MAIZE BREEDING FOR ENHANCED ADAPTABILITY TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN EUROPE

Based on a structured statistical assessment of the implementation outcomes of European Union maize breeding programs, particularly regarding their efforts to enhance the adaptive potential of modern maize genotypes, a set of generalizations and conclusions on the effectiveness of these programs has been formulated. The network of national institutions and genetic-breeding centers across Europe has been analyzed and characterized. These institutions focus on targeted maize breeding using local landraces or base populations, applying mono- or multi-trait selection for resistance to key stress factors that significantly limit the yield potential of Europe’s high-intensity maize hybrids. The content of breeding programs from leading European seed companies –such as KWS, Limagrain, Syngenta, Corteva Agriscience, MAS Seeds, and Euralis (Lidea brand) – has been summarized and reviewed. These programs were specifically assessed regarding the incorporation of current and projected climate change impacts across Europe, with attention to scaling these strategies to other regions. Key traits emphasized included drought and cold tolerance, heat and osmotic stress resistance, and comprehensive tolerance to the most damaging diseases and pests. Over a 45-year evaluation period, the incremental improvements in resistance traits of developed maize hybrids were systematized, focusing on their responses to climatic variability during the growing season, soil fertility requirements, lodging resistance, and resistance to phytophagous pests and phytopathogens. This analysis considered the close relationship between the intensity of stress factors affecting plant growth and development, the realization of bioproductivity, and the dynamics of regional climatic regimes (temperature, water availability, etc.). As a final outcome, the most successful European-bred genotypes in terms of climatic adaptability and abiotic stress resistance were identified. These genotypes have gained recognition both in Europe and globally and are also suitable for cultivation in Ukraine.