Triticale: A “New” Crop with Old Challenges

Abstract

Triticale (X Triticosecale), a Man-made cereal grass crop obtained from hybridization of wheat (Triticum spp) with rye (Secale cereale). The hope was that triticale would combine the high yield potential and good grain quality of wheat, and the resistance/tolerance to the biotic and abiotic stresses of rye. Triticale grains can be used for human food and livestock feed. Since the last century, triticale has received significant attention as a potential energy crop. Today, research is currently being conducted includes the use of this crop biomass in bio-energy production. The aim of a triticale breeding programs mainly focuses on the improvement of economic traits such as grain yield, biomass, nutritional factors, plant height, as well as traits such as early maturity and high grain volume weight. Intense breeding and selection have made very rapid genetic improvements in triticale seed quality. The agronomic advantages and improved end-use properties of the triticale grains over wheat achieved by research and development efforts make triticale an attractive option for increasing global food production particularly, for marginal and stress-prone growing conditions. Details of the different breeding approaches utilized to enhance modern triticale cultivars for various uses are discussed in this chapter.