Recent Advancements in Breeding and Genomics of Minor Grass Species

As the global population continues to grow and become wealthier, the demand for dairy products, such as milk and meat, is expected to rise significantly. Meeting this demand requires not only the expansion of production but also a shift toward more sustainable agricultural practices. Minor grass species, with their potential to serve as diverse and resilient forage options, are increasingly recognized as critical to this effort. However, traditional breeding methods have been insufficient in optimizing these species for large-scale production due to their inherent complexities. In tropical regions, where pasture lands play a vital role in sustaining high levels of animal output, there is an urgent need to improve the breeding and genomic strategies applied to these minor grass species. Over the last few decades, conventional breeding programs have released well-developed cultivars, but the genetic gains achieved have not kept pace with the growing global demand. The challenges in breeding these species such as poor seed set, apomixis, photoperiod sensitivity, and thermal sensitivity make the design and implementation of effective breeding programs particularly difficult. This chapter investigates the recent advancements in the breeding and genomics of minor grass species, emphasizing the necessity of these innovations. It explores the latest developments in germplasm accumulation and utilization, as well as the significant achievements made possible through genetic and biotechnological research. These advancements hold the potential to overcome the limitations of conventional breeding, paving the way for the development of more resilient and productive forage species that can thrive in tropical environments.