The winter rye variety TANTANA was developed at the Tatarstan Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture based on initial material with a dominant-monogenic type of short stature. It is characterized by high ecological plasticity, ensuring the stable formation of a high grain yield of genetically determined quality over a wide range of weather and agro-technical conditions. The vegetation period of the variety ranges from 286 to 345 days, with maturation periods being medium-late, close to the standards Falenska 4 and Estafeta of Tatarstan. Plants are medium-sized, ranging from 106 to 143 cm in height, with an intermediate bush type and weak waxy coating on the ear and sheath of the flag leaf. The ear is semi-drooping, medium length and medium density, grain is medium-sized with a dark aleurone layer coloration. The mass of 1000 grains varies from 26 to 35 grams.
TANTANA possesses high winter hardiness, comparable to varieties Falenska 4 and Dyamka, as well as drought resistance at the level or above varieties Estafeta of Tatarstan and Falenska 4. Lodging resistance is good, although in years when the trait is expressed, it lags behind some varieties by 0.5-1 points. The variety requires high-quality pre-sowing soil preparation and responds positively to the application of mineral fertilizers. However, it is susceptible to snow mold and is affected by ergot at the level of the standard Saratovskaya 6.
In terms of baking qualities, TANTANA corresponds to the first quality class according to GOST 16990-88. The grain is characterized by a high protein content—about 12.5% on dry matter, a significant amount of pentosans and their high viscosity. These properties ensure high indices for falling number and amylograph height, which is associated with low activity of amylolytic enzymes and resistance to rooting sprouting. Thanks to these characteristics, the grain of the TANTANA variety is suitable for the production of various bakery products, including products for preventive and child nutrition. Average yield in the Volga-Vyatka region reaches 39.4 centners/hectare, in the Central Volga—33.5 centners/hectare, and the maximum yield was recorded at the level of 76.4 centners/hectare.
