XVI International Lupin Conference 2023, Rostock — Session 4: Genetic Improvement
This conference talk presents FiBL’s organic pre-breeding programme for white lupin (Lupinus albus L.) in Switzerland, started in 2014 and carried out in collaboration with the organic breeding organisation gzpk. The programme’s primary aim is to develop anthracnose-resistant breeding material suitable for organic, regional production. Key breeding goals include integrating diverse sources of anthracnose resistance, increasing earliness (reduced daylength sensitivity) to avoid late-season threats, and producing lines with stable low quinolizidine alkaloid content for safe human consumption. Methods described include the evaluation of global genetic resources using field and controlled screening protocols, pedigree selection, and development of composite cross populations under certified organic conditions. The initiative is embedded in a broader ‘seed to plate’ strategy to rebuild a domestic grain legume value chain in Switzerland. The research is funded by DIVINFOOD (EU), LiveSeeding (EU, SERI, UKRI) and LUPINNO SUISSE (FOAG).
Key topics: white lupin, organic breeding, anthracnose resistance, low alkaloid, pedigree selection, composite cross population, regional protein crops
