The Synergy of Genomic Selection and Speed Breeding in Stress-Tolerant Crop Innovation

Abstract

Climate change has intensified the urgency to develop crop varieties that can withstand abiotic stresses such as drought and heat. This study investigates the combined application of Genomic Selection (GS) and Speed Breeding (SB) as a strategy to accelerate the development of climate-resilient crop varieties. The objective is to evaluate how the integration of GS and SB improves genetic gain, breeding efficiency, and stress adaptation. Using a dataset comprising multi-environment environmental parameters and genotypic performance, the methodology involves calculating Genomic Estimated Breeding Values (GEBVs) under normal, drought, and heat stress conditions. Speed breeding protocols are employed to reduce the generational interval by optimizing environmental conditions. Environmental calibration is incorporated into the genomic prediction models to improve the accuracy of trait selection across variable climates. The results demonstrate that the GS + SB framework significantly enhances yield stability and breeding efficiency. Genotype G02 outperformed others across stress conditions, and average yield improvements of 30% were observed. Integration of environmental data increased the predictive power of genomic models, enabling precise selection even under high variability in rainfall and temperature. In addition, breeding cycle durations were reduced from 8–10 years to 3–5 years. The study concludes that combining GS and SB provides a scalable and efficient solution for developing climate-resilient crops. This approach offers considerable potential for adoption in developing countries, provided that investments in infrastructure and capacity building are made. The findings advocate for broader implementation of this integrative breeding framework to ensure sustainable food production under climate uncertainty.