| Summary: | Different physiological characteristics of the cassava plant, which can be used as selection parameters, are reviewed, namely LAI, HI, biomass production, plants with amphistomatic leaves, and C4 photosynthesis. Experience indicates that it is better to select var. showing lower yield reduction under exptl. stress conditions, since these will show a more stable yield response under real stress conditions. Two possibilities to increase even more the yield potential of cassava are briefly discussed: (1) enable the plant to maintain total biomass production while using less carbohydrates in the production of leaves and stems; (2) combine higher biomass production with high HI. (CIAT)
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