ANNUAL WHEAT NEWSLETTER
Volume 39
Edited by J. S. Quick, Department of Agronomy, Colorado State University,
Fort Collins, CO, USA; Financial arrangements made by Ian B. Edwards,
Treasurer, Pioneer Overseas Corporation, Johnston, IA, USA. Carolyn
Schultz, Senior Secretary, CSU Department of Agronomy, typed and collated
the information for the printing of this volume. Facilities and assistance
during manuscript editing were kindly provided by Colorado State University.
* * * * * *
Additional regional editing and manuscript solicitation were done by:
J. S. Noll, Canada Dept. of Agriculture, Winnipeg,
Manitoba, Canada
R. A. Fischer, CIMMYT, Mexico, D. F., Mexico
K. S. Gill, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana,
Punjab, India
T. E. Miller, Plant Sci. Res., Cambridge Laboratory,
Norwich, England
H. A. van Niekerk, Small Grain Center, Bethlehem, South
Africa
B. C. Curtis, Former CIMMYT Wheat Director, Retired
* * * * * *
This volume was financed by voluntary contributions - list included. The
information in this Newsletter is considered as personal contributions.
Before citing any information herein, obtain the consent of the specific
author(s). The Newsletter is sponsored by the National Wheat Improvement
Committee, USA.
* * * * * *
1 June 1993
460 copies printed
Publications Services, Colorado State University
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TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
ZOLTAN BARABAS 1
ROBERT L. BURTON 2
DAVE JOHNSTON 3
HOWARD N. LAFEVER 4
COLIN N. LAW 5
CHARLES C. RUSSELL 6
ERVIN WILLIAMS, JR. 7
I. SPECIAL REPORTS 8
Minutes - Wheat Crop Advisory Committee 8
Minutes - National Wheat Improvement Committee 9
Members - National Wheat Improvement Committee 23
Wheat Workers Code of Ethics 24
Wheat Database Organization and 1992 Progress Report 24
USDA Research on Wheat and Rye, 1863 to 1972 27
II. CONTRIBUTIONS 71
PRIVATE COMPANIES
AGRIPRO BIOSCIENCES
Rob Bruns, John Moffat, Joe Smith, Jim Reeder - Berthoud, CO
Barton Fogleman, Erwin Ridge - Jonesboro, AR
Koy Miskin, Gregory Holland, Curtis Beazer - Brookston, IN
CARGILL HYBRID SEEDS, INC. 74
D. R. Johnston, S. W. Perry, J. E. Handwerk, Sally R. Clayshulte,
D. P. Shellberg - Fort Collins, CO
Nestor Machado, Pedro Paulucci, Hector Mertinuzzi - Argentina
R. P. Daniel, D. Donaldson, Garry Lane, Michael Materne, M. J.
Nowland, C. J. Tyson, D. J. Wilson, P. Wilson - Tamworth, Australia
GOERTZEN SEED COMPANY76
Kenneth, Kevin, and Betty Goertzen - Haven, KS
HYBRITECH SEED INTERNATIONAL, INC. 77
John Erickson, Jerry Wilson, Steve Kuhr, Dennis Delaney, Jerry
Wilson, Bud Hardesty, Karolyn Ely - Wichita, KS; Gordon Cisar -
Lafayette, IN; Hal Lewis - Corvallis, OR
HYBRINOVA78
A. Gervais - Les Ulis Cedex, France
NORTHRUP KING COMPANY79
Fred Collins, June Hancock, Craig Allen - Bay, AR
PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC. 80
Johnston, IA - I. B. Edwards
Windfall, IN - G. C. Marshall, W. J. Laskar, K. J. Lively
St. Mathews, SC - B. E. Edge, P. L. Shields
Frouville, France - G. Dorencourt, R. Marchand, O. Vanderpol
Sevilla, Spain - J. M. urbano, M. Hidalgo, M. Peinado
Sissa (Parma), Italy - M. Tanzi
Pandorf, Austria - G. Reichenberger
Winford, Cheshire, England - Ian Edwards, Simon Jones
Buxtehude, Germany - H. Schoenwallder, Ian Edwards
SVALOF WEIBULL AB85
Poinville, France - J. P. Jossett, et al.
Landskrona, Sweden - G. Svensson
TRIO RESEARCH, INC. 85
J. Wilson - Wichita, KS
ARGENTINA 86
F. Bidinost, B. Ferro, F. Salvagiotti, S. Beas, N. C. Guzman,
C. A. Pipoll, J. Casati, R. Roldan, W. Londero, J. C. Funes,
J. C. Miranda, M. J. Miarka, D. Bonelli, G. Manera, R. Maich,
C. Olmos, C. Ferraris, F. Gil, C. Bainotti, N. Contin - Cordoba
M. L. Appendino, G. M. P. Camargo, N. Zelener, M. Argeaga,
E. Suarez, G. Covas, Laura Bullrich, G. Tranquilli, E. Cetour,
B. Formica, L. Faraldo - Castellar
AUSTRALIA 90
NEW SOUTH WALES
C. W. Wrigley, CSIRO, Sydney
J. Bell, G. N. Brown, D. Backhouse, N. L. Darvey,
L. W. Burgess, R. A. McIntosh, D. R. Marshall,
J. D. Oates, R. Park, R. Roake, F. Stoddard, P. J. Sharp,
D. The, C. R. Wellings - Sydney and Cobbitty
L. O'Brien, F. W. Ellison, R. M. Trethowan, A. B.
Pattison, D. J. Mares, S. G. Moore et al.
