landraces

Landraces are locally adapted traditional varieties of domesticated crops that have developed over time through natural and human selection within a specific region. They are typically open-pollinated and genetically diverse, often existing as heterogeneous populations rather than uniform lines.

Unlike modern cultivars, landraces tend to be closely tied to local farming systems and conditions. They may exhibit a broad range of traits, including resilience to local pests and diseases, tolerance to climate extremes, and distinctive nutritional or culinary qualities. This diversity can make landraces more robust under low-input farming and variable environmental conditions.

Farmers maintain landraces through seed saving and regular exchange, selecting the standout individuals from season to season. This ongoing management creates dynamic populations that can gradually shift to meet changing environmental pressures, while preserving a wide genetic reservoir.

Landraces are important sources of genetic diversity for plant breeding. They often carry traits not present in modern varieties, which breeders can introduce to broaden resilience, adaptability, and quality in new cultivars. They also contribute to cultural heritage and food biodiversity, supporting regional cuisines and sustainable farming practices.

Conservation of landraces involves on-farm (in situ) preservation, as well as ex situ strategies such as seed banks and gene banks. Policies and programs that support farmers’ rights and fair access to seeds are commonly linked to the stewardship of landraces. Landraces are found worldwide in crops like maize, wheat, rice, barley, and beans.