Dr. Cleber Lopes de Souza
Assistant Professor, Forage Breeding and Genetics
Dr. Cleber de Souza's research and extension goals focus on breeding resilient forage and cover crop species adapted to the Southeastern U.S., particularly for regions with low-fertility soils and challenging climates. His work emphasizes developing drought-tolerant, nutrient-efficient, and disease-resistant forage varieties, with a particular focus on tropical and subtropical legumes, grasses, and small grains. His breeding efforts aim to improve forage quality, increase biomass production, and enhance nitrogen fixation in legumes to reduce synthetic fertilizer use. By integrating modern breeding techniques, Dr. de Souza seeks to advance the adoption of new forage varieties that enhance livestock nutrition, improve soil health, and promote sustainable agricultural systems in the region.
Extension
Dr. Cleber de Souza’s extension program focuses on improving forage and cover crop systems in the Southeastern U.S. by developing resilient, high-performing varieties that enhance livestock nutrition, reduce fertilizer use, and improve soil health. A key component of his program is promoting the adoption of these new varieties through efficient seed production practices, essential for supporting the regional seed industry.
By optimizing seed increase and final testing, Dr. de Souza ensures that new releases, such as Triticale, cereal rye, Black Oats, and SunBall ball clover, are ready for widespread use. His program collaborates with institutions like Auburn and Clemson Universities to refine seed production techniques for key legumes like crimson clover, sunn hemp, and vetch. These species are well-suited to the Southeastern U.S. due to their drought tolerance, ease of harvest, and low input requirements.
Through partnerships with farmers, seed producers, and industry stakeholders, Dr. de Souza’s program strengthens seed availability and accelerates the adoption of new forage cultivars, ultimately supporting more sustainable and profitable agricultural systems across the region.
Contact Information
phone number
Office: 850-526-1614
3925 Highway 71
Marianna Fl. 32446
Mailing Address:
North Florida Research and Education Center
155 Research Rd, Quincy Fl. 32351