The rice mite-fungi-bacteria complex in Central America

Executive Summary

Despite its social and nutritional importance and research and development efforts, rice in Central America shows low productivity and can hardly compete with yields achieved in the Southern Cone or North America. If we add phytosanitary threats to the above, the situation becomes more difficult. 

In this framework, the mite-fungus-bacteria (CAHB) complex became a threat to the sustainable production of rice in the region. It was first reported in Cuba (1997) where yield losses reached 80%; and later in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and later in the Central American region, where losses reached 60%. In response to this challenge, a research consortium formed by CIAT (Colombia); the National Rice Corporation (CONARROZ) and Semilla Nuevo Milenio (SENUMISA) (both from Costa Rica), INTA (Nicaragua), and IDIAP (Panama); who agreed on the project “Development of Technologies for the Control of the New Acaro-Fungus-Bacteria Pest Complex Present in Central America and Colombia”. This initiative has contributed to the sustainable production of rice, by increasing yields and quality, reducing production costs, slowing down environmental degradation caused by excessive use of pesticides, and at the same time favoring the profitability and competitiveness of the crop.  

The technological solution

The technological solution consisted of a combination of elements enhanced by collaboration between members of the consortium and a constant exchange of experiences and knowledge. The first element materialized from basic laboratory research to diagnose the CAHB mite and bacteria by conventional and molecular methods. This standardized knowledge was shared with all members of the consortium. 

 The second element facilitated the evaluation and validation of new genetic materials with the potential to show tolerance to the complex or its components. Several of these were registered and released by national programs 

 The third element based mainly on applied research elucidated strategies and protocols (fertility, planting times and other cultural practices) to minimize the harmful effects of CAHB and the last element, to complement the previous ones, promoted the training and dissemination of the knowledge generated. 

Results

Beneficiaries

The technology diffusion component was a central theme of the project. Three regional exchange workshops between specialists were organized as well as field days, seminars and participation in scientific conferences. 

The publication of educational materials for producers and technicians was significant. Some subjects allowed the development of undergraduate thesis and one at the doctoral level. Capacity building to conduct standardized conventional and molecular analyzes of B. glumae allowed technicians and specialists to gain new insights. In the case of extension workers, it was possible to train 174 in theoretical courses and 143 in field practices. 

Sustainable Development Goals

Main donors