Syngenta, a prominent agricultural company, is on the brink of revolutionizing the farming industry with the launch of its latest trait technology under the Hyvido Neo branding. The company’s longstanding Hyvido hybrid barley technology has paved the way for the development of SY Kestrel, the first variety to showcase the groundbreaking Hyvido Neo traits in the UK.
Looking ahead, Syngenta aims to enhance crop resilience and performance by harnessing the potential of Hyvido Neo. This innovative technology, which has evolved over two decades, is designed to enable crops to effectively utilize nutrients and water, while also providing robust protection against environmental stressors such as drought and temperature extremes.
Ben Urquhart, a representative from Syngenta, emphasized the significant strides that the Hyvido Neo traits will bring to the table. Beyond the traditional benefits associated with Hyvido varieties, the new traits are expected to elevate agronomic performance, including improved specific weight, superior grass weed suppression, and the versatility to cater to both grain and wholecrop production.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of SY Kestrel is its pioneering viral resistance capabilities, which set it apart from its predecessors. This variety offers comprehensive protection against major Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV) serotypes MAV, PAV, and RPV, as well as Wheat Dwarf Virus (WDV) tolerance for good measure. Unlike traditional tolerant varieties, SY Kestrel’s resistance significantly reduces the risk of infection and minimizes viral replication, even under high-pressure conditions.
According to Ben Urquhart, the distinct advantage of viral resistance lies in its ability to maintain crop vigor and greenness in the face of substantial infection pressure, as evidenced in Syngenta’s breeding trials in Germany. In addition, extensive ELISA testing has confirmed minimal viral DNA in SY Kestrel, further validating its resistance capabilities.
Furthermore, the transition from tolerance to resistance is expected to offer growers enhanced flexibility in their farming practices. By upgrading their genetics to incorporate resistant varieties like SY Kestrel, farmers can expand their options for Sustainable Farming Initiative (SFI) strategies, such as CIPM4, which has the potential to yield significant financial returns.
Syngenta’s commitment to innovation and sustainability underscores the profound impact of the Hyvido Neo technology, as exemplified by the remarkable SY Kestrel variety. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the introduction of advanced trait technologies holds tremendous promise for driving productivity, resilience, and profitability in the farming sector.