Researchers in Kodagu Develop Climate-Resilient Coffee Varieties to Tackle Changing Weather Patterns

The Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Kodagu has identified four wild coffee varieties that are particularly resilient to climate change.

Madikeri: As climate change continues to impact agriculture, coffee growers are facing significant challenges with changing harvesting and cropping patterns. To combat these issues, researchers are focusing on developing climate-resilient coffee varieties that can better withstand environmental stressors.

The Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Kodagu has identified four wild coffee varieties that are particularly resilient to climate change, according to a report published in TNIE. These species—Coffea stenophylla, Coffea racemosa, Coffea liberica, and Coffea excelsa—are being studied for their potential to thrive in changing conditions. These wild varieties are distinct from the commonly cultivated Arabica and Robusta coffees, which are currently dominant in coffee production.

Jeena Devasia, Divisional Head of Plant Breeding and Genetics at CCRI’s Chettahalli substation, explained, "These wild varieties have demonstrated resistance by surviving naturally in the wild for many years. They possess strong roots, high yields, and the ability to withstand higher temperatures. This makes them promising candidates for future coffee cultivation." She also noted that these varieties were found growing naturally in the wild and, in some cases, even in the estates of local coffee growers.

During the research, scientists discovered that Coffea stenophylla shares similar taste and texture qualities with Robusta, a popular coffee variety. This has raised hopes that consumers may soon have a new climate-resilient option to choose from.

The researchers also revealed that wild coffee varieties are spread across India, with some even found growing naturally in the Himalayan region. "The area under coffee cultivation in India is gradually expanding," added Devasia.

Karnataka, one of India’s major coffee-producing states, plays a crucial role in the nation’s coffee industry. The state produces 72,020 metric tonnes of Arabica coffee and 176,000 metric tonnes of Robusta coffee annually. The total area under coffee cultivation in Karnataka spans 248,020 acres, which accounts for 70.5% of the coffee-growing regions in the country.

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