Abstract Rice improvement is based to an increasing
extent on ever-sharper genetic analysis to the detriment
of classical breeding, which is disappearing.
Analytical genetics are very promising, but they cannot
replace integrated and Wnalized breeding. Little
attention has been paid to improving participatory
rice breeding methods for subsequent integration into
sustainable cropping systems. Special methodological
initiatives are required to ensure the success of this
breeding-agronomy integration. This integration of
inexpensive breeding methods has increased the biodiversity
of rice: low temperature and drought tolerant
upland rice varieties for mountain areas, and
polyvalent varieties, which have the ability to grow in
both rainfed or irrigated conditions, they are perfectly
adapted to improved cropping systems and to beneWciaries’
needs and preferences. These preliminary
results on this integration demonstrate that the present
approach is relevant.