Plant genetics: out with the old, in with the new?

Plant breeding represents an evolving technology based largely on genetic principles. Approximately one-half of the increased yields of major crop plants can be attributed to the genetic improvement of the crop. Although the breeding technology and undergirding science are sound, additional information on the biochemical pathways underlying agronomic and quality traits and their genetic control would allow new genetic technologies to be used more fully. Current developments in molecular biology, plant cell and tissue culture, genetic engineering, and use of molecular genetics will facilitate the selection of complex traits. Genetic improvement of plants in the future will be based on an integration of modern plant-breeding methods and the new genetic technologies. Thus, the new genetic approaches do not represent a replacement technology but will add to the arsenal of tools available for improving crops.