R. A. Hare - Tamworth
QUEENSLAND 96
P. S. Brennan, P.M. Banks, L. R. Mason, J. A. Sheppard,
R. W. Uebergang, P. J. Keys, M. L. Fiske, I. C. Haak,
P. I. Hocroft, J. C. Ross, P. J. Agius, S. Kammholz
G. B. Wildermuth, R. B. McNamara - Toowoomba
R. G. Rees, P. S. Brennan, G. J. Platz - Toowoomba
BRAZIL 99
J. C. S. Moreira, C. N. A. de Sousa, E. P. Gomes, L. J. A.
Del Duca, J. F. Philipovsky, E. M. Guerianti, P. L. Scheeren,
C. E. O. Camargo, S. D. dos A. de Silva, A. L. Barcellos et al. -
Passo Fundo
A. C. P. Goulart, F. de A. Paiva - Dourados, M. S.
BULGARIA 112
V. Vassilev, S. Stoyanova, K. Kolev, A. Dimov - Sadovo
CANADA 114
ALBERTA 115
D. F. Salmon, et al.
MANITOBA 116
J. A. Kolmer, F. Townley-Smith, D. Leisle,
P. L. Thomas, et al.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND 123
H.W. Johnston, H.G. Nass
SASKATCHEWAN 124
R. M. De Pauw, J. M. Clarke, et al.
CHINA, PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF 126
Zhaosu Wu, Shirong Yu, Xizhong Wei, Quimei Xia, Youjia Shen,
Jiming Wu, Yong Xu, Xhaoxia Chen, Guoliang Jiang - Nanjing
Ying-Jie Wang - Henan
Zuoji Lin, Shenghui Jie, Xidan Zhou - Henan
Li Huimin, Zhao Fengwu, Li Hongwa, et al. - Heibi
Tiecheng Huang, Qixin Sun, et al. - Beijing
Luxiang Liu, et al. - Beijing
CROATIA 136
Bogdan Koric - Zagreb
Slobodan Tomasovic - Zagreb
CZECH REPUBLIC 138
Z. Stehno, M. Vlasek, L. Dotlacil, P. Bartos, J. Kosner,
L. Kucera, V. Sip, M. Skorpik, et al. - Prague
ESTONIA 144
O. Priilinn, T. Enno, H. Peusha, M. Tohver - Tallinn
GERMANY 146
E. Kazman, R. Bothe, T. Lelley - Gottingen
J. von Kietzell, A. Fessehaie, K. Rudolf - Gottingen
A. Boerner, J. Plaschke, G. Schlegel, et al. - Gatersleben
HUNGARY 153
Z. Kertesz, J. Matuz, L. Bona, et al. - Szeged
L. Balla, Z. Bedo, L. Lang, L. Szunics, Lu. Szunics,
I. Karsai, Gy. Vida, et al. - Martonvasar
B. Barnabas, et al. - Martonvasar
INDIA 168
R. N. Sawhney, et al. - New Delhi
S.M.S. Tomar, et al. - Wellington
J. G. Bhowal and G. Guha - Wellington
D. Singh - New Delhi
R. G. Saini, et al. - Ludhiana
R. Asir, V. R. K. Reddy - Coimbatore
J. S. Bijral, et al. - R. S. Pura
H. S. Dhaliwal, et al. - Ludhiana
G. S. Sethi, et al. - Palampur
ITALY 191
B. Borghi, M. Perenzin, M. Cattaneo, Y.M. Qiao, R. Castagna,
N.E. Pogna, R. Redaelli, M. Corbellini, et al. - Lodigiano
M. Pasquini, et al. - Rome
JAPAN 198
S. Ito, M. Watanabe, A. Sato, T. Hoshino - Tohuku
N. Watanabe - Gifu
MEXICO 200
R. A. Fischer, G. Varughese - CIMMYT
P. N. Fox, et al. - CIMMYT
A. Morgunov, R. J. Pena, S. Rajaram - CIMMYT
MOROCCO206
M. Mergoum, et al. - Settat
PAKISTAN 208
M. Husain - Bahawalpur
PARAGUAY 210
P. C. Wall - CIMMYT
ROMANIA 210
M. Moldovan, et al. - Turda
N. S. Saulescu, Mariana Ittu, Gh. Ittu - Fundulea
RUSSIA 212
S. Polikarpov, et al. - Kurgan
S. P. Martynov, T. V. Dobrotvorskaya - Tver
M. Evdokinov - Omsk
I. M. Shindin - Khabarovsk
N. S. Vassiltchouk, et al. - Saratov
A. Federov - Moscow
SOUTH AFRICA 230
Z. A. Pretorius, F. J. Kloppers, C. S. Van Deventer,
M. T. Labuschagne, M.C.B. Coetzee, A. M. Botha, et al -
Bloemfontein
G. F. Marais, R. de V. Pienaar, et al. - Stellenbosch
H. A. Van Niekerk, H. A. Smit, J. L. Purchase,
D. B. Scott, et al. - Bethlehem
B. Lombard, J. P. Jordaan, et al. - Sensako
F. du Toit, S. S. Walters, A. Brummer - Pannar, Ltd.,
Bainsvlei
TURKEY 241
H. Braun, T. S. Payne - Ankara
UKRAINE 243
L. A. Zhivotkov, et al. - Mironovka
UNITED KINGDOM 244
NORWICH, Cambridge Laboratory, Institute of Plant Science Research
A. J. Worland, J. W. Snape, T. E. Miller, et al.
NORWICH, John Innes Institute
J. S. Heslop-Harrison, A. R. Leitch, T. Schwarzacher,
K. Anamthawt-Jonsson, et al.
PBI, CAMBRIDGE
S. J. Brown, P. I. Payne
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 252
ARKANSAS 252
R. K. Bacon, E. A. Milus, et al.
CALIFORNIA 256
C.A. Curtis, Bahman Ehdaie, A.J. Lukaszewski,
J. G. Waines, et al.
COLORADO 260
J. S. Quick, G. H. Ellis, R. Normann, A. Saidi,
J. S. Stromberger, H. Dong
GEORGIA 262
J. W. Johnson, B. N. Cunfer, J.J. Roberts,
G.D. Buntin, R.E. Wilkinson
IDAHO 265
R.S. Zemetra, E. Souza, S. Guy, et al. - Moscow & Aberdeen
Warren Pope - Moscow
ILLINOIS 268
F. L. Kolb, E. D. Nafziger, W. L. Pedersen, et al.
INDIANA 269
H. W. Ohm, H. C. Sharma, I.M. Dweikat, S.A. MacKenzie, D.
McFatridge, F. L. Patterson, G. Shaner, R.M. Lister, D. M. Huber,
G. Buechley, R.H. Ratcliffe, R.H. Shukle, S. Wellso, G. G.
Safranski, S. Cambron
KANSAS 277
T.S. Cox, R.G. Sears, B. S. Gill, M. B. Kirkham, G. H. Liang,
T. Harvey, T. J. Martin, et al.
O. K. Chung, G. L. Lookhart, V. V. Smail, J. L. Steele, et al.
T.J. Byram
KENTUCKY 302
D. A. Van Sanford, et al.
LOUISIANA 304
S.A. Harrison, P. Colyer, S. H. Moore, C. Hallier
MARYLAND 305
D. J. Sammons
MICHIGAN 307
P. K. W. Ng
MINNESOTA 307
R. Busch, L. Van Bueningen
A. P. Roelfs, D. L. Long, D. H. Casper, M. E. Hughes, J. J.
Roberts
D. V. McVey, R. H. Busch
MISSOURI 317
J. P. Gustafson, K. D. Kephart, G. Kimber, A. L. McKendry, et al.
MONTANA 319
L. E. Talbert, P. L. Bruckner, et al.
NEBRASKA 321
P.S. Baenziger, C.J. Peterson, D.R. Shelton, R.A. Graybosch,
D. D. Baltensperger, L. A. Nelson, D. J. Lyons, G.L. Hein, et al.
NEW YORK 327
M. E. Sorrells, W. R. Coffman, G. C. Bergstrom, et al.
NORTH DAKOTA 332
E. M. Elias, J. A. Anderson, C. R. Reide
W. R. Moore, B. L. D'Appolonia, K. Khan
OHIO 339
K. Garland, W.A. Berzonsky, et al.
OKLAHOMA 342
D. R. Porter, J. A. Webster, C. A. Baker, J.D. Burd, N.C. Elliot,
D. K. Reed, R.L. Burton
R. M. Hunger, G. L. Sherwood
OREGON 347
W. E. Kronstad, R. S. Karow, C.S. Love, D. K. Kelly, R. W. Knight,
M. D. Moore, S. E. Rowe, N. H. Scott, M. C. Verhoeven
SOUTH DAKOTA 349
J. C. Rudd, H. J. Woodard, G. Buchenau, et al.
TEXAS 352
Mark Lazar, L.R. Nelson, G.E. Hart, D. Marshall,
M.E. McDaniel, B. McDonald, Lloyd Rooney, John Sij,
N.A. Tuleen, W.D. Worrall, G. L. Peterson, et al.
UTAH 358
D. J. Hole
R. S. Albrechtsen
VIRGINIA 359
C.A. Griffey, D.E. Brann, E. Stromberg, M.K. Das,
A. Herbert, J. M. Johnson
WASHINGTON 361
C. F. Kozak, et al.
T. D. Murray, et al.
R. E. Allan, S. S. Jones, R. F. Line, M. W. Simmons,
C. F. Morris, J. A. Pritchett, L. M. Little,
B. K. Sowers, et al.
YUGOSLOVIA 373
Miroslav Kuburovic, et al.
M. S. Milovanovic, et al.
III. CULTIVARS AND GERMPLASM 378
B. Skovmand - Wheat Cultivar Abbreviations
H.E. Bockelman, D.M. Wesenberg, S. Niets, A. Urie, B. J. Goats
- Evaluation of National Small Grains Collection Germplasm
J. S. Quick - CSSA Cultivar and Germplasm Registration
IV. CATALOGUE OF GENE SYMBOLS, 1991 SUPPLEMENT 400
R. A. McIntosh, G.E. Hart, M.D. Gale
V. ANNUAL WHEAT NEWSLETTER FUND 417
VI. VOLUME 40 MANUSCRIPT GUIDELINES 420
VII. MAILING LIST 421
VIII. FAX/TELEPHONE LIST 427
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ZOLTAN BARABAS
Dr. Zoltan Barabas, Professor of Agronomy, Member of the Hungarian
Academy of Sciences died on 23 January 1993, after a serious illness at the
age of 67 years, in Szeged, Hungary. He is survived by his wife Ilona, two
children and 5 grand-children. Dr. Barabas was born in 1926 in Budapest,
Hungary. After getting his degree at the University of Agricultural Sciences
he started his career at the same place as a teaching assistant. Later he
work as a seed production inspector for two years.
In 1951 he started his research work on flax and sorghum breeding.
From 1960 he was the head of sorghum breeding programme at the Agricultural
Research Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Martonvasar for
nine years. During this period he introduced grain
sorghum hybrids in Hungary. With this activity he was the first in Europe in
improving sorghum hybrids. Four hybrid cultivars were released by him.
Those are still grown in Hungary. Since 1969 he has served the Cereal
Research Institute of the Hungarian Agriculture Ministry, as the Leader of
the Wheat Breeding Programme. He contributed essentially in the development
and release of 18 wheat cultivars. Meanwhile he introduced the durum wheat
to Hungary.
Zoltan had a wide range of scientific interests, and had an excellent
ability to see the future trends in the science and governed his and his
colleagues' activity to the oncoming problems. He studied the genetic and
physiological background of male-sterility, hybrid vigour and mutations in
sorghum and wheat. He demonstrated experimentally the evolutionary sex
divergence, inducing monosex dioecious forms from bisexual monoecious
plants. As a first he induced genetic male sterile series in sorghum. He
used a number of special breeding methods such as acceleration the
vernalization process by cytokinins, experimental endeavours of the non-
race-specific resistance in breeding studies of disease tolerance without
pesticides by the Center Pivot method, and measurements in somatic and
reproductive heterosis and mutation effects. He worked for achieving
patented cultivars and methods to develop hybrid cereals by more profitable
ways. The patents were based on marker genes and nutritional mutants. He
first suggested and helped to apply the anther culture method to achieve
adequate homogeneity during the breeding work. He encouraged us also to
think unconventionally. His scientific career will be an example for all of
us.
Z. Barabas was a well known and respected person among the
scientists in Hungary and world-wide as well. He was a Member of EUCARPIA,
Chairman of Scientific Council of Agricultural Biotechnology Center,
Godollo, Hungary, and Vice-Chairman of the Szeged Academy Committee.
He established the periodical, "Cereal Research Communications" and
successfully edited it for over 20 years. Zoltan was not only an
outstanding theoretical and practical scientist, but he was our master at
the same time. He established a successful "wheat breeding school" in
Szeged.
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ROBERT L. BURTON
Dr. Robert L. Burton of Stillwater, OK, died Wednesday, February 3,
1993, in the St. Francis Medical Center in Tulsa at the age of 56. Bob was
born in the small town of Antlers, OK on August 23, 1936. He received his
B.S. degree in 1963, and his M.S. in 1964 working on insect diets and
rearing techniques, both from Oklahoma State University (OSU). He joined
the USDA-ARS in 1964, and his first assignment was in Tifton, GA. He
transferred to Stillwater in 1970 and received his Ph.D. in Entomology, also
at OSU, in 1974.
At the time of his death, Bob was director of the USDA-ARS Plant
Science and Water Conservation Laboratory and adjunct professor of
entomology at OSU. He also served as national technological coordinator for
the ARS Russian Wheat Aphid (RWA) program. The RWA was first detected in
the United States in 1986. Since then, the pest has infested 16 of the
western states and is now approaching a billion dollars in total damage.
Under his direction, the laboratory responded dynamically to this pest.
It was the first to identify the RWA and then provided most of the initial
information to the industry as literature and one-on-one communications
through invited presentations and phone responses. During the last five
years, Dr. Burton dramatically changed the direction of the research
approach to deal with the urgency of this problem on the Great Plains. To
implement this change, he secured significant new funding for the unit,
developed several new projects and redesigned others, hired and relocated
scientists, and constructed new facilities. His mission was to develop
programs of fundamental and applied research that involve specific and novel
approaches and multidisciplinary programs such as integrated pest management
(IPM). Stillwater is now recognized as having the most highly concentrated
RWA effort with the broadest scope.
In addition, Bob pioneered research on the impact of conservation
cropping systems on greenbug population dynamics by discovering the
"repellency" action of crop residues and other background effects such as
canopy. This phenomenon, unknown in wheat and grain sorghum until his
research, represents a significant breakthrough that is practical yet
simple: a cultural means of control ideally suited for use in present and
future sustainable cropping systems.
He authored and co-authored 126 scientific publications during the last
28 years and made more than 100 scientific presentations in the United
States and abroad. He was recognized as a world authority in the area of
insect diets and the laboratory production of insects.
Bob was a member of numerous professional societies including the
Entomological Society of America, the Georgia Entomological Society, the
Southwestern Entomological Society, the Kansas (Central States)
Entomological Society, the South Carolina Entomological Society, the
Oklahoma Academy of Science, the Soil and Water Conservation Society, and
the International Soil Tillage Research Organization. He also belonged to
the honor societies Sigma Xi and Phi Sigma. He had served as program
chairman of the 1992 Southwest Branch meeting of the Entomological Society
of America and had received the outstanding performance awards from ARS in
1991 and 1992. His interest in conservation and wildlife extended into his
personal life as well. He enjoyed hunting and was a member of Quail
Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited.
Dr. Burton is survived by his wife Sylvia and his two sons Robert and
Brian. Memorials may go to the OSU Foundation, Dr. Robert L. Burton
Memorial Fund for Entomology, H-100 Student Union, Stillwater, OK 74078.
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DAVE JOHNSTON
Dave Johnston retired December 31, 1992, after 35 years as a wheat
breeder.
Dave was born in Everett, Massachusetts, on November 14, 1930. Although
a city boy by birth, he spent summers working on a farm and developed a love
of agriculture. This led him to attend the University of Massachusetts
where he mastered in Agronomy. After graduation in 1952, he spent four
years in the Navy.
In the Fall of 1956, he enrolled in Graduate School with the Department
of Agronomy and Plant Genetics at the University of Minnesota. In January
of 1958, his wheat breeding career began as he was offered a University of
Minnesota full time staff position as a Research Associate with the wheat
program under Dr. Elmer Ausemus. During his time there, the cultivar,
Chris, was released and the lines which later became Polk, Fletcher, and Era
were in advanced stages of testing.
In July, 1967, Dave left the University and began working for Cargill,
Inc. - the first person hired on the company's wheat research program.
During the early years with Cargill, his efforts were mostly on development
of spring cultivars and spring hybrid components. Two cultivars were
released during this period. Since the mid-seventies, the major portion of
his effort was on the development of restorer lines for the winter program.
Over the years, ten hybrids were made commercially available. He is
recognized as one of the foremost authorities on restorer breeding in wheat.
Dave and his wife will remain in the Fort Collins area, dividing their
time between the flatland and the hills to the west and maybe even a trip
east or south or ?. P.S. Dave says thanks for the "surprise" cards from
the breeders in the states of Colorado, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and
Nebraska. As you might guess, they were opened and appreciated over a cool
brewski!
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HOWARD N. LAFEVER
Dr. Howard "Hal" Lafever retired from the Ohio Agricultural Research and
Development Center/The Ohio State University in 1992. He attended Purdue
University where he received his B.S. (1959), M.S. (1961), and Ph.D. (1963)
degrees in agronomy and plant breeding/ genetics.
During his 27-year career, Dr. Lafever was a leading breeder for the soft
red winter wheat region. His efforts resulted in the release of nine public
soft red winter wheat varieties, including such widely-grown varieties as
'Titan', 'Cardinal', and 'Dynasty'. In 1985, he was instrumental in
establishing a basic licensing agreement with the Agricultural Genetic
Research Association (AGRA). Since its inception, AGRA has marketed five
soft red winter wheat varieties and has contributed funds, generated from
the sales of these varieties, to further wheat breeding research. Dr.
Lafever also expanded the Ohio breeding effort by initiating new spelt and
oat breeding programs. 'Champ' spelt and, the recently released, 'Armor'
oat were developed from these programs. In 1991, Dr. Lafever was recognized
for his contributions to the seed industry of Ohio by being elected an
Honorary Lifetime Member of the Ohio Seed Dealers Association.
