Examining role of biodiversity in agricultural production

There are large and fairly well-defined research agendas for genetic resources for food and agriculture. These include the development of complementary conservation and use strategies, and a focus on developing the conservation and use of under-utilized species. There are also an increasing number of case-studies on, for example, farm and in situ conservation of genetic resources, and community integrated pest management. However, far more understanding is needed of the multiple goods and services provided by the different levels and functions of agricultural biodiversity. Much more research is needed, for example, to examine the relationship between diversity, resilience and production in agro-ecosystems.

A blend of traditional and newer practices and technologies is used in agriculture, which utilize, or impact on, agricultural biodiversity in different ways, with particular consequences for biological diversity and for the sustainability and productivity of agricultural systems. A better understanding and application of these complex interactions could help to optimize the management of agricultural biodiversity in production systems.

Examining the role of biodiversity in agricultural production requires studies in a range of environments and production systems, and in each region: (a) To identify key goods and services provided by agricultural biodiversity, needs for the conservation and sustainable use of components of this biological diversity in agricultural ecosystems, and threats to such diversity; (b) To identify best management practices; and (c) To monitor and assess the actual and potential impacts of existing and new agricultural technologies. This activity would address the multiple goods and services provided by the different levels and functions of agricultural biodiversity and the interaction between its various components.

Examining the role of biodiversity in agricultural production requires consideration of: (a) The role and potential of wild, under-utilized and neglected species, varieties and breeds, and products; (b) The role of genetic diversity in providing resilience, reducing vulnerability, and enhancing adaptability of production systems to changing environments and needs; (c) The synergies and interactions between different components of agricultural biodiversity; (d) The role of pollinators, with particular reference to their economic benefits, and the effects of introduced species on indigenous pollinators and other aspects of biological diversity; (e) The role of soil and other below-ground biodiversity in supporting agricultural production systems, especially in nutrient cycling; (f) Pest and disease control mechanisms, including the role of natural enemies and other organisms at field and landscape levels, host plant resistance, and implications for agro-ecosystem management; (g) The wider ecosystem services provided by agricultural biodiversity; (h) The role of different temporal and spatial patterns in mosaics of land use, including complexes of different habitats; (i) Possibilities of integrated landscape management as a means for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.