Embrapa’s Capsicum Breeding Program—Looking back … into the Future

Abstract

Embrapa’s Capsicum program is considered to be the largest public investment in hot pepper breeding in Brazil. The germplasm bank and associated bank-enrichment activities have been efficient in providing germplasm with variability, adaptability, yield and characteristics demanded by the breeding program since early 1980s. Moreover, the strategy adopted by the program focuses in the development of specific products demanded by the market (about 80% of the total resources) and an allocation of about 20% of the breeding efforts to explore new, higher risk opportunities. The establishment of agreements with the private sector has also been crucial for the success of the program. In the last years, Embrapa has developed and made available more than ten cultivars of different types and species: BRS Brasilândia, BRS Ema, BRS Sarakura, BRS Garca, BRS Seriema, BRS Moema, BRS Mari, BRS Juruti, BRS Nandaia, BRS Tui, and BRS Acara. Most recent efforts address the development of new, uniform, high yielding and quality, disease resistant habanero (C. chinense), calabrian and jalapeno type (C. annuum) cultivars. Additional program results include the establishment of a Capsicum knowledge e-platform, scientific and technical publications, organization of national events and training of new talents.