SIPAG FIESTA will showcase the best of technologies from the country’s research and development institutions on agri-aqua concerns. The technologies would include; carrageenan plant growth regulator (CPGR); Coconut somatic embryogenesis; Swione genomics, Shrimp biofloc technology, Smarter agrigulture, Improved Lakatan varieties resistant to Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) and Cavendish resistant to Fusarium Wilt, Rice Mechanization and Asexual reproduction of corals for transplantation.
CPGR, which is extracted from seaweeds using gamma radiation, when applied at low concentrations in rice, enhances its yield by 15–30% in multi-location trials conducted in Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Laguna, and Iloilo.
Coconut somatic embryogenesis or CSet, allows the mass production of more pest and disease-resistant coconuts of superior quality from one to 1,000 plantlets per plumule by using explants from high yielding tall and dwarf coconut varieties.
Swine genomics has increased pigs produced per sow per year by 4.6 piglets, which is equivalent to an additional 460 kilograms of hog liveweight or a 25―30% increase in pork production without increasing the breeder pig population. This was made possible by the development of sixteen gene marker protocols associated to high litter size, fast growth rate, meat qualities, and screening of genetic defects and disease resistance.
Smarter Agriculture technology provides farmers and decision makers with a decision support system in dealing with the effects of climate change in the agricultural sector using advances in S&T. As of 2015, the program has already produced outputs in terms of technologies, systems, data products, and networks or linkages.
Lastly, shrimp biofloc technology reduces shrimp’s reliance on protein from feeds; improves shrimp’s nutrition as the technology enhances feed conversion ratio, resulting in larger shrimps; and enhances shrimp’s immune system. The technology uses a microbial mat composed of aggregates of bacteria, algae, protozoa, detritus, and dead organic particles that help control the natural microbial activity in aquaculture ponds.
“We at DOST value media’s huge help in disseminating these technologies. Surely, you have always been instrumental in relaying the good news. More importantly, we continue to enrol your assistance in changing mind sets and in creating a culture of science in the larger sectors of society,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo in his message read by Assistant Secretary Raymund E. Liboro.
Source: DOST-PCAARRD
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