Iran commercializes hybrid seeds of cantaloupe, melon
Iran on Monday introduced a new hybrid variety of cantaloupe and melon seeds developed by the Faculties of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Tehran University that have now been made available for commercial use.
During the unveiling ceremony, Forouzandeh Soltani, a key member of the project, highlighted the various benefits of the product derived from these hybrid seeds which include superior flesh quality, resistance to certain diseases, being high-yield, extended shelf life, and tolerance of low temperatures, ISNA reported.
Soltani further explained that the project was initiated after consulting with farmers and addressing their concerns.
“Experts recognized the need to genetically modify and enhance certain valuable resources. Consequently, the Horticulture Department at Tehran University embarked on this endeavor and successfully executed the project.”
She added that in order to accomplish the goal, the research team drew upon the expertise of two renowned research institutes in Spain and Germany.
The new hybrid seeds have progressed to the commercialization phase and they will be mass produced in the near future.
Ensuring food security
During the same event, President of Tehran University Mohammad Moqimi emphasized the significance of producing hybrid seeds tailored to the country’s climatic conditions.
He asserted that such production not only ensures food security but also enhances agricultural productivity, according to IRNA.
Moqimi added that research projects of this nature require substantial time and comprehensive support and called for permanent programs and mechanisms to be established to facilitate the success of such projects.
He acknowledged that in comparison to global advances in agriculture, there is still much work to be done in Iran.
“The role of agriculture in contributing to the GDP, promoting business development, and achieving self-sufficiency in terms of agricultural products has not met expectations,” Moqimi said.
Furthermore, he highlighted the country’s favorable conditions, such as its four-season climate, and the presence of academic experts specializing in agricultural productivity. Despite these advantages, agricultural productivity remains at an unsatisfactory level, and food security has not been adequately ensured.