Dr. Lafever published and presented numerous papers on the tolerance to
aluminum and the mineral nutrition of wheat. The Ohio program was one of
the first to include selection for aluminum tolerance in the development of
new wheat varieties. As a result, several of the Ohio varieties are
productive in acid soil regions of Ohio. In 1989, because of his
significant service and research contributions to wheat breeding/genetics,
Dr. Lafever was elected an Agronomy Society and a Crop Science Society of
America Fellow.
In retirement, Hal hopes to continue to do some small grains breeding as
well as to travel and pursue his hobby interests. His public career as a
small grains breeder and researcher was truly a model of productivity. We
wish him the same success and productivity in all of his future endeavors.
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COLIN N LAW
Professor Colin Law, the Head of the Cambridge Laboratory, Norwich,
retired in November l992 after 32 years in the UK Agricultural and Food
Research Council research service. Colin joined the Plant Breeding
Institute in Cambridge in l960 after his BSc in Genetics at Birmingham
University and a PhD at University College of Wales, Aberystwyth. His early
years with Ralph Riley in the Cytogenetics Department at PBI were spent
pioneering the use of wheat aneuploid genetic stocks for the genetical
analysis of quantitative characters, particularly those of economic
importance. The methods of analysis and genetic stocks developed by Colin
during the l960s and l970s are now in use worldwide both by geneticists and
breeders. During his career very few characters of the wheat plant escaped
his attention and his work with genes controlling
vernalization response, photoperiod response, plant height, cold tolerance,
salt tolerance, resistance to many important diseases and bread making
quality has provided the foundation for the next generation of cereal
geneticists.
Throughout his career Colin was an inspiration to many students and
colleagues and he instigated a great number of national and international
collaborations. One of the most successful collaborations was the formation
of the European Wheat Aneuploid Cooperative in which he single-handedly
brought together all the laboratories in Europe working on wheat and related
species. EWAC still thrives today and is the major vehicle for European
cooperation on wheat genetics and cytogenetics.
In l972 Colin took over as Head of the Cytogenetics Department. In
addition to actively pursuing his own research interests he was among the
first to recognise the importance of molecular genetics. Under his
leadership, the Molecular Genetics Group grew to the point where it spawned
a new Department, and the PBI became a model for other organizations
worldwide in showing how practical and commercial breeding programmes could
benefit from fundamental research in genetics, physiology and molecular
biology.
In l987 Colin took over as Head of the Cambridge Laboratory which was
formed from the PBI research groups that were not part of the privatisation
package sold to Unilever. He sacrificed much to take on the considerable
new responsibilities, but his success in this post can be judged from the
excellent facilities of the present Cambridge Laboratory at the John Innes
Centre, which he oversaw from design to completion, and from the fact that
almost the entire mobile staff, and all the science, was transferred
efficiently and intact to Norwich in the Spring of l990.
Colin Law is one of the small handful of researchers to have shaped
cereal genetics and cytogenetics and, in doing so, has provided tools that
make life considerably easier for those of us who follow him. We all wish
him well in his retirement and we hope that he will now find time to return
to some of the research that he has had to put aside while shouldering the
administrative burden of Head of the Cambridge Laboratory during the last
five years.
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CHARLES C. RUSSELL
Dr. Charles (Charlie) C. Russell, Professor of Nematology, retired June
31, 1992 after 25 years of teaching and research service in the Department
of Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University. Charlie earned a B.S.
degree in the Department of Entomology at the University of Florida in 1960.
He subsequently completed his degree requirements for the M.S. in Nematology
in 1962, and continued on to earn the Ph.D. degree in 1967 from the same
university. Although an entomologist at heart and by training, he began his
professional career as a Plant Nematologist in 1967 in the Department of
Botany and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University. His primary
responsibilities involved research on plant parasitic nematodes on wheat.
However during his career, he cooperated with many collaborators across
several disciplines. Thus, his research endeavors encompassed other crop
species: peanuts, sweet potato, soybeans, and alfalfa,
and involved varied aspects of nematicide testing, soil fumigation studies,
biological control, nematode resistance, and other aspects too numerous to
mention.
Charlie is a native Floridian and grew up near Sanford Florida where he
led an adventuresome life during his early years as an amateur herpetologist
and avid fisherman. Such hobbies among a myriad of other pursuits attest to
the fact that he was never much for wasting time frivolously.
Charlie's professional career as a graduate student and as a faculty
member was highlighted by his enthusiastic approach toward life and his
willingness to help others. He always had time for students with problems to
provide wise counsel and guidance. This also was reflected in his teaching
responsibilities where his rapport with students and enthusiasm for teaching
was always obvious. He always received the highest teaching ratings from
students because he was genuinely concerned about students and their growth
as individuals and professionals.
Dr. Russell's expertise as a plant nematologist contributed to many
programs across several disciplines at Oklahoma State University. His
expertise will be missed in the Department. Charlie and his wife are living
on a farm near Glencoe, Oklahoma about 20 miles from Stillwater, Oklahoma.
--------------------
ERVIN WILLIAMS, JR.
Ervin Williams, Jr. retired in June, 1992, after 18 years of service to
Oklahoma State University and the Cooperative Extension Service.
Ervin was born in Kansas in 1926.
After receiving his B.S. degree from Kansas State University in 1951 he
joined the military and was part of a U.S. Army Military Police Company from
1951-1953. After fulfilling his military service, Ervin returned to Kansas
State University and worked as a technician in the cereal rust program of
Dr. C. O. Johnston. During this time, Ervin became a graduate student,
studied the effects of environmental conditions on races of Puccinia
recondita f. sp. tritici under the direction of Dr. Johnston, and received
his M.S. degree in 1960.
Ervin became an instructor (1960-1964) and than an assistant professor
(1964-1969) in the Department of Agricultural Services at New Mexico State
University. He moved to Stillwater,
OK in 1969, where he begin to work toward a Ph.D. in the Botany and Plant
Pathology Department at Oklahoma State University under the direction of Dr.
Harry C. Young, Jr. Ervin was not only a research assistant for Dr. Young
where he assisted in the operation of Dr. Young's program of breeding for
disease resistance in wheat, but also was an instructor for the department.
After receiving his Ph.D. in 1973, Ervin was a research associate for Dr.
Young until 1974. Ervin then became an Assistant Professor (Extension State
Specialist) in the Department of Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State
University. During the next 18 years, Ervin became an Associate and than
Full Professor in Extension Plant Pathology, and worked on many different
crops, including peanuts, small grains, alfalfa, field corn, sorghum and
cotton. Ervin's primary responsibility, however, was extension plant
pathology on wheat and other small grains. He was well known for his
research in the control of common bunt and loose smut, and had numerous
extension and research publications in this area. As a result of his work
and other contributions to extension, Ervin received several awards during
his career including recognition by the Oklahoma Association of County
Extension Agents in 1986 for his Crop Production Program, a Ciba-Geigy
Recognition Award in 1987 from the National Association of County
Agricultural Agents for outstanding contributions to agriculture, and
Extension Achievement Awards from the State Extension Service in both 1988
and 1989.
Ervin and his wife Johnna plan to remain in the Stillwater area,
although trips are planned to enjoy their three children and (at this point
in time) one grandchild. We wish Ervin and Johnna a long, happy, and well-
deserved retirement.
--------------------
CHARLES C. RUSSELL
Dr. Charles (Charlie) C. Russell, Professor of Nematology, retired June
31, 1992 after 25 years of teaching and research service in the Department
of Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University. Charlie earned a B.S.
degree in the Department of Entomology at the University of Florida in 1960.
He subsequently completed his degree requirements for the M.S. in Nematology
in 1962, and continued on to earn the Ph.D. degree in 1967 from the same
university. Although an entomologist at heart and by training, he began his
professional career as a Plant Nematologist in 1967 in the Department of
Botany and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University. His primary
responsibilities involved research on plant parasitic nematodes on wheat.
However during his career, he cooperated with many collaborators across
several disciplines. Thus, his research endeavors encompassed other crop
species: peanuts, sweet potato, soybeans, and alfalfa, and involved varied
aspects of nematicide testing, soil fumigation studies, biological control,
nematode resistance, and other aspects too numerous to mention.
Charlie is a native Floridian and grew up near Sanford Florida where he
led an adventuresome life during his early years as an amateur herpetologist
and avid fisherman. Such hobbies among a myriad of other pursuits attest to
the fact that he was never much for wasting time frivolously.
Charlie's professional career as a graduate student and as a faculty
member was highlighted by his enthusiastic approach toward life and his
willingness to help others. He always had time for students with problems to
provide wise counsel and guidance. This also was reflected in his teaching
responsibilities where his rapport with students and enthusiasm for teaching
was always obvious. He always received the highest teaching ratings from
students because he was genuinely concerned about students and their growth
as individuals and professionals.
Dr. Russell's expertise as a plant nematologist contributed to many
programs across several disciplines at Oklahoma State University. His
expertise will be missed in the Department. Charlie and his wife are living
on a farm near Glencoe, Oklahoma about 20 miles from Stillwater, Oklahoma.
--------------------
I. SPECIAL REPORTS
Minutes of The Wheat Crop Advisory Committee
Nov. 19, 1992
College Park, MD
Committee members in attendance were T.S. Cox (acting Chair), O.
Anderson, J.G. Waines, J.S. Quick, D.V. McVey, R.H. Busch, K.
Briggs, B. Skovmand, I.B. Edwards, R.F. Line, C.F. Murphy (ex-
officio), and H.E. Bockleman (ex-officio).
Minutes of the 1991 meeting, as published in the 1992 Annual Wheat
Newsletter, were approved by voice vote.
Officers and membership. The acting Chair will solicit nominations
by mail for the offices of Chair and Vice-Chair to fill expiring
terms, and for membership nominations to fill expiring first terms
of Waines, Quick, and McVey (all three are eligible for second
terms.)
Germplasm collection. Waines discussed a response by Dr. Calvin
Spurling (ARS Plant Explorer) to a WCAC letter concerning the need
to collect wild wheats in SE Turkey before a large irrigation
project is installed there. Dr. Spurling indicated those species
that probably would not be endangered by the project (e.g., weedy
Aegilops) and others that might (Ae. speltoides and wild Triticum
spp.). Since the latter species were those originally of most
concern to the WCAC, Waines will write a proposal, to be approved
by WCAC, to collect those species in specified areas of SE Turkey
in 1994.
Germplasm evaluation. Bockleman reported that evaluation of wheat
accessions in the US Small Grains Collection is proceeding, and
that entry of data into GRIN is accelerating. He submitted a list
of PI assignments made in the past year. The Committee briefly
discussed the "core collection" or "subsample" concept, and as in
past years, little enthusiasm was expressed for developing a core
in wheat.
Canadian germplasm activities. Briggs reported on germplasm
activities in Canada. Ag Canada at Winnepeg has been designated a
"node" for the small grains collection in Canada, in charge of
collection, regeneration, and evaluation. Winnepeg is also the
biotech center for monocots. Certain stations have been designated
to take the leading role in wheat research for different regions,
including the Northern area (Beaverlodge), Western Prairie - durum
and dryland (Swift Current), Eastern Prairie (Winnepeg), and
Rockies and Southwest (Lethbridge). Ag Canada has virtually
abandoned triticale research.
CIMMYT germplasm activities. Skovmand reported that CIMMYT is
still working to complete its germplasm database, and is 2/3 of the
way toward getting all data entered. The database has three parts:
pedigree management, gene bank system, and field-trial data
management. CIMMYT is struggling with the problem of deciding how
much material to conserve; at present, they are storing 3 to 4000
new lines per year. One possibility is to bulk closely-related
sister lines. CIMMYT has proposed the formation of a Global
Advisory Board on Genetic Resources, which would include
representatives of CIMMYT, ICARDA, and IBPGR, among others. This
board would review the status and make recommendations regarding
the nearly 600,000 wheat accessions held in collections worldwide.
The first action regarding formation of the board may occur at the
International Wheat Genetics Symposium in Beijing in the summer of
1993.
Wheat Genome Database. Anderson discussed progress being made on
the Wheat Genome Database. Five researchers around the country are
taking responsibility for entering data on various marker and trait
groups. Entered so far are the molecular map of T. tauschii from
Kansas State, the North American Barley map, and other
miscellaneous data. Access to the database is best done on a UNIX
machine through INTERNET, but can be done over phone lines and/or
with other equipment using XWindows.
