In response to the escalating outbreak of Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) in Guangxi, Dr. Peng Zhang, a breeding technologies and methods specialist, has launched a collaborative initiative with Mr. Shangye Lao, Head of the Beihai Comprehensive Experimental Station, and Dr. Zhangyou Shen, specialist in propagation technologies and quality control. Under the strong leadership and coordinated support of Chief Scientist Dr. Zhenwen Zhang, the team is actively advancing joint efforts to screen and evaluate cassava resistance varieties.

To effectively curb the spread of SLCMV, the research team has conducted multiple field surveys and sample collections in severely affected areas. By planting cassava lines with known resistance to African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) in infected regions, the team systematically assessed the resistance variability of cassava germplasm and concurrently advanced breeding of resistant varieties and development of improved propagation techniques.

At present, several promising cassava germplasm materials with potential resistance have been preliminarily identified in affected areas of Guangxi, laying a solid foundation for the future release and promotion of resistant varieties and addressing the current lack of domestic resistance resources. Moving forward, the national cassava research system will further organize expert teams to strengthen systematic resistance identification and integrated technology development, accelerating demonstration and application of resistant varieties to safeguard the healthy development of the cassava industry in Guangxi and across China.

This joint initiative highlights the strong organizational capacity and collaborative innovation strength of the National Cassava Industry Technology System in responding to major plant disease challenges.