# Plant reproduction research in Latin America: Toward sustainable agriculture in a changing environment

## TL;DR

This paper reviews plant reproduction research in Latin America and its potential to support sustainable agriculture amid climate change.

## Contribution

The paper highlights the importance of local plant reproduction research for addressing environmental stressors and improving food security.

## Key findings

- Latin American research on plant responses to environmental stressors is crucial for sustainable agriculture.
- Gaps exist in linking plant reproduction research to practical applications in breeding and biotechnology.
- Creative solutions are needed due to low investment in science.

## Abstract

Food production and food security depend on the ability of crops to cope with anthropogenic climate change and successfully produce seed. To guarantee food production well into the future, contemporary plant scientists in Latin America must carry out research on how plants respond to environmental stressors such as temperature, drought, and salinity. This review shows the opportunities to apply these results locally and abroad and points to the gaps that still exist in terms of reproductive processes with the purpose to better link research with translational work in plant breeding and biotechnology. Suggestions are put forth to address these gaps creatively in the face of chronic low investment in science with a focus on applicability.

The sustainability of Latin American agriculture in the face of climate change may depend on advances on plant reproduction research performed by local groups.