GRIN. Bockleman and Mark Bohning (ARS, GRIN, Beltsville) discussed
the GRIN 3 design and new computer to be used for running it.
There also is now a PC version of GRIN on diskettes, available on
request. The wheat database is the largest of any crop in GRIN, at
50Mb. Because all wheat accessions in GRIN have the original
taxonomic designations they had when deposited, the nomenclature is
often confusing. Waines will work with Bohning and John Wiersma
(ARS taxonomist, Beltsville) to make nomenclature in GRIN more
informative.
Quarantine. Skovmand reported that there are no changes in the
quarantine situation for seed coming to the US from Mexico. CIMMYT
seed production for international distribution has been moved to a
site 3 hours south of Mexico City, in an area in which wheat has
never been grown, to minimize chances of Karnal bunt infection.
Murphy and Bockleman noted that USDA Beltsville Quarantine Lab will
still send seed overseas for wheat researchers for no charge.
Because of high APHIS fees for phytosanitary certificates,
Beltsville spent $17,000 on certificates last year.
Funding proposals. The WCAC voted to recommend that $5000 from ARS
Genetic Stocks funds be used to pay a portion of the $21,500 cost
of a walk-in cold storage room at UC Riverside, to be used to store
seed of wheat genetic stocks and related wild species. The
remainder of the cost has been pledged to Waines by various
sources, so construction may begin in 1993. Jim Peterson (ARS,
Lincoln) noted that a previously allocated $4000 had been used to
increase Dr. Rosalind Morris' genetic stocks and that these soon
will be deposited at the Nat'l Seed Storage Lab.
The Committee recommended that against funding this year by ARS
through its germplasm evaluation program a proposal by Dr. Phil
Bruckner et al. at Montana State for screening winter wheats for
resistance to stem sawfly. (See attached letter).
PVP. Alan Atchley of the Plant Variety Protection Office reported
that the 50 wheat cultivar applications he faced when he took over
his job in January '91 have been processed, and future applications
should be taken care of expeditiously. He expressed concern that
the Variety Review Board in commenting on revised PVP exhibit C
suggested dropping the use of standard cultivars. The consensus of
the WCAC was that standards should be retained.
Next year's meeting. Skovmand invited the WCAC to hold its 1993
meeting at CIMMYT's headquarters in Mexico. It was agreed to do so
if the National Wheat Improvement Committee meeting is held there.
[The NWIC accepted an invitation to do so the next day.]
The meeting was adjourned by voice vote. Stan Cox, CAC Chair
--------------------
Minutes of the National Wheat Improvement Committee (NWIC)
Meeting
November 20-21, 1992
College Park, Maryland
Committee Members in attendance were: R.G. Sears, Chair; C.J.
Peterson, Secretary; R. Bacon; H.F. Bockelman; R. Bruns; R. Busch;
D. Butcher; T.S. Cox; R. Frohberg; G. Hareland; D. Hole; L. Joppa;
R. Line; D. Sammons; D. Van Sanford; W.D. Worrall; R. Zemetra.
Absent: C. Qualset; G. Statler; C. Haugeberg (ex-officio member).
Non-Committee Members: O. Anderson, ARS, WRRC Albany, CA; A.
Atchley, Plant Variety Protection Office, NAL Bldg, Beltsville MD;
K. Briggs, Univ. of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; H. Brooks, ARS-NPS,
Beltsville, MD; I. Edwards, Pioneer, Johnston, IA; W. Martinez,
ARS-NPS, Beltsville, MD; D. McVey, ARS, Cereal Rust, St. Paul, MN;
C. Murphy, ARS-NPS, Beltsville, MD; J. Quick, Colorado State Univ.,
Fort Collins, CO; H. Shands, ARS-NPS, Beltsville, MD; B. Skovmand,
CIMMYT, Mexico; G. Waines, Univ. of California, CA.
PRELIMINARIES
Chairman Sears called the meeting to order and members and
guests were introduced. WELCOMES were presented by Dr. Bryan
Johnson, Director of the Maryland Agriculture Experiment Station,
and Dr. Richard Weismiller, Chairman, Department of Agronomy,
University of Maryland.
MINUTES OF THE 1991 MEETING
Minutes were published in AWN38: Busch asked for a motion to
waive reading them. Zemetra moved, Bockelman seconded, passed.
RESPONSES TO 1991 LETTERS
Only one letter was sent in 1991, commending NPS staff
Martinez and Murphy for their contributions to the NWIC. The
letter was acknowledged by Dr. Plowman, Administrator, ARS.
ANNUAL WHEAT NEWSLETTER
The following reports are included by J.S. Quick, Editor, and
I. Edwards, Treasurer, of the Annual Wheat Newsletter. Cost of
preparation and publication continue to be a problem relative to
supporting revenue. Suggestions for reducing and covering costs
include a per copy charge, development of endowment account for
Newsletter, or distribute copies on diskettes.
1992 Annual Report to NWIC, J.S. Quick, Editor
The editing and publishing of Volume 38 of the Annual Wheat
Newsletter (AWN) followed the format of previous newsletters and
was the second volume directly printed in reduced font size
entirely from computer files. There were 465 copies printed and
each copy had 343 pages. Ten copies of Volume 38 and about 20 of
Volume 35 are still available. A summary of information about each
volume printed since 1954 (Volume 1) was published in the AWN,
Volume 32 (1986). The number of pages has increased by 150 since
1980, the number of contributions has increased considerably, and
the cost of publication increased significantly in 1992. Due to
rising costs, an effort was made to reduce the number of copies
printed by encouraging multiple use. Cost of production was
reduced from about $4500 in 1987 to about $3900 in 1988, increased
to $5416 in 1989. to $4690 in 1991 due to limited distribution, and
increased to $6310 in 1992 due to increased pages per volume. Cost
per copy is about $12.00.
In addition to the total cost of production, Colorado State
University Agronomy Department has contributed part of my time,
computer facilities, and some occasional letter typing. An
Agronomy Department secretary, Carolyn Schultz, has done an
excellent job of manuscript preparation since 1983.
All AWN address lists are computerized, and mailing and
sorting has become simple and routine. We are requesting all
workers provide their manuscripts on computer disks if at all
possible. All text will be entered into computer files and laser
printed with reduced font size to save space. Manuscripts can also
be provided through the BITNET system. About 300 requests for
manuscripts and financial assistance are sent to U.S., Australian,
and Canadian wheat workers each January. The requests for
manuscripts and financial contributions from other foreign
scientists are included as an insert in the Newsletter mailing in
June. Additionally, regional manuscript and financial solicitation
and coordination are done by scientists in other countries.
The cost of producing Volume 39 will probably be similar to
that for Volume 38. I believe it is now feasible and financially
necessary to consider: 1) AWN distribution by diskette, 2)
reduction in distribution, 3) increase in voluntary contributions,
4) subscriptions, etc. Suggestions from the NWIC would be
appreciated. Ian Edwards, AWN treasurer, has done an excellent job
of securing cooperative and institutional financial contributions
allowing us to maintain a sound financial position.
1992 Annual Report to NWIC
I.B. Edwards, Treasurer
ITEM DEBIT CREDIT BALANCE
1. Balance reported
June 1, 1992 AWN $5484.53
2. Mailing request letter $ 43.84 5440.69
3. Envelopes 11.00 5429.69
4. Photocopy charges 37.50 5392.19
5. Mailing, Vol. 38, July 1992 966.91 4425.28
6. Printing and binding 4550.86 <125.58>
7. Typing and editing, Vol. 38 700.00 <825.58>
(Carolyn Schultz)
8. Misc. bank charges 5.00 <830.58>
9. New contributions (since June 1) $ 270.00 <560.58>
10. Interest on checking 53.83 <506.75>
====================================================================
Comments:
1. The total cost of Volume 38 was $6,310.11. This costs divided
by 465 copies printed is about $12.06/copy. Volume 38 is 108 pages
longer than Volume 37 (343 vs 235), and 25 more copies of Volume 38
were printed. The total printed pages of Volume 38 was 54 percent
greater than that of Volume 37, and the total cost was 35% higher.
Volume 38 was printed entirely from computer files.
2. Current funding balance, at the present time, is $<506.75>
compared with $<247.22> a year ago. It must be noted that there is
still an outstanding balance owing for production costs in the
amount of $610.11. In the past four years, contributions have not
matched the rising costs, and this is an area of concern.
3. Although corporate contributions have increased in recent
years, this past year showed a decline. A number of institutions
and companies require an invoice in order to make payments. We are
encouraging them to notify your Treasurer as to the amount they
wish to donate, and we will gladly furnish an invoice. Private
contributions remain our major source of revenue. We will need
very strong appeal in 1993 to keep the Annual Wheat Newsletter
solvent.
USDA-ARS RESEARCH FUNDING UPDATE
Howard Brooks reported that ARS will have a flat budget in
FY93, essentially losing $19 million to salary increases. New
monies are all coming from Congress with very specific target
locations and research areas. Frustration in ARS is Congress
dictating to ARS where to locate funds and what to do with them,
leaving no room for administrators to make needed or desired
changes in current programs. There were over 200 phrases in the
current ARS budget approved by congress recommending ARS action,
but providing no money to accomplish these actions. ARS is also
now over its personnel ceiling of 8,150 by about 300 employees.
ARS needs $250,000 per new scientist, and same funding goal for old
projects. Currently $25 million is spent on wheat for 116 SY's, so
essentially would need additional $4 million or drop scientists by
16. Some concern exists over potential shifts in research
priorities with new secretary of agriculture.
Purdue has received $900,000 new money direct from Congress
for three wheat research positions: BYDV molecular biologist;
Fungal pathology molecular biologist; and Entomology position with
emphasis on Hessian Fly. None of the positions have yet been
filled. The NWIC is pleased that new positions were established in
areas that need research.
Dr. Murphy discussed problem areas in current ARS wheat
research units. Most critical is the Plant Science Unit at
Manhattan which cannot maintain 3 positions at this time, with only
$300,000 total funds. Montana had asked for $200,000 new money for
a Smut Research Position at Bozeman, but only received $100,000.
This is not enough to fund a full position so ARS will not fill
until additional funds are obtained. Funding for the program at
Pullman, WA on foliar diseases and smuts, which includes rusts as
well as flag smut, is only $125,000. There are numerous other
research units in various states of financial stress, but Manhattan
is currently the worst. Murphy repeated the frustration of the NPS
with its inability to make funding or program changes due to lack
of new funds and potential political backlash over changes.
Drs. Shands and Murphy emphasized the need to keep ARS
informed and work together to obtain new positions for specific
commodities. Shands indicated that the new administration will
bring a new focus on mission oriented research and research
enhancing national competitiveness. The National Research
Initiative (NRI) will be specifically targeted in the future.
GERMPLASM ISSUES
Dr. Shands indicated the desire that germplasm be made
available for use as parent material. Status of Intellectual
Property Rights was discussed. Patent lawyers are now discussing
ways to allow uses of germplasm when a utility patent is applied.
ARS is evolving a new policy on germplasm release, and germplasm
exchange in relation to release policies. The new policy is
expected in a few months. Included in the policy is that ARS
researchers can participate in royalty bearing variety releases,
and that states are not restricted to 0 cash return on co-releases
with ARS. ARS will take a more open stance in participation in
licenses to promote products. The policy also promotes a stronger
research exemption in patented materials developed by ARS. Shands
wants to push for a stronger research exemption in all agricultural
patents and separate out agricultural patents from other areas.
ARS and ASA are co-sponsoring a meeting on Intellectual Property
Rights in January, 1993.
Shands discussed the challenge of the decision by ASA to not
allow Crop Science registration for germplasms or varieties unless
seed was deposited in the NSSL and made available for exchange.
Some researchers want complete control of seed and allow use only
by contract while still registering in Crop Science. Concern is
over appearance of using Crop Science for advertising and potential
compounding of problems with international exchange. Restrictive
clauses in germplasm releases will continue to be a problem until
challenged in court. In a straw poll, the NWIC agreed with the
current ASA position regarding deposition of seed with
registration. Crop Science also is considering requiring that
originator be responsible for distribution of seed when agreeing
to registration. ASA also has interest in registering patented
materials, but not until a research exemption is obtained.
