble orientation did not affect blackleg disease severity, but crown canker severity was lower in early sown canola whilst upper canopy infection was more severe in early flowering canola. Persistence of large blackleg populations on retained stubble increases the likelihood of pathogen adaptation to genetic resistance and fungicides, the pillars of blackleg control in modern farming systems.

Optimising nitrogen use efficiency in cotton is critical for improving environmental sustainability. Modifying nitrogen fertiliser application date to align with crop demand improved fertiliser efficiency by 10%. The improvement in fertiliser efficiency, and, importantly, reduction in losses benefits the environment and producers, resulting in a more sustainable future for the industry.