A new step forward in biodiversity research
Last week, the sunflower biodiversity field experiment for Work Package 3 (WP3) of the HelEx project was officially launched in Quedlinburg, with the support of JKI Quedlinburg and JKI Braunschweig.
Led by Vid and his team, this field trial focuses on comparing different sunflower varieties to assess their impact on biodiversity. The experiment is designed to better understand how genetic variation among sunflowers can influence pollinator activity, ecosystem services, and overall agroecological resilience.
Why biodiversity matters in agriculture
Boosting biodiversity in farming systems is key to building sustainable agriculture. By studying the interactions between sunflowers and their environment, the HelEx project aims to promote crop improvement strategies that support both ecological balance and long-term productivity.
This field experiment will generate crucial insights into how crop genetic diversity can benefit pollinators and strengthen farming systems in the face of climate and environmental challenges.
