Sterilization of male inflorescence (tassel) of corn

The Challenge/Concern:

Sterilization of the male part of corn plant was desired by a crop seed development/production company. Male sterility is essential for developing newer species and genetic alterations. An operator friendly device or technology that can be deployed on the field was anticipated. The technology was needed to be inert to other parts o the plant, and would pose no toxicity to the human in contact. Female sterility was needed to be preserved.

Brief (and non-confidential) Solution:

The performance of few chemical hybridizing agents was evaluated on the tassel and pollen toxicity. Pyridones, oxanilates, detergents etc. were the chemicals evaluated. Some physical routes affecting the pollen viability such as heat stress, water stress and UV exposure were studied.

Based on the primary trials and outcomes, a sterility scenario was configured. An equipment was designed and tested that would be adopted by the client for the anticipated application. The equipment design and underlying technology was delivered.

Service / Project: Consultation