THE FUTURE OF CITRUS FRUIT The impact of climate change on citriculture

Current citriculture is threatened by climate change. The increase in temperature, together with other adverse climate phenomena, is modifying the environmental conditions in the regions where citrus varieties are currently being developed. The detrimental effects of these adverse environmental factors on citrus physiology and production, such as drought or augmented soil salinity, will likely increase because of elevated temperatures, which will jeopardise crop production and, in extreme cases, even plant survival. Studying citrus tolerance responses to climate change may hold the key to developing new citrus varieties capable of withstanding future environmental conditions while still maintaining production.

Automated summary

Current citriculture is at risk due to climate change as it alters the environmental conditions in regions where citrus varieties are cultivated. Adverse climate factors, including drought and soil salinity, will become more severe with elevated temperatures, threatening crop production and plant survival. Investigating citrus tolerance to climate change is crucial for developing resilient varieties that can withstand future environmental conditions while ensuring productivity.