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE REPORT
Dave Sammons reported on 1992 NWIC legislative visits. The
Legislative teams visited for approximately a half an hour in 29
congressional offices and left information packets at 3 additional
offices; a total of 18 senate and 14 house offices were contacted.
Issues supported were those identified in the 1991 NWIC meeting: 1)
funding for leaf rust position at Kansas State, Manhattan; 2) Wheat
genetic stocks at Columbia, Mo.; and 3) Total grain quality issue
at Grain Marketing Lab., Manhattan. Sears indicated that he
received acknowledgement from 8-10 legislators indicating need for
NWIC involvement and appreciation of information. However, Kansas
representatives were obligated to support Phase II of Throckmorton
Hall rather that leaf rust position. NWIC is still learning how to
work with legislature and identify a Champion for causes. The NWIC
needs follow up and: 1) recognition, 2) grower support, and 3) user
group support.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHEAT GROWERS (NAWG) FOUNDATION
Dina Butcher was introduced as the new Director of the NAWG
Foundation. She was formally with North Dakota Wheat Commission.
She expressed the desire to have the NWIC work closely with NAWG on
national research issues and pledged NAWG's help with NWIC lobbying
efforts by suggesting the need for growers with NWIC legislative
committee to obtain additional interest from representatives.
Butcher suggested the need to maintain contact and communications
and suggested that NAWG could help follow up when NWIC committee
had completed their visit. NAWG priorities include concentrating
on alternative or industrial uses rather than food. Murphy
commented that NAWG and Corn Grower group have not helped much in
research efforts as research is low on their priority list.
Butcher emphasized the need to generate local support of research
and need for growers to understand issues. An additional lobbyist
at NAWG was needed.
A possible joint meeting of North American Wheat Workers and
NAWG was suggested for 1994 in New Orleans. Bruns reported, after
discussion with Regional Chairs, that a joint meeting would be
difficult to coordinate and organize. They suggested need for a
more central location and less expensive site for the wheat workers
meeting such as Kansas City or Dallas.
WHEAT CROP ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT
Chair Stan Cox reported on key issues from the previous
evening meeting as follows:
1) G. Waines indicated that a proposal to collect wild wheats in
SE Turkey prior to initiation of a large irrigation project was
rejected. In his reply to the proposal, Dr. Calvin Spurling, ARS,
indicated that some species proposed for collection would not be
endangered. Waines will write a new proposal with more specific
target areas and species.
2) Funding proposals: The Wheat CAC recommended that $5,000 from
ARS Genetics Stocks funds be used to pay a portion of the $21,000
cost for a walk-in cold storage room at UC Riverside. The walk-in
is to be used for seed storage of wheat genetics stocks and related
species. The remainder of funds have already been pledged to
Waines. J. Peterson noted that $4,000 allocated in 1991 had been
used for increase of Dr. Rosalind Morris' genetic stocks, and that
these will soon be deposited in the National Seed Storage Lab.
3) A. Atchley, Plant Variety Protection office reported that the 50
wheat cultivar applications he faced when taking his new position
in January '91 have been processed. He expected that future
applications will be processed more expeditiously. Atchley
discussed a proposal for dropping check cultivars on the revised
PVP exhibit C. The consensus of the CAC was that checks should be
retained, but updating of the cultivars should be considered. It
was suggested that this be done in consultation with the NWIC and
CAC.
4) A suggestions was made that the CAC be a sub-committee of the
NWIC rather than free-standing. No action was taken.
5) B. Skovmand reported on CIMMYT germplasm database development.
CIMMYT is struggling with decisions on how much material to
conserve, presently storing 3 to 4,000 new lines yearly. Bulking
of closely related sister lines was discussed. CIMMYT has proposed
formation of a Global Advisory Committee on Germplasm with first
action occurring at the International Wheat Genetics Symposium in
Beijing.
6) H. Bockleman and M. Bohning discussed the GRIN 3 software
design and new computer system for operations. A PC version of
GRIN on diskette is now available, on request. The wheat database
is largest of any crop and requires 50Mb storage. Wheat accessions
in GRIN have the original taxonomic designations entered when
deposited, so that nomenclature is often confusing. Waines will
work with Bohning and John Wiersma, ARS Taxonomist, to clarify
nomenclature and make information more useful.
RESEARCH FUNDING NEEDS AND INITIATIVES
D. Van Sanford reported on the need for a germplasm position
in the southeast to work on resistances in Septoria, scab, and leaf
rust. Septoria Nodorum produces significant losses each year and
scab is expected to increase with increased surface residues for
erosion control. Southern wheat workers have met with oat workers
group and discussed possible joint wheat-oats disease specialist
position. Locations considered were Stuttgart, AR or Raleigh, NC.
Murphy favored locating position in North Carolina because of
isolation and size of research unit at Stuttgart. Possible
legislative champions could be Bumpers from Arkansas or Price from
North Carolina. Concern was expressed for wide focus of position,
which may affect potential for success. Motion was made by Van
Sanford: NWIC supports the need for a small grains germplasm
enhancement position for diseases in the SE. Seconded by D.
Sammons and motion carried. Item is to be included in legislative
agenda. Representatives of SE region are to consider optimal
location and position focus and provide information to legislative
committee.
R. Sears reported on critical state of ARS funding in the
Plant Science Unit at Kansas State Univ. A 1991 initiative by the
U.S.-Grain Marketing Research Lab to develop 4 new ARS positions,
including funding for leaf rust work, and to bring the GMRL
facility up to ACE code failed. The need for regional germplasm
support was discussed. R. Bruns made a motion, seconded by J.
Peterson, for the NWIC to vigorously support efforts to obtain
additional funding for the ARS Plant Science Unit at Kansas State,
using money from old or new sources. Several expressed concern
over potential impact of redirection of current funds and research
efforts. Murphy indicated that money could not be shifted between
locations without permission from Congress. D. Hole modified
motion to drop use of either old or new money. Modified motion
passed. Item will be added to legislative initiative.
R. Sears reported that the Smut research position at Bozeman,
MT is not being filled due to inadequate funds. R. Line indicated
that others were working on smut, but efforts did not have focus.
Sears suggested writing letter to Plowman urging filling of the
position. Murphy agreed this would be appropriate, although it may
not be filled anyway. I. Edwards suggested including this item
with legislative agenda as pathology package for wheat. Discussion
of advantages and disadvantages of single item or packaging of
initiatives followed. Intent is to include in legislative
initiative, leaving legislative committee flexibility to package as
appropriate.
STATUS OF U.S. RESEARCH FUNDING
Regional representatives reported on surveys results regarding
status of public research funding. Peterson reported general
trends in HRWW region were decreased research funding from state
appropriations and Hatch funds. State commodity board funding and
industry contracts have increased. There was disagreement on
whether current research areas targeted in competitive grants were
in the best interest of agriculture. Most surveyed did not know
how target areas were established or have not have input into the
process. Most also disagreed when asked if their peers were
involved in the grant review and selection process. Van Sanford
reported on SE survey showing need for increased Hatch funds and
difficulties in obtaining NRI grants for applied projects. Zemetra
indicated there is decreasing funding base for applied research and
need for increased Hatch funds. Joppa also indicated need for
increased Hatch funds and survey suggested grants were appropriate
for basic, but not applied, research efforts. Dave Sammons will
summarize results of the surveys and include as an informational
item in the document prepared for the Legislative visit.
DESIGN AND COORDINATION OF WHEAT GENOME DATABASE
Olin Anderson reported that significant progress has been made
on computer programing for development of the Wheat Genome
Database. Data entry is concentrating on molecular markers at
present. Database access is free and four countries in addition to
U.S. are now accessing system. Anderson offered to demonstrate the
system at the National Ag Library after the close of the NWIC
meeting. The database development is a five year program, and
concern was expressed that budget cuts may abort the program. A
motion was made by Stan Cox for the NWIC to send letter to Plowman,
ARS Administrator, supporting the Grain-Gene Database program.
Second by Van Sanford and motion passed.
Updates of molecular mapping progress were presented at recent
ITMI meeting and efforts are continuing. Five wheat researchers
have received $250,000 for mapping efforts in 1991 and $50,000 was
made available for coordination of mapping efforts, meetings and
workshops, and newsletter. Anderson predicted that molecular
isolation of genes in wheat will soon be forthcoming.
CIMMYT UPDATE
Bent Skovmand reported on new Karnal Bunt infection that
occurred at the CIMMYT Hermosillo seed increase site in 1992.
CIMMYT will not distribute seed for any International Wheat
Nurseries this year. Only durum and barley nurseries will be
distributed. They are developing new seed increase site 3 hours
south of Mexico City in area that has never produced wheat before.
CIMMYT also has identified two resistant wheats which were released
in Mexico. They were derived from Chinese wheats and have low
infection type.
Member of the NWIC expressed great concern over the CIMMYT
press release that announced the end of leaf rust as an important
wheat disease. Several members indicated they have been placed in
awkward situations in explaining current leaf rust status in the
U.S. Worrall suggested that NWIC draft a letter to Winkleman,
CIMMYT Director General, expressing concern over statements made in
the press release and to explain current U.S. situation. Edwards
suggested this might be used as basis of NWIC press release to
document impact of wheat diseases in U.S. and generate support for
NWIC initiatives for pathology funding.
INTERNATIONAL GERMPLASM SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT
Bockleman reported on approaches discussed with Busch,
Peterson, Edwards, Briggs, and Skovmand. The objective is to
obtain new cultivars and breeding lines internationally for entry
into the germplasm network. The committee suggested the need to
survey U.S. researchers to determine what and from where materials
are now imported. Key international programs need to be identified
for exchange efforts. Regional Committee Chairs will be asked to
coordinate survey efforts and determine interests from each region.
Bockleman offered to help make contacts for exchange and increase
up to 1,000 lines under quarantine each year for small scale
distribution. He also will develop statement for distribution for
potential contributors regarding entry of germplasm into NSG
Collection. Materials to be targeted initially include germplasm
from the Southern Cone, Turkey, and European contacts. Bruns
indicated that national lists and catalogs in European countries
were available and could be helpful.
ELECTION OF NEW NWIC SECRETARY
Busch nominated Jim Peterson for NWIC Secretary, Zemetra
seconded. Line moved nomination cease, Worrall seconded. Peterson
assumed duties as Secretary during meeting. Peterson will prepare
resolution of thanks to Bob Busch for his efforts as NWIC
Secretary.
WHEAT QUALITY COUNCIL
Ben Handcock, Director of the Wheat Quality Council reported
on efforts to merge HRW, HRS, eastern SW, and western SW into a
National Wheat Quality Council. Currently the HRW and eastern
group have agreed to merger within a year. Western and HRS groups
are interested, but not yet committed. The four groups will
maintain autonomy with four major technical committees and separate
annual meetings. Every fifth year may be a single combined
meeting. A single board of trustees will oversee administration
and fund raising only; it will not address technical issues.
Potential exists for consolidating significant political support
from within the wheat industry for national lobbying efforts.
Concerns were expressed over potential for companies to
earmark money to specific regions; i.e. providing money for eastern
SW, rather than to the general fund. Handcock indicated that
separate budgets may be necessary for each group, but would prefer
general fund with targeted discretionary funds. WQC has developed
a new mission statement that Handcock interprets as allowing
Council to fund research efforts. Long term goal may be to develop
WQC as granting agency for wheat quality research efforts once
initial funding is secured. At a minimum, the WQC could serve as
intermediary from research groups to interested companies.
Additional funding from Wheat Commissions based on production
acreage in each state is also sought.
WHEAT CLASSIFICATION UPDATE AND WHEAT QUALITY ISSUES
Dr. W. Martinez reported on the Wheat Classification Working
group and related activities. The Single Kernel Wheat Hardness
Tester (SKH), designed by the USDA Grain Marketing Research Lab at
Manhattan, is now the machine of choice. Pertin Instruments is
working cooperatively with ARS on machine development, at no cost
to ARS. FGIS has two machines now and will put 6 more in the field
for evaluation next spring. The four Regional Quality Labs are
planning to each have a machine in place by spring. Goal of FGIS
is implementation of the SKH tester for grain classification in
1995. FGIS has not yet dealt with methods for standardization of
calibrations or development of calibration samples.
