Advances in Chilli Breeding: Balancing Traditional Methods and Modern Biotechnology for Biotic Stress Resistance

This Chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a highly valued crop across the world for its utility as a spice and as a vegetable, but the cultivation of chilli is considerably hampered by biotic stresses such as various fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens as well as insect pests. The traditional breeding methods, including introduction, mass selection, pedigree, and backcrossing, have formed the basis for developing resistant varieties, although these methods are often limited by their time-consuming nature and varying effectiveness against complex stresses. The recent advances in breeding with the application of biotechnology approaches such as MAS, genomic selection, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, have opened new avenues for the improvement of resistance in a more efficient and precise manner. Complementary tools involving genetic transformation and tissue culture further complement breeding efforts despite various challenges in plant regeneration efficiency and transformation. The implementation of traditional and modern methods in chilli breeding is more effective in dealing with problems of biotic stress, thus improving crop resilience and achieving sustainable production.