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Breeding Alfalfa for Resistance to the Stem Nematode, Ditylenchus dipsaci 1
Author(s) -
Sherwood R. T.,
Dudley J. W.,
Busbice T. H.,
Hanson C. H.
Publication year - 1967
Publication title -
crop science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.76
H-Index - 147
eISSN - 1435-0653
pISSN - 0011-183X
DOI - 10.2135/cropsci1967.0011183x000700040032x
Subject(s) - biology , backcrossing , nematode , inoculation , agronomy , seedling , selection (genetic algorithm) , resistance (ecology) , breeding program , horticulture , cultivar , botany , ecology , biochemistry , artificial intelligence , gene , computer science
An experimental synthetic, combining agronomic characteristics of Flemish alfalfa with stem nematode resistance equivalent to that found in ‘Lahontan’, was developed largely by backcrossing. Selections were made in a naturally infested field. Certain selected plants were further evaluated by inoculating their S 1 progeny under controlled conditions in a laboratory. A second resistant synthetic was developed by recurrent selection in the susceptible variety ‘Cherokee’. Laboratory tests of seedling reaction were the basis for all selections; in each of two successive cycles, mass selection was followed by S 1 progeny testing of selected plants. The procedure followed in developing resistance in the second synthetic appeared to be more efficient than the one used in the first. Results from laboratory tests agreed well with those from field tests, but laboratory evaluation was found to be more reliable and economical for determining resistance.