Cost of SKH tester is now projected at $10,000 to $15,000,
much less than previously expected. It will run 300 kernels in 10
minutes and provide information on: means and standard deviations
for hardness; weight of individual kernels; diameter of kernel from
point of contact; moisture; and crush profile. The machine could
help measure milling efficiency, especially for kernel uniformity.
Goal of Pertin Instruments is to place a single kernel NIR unit up
front of the SKH tester to measure protein, moisture, oil, etc.
Martinez stressed that the ARS and FGIS goal is to understand and
document variation, not to dictate hardness goals. Current
breakpoint between hard and soft wheats is 38 on scale of 0 to 100.
Martinez discussed possible development of a Test Weight
Working Group similar to that for hardness. NAWG is very
interested and FGIS supports concept. Van Sanford made a motion
for NWIC to send a letter to FGIS supporting formation of the
group. Motion passed. Possibly the SKH tester will be focus for
the groups efforts to redefine TWT.
Martinez commented that the next administration is big unknown
since there has been no contact of Clinton transition team. No
chance and no interest at present time for new Wheat Variety
Survey. Some pressure to eliminate research effort in FGIS as
duplication with ARS. However, FGIS research delivers to the
market and should not be decreased or seen as duplication. Worrall
recommended preparing a NWIC letter of support for FGIS research
effort. Sears suggested including it in a legislative packet as
point of information and waiting to mail letter until new Secretary
of Agriculture is appointed. Preparation of letter supporting FGIS
effort approved by consensus.
Zemetra questioned ARS sprouting research and the need for
rapid analyses during harvest. Martinez indicated that basic
research work exists but no instrumentation work at this time. The
ARS lab in Pullman is evaluating an instrument developed by the
Australians for possible use in grain elevators. However, cost of
$30,000 for the unit is prohibitive for elevator use. Goal is to
add unit to SKH tester, when available and if possible, to measure
sprouting. Would like something NIR based, but nothing at present.
PLANT VARIETY PROTECTION AND RELEASE POLICIES
Regional Representatives reported on PVP surveys. Peterson
reported strong support in the HRWW region for PVP, as long as it
does not infringe on germplasm exchange. There was general support
for restriction of the Farmers Exemption. Researchers oppose the
use of Utility Patents for protecting varieties and expect their
use will restrict germplasm exchange. However, their parent
organizations were generally in favor of Utility Patents. Van
Sanford reported support in the eastern region for restricting the
Farmers Exemption in PVP. The trend in the region is toward
charging royalties for varieties and omission of the Registered
class. Joppa reported that the HRS group was mixed on support for
PVP with only Minnesota currently protecting varieties. Most did
not support restriction of the Farmers Exemption. Zemetra reported
support for PVP in the SWW region and favor PVP over patenting.
The region split on support for restriction of Farmers Exemption
with 60% in favor. Edwards reminded the group that there is
nothing in the PVP laws that would result in restriction of
germplasm exchange. Utility patents would restrict exchange and
require cross licence agreements.
Stan Cox reported on HRWWIC survey on variety release
policies. With the exception of Texas, most were standard release
policies. Texas allows for royalties to be charged on varieties
and indicated the intent to handle germplasm on a 'more business
like manner in the future'. KS, NE, and MT anticipate no change in
release policies. OK and CO are open to change as needed to
compete with programs in surrounding states. Need the NWIC and
Regional Committees to keep administrators aware of impact of
release policy decisions on germplasm exchange and the Wheat
Breeders Code of Ethics.
Shands discussed current position of '91 International
Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV)
treaty on plant variety protection. The U.S. signed the treaty but
it has not been introduced on floor of Senate. Sen. Kerrey may
introduce the bill sometime next year. American Seed Trade
Association is providing legal assistance to draft language in the
bill. UPOV '91 has two points which differ from past treaties.
First: no Farmers Exemption for selling protected varieties.
Second: is introduction of the minimum distance or essentially
derived concepts to protect a variety. The Farm Bureau is a
primary obstacle in getting the treaty passed. Minimum distance is
not yet defined. To approve UPOV treaty, the Senate must first
change the PVP laws, acknowledging that the objective of PVP is
best served by adoption of UPOV.
Busch reported on ASTA wheat subcommittee for development of
essentially derived or minimum distance concepts. Members include
Busch; Edwards; Baenziger, Nebraska; Ohm, Purdue; Wilson, Trio;
Heiner, AgriPro; and Erickson, HybriTech. The subcommittee is to
determine which methods result in essentially derived varieties,
propose thresholds for genetic distance, and methods for measuring
genetic distance. Busch gave an update on directions of the group
and concepts for essentially derived varieties and dependency
currently under consideration. The subcommittee is to prepare
final recommendations for ASTA in the near future.
Van Sanford moved that the NWIC prepare a letter reaffirming
the NWIC PVP resolution of 1990, stating the foremost concern of
the NWIC regarding PVP is free exchange of germplasm, and that the
NWIC supports the UPOV '91 position restricting the farmer
exemption in PVP. Second by Bruns, motion carried. Sears and
Peterson to draft wording and circulate to Regional Chairs for
comments and approval. Letter is to be included in legislative
packet and sent to ASTA.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS
Representatives of the NWIC Legislative Action Subcommittee
will develop plans to visit Capitol Hill sometime in March, 1993.
Chairman Sears and the subcommittee will coordinate preparation of
the legislative booklet and identify key congressional staff for
contacts. The primary goal of the visit will be to obtain funding
for a 'National Wheat Pathology Research Initiative'. This
initiative is to cover the areas of pathology research identified
earlier by the NWIC as both critical to the national interests and
underfunded. Areas targeted include: support for the Plant Science
unit at Manhattan for Leaf Rust work; funds for the Smut position
at Bozeman; and new position for pathology/germplasm enhancement in
the eastern wheat region. Key representatives from these states
will be contacted to co-sponsor legislation and identify champions.
Emphasis will be placed on impact of Karnal Bunt and Dwarf Smut on
export markets and other diseases which impact on competitiveness
of U.S. growers and wheat quality. Researchers not on the NWIC
will likely be asked to participate in lobbying efforts, especially
those from states with key congressional representatives.
NEXT MEETING
Bent Skovmand offered, on behalf of CIMMYT, to hold the next
NWIC meeting at CIMMYT headquarters in El Batan, Mexico next
November. The move to Mexico for '93 was justified by the
opportunity to discuss issues with CIMMYT regarding germplasm
exchange and international quarantine problems. Dates of November
17-19 or 18-20 were suggested. Bruns moved to accept the
invitation, with Zemetra second. Motion carried. The meeting was
then adjourned by Dr. Sears.
Respectfully submitted, C. James Peterson, Secretary.
RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED AT THE NATIONAL WHEAT IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
MEETING,
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND, NOVEMBER 20-21, 1992
SUBJECT: PLANT VARIETY PROTECTION
TO: Dave Lambert and Art Armbrust, American Seed Trade
Association
Vance Watson, American Association of Seed Certifying
Agencies
WHEREAS, the National Wheat Improvement Committee recognizes the
need for protection of, and return on, plant breeding investments.
The Plant Variety Protection Act (PVPA) of 1970 was passed with the
intent to stimulate private plant breeding research and provide a
mechanism for maintaining property rights on developed seed
varieties.
WHEREAS, the PVPA has not provided adequate economic and
intellectual protection of plant breeding products to justify
research investments. The farmer exemption in PVPA is too broad
and has proven to be unenforceable. The exemption has resulted in
wide scale brown-bagging and unauthorized sales of protected
varieties which has had a negative economic impact on private plant
breeding efforts and seed companies.
WHEREAS, the foremost concern of the NWIC is the potential impact
of variety and germplasm protection on germplasm exchange. The
PVPA research exemption has provided for, and resulted in,
continuation of free germplasm exchange and development. Plant
Utility Patents have, and are further expected, to result in
restricted germplasm exchange among breeding programs.
WHEREAS, the 1991 International Convention for the Protection of
New Varieties of Plants, or UPOV treaty, provides for enhanced
protection of intellectual property rights and plant varieties
developed by breeding through restriction and clarification of the
farmer exemption.
THEREFORE, be it resolved that the NWIC supports amendment of the
Plant Variety Protection Act to restrict the farmer exemption
clause as proposed in 1991 UPOV treaty. The objective of the PVPA
is best served by adoption of the UPOV policy. U.S. agriculture
will directly benefit through enhanced development of new plant
varieties. The NWIC continues to strongly support the research
exemption in the PVPA to provide for free exchange of plant
germplasm.
SUBJECT: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HOSTS
WHEREAS, the University Maryland has served as an excellent host of
the 1992 National Wheat Improvement Committee and Wheat Crop
Advisory Committee, and,
WHEREAS, our hosts have expended much time and effort to ensure
that the meetings were successful,
THEREFORE, be it resolved that the members of the NWIC and WCAC
sincerely thank our hosts from the University of Maryland: Dr.
David Sammons; Dr. Bryan Johnson, Director of the Agricultural
Experiment Station; Dr. Richard Weismiller, Chairman, Department of
Agronomy; and the management and staff of the Quality Inn, College
Park, Maryland.
SUBJECT: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF DR. BOB BUSCH'S CONTRIBUTIONS AS NWIC
SECRETARY
WHEREAS, Dr. Bob Busch has provided three years of dedicated and
able service to the wheat research community through his position
as Secretary of the National Wheat Improvement Committee, and,
WHEREAS, he has expended much time and effort in the organization
of meetings, recording of activities, and distribution of
resolutions and information,
THEREFORE, be it resolved that member of the NWIC express their
collective appreciation to Dr. Busch for his distinguished service
and contributions to the National Wheat Improvement effort.
December 2, 1992
Dr. R. D. Plowman, Administrator
USDA-ARS
Room 302A Administration Bldg.
Department of Agriculture
Washington, D.C. 20250
Dear Dr. Plowman,
During the recent National Wheat Improvement Committee meetings in
College Park, the committee discussed the actions we have taken
regarding the Genetics Stocks position at the University of
Missouri. Although many members of the committee still feel
strongly about this critical position, we elected to drop it from
our legislative action items. The committee chose to refocus their
efforts on support for applied and basic wheat pathology-genetics
positions within ARS.
Although the wheat genetics stocks position is still extremely
important, it appears to the committee that obtaining funding at
this time would be difficult. Maintenance of the stocks by Dr.
Gustafson and characterization and creation of new stocks by Dr.
Lukaszewski is proceeding well considering the limited funds that
both scientists have to operate these programs.
Sincerely, signed: R. G. Sears, Chairman, NWIC
cc: Dr. Mitchell
December 2, 1992
Dr. R. D. Plowman, Administrator
USDA-ARS
Room 302A Administration Bldg.
Department of Agriculture
Washington, D.C. 20250
Dear Dr. Plowman,
During the recent National Wheat Improvement Committee meetings in
College Park, MD, held Nov. 19-21, 1992, Dr. Brooks reported that
the smut disease position located at Bozeman, MT, would not be
filled in the immediate future because of funding constraints. He
indicated to the committee that, despite an additional $100,000 of
new funds in 1990, this unit would still be inadequately funded
should a third position be filled at this time.
As you know, the NWIC, for nearly 8 years has been extremely
concerned about the lack of a small grain smut pathologist within
USDA-ARS. We have written several letters indicating our concern.
Expertise is needed to assist APHIS in dealing with quarantine
issues regarding both Karnal bunt and Flag smut. Both loose and
covered smut continue to cause economic damage in many wheat
growing areas. Dwarf bunt has impacted our ability to sell wheat
to China. Leadership in this vital research area is badly needed.
At last years NWIC meeting in Reno, Nevada, we understood that the
smut position would be filled at Bozeman, MT which the committee
received with great enthusiasm. We were dismayed to learn of the
change in plans.
