The American century plant (Agave americana L.), endemic to the arid regions of Mexico, is notable for its important agronomic value and its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, attributed to its Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). This physiological system gives it unique adaptability to changing climatic conditions. Commonly known as American agave L., is classified as a monocotyledonous plant, within the Asparagaceae family. This species reproduces through seed germination or by transplanting basal shoots, with the latter being the preferred method for establishing plantations. In the countries where it is grown, it has multifaceted applications ranging from the textile industry (fibers) to the production of biofuels (lignocellulosic waste). Additionally, it is used in the pharmaceutical and food industries (fructans, saponins), highlighting its historical contribution to the production of traditional alcoholic beverages, known in Mexico as “spirit drinks”. Over the centuries it has been a fundamental piece in agriculture, evolving from pre-Columbian to modern practices, facing phytosanitary and cultivation challenges. This chapter aims to provide a holistic view of Agave americana L., addressing crucial aspects including its origin, the transition from wild to cultivated status, taxonomic classification, and historical and contemporary uses. Additionally, it focuses on current practices, challenges, and advanced technologies for cultivation, with an emphasis on automation. Finally, the panorama of biotechnological techniques is explored as a key tool for the in vitro conservation of germplasm, utilizing techniques such as the isolation of cells and tissues. Likewise, it stands out in its use to obtain resistant and more productive plants, significantly contributing to the genetic improvement of this species, which is of both agronomic and industrial interest.

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American Century Plant (Agave americana L.) Breeding

  • Carlos A. Lecona-Guzmán,
  • Federico A. Gutiérrez-Miceli,
  • Sheila J. Reyes-Zambrano,
  • Sugey Vásquez-Hernández,
  • José G. Joya-Dávila

摘要

The American century plant (Agave americana L.), endemic to the arid regions of Mexico, is notable for its important agronomic value and its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, attributed to its Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). This physiological system gives it unique adaptability to changing climatic conditions. Commonly known as American agave L., is classified as a monocotyledonous plant, within the Asparagaceae family. This species reproduces through seed germination or by transplanting basal shoots, with the latter being the preferred method for establishing plantations. In the countries where it is grown, it has multifaceted applications ranging from the textile industry (fibers) to the production of biofuels (lignocellulosic waste). Additionally, it is used in the pharmaceutical and food industries (fructans, saponins), highlighting its historical contribution to the production of traditional alcoholic beverages, known in Mexico as “spirit drinks”. Over the centuries it has been a fundamental piece in agriculture, evolving from pre-Columbian to modern practices, facing phytosanitary and cultivation challenges. This chapter aims to provide a holistic view of Agave americana L., addressing crucial aspects including its origin, the transition from wild to cultivated status, taxonomic classification, and historical and contemporary uses. Additionally, it focuses on current practices, challenges, and advanced technologies for cultivation, with an emphasis on automation. Finally, the panorama of biotechnological techniques is explored as a key tool for the in vitro conservation of germplasm, utilizing techniques such as the isolation of cells and tissues. Likewise, it stands out in its use to obtain resistant and more productive plants, significantly contributing to the genetic improvement of this species, which is of both agronomic and industrial interest.