面对面丨青稞为何要保留延续四千多个品种？解码“西藏粮仓”密码

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the world's largest barley germplasm resource base in Linzhou County, Lhasa, Tibet, is crucial for preserving diverse strains of barley, which are essential for food security and agricultural resilience in the region [2][25]. Group 1: Importance of Barley - Barley, specifically highland barley, is a traditional staple food for the Tibetan people and is vital for food security in Tibet due to its adaptability to extreme high-altitude climates [4]. - The diverse strains of barley serve as a "genetic bank," providing potential resistance to diseases and ensuring food supply stability in case of agricultural crises [2]. Group 2: Research and Development - The germplasm resource base contains over 4,000 varieties of barley, which are essential for breeding programs aimed at improving crop resilience and yield [2][25]. - The barley yield in Tibet has significantly increased from less than 200 jin per mu (approximately 100 kg) in the early days of liberation to 700-800 jin per mu (approximately 350-400 kg) today, with 80%-90% of the area covered by improved varieties [24]. Group 3: Personal Journey of Researchers - Dawa Tonzhu, a key researcher, was inspired by his mentors and the historical contributions of earlier scientists in the field of barley research, leading him to pursue advanced studies and contribute to the development of new barley varieties [10][27]. - The late Nima Zhashi, a prominent figure in Tibetan barley research, played a crucial role in supporting Dawa Tonzhu's education and career, emphasizing the importance of fieldwork and farmer engagement in agricultural research [12][22]. Group 4: Future Directions - The ongoing efforts to breed new barley varieties and promote agricultural technology are vital for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of barley farming in Tibet [25][27]. - The research community aims to leverage the genetic diversity preserved in the germplasm resource base to develop improved barley strains that can meet the challenges posed by climate change and agricultural diseases [27].