Research project Future proof crops for the Flemish farmer

General introduction

A specialized and state-of-the-art phenotyping plant for field research under drought-controlled conditions has been built and is now operational on ILVO premises, thanks to the FUTUREADAPT project. This installation bears the name HYDRAS.
In essence, HYDRAS makes it possible to develop faster and better crop varieties for agriculture that are more resistant to drought or salinization. Also (better) modeling of the impact of drought on crop yields is now within reach.

Research approach

ILVO is now able to perform phenotyping not only above ground but also underground. This makes the installation unique in Europe. HYDRAS allows understanding of plant responses to drought in a realistic growing environment and at all levels. Through the trials in the HYDRAS environment, the agricultural crops on which ILVO breeds and which benefit from drought-tolerant traits get a much richer "picture" of their above- and belowground response to (artificially administered) drought stress. The result of data collection from HYDRAS is that candidate cultivars (hybrids) are more aptly selected for their drought tolerance. These can be classic existing crops from the Flemish rotations, or innovative crops (such as chickpea and quinoa).

Relevance/Valorization

The new infrastructure is set up as an open-innovation platform. In addition to ILVO's own breeding programs, HYDRAS will also be available to the various other public and private stakeholders.
Intensive knowledge sharing is taking place around HYDRAS. The know-how in (the whole of) Flanders around plant breeding is strengthened. This is good for the agricultural sector and the food supply, which become better armed against the negative climate impact on harvests.