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Dr. Bonny P.W. Soekarno Discusses the Importance of Knowing Seed Quality and Seed-borne Pathogens as Seed Quality Criteria

Dr. Bonny P W Soekarno, IPB University lecturer from the Department of Plant Protection gave an explanation in determining the quality of certified seeds. He emphasized that related to seeds, we had to talk in the long term.

“The selection must be based on the origin, the rank, and the quality of the seed because it determines the next generation of plants. Good seed generation is important to ensure the safety of food sources,” said Dr. Bonny.

This IPB University lecturer said that the quality of seeds and seed-borne pathogens has become a criterion in guaranteeing seed quality. He said seed as an important commodity for international trade has the potential to carry all components including pathogens.

"As one of the main components of plant production facilities, seed is a plant structure used for propagation, is a carrier and a place for plant disease-causing pathogens to survive," said Dr. Bonny.

Thus, he said, must be free from pathogens carried. This is because the distribution can cross natural boundaries. Therefore, Dr Bonny said, the role of quarantine institutions is very crucial both in limiting, supervising, and educating farmers in the selection and use of seeds.

Dr. Bonny also said that the risk of trading in seeds also has implications for subtle changes in biodiversity. "The toughest threat from the international seed trade is the threat of pressure on food security because we do not know that diseases that are detected and not handled are a serious threat to food security," he said in the ProPakTani Webinar organized by the Directorate General of Food Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, (12/11).

Furthermore, Dr. Bonny explained, seeds are a very complex miniature ecosystem. So, it should not be underestimated in the packaging and storage process. The reason is, seeds can be a potential and effective means of spreading disease.

“The damage and loss caused by seed-borne pathogens is very real. For example, it can cause a decrease in seed germination and vigor,” said Dr. Bonny.

Regarding storage, he suggested that it is necessary to pay attention to the water content because Indonesia is a tropical country. Not only that, there is a need for education by seed companions for various estimates in the field. He also mentioned that early identification of infections must also be pursued with the support of human resources and good equipment.

“Efforts need to be made to eliminate seed-borne pathogens since the seeds are produced in the field. We sometimes forget when to avoid the possibility of pathogen infection," he concluded. (MW) (IAAS/IRN) – IPB News

Source: IPB News

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