HAVANA, Cuba.- Specialists at the Lilian Dimitrova Horticultural Research Institute, located in eastern Mayabeque province, developed several new types of hybrid tomatoes by genetically modifying Cuban species, to increase its yield and resistance to pests.

Gisela Rodriguez, a researcher, said the new hybrids will guarantee Cuban food sovereignty and security, by providing farmers with high quality seeds, to cover in the future all domestic demand, thus cutting down imports.

Rodriguez announced they will continue their studies to create new kinds that weight around 150-200 grams, as the market demands. She added these specimens show an increase in their quality, weight and are better adapted to stand heat and humidity.

She said that due the world climate change, the new varieties should have a high tolerance to stress caused by raising temperatures.

Also, they are resilient to viruses carried out by white flies that have caused considerable losses to Cuban crops, and to other damaging organisms that could be brought from abroad.

There are over 171 researchers working in this institute, which turned 40 years old recently, and they have contributed greatly to Cuban economy with their work. They have obtained hybrids here of watermelon and pepper as well, with great acceptance by farmers throughout the country.