I'm writing this letter to enforce the continued strong endorsement
the NWIC feels in regard to filling this position at Bozeman.
Sincerely, signed: R. G. Sears, Chairman, NWIC
cc: Dr. Jacobson
January 21, 1993
Dr. R. D. Plowman, Administrator
USDA-ARS
Room 302A Administration Bldg.
Department of Agriculture
Washington, D.C. 20250
Dear Dr. Plowman,
The National Wheat Improvement Committee would like to take this
opportunity to renew our support of the wheat genetic map database.
At the annual NWIC meeting in November, Dr. Olin Anderson, USDA-
ARS, reported on the development and current status of the wheat
genetic map database.
Genetic maps of wheat and related species have grown rapidly in the
past few years. Scientists continue to add to our knowledge of
wheat on an almost monthly basis, providing new information on
linkage of molecular and other genetic loci, physical maps of
chromosomes, special genetic stocks, chromosome banding, storage
proteins, and disease or insect resistance.
Much of this work has been, or is carried out by US scientists
associated with the International Triticeae Mapping Initiative
(ITMI). This year, an ITMI mapping proposal was granted funding
from the USA Plant Genome Program, so we can expect an acceleration
in the generation of new genetic data for wheat.
Over the past two years, the Plant Genome Database Program has done
an excellent job of initiating a system to collect, process, and
store genetic data from diverse sources. This system allows
researchers to retrieve information in a convenient and useful
form. In the case of the wheat database, the information is not
limited to genetic map distances. Pedigree and descriptor
information for released US wheat cultivars is also included. Such
information will be useful to breeders searching for sources of
pest resistance or quality traits, for example.
Much work remains, however, if the wheat genome computer software
is to be fully developed and the increasing volume of relevant data
entered. Because the Wheat Genome Database Program, coordinated by
Dr. Anderson, has made great strides in pulling together diverse
sources of expertise in creating and implementing this software,
and because we expect an increasing need for a system to
accommodate new genetic data, the NWIC urges USDA-ARS to continue
full funding of the Wheat Genome Database Program.
Sincerely, signed: R. G. Sears, Chairman, NWIC
cc: H. Shands, USDA-ARS-NPS
C. Murphy, USDA-ARS-NPS
J. Miksche, USDA-ARS-NPS
January 21, 1993
Mr. Dave Galliert, Acting Administrator
Federal Grain Inspection Service
Room 1094, South Agricultural Bldg.
14th and Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20250
Dear Mr. Galliert,
The National Wheat Improvement Committee (NWIC) met recently in
College Park, MD. As it has since 1987, the NWIC reviewed and
discussed the issue of low test weight wheat and the resultant
discounts in prices received by wheat growers. As you recall, our
committee has sent resolutions to FGIS and other organizations
which express our concerns for growers, particularly in the soft
red winter wheat region, who have been penalized by a grading
factor which, studies have shown, is not always a good predictor of
grain quality.
At this year's meeting, the discussion took on a different tone
when Ms. Wilda Martinez, USDA-ARS-NPS, presented data on the single
kernel hardness tester developed at the U.S. Grain Marketing
Research Laboratory in Manhattan, KS. In addition to its intended
use as an indicator of grain hardness, the instrument shows
considerable promise as a predictor of flour yield. The
preliminary data indicates that the hardness tester may be a better
predictor of flour yield than test weight. We were all quite
impressed with the new technology, and especially pleased to learn
of its potential utility in addressing the problem of test weight.
We feel this effort should be extended by establishing a working
group to evaluate and implement new technology could supplant test
weight as a grading and marketing factor. May I suggest that FGIS
take the lead in this endeavor, with cooperation from USDA-ARS and
the National Association of Wheat Growers, much as was done with
the wheat hardness working group. I would also take the liberty of
suggesting names of several individuals who would be willing to
help organize this working group: Wilda Martinez and Virgil Smail,
USDA-ARS; David Sammons, wheat breeder, University of Maryland; and
Robert Bacon, wheat breeder, University of Arkansas.
We appreciate your willingness to consider this idea. This is an
eventful time in the wheat community, as millers, bakers, and
breeders are forming new and effective lines of communication.
Their mutual interest lies in the accurate characterization and
promotion of grain quality. It appears that the technology is now
available which may tell us more about grain quality than measuring
test weight. We urge FGIS to pursue this effort, and we pledge to
cooperate in any way possible.
Sincerely, R. G. Sears, Chair, NWIC
cc: Ellen Ferguson, NAWG Foundation
Jeff Lundberg, President, NAWG
Dean Plowman, Administrator, ARS
January 21, 1993
The Honorable Mr. Mike Espy
Secretary of Agriculture
Room 200A
14th and Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20250
Dear Mr. Espy,
Congratulations on your appointment as Secretary of Agriculture.
As a committee representing wheat researchers throughout the United
States we look forward to working with you on the problems facing
agriculture; both today and tomorrow.
Recently during our annual 1992 meeting it was brought to our
attention that there has been recent criticism of the applied
research being conducted by the Federal Grain Inspection Service.
For the past 10 years, FGIS has been conducting research toward a
more objective classification system for wheat, based upon single
kernel hardness. As a national committee, we feel strongly that
the research conducted by FGIS has been timely, efficient, well
done and has certainly met the needs of the industry. As possible
budget cuts are planned, the NWIC wants to restate our strong
belief that the monies spent by FGIS on applied classification
problems has been well spent and in the best interests of the US
farm economy.
In 1982, when the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station released
the variety Arkan and subsequent classification problems developed,
many questions were asked regarding accuracy of the current system.
At that time FGIS responded that they were a service organization
charged with classification of grains and that they did not conduct
research. To NWIC's amazement, little research had been done
verifying the accuracy and repeatability of FGIS classification
over the years since the Grain Classification Act in 1919.
Although in large part considered reliable and efficient, no actual
numbers existed to verify accuracy and repeatability.
In 1984 the NWIC issued a series of statements regarding the
current system of grain classification based upon kernel
morphology. We recommended to FGIS and ARS that research be
directed toward an objective classification system as soon as
possible. In 1985 a task force was appointed by the administrator
of FGIS, representing all segments of the wheat industry to work
with both agencies on research and possible implementation of a new
objective classification system. This has evolved into the
potential of a new single kernel hardness measurement to classify
hard and soft wheats, with the potential of future classification
of winter wheat and spring wheat. I recalled these developments
because much of the progress in this area has been contributed by
applied research conducted by FGIS personnel.
Since 1982 FGIS has been actively involved in applied research
developments regarding future objective classification of wheat
based upon single kernel hardness. Their work has been pivotal in
the rapid progress that has been made. They have cooperated
actively with state researchers as well as ARS and SAS. As future
problems develop involving classification, measurement, and
handling of grain, the NWIC feels that it is important that FGIS
retain funding for applied research in evaluating future tests and
procedures.
The money utilized for this research has been utilized very
effectively. As a committee, we acknowledge the excellent work
FGIS has done in applied research areas involving grain
classification and we endorse the continued support of FGIS to
conduct applied research in the future.
Sincerely, signed: R. G. Sears, Chairman, NWIC
cc: Dave Galliert, Acting Administrator, FGIS
R. D. Plowman, Administrator, ARS
MEMBERS OF NATIONAL
WHEAT IMPROVEMENT
COMMITTEE
February 1993
Dr. R.G. Sears,
Chair
Dept. of Agronomy
Kansas State Unversity
Manhattan, KS 66506
(913) 532-7245
FAX: (913)-532-6094
Dr. C.J. Peterson,
Secretary
USDA-ARS
Dept. of Agronomy
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NE 68583
(402) 472-5191
FAX: (402) 437-5254
Eastern Wheat
Region
Dr. D. Van Sanford,
Chair
Dept. of Agronomy
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506
(606) 257-5811
FAX: (606) 258-5842
Dr. H.E.Bockelman,
Secretary
USDA-ARS
P.O. Box 386
Aberdeen, ID 83210
(208) 397-4162
FAX: (208) 397-4165
Dr. D.J. Sammons
Department of Agronomy
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
(301) 405-1340
FAX: (301) 314-9041
Dr. R. Bacon
115 Plant Science
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
(501) 575-5725
FAX: (501) 575-7465
National Assoc. of
Wheat Growers
Ellen Ferguson
Director, NAWG
Foundation
415 Second St. NE
Suite 300
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 547-7800
FAX: (202) 546-2638
Great Plains Spring
Wheat Region
Dr. Gary Hareland,
Chair
USDA-ARS-NPA
Northern Crop
Science Lab
P.O. Box 5677--
Univ. Sta.
Fargo, ND 58105
(701) 237-7728
Dr. R.H. Busch,
Secretary
USDA-ARS
411 Borlaug Hall
University of Minnesota
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612) 625-1975
FAX: (612) 625-1268
Dr. Leonard Joppa
USDA-ARS-NPA
Northern Crop
Science Lab
1307 N 18th St
P.O. Box 5677--
Univ. Sta.
Fargo, ND 58105
(701) 239-1339
FAX:
Dr. R. Frohberg
Dept. of Crop &
Weed Sci
North Dakota State Univ.
Fargo, ND 58105
(701) 237-7971
FAX:
Great Plains Winter
Wheat Region
R. Bruns, Chair
Agripro Bioscience, Inc.
806 N. Second St.,
P.O. Box 30
Berthaud, CO 80513
(303) 532-3721
FAX: (303) 532-2035
Dr. T.S. Cox,
Secretary
USDA-ARS
Throckmorton Hall,
Rm. 421
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS 66506
FAX:(913) 532-5692
(913) 532-726
Dr. W.D. Worrall
P.O. Box 1658
Vernon, TX 76384
(817) 552-9941
FAX: (817) 553-4657
TBA
Western Wheat
Region
Dr. R.S. Zemetra,
Chair
Dept. of Plant,
Soil & Ent. Sci.
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID 83843
(208) 885-7810
FAX: (208) 885-7760
Dr. R.F. Line,
Secretary
USDA-ARS
361 Johnson Hall
Washington State University
Pullman, WA 99164
(509) 335-3755
FAX: (509) 335-7674
Dr. C.O. Qualset
Dept. of Agronomy &
Range Science
University of California - Davis
Davis, CA 95616
(916) 752-3265
FAX:
Dr. R.E. Allan
USDA-ARS
Johnson Hall
Washington State University
Pullman, WA 99164
(509) 335-3632
FAX: (509) 335-8674
--------------------
WHEAT WORKERS CODE OF ETHICS
"This seed is being distributed in accordance with the
`Wheat Workers Code of Ethics for Distribution of Germplasm'
developed by the National Wheat Improvement Committee
10/27/76. Acceptance of this seed constitutes Agreement."
1. The originating breeder, station or company has certain
rights to the unreleased material. These rights are
not waived with the distribution of seeds or plant
material but remain with the originator for disposal at
this initiative.
2. The recipient of unreleased seeds or plant material
shall make no secondary distributions of the germplasm
without the permission of the owner/breeder.
3. The owner/breeder in distributing unreleased seeds or
other propagating material, grants permission for use
(1) in tests under the recipient's control, (2) as a
parent for making crosses from which selections will be
made, and (3) for induction of mutations. All other
uses, such as testing in regional nurseries, increase
and release as a cultivar, selection from the stock,
use as parents in commercial F1 hybrids or synthetic or
multiline cultivars, require the written approval of
the owner/breeder.
4. Plant materials of this nature entered in crop cultivar
trials shall not be used for seed increase. Reasonable
precautions to insure retention or recovery of plant
materials at harvest shall be taken.
5. The distributor of wheat germplasm stocks may impose
additional restrictions on use or may waiver any of the
above.
--------------------
WHEAT DATABASE ORGANIZATION AND 1992 PROGRESS REPORT
Olin D. Anderson and David Matthews
A wheat prototype database is being assembled as part of the
USDA's Plant Genome Program. The initial priority of the
database is to accumulate genome mapping and probe/clone/library
information. Additional data areas will include germplasm,
genetics, and traits. The goal of the USDA is to maintain a
master database at the National Agricultural Library where data
from all plant species is collated. The data is intended for
public access and distribution, and cooperation with the
international research community is encouraged.
