The Joint FAO/IAEA Plant Breeding and Genetics Laboratory leads global efforts to develop robust crop varieties using nuclear techniques, including mutation breeding and associated biotechnologies. It maintains and curates the Mutant Variety Database for climate-smart crops. (Photo: IAEA)
A global database of new crop varieties developed by mutation breeding has been upgraded and expanded to include data on mutant microbial bacteria and fungi strains as well as mutant plant varieties. The Mutant Variety Database (MVD) now offers enhanced tools to support breeders in developing climate-smart crops, strengthening global food security and sustainable agricultural practices.
For over 60 years, the IAEA, through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture , has maintained and curated the MVD, which serves as the world's primary repository for officially released mutant crop varieties. With over 3450 records across more than 70 plant species - including both seed and vegetatively propagated crops - it provides a unique resource for plant scientists around the world.
"The Mutant Variety Database is a specialized platform that brings together data, technology and knowledge exchange," said Dongxin Feng, Director of the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre. "It enables breeders, researchers and policymakers to showcase the results of research and scientific knowledge translated into tangible technologies that are creating impact for small-scale farmers."
Mutation Breeding for More Resilient Crops
Mutation breeding is a long-standing technique that induces genetic diversity in crops, enabling breeders to develop varieties with improved traits. Crops produced using this technique can develop better tolerance of drought, resistance to diseases and enhanced nutritional value. Developing more resilient crops is especially critical in the face of climate change, which brings challenges like rising temperatures, soil salinization and the emergence and dissemination of new pests and diseases.
The MVD plays an important role in this effort by offering a comprehensive, searchable platform with details of mutant varieties for both new and experienced plant breeders, including those exploring mutation breeding techniques for the first time or working with a new crop. It is also a vital platform for advanced mutation breeding groups to showcase their mutant varieties, alongside the teams of breeders involved, and to share their achievements with plant scientists worldwide. Each database entry includes key technical details such as the mutagen used, the treatment dosage, the part of the plant subjected to mutagenesis, the breeding method and the improved traits.
What is New?
With its recent expansion, the database now supports the registration of mutant fungal and bacterial strains, which are valuable microbial resources developed as biological control agents, plant growth promoters and food sources such as edible fungi.
Launched in September 2025, the latest version of the MVD introduces several new features designed to improve data quality and user efficiency:
- A streamlined submission process with a simplified online form for faster registration of new varieties.
- A standardized data format to enable quicker evaluation of submissions.
- An integrated data dictionary providing precise definitions for all variables, ensuring clarity and standardized reporting.
- Advanced search capabilities allowing users to filter entries by species, improved traits, country of origin and other key parameters.
"These enhancements are expected to increase submissions and encourage wider use of the database, making it easier for plant breeders around the world to access high-quality information, share their mutant varieties and accelerate the development of climate-smart crops," said Fatma Sarsu, an FAO/IAEA plant breeder and geneticist.
How to access and contribute to the database
The MVD operates on a collaborative model, with entries voluntarily submitted by plant breeders and researchers. It contains a record for each mutant plant, fungus or bacterium developed through induced mutation and officially registered by a national or regional authority. The IAEA facilitates access to this data through the MVD portal as a service to the community without implying official endorsement or any dispute resolutions.
To explore the Mutant Variety Database and contribute new entries, visit the MVD portal.
