This project is a long-running one concerned with breeding varieties adapted to Australian conditions, growing practices and markets. During the interval of this particular grant much progress occurred with the development of the original Siokras and Sicala's from a breeding program that began in 1974. The development of Siokra has been widely regarded as a noteworthy achievement since it marks the first time anywhere that an okia leaf variety has been successfully and widely grown commercially. The significance of the okra leaf has been that it has provided some tolerance to Heliothis and considerable tolerance to mites. Titls pest tolerance has resulted, where keen attention has been paid to pest management, in the savings of two or even more sprays. Very importantly both Siokra and Sicala had genes for bacterial blight resistance incorporated and had ready marketable fibre. These properties led to their readily acceptance by cotton farmers and they soon comprised between 65-75% of total Australian cotton plantings.