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The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is currently bio-engineering orchids to produce varieties with unique colors such as deep red and dark blue. According to the New Strait Times (Malaysia), as cited by the Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology, this research is currently being undertaken by the research center to meet the growing demand for orchids. In Malaysia, orchid exports presently bring in about RM150 million a year.
To create such varieties, scientists transfer genetic material or genes into single orchid cells. This technology allows them to develop hybrids with novel characteristics such as vivid colors, which are impossible to create using conventional methods such as pollination. Mardi is also doing research on extending the flowers' shelf life and improving their shape and structure and resistance to diseases.
Says Dr Umi Kalsom Abu Bakar, deputy director of MARDI's biotechnology center, "once these (flowers) have bloomed, we will be able to analyze them to know how colors are formed in orchids and where we need to genetically enhance them to get the desired colors. This will add value to the orchids. Farmers can generate more income while consumers will have more variety and better quality hybrids.?
The news story is found at http://pewagbiotech.org/newsroom/summaries/display.php3?NewsID=687. More news from the New Strait Times (Malaysia) at http://www.nst.com.my/.
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Achievement & Technology
