Advancements in Breeding Strategies for Enhancing Wilt and Root Rot Resistance in Castor (Ricinus communis L.): A Comprehensive Review

Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is an economically important oilseed crop cultivated worldwide for its versatile uses in various industries. However, the cultivation of castor is challenged by wilt and root rot diseases caused by fungal pathogens, leading to significant yield losses. Enhancing wilt and root rot resistance in castor is crucial for sustainable and productive cultivation. This review explores advancements in breeding strategies for enhancing resistance against these diseases through various approaches along with introduction to castor cultivation and the challenges posed by wilt and root rot diseases in castor. It emphasizes the importance of breeding for disease resistance and discusses the significance of genetic diversity in castor germplasm. Traditional breeding approaches including phenotypic selection, recurrent selection, hybridization, mutation breeding and polyploidy induction are examined for their effectiveness in introducing and accumulating resistance genes and traits. Biotechnological approaches such as marker-assisted selection (MAS), genetic transformation and RNA interference (RNAi) are highlighted as powerful tools for targeted selection and manipulation of specific genes associated with disease resistance. The utilization of physiological and biochemical approaches including understanding host-pathogen interactions, elicitor-induced defense responses and metabolic engineering are discussed for enhancing resistance mechanisms in castor. These advancements offer promising avenues for accelerating the development of wilt and root rot-resistant castor varieties.