Jianquan Li

Hier Rice Research Center, Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 4   
Received: 06 Jul., 2024    Accepted: 13 Aug., 2024    Published: 21 Aug., 2024

Cotton is a vital global crop with significant economic importance, but its production is severely challenged by various biotic stresses, including pathogens, pests, and emerging threats linked to climate change. This study presents a comprehensive meta-analysis of cotton germplasm to evaluate its potential for enhancing resistance against biotic stress factors. Key biotic stressors such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and insect pests are examined, alongside the genetic resources available for resistance breeding, including the utilization of wild relatives and diverse germplasm. A focused case study on Fusarium wilt highlights the identification and deployment of resistant varieties, emphasizing the progress and obstacles in resistance breeding. Advances in genomic tools, such as molecular markers, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and CRISPR technology, are discussed for their role in resistance trait discovery and integration. A detailed analysis of germplasm studies reveals trends in resistance trait distribution and their implications for breeding programs. The findings underscore the critical role of germplasm in sustainable cotton production and provide strategic recommendations for future research and industry collaboration. This study aims to support the development of robust breeding strategies to mitigate biotic stresses and secure cotton production in the face of evolving agricultural challenges.

Cotton germplasm; Biotic stress resistance; Fusarium wilt; Genomic tools; Sustainable breeding