ADVANCES IN THE SELECTION OF BIOFORTIFIED PURPLE-FLESHED SWEET POTATO GENOTYPES: HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND TOLERANCE TO ABIOTIC STRESSES

• Grant number: 24/21951-8
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Crop Science
• Principal Investigator: André Ricardo Zeist
• Grantee: André Ricardo Zeist
• Host Institution: Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Ricardo Alfredo Kluge ; Simone da Costa Mello ; Vagner Augusto Benedito

Abstract

This project aims to develop biofortified cultivars of purple-fleshed sweet potato, with high anthocyanin content, elevated productivity, superior visual quality, and adaptability to different cultivation systems, along with tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as water deficit and high temperatures. The focus is on advancing the selection of previously identified promising genotypes from an experimental screening currently underway. Building on this screening, the work will proceed in three main stages. In Stage I, between 35 and 50 purple-fleshed sweet potato genotypes will be evaluated in a field trial using an alpha-lattice experimental design with two replications. The most promising genotypes will be selected based on selection indices that integrate agronomic and qualitative traits. In Stage II, these genotypes will undergo more detailed evaluations across different environments and cultivation seasons, allowing for the identification of genotypes with high productivity and root quality, even under varying management (conventional and organic) and climatic conditions. Physico-chemical characteristics of the roots will also be explored, aiming to develop cultivars with added value. Finally, Stage III will focus on evaluating the genotypes' tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as water deficit and high temperatures, through physiological and growth analyses conducted under controlled conditions. The project expects to develop biofortified sweet potato cultivars with high anthocyanin content, high productivity, and visual quality, as well as enhanced tolerance to adverse conditions. These cultivars could contribute to more sustainable agricultural production and help combat malnutrition, meeting the growing demand for functional foods both in Brazil and in the international market. (AU)