AGROBASE/4: A Microcomputer Database Management and Analysis System for Plant Breeding and Agronomy

AGROBASE/4 version 1.0 (Copyright (©) 1990 by D.K. Mulitze) is a scientific software application developed in the dBASE IV (Ashton‐Tate, Torrance, CA) compatible FoxPro 1.0 (Fox Software, Perrysburg, OH) database management language for plant breeding and agronomy. AGROBASE/4 supports the design and management of agronomic experiments through randomization (including lattices), file and data management, printing of field books and labels, specialized data transformations for agronomic research, data summarization, and report generation. Statistical support includes analyses of variance, multivariate linear regression, correlation, and descriptive statistics. AGROBASE/4 is being used in small grain, corn ( Zea mays L.), food legumes, hop ( Humulus lupulus L.), and canola ( Brassica napus L., Brassica campestris L.) breeding programs. Support for variety testing and plant breeding programs includes development of germplasm files, pedigree data management (particularly for small grain and corn breeding), genetic analyses, genotype ✕ environment interaction and stability analyses, and multiitrait selection. User‐friendly features include an on‐line manual, help screens, pop‐up utilities, an extensive demonstration mode for new users, and menus. Flexibility is provided via options for customization, user‐programmable procedures, access to MS‐DOS (Microsoft Corp., Boca Raton, FL) and other programs plus most of the 500 FoxPro commands and functions. AGROBASE/4 is designed for users with minimal knowledge of dBASE and also experienced users or programmers. Hardware requirements include a microcomputer capable of running MS‐DOS 2.1 or later with 640 K of RAM and a fixed disk with 1.5 MB free. FoxPro need not be purchased to run AGROBASE/4.