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variance under multiple environments should be selected
for MAS programmes.
• Optimisation of methods used in MAS such as DNA
extraction and marker genotyping, especially in terms of
cost reduction and efficiency.
• Efficient system for data storage, and more efficient
computer simulation programmes may be developed
to maximise genetic gain and minimise costs (Kuchel
et al. 2005).
17. 5
Conclusions
For a long time, plant breeders have played an important role
in the crop improvement programmes for generating new
improved varieties. It seems clear that the current breeding pro-
grammes continue to make progress through commonly used
breeding approaches. MAS could greatly assist plant breeders
in reaching this goal although, to date, the impact on variety
development has been minimal. For an effective use of MAS
techniques for varietal improvement, there should be a greater
integration and cooperation between the breeders and molecu-
lar biotechnologists to bridge the gap that exists presently as
a barrier in the development of new improved varieties. The
exploitation of the advantages of MAS relative to conventional
breeding could have a great impact on crop improvement. The
high cost of MAS will continue to be a major obstacle in its
adoption for some crop species and plant breeding in develop-
ing countries in the near future. Specific MAS strategies may
need to be tailored to some crops where the breeding is dif-
ficult and it should also be cost-effective. New marker technol-
ogy can potentially reduce the cost of MAS considerably. If the
effectiveness of the new methods are validated and the equip-
ment can be easily obtained, this should allow MAS to become
more widely applicable for crop breeding programmes.
References
Baird, V. 1995. Progress in Prunus mapping and application of
molecular markers to germplasm improvement.
HortScience
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30(4), 748-749.
Baird, V., Abbott, A., Ballard, R., Sosinski, B., and
Rajapakse, S. 1997. DNA diagnostics in horticulture. In:
P. Gresshoff (Ed.),
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