Galicia Biological Mission
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 | |
 Headquarters | |
| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1 April 1921 |
| Jurisdiction | Spain |
| Headquarters | A Carballeira 8 - Salcedo 36143 Pontevedra |
| Employees | 80 |
| Website | https://www.mbg.csic.es/es/la-mision-biologica-de-galicia/ |
The Biological Mission of Galicia is a centre of the Higher Council for Scientific Research located in the civil parish of Salcedo in the municipality of Pontevedra in Spain. It is the oldest research institute of the Higher Council for Scientific Research in Galicia and the oldest agricultural research institute in Spain.[1]
The Biological Mission of Galicia was created by the Council for the Extension of Scientific Studies and Research in April 1921. Its first headquarters was the Veterinary School of Santiago de Compostela, directed by Cruz Gallástegui.[2] The mission remained in Santiago de Compostela until 1926, when the veterinary school disappeared. In 1927, the Provincial Council of Pontevedra offered a new location to the Biological Mission, which moved in 1928 first to the La Tablada estate in Campolongo[3] and later to the palace that belonged to Archbishop Malvar in Salcedo, the Pazo de Gandarón, where it has remained to this day.[4]
From 1930 onwards, the institution's activities focused on the genetic improvement of maize, the variety of chestnut trees resistant to dyeing and the promotion in Spain of the English Large White pig breed.[5]
Between 1940 and 1950, the Mission consolidated its first lines of research on the genetics and physiology of plants and animals.[6]
Between 1960 and 1973, the research lines were interrupted until 1973, when Armando Ordás took over the maize breeding line and created a seed syndicate.[3]
From 1980 onwards, new research was initiated, based on the cultivation of legumes, Brassicaceae and vines.[6]
Currently, the centre is working on crop improvement to adapt to the consequences of climate change and is engaged in agricultural and forestry research.[3]
