How breeder seed are produced and distributed to farmers (seed supply system and market) define in details

Answer 1

Breeder seed is the initial level of seed produced from the selected parent plants. It is considered as the purest and most genetically superior type of seed. The production and distribution of breeder seed to farmers involve several stages and actors in the seed supply system and market. Here is a detailed explanation of the process:

1. Initial Breeding: Breeder seed production begins with the selection of the best parent plants with desired traits by plant breeders. These plants undergo controlled cross-pollination or self-pollination to produce seeds.

2. Breeder Seed Production: The selected plants are carefully managed under controlled conditions to prevent contamination from external pollen and assure genetic purity. Techniques like hand-pollination, bagging, isolation, and roguing are employed to maintain genetic integrity. Regular field inspections and quality control measures are implemented throughout the production process.

3. Breeder Seed Multiplication: The breeder seed is initially produced in small quantities, usually in research or breeding stations, certified seed agencies, or specialized production units. After proper testing and quality assurance, the breeder seed is multiplied through multiple generations to increase the seed quantity.

4. Foundation Seed Production: The multiplied breeder seed is sown and monitored in larger fields to produce foundation seed. The fields are intensively managed to maintain genetic purity, control diseases, and minimize contamination risks.

5. Quality Analysis and Certification: The foundation seed undergoes rigorous testing and analysis at certified seed testing laboratories to assess genetic purity, germination rate, moisture content, and freedom from diseases and pests. Once verified, the seed is officially certified and labeled as foundation seed.

6. Certified Seed Production: The certified foundation seed is then distributed to selected seed producers or growers for further multiplication. These seed producers are carefully chosen based on their track record in quality seed production, adherence to standards, and capacity to handle seed crops.

7. Seed Multiplication: The certified foundation seed is grown and multiplied in larger quantities by the seed producers. They follow strict guidelines to maintain genetic purity and quality. Field inspections, crop monitoring, and disease management practices are implemented to ensure high-quality multiplication.

8. Labeling and Packaging: After harvest, the multiplied seed undergoes cleaning, grading, and conditioning steps. It is properly labeled, tagged, and packaged with relevant information such as seed variety, lot number, genetic purity, germination rate, and any treatment applied.

9. Distribution Channels: The certified seed is distributed through various channels in the seed market. These channels include government agencies, private seed companies, cooperatives, farmer groups, and authorized seed dealers. Regional or local seed centers play a vital role in ensuring availability and accessibility of quality seed to farmers.

10. Seed Marketing and Sales: The seed is marketed directly to farmers through promotional campaigns, demonstrations, field days, farmer training programs, or through seed retailers. Information about the seed's superior traits, adaptability, yield potential, and agronomic practices is provided to guide farmers in making informed choices.

11. Farmer Purchasing: Farmers interested in purchasing the seed contact the seed suppliers or authorized dealers. They place orders based on their requirements in terms of seed quantity, variety, and specific traits suited to their agroecological conditions.

12. Seed Delivery: Once the order is placed, the seed is delivered to the farmers either directly or through appointed sales agents, distributors, or delivery networks. The seed is handed over to the farmer along with relevant documentation, such as a seed tag, invoice, and usage instructions.

13. Farmer Feedback and Monitoring: Seed suppliers and market agencies collect feedback from farmers on seed performance, adaptability, and yield. This feedback is crucial in enhancing future breeding and seed production practices.

In summary, the breeder seed production and distribution system involves a series of steps, starting from plant breeding and selection, to multiplication, certification, marketing, and finally reaching the farmers through various channels. Strict quality control measures and adherence to recognized seed standards ensure that farmers have access to reliable and high-quality seed for improved crop production.