Venezuelan scientists use biotechnology to protect cocoa crops in the face of climate change

Published at: 08/09/2026 11:10 PM

Researchers from the IDEA Foundation, attached to the Ministry of Popular Power for Science and Technology (Mincyt), are developing biotechnological alternatives to protect cocoa production in Venezuela. The initiative seeks to mitigate the negative impact of climate change, droughts and the emergence of pests through sustainable agricultural practices.

The strategy contemplates the isolation of beneficial and biostimulant microorganisms extracted from the cacaotals themselves. The application of these bioprotectors will reinforce the natural defenses of plants, combat pathogens and guarantee the agricultural sovereignty of this sector of high strategic value for the country.

The plant pathologist Matías Hernández Ruíz pointed out that phenomena such as El Niño and the alteration of rains threaten crops, which are almost entirely dependent on rainwater. For this reason, the project comprehensively evaluates climate behavior, plant genetics and agronomic soil management.

Mazo News Team