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Selection for Improving Creeping‐Rooted Characteristics in Alfalfa 1
Author(s) -
Busbice Thad H.,
Hanson C. H.
Publication year - 1969
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/cropsci1969.0011183x000900020041x
Subject(s) - biology , selection (genetic algorithm) , population , cultivar , agronomy , demography , artificial intelligence , sociology , computer science
A phenotypic recurrent selection program for creeping‐rooted character in alfalfa was described. A random mating population, designated NCCrl, was obtained from selected segregates of crosses between Canadian creepers and adapted noncreepers. Normally, primordial domes are initiated on lateral roots the first growing season, but two growing seasons are required for expression of creeping‐rooted character. Four cycles of selection, using primordial domes as a criterion for creeping, failed to increase the frequency or amount of creeping. However, a fifth cycle of selection based upon actual creeping after 2 years in the field doubled the frequency and extent of creeping. All cycles of NCCrl were inferior to ‘Cherokee’ (adapted noncreepinig cultivar) in spring vigor, yield, and recovery after cutting. However, after five cycles of selection many creeping plants had upright growth, leaf shape, and vigor similar to that of Cherokee. In the last cycle of selection, creeping and vigor were positively correlated, indicating that these characters can be genetically combined.