The USDA Genome Database Project is headed by Jerome Miksche,
and the wheat database prototype is coordinated by Olin Anderson
(Albany, CA). The master wheat database is currently running at
Cornell University (David Matthews and Mark Sorrells) and is
accessible via INTERNET. Copies have been downloaded to three
other sites: Albany, California; Clermont, France (Philippe
Leroy); Australian National Genetic Information Service, Sydney,
Australia (Alex Reisner). The main efforts in this program are
to establish the hardware and software systems to construct and
maintain a wheat database, and coordinate the loading of all
available and useful data. Currently, two parrallel databases are
in development; a future version will likely merge the different
capabilities of the two systems. The graphical interface
database is based on ACEDB; originally writen for the
Caenorhabditis elegans genome project. This is the more
sophisticated database with more capabilities, but also requires
more hardware to access. The ACEDB version at present contains
limited data, but is in development. Some of the items loaded
are one map each for barley, Triticum tauschii, sugarcane, and
oats, and the Australian clone bank list, plus clones from Mark
Sorrells and Bikram Gill, etc. The ACEDB version has graphic
capability and there are approximately ten images loaded for
examination and comment. We are particularly interested in ideas
about the scope and use of such graphic capability.
The second "database" is termed a "gopher" (go-for-data),
and is a text based system with easier access but more limited
searching capability. Two advantages of the gopher are the
ability to browse and the ability to perform simple searches on
large files. Some of the files either currently on the gopher or
planned are: Annual Wheat Newsletters (Jim Quick, editor); wheat
gene catalog (Bob McIntosh, curator), Catalog of North American
cultivars (Ken Kephart, editor), lists of germplasm (cultivars,
genetic stocks, taxonomy, etc.), etc. This medium is a natural
for "lists" of data and review articles/monographs. Anyone who
assembles such data or is aware of a source of such data is
encouraged to contact database personnel who will not edit such
data but simply make it available without comment on the gopher
system.
The wheat database prototype is being designed and
implemented in collaboration with the Computer Science Division
of the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (John McCarthy, 510-486-5307,
principal contact). The prototype operates on Sun workstations
(plus mass storage devices) operating as servers. Other UNIX
systems can also run the programs, and there may be Mac and DOS
versions in the next year. Access is currently available by
contacting David Matthews, Olin Anderson, or Susan Altenbach.
Users should be aware that the database is still developmental.
Many data areas are sparse, but users are encouraged to explore
what is available and feed back comments. Particularly critical
is information on additional data sources including
researchers/sites which are already collating useful data.
DATA COORDINATORS: We have identified specific areas that
require data assembly and organization, and have formed a
committee of coordinators. As is inherent in such databases many
areas are overlapping and will require input from several areas
of expertise. As the need becomes apparent, 'subcommittees' will
form around broad topics. The following individuals have agreed
to serve as the coordination committee for the wheat database:
Cytology Bikram Gill, Department of Plant Pathology,
Kansas State University, Throckmorton Hall, Manhattan, KS
66506, Tel: 913-532-6176 FAX: 913-532-5692,
Email:raupp@ksuvm.ksu.edu
Database Assembly Olin Anderson, USDA, ARS, WRRC, 800 Buchanan, Albany, CA
& maintenance 94710, Tel: 510-559-5773 FAX: 510-559-5777
Email:oanderson@wheat.usda.gov
Genetics Gary Hart, Department of Soil & Crop ciences, Texas A&M
Nomenclature University, College Station, TX 77843, Tel:409-845-8293
FAX: 409-845-0456,Email:geh2432@zeus.tamu.edu
Genetic Stocks Perry Gustafson, USDA, ARS, Department of Agronomy,
University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, Tel:
314-882-7318 FAX: 314-875-5359,
Email:gro1375@mizzou1.missouri.edu
Germplasm Ken Kephart, 214 Waters Hall, University of Missouri,
Columbia,MO 65211, Tel: 314-882-2001 FAX: 314-884-4317
Email:Ken Kephart@teosinte.agron.missouri.edu
Pathology David Porter, USDA, ARS, Oklahoma State University,
Stillwater, OK 74075. Tel:405-624-4212 FAX:405-372-1398
Email:portdrp@vms.ucc.okstate.edu
Probe Library, Susan Altenbach, USDA, ARS, WRRC, 800 Buchanan St,
References Albany, CA 94710, Tel: 510-559-5614 FAX: 510-559-
5777 Email: altnbach@wheat.usda.gov
Proteins; Gel Bob Graybosch, USDA, ARS, Department of Agronomy, 322
patterns,Wheat Keim Hall, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska,
Quality Tel: 402-472-1563 FAX:402-437-5234,
Email:agro100@unlvm.unl.edu
Data Entry, Mark Sorrells, Dept. of Plant Breeding & Biometry,
Coordination Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY 14853, Tel:607-255-1665 FAX:
607-255-6683, mail:mark_sorrells@qmrelay.mail.cornell.edu
Data Entry, David Matthews, Dept. of Plant Breeding & Biometry,
Coord., Main., Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY 14853, Tel: 607-255-9951 FAX:
Database Design 607-255-6683, Email: matthews@greengenes.cit.cornell.edu
Database Design, John McCarthy, Computer Sciences Division, Lawrence,
Coordination Berkeley Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA
94720.0, Tel: 510-486-5307 FAX: 510-486-4004
Email: JLMccarthy@lbl.gov
Anyone with interests in participating in database design,
data contributions, data assembly in any of these specific areas
should contact the appropriate coordinator or Olin Anderson.
To facilitate gathering of mapping data, the database
personnel are working closely with the International Triticeae
Mappping Initiative (ITMI) organization. ITMI is an
international group with the purpose of facilitating the mapping
and dissemination of resulting data on important members of the
grass tribe Triticeae, which includes wheat, rye, barley, and
ancestral species and related wild grasses. Dr. Calvin Qualset
(Dept. of Agronomy & Range Science, Univ. Calif., Davis) is ITMI
coordinator.
The wild ancestral genomes of wheat and wild grasses
amenable to breeding with wheat are critical sources of new genes
for traits such as yield, and pest and stress resistance. The
database will therefore contain mapping (and other) data from
these genomes as available.
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS: Contracts from the wheat database
prototype project have been completed with several sites. These
include a contract to ITMI (Cal Qualset) for assisting in mapping
coordination by ITMI and resource development with Jan Dvorak (UC
Davis) and Gary Hart (Texas A&M). Mark Sorrells and Steven
Tanksley (Cornell) are supported for a programmer position for
data input and the development of software routines, along with
the necessary hardware to serve as a major site of data input and
database access. Cornell will also assist the Barley and Oat
Groups, and possibly others, in data input as these group desire.
Bikram Gill (Kansas State) will be overseeing the assembly of
wheat cytogenetic data for the database. Wheat nomenclature and
genetics will be the contribution of Gary Hart (Texas A&M). Data
on North American wheat cultivars already being cataloged by Ken
Kephart (Missouri) will be further coordinated with other
databases such as the Germplasm Information Network (GRIN) and
the USDA Small Grains Repository at Aberdeen, Idaho, and CIMMYT
in Mexico City. Also at Missouri is Perry Gustafson who is
coordinating data on genetic stocks. Future Cooperative
Agreements may be arranged for other areas such as pathology and
wheat storage proteins. David Porter (Oklahoma State) is
assembling examples of data on pathology and pests to assess for
database design and input. Grain proteins are a major
contributor to quality traits in wheat and examples are being
organized by Bob Graybosch at Nebraska.
PRIORITIES FOR THE NEXT YEAR: The next year will
concentrate on extensions of the database models and the
gathering of available information. We hope to have included all
available mapping and probe information, significants amounts of
data on genetics, and a large section on wheat germplasm.
LONG-TERM CONSIDERATONS: Although the USDA is supporting
the initial stages of database development, the success of this
program will depend greatly on the cooperation and participation
of laboratories throughtout the Triticeae research community
world-wide. We are particularly interested in cooperating with
members of international community whom are recognized,
officially or unofficially, as curators of data. The USDA will
concentrate on hardware, software, assembly of combined
databases, database access, and will only preform minor curator
functions; each plant community will be called on to organize and
update their own plant system.
All laboratories possessing relevant data are urged to
deposit their data with the database personnel. Any laboratory
interested in accessing the databases or running the databases
locally can contact Olin Anderson, Susan Altenbach, or David
Matthews. Potential users are reminded again that this is a
developing database effort, therefore gaps in data should be
expected. However, all users are encouraged to make both
suggestions on improvements and new sources of data.
--------------------
USDA RESEARCH ON WHEAT AND RYE, 1863 TO 1972
J. G. Moseman, J. H. Martin and c. R. Adair, Former USDA,
Ag. Res. Service Employees1/
1/ J. G Moseman, retired, present address: 1918 Blackbriar St.,
Silver Spring, MD 20903. J. H. Martin, and C. R. Adair, deceased
Preface
The U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiated
research on wheat and rye in 1863 when the Department of Ag. was
assigned the area in Washington, D. C. between 12th and 14th
streets as an experimental tract by the Commissioner of Public
Buildings. Many scientists within the Department have conducted
research on wheat and rye. Research in the Department was
organized by specific crops until June of 1972 when the
Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the USDA was reorganized
with research being conducted by areas and regions within the
United States, and not by specific crops.
This is a section of a publication entitled "Origin and
History of Research on Wheat, Rye, Corn, Sorghum, Barley, Oats,
Rice, and Weeds by the U. S. Department of Agriculture from 1836
to 1972" which will be maintained in the National Agricultural
Library (NAL) at Beltsville, MD. That publication is a historical
review of the organizations and agencies in the U. S. Government,
and projects and personnel that conducted research on cereal and
the other grain crops from 1836 until 1972. The administration
of the agricultural research is described in the first section.
Included in that section are the designations of the
organizations and agencies, and the names of the administrators,
and the years that they served. The research conducted on each
crop wheat and rye, corn, sorghum, barley, oats, flax and weeds
is summarized in separate sections.
The information was assembled over a period of about 30
years. J. H. Martin, who was a Dept. of Ag. employee from 1914
until 1963, compiled most of the information from before he
retired. He reviewed many memoranda, official documents, and
other information in the Cereal Crops Research Branch (CCRB)
office at Beltsville, MD. He also obtained information from many
former and present employees of the Department. The five crop
investigation leaders, L. P. Reitz (wheat and rye), G. F. Sprague
(corn and sorghum), G. A. Wiebe (barley), H. C. Murphy (oats),
and C. R. Adair (rice) each prepared a summary of research that
had been conducted on their crop.
Following the 1972 reorganization of ARS, C. R. Adair, who
had conducted research on rice in the Department from 1931 until
1972, and who had been Leader, Rice Invest. since 1952, continued
the compilation of information. Adair was senior author on two
papers entitled "A summary of Rice Production Investigations in
the U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1898 to 1972"in Vol 26, The
Rice Journal, 1975. He also compiled, but never published,
additional information relating to research on wheat and rye.
Since he retired in 1986, J. G. Moseman, who had conducted
research of small grains (wheat, oats and barley) in the
Department since 1950, and was Leader, Barley Invest. from 1969
until 1972, continued the compilation of information. He
contacted administrators who had been involved in crops research
in the Department before, and in 1972. Many of those
administrators verified and added to the information regarding
personnel, and the time that they and other individuals were
involved as administrators. He contacted leading scientists, who
were or had been involved in research on wheat and rye at most of
the locations where research had been conducted on those crops.
Those scientists verified and modified the information which had
been compiled, and added names and times when other scientists
were at their location. He also obtained information regarding
specific individuals from the Am. Men of Science and other
publications and records.
This section, entitled "Research on Wheat and Rye by the U.
S. Department of Agriculture from 1863 to 1972", is a
summarization of the information which was compiled on research
on wheat and rye. The information has been greatly condensed.
Many of the administrators, and research scientists had long,
exciting, and productive careers. However, information regarding
the education and experiences of only a few of the early
administrators and research scientists has been included. The
research scientists at each location are listed in chronological
order, and by discipline to better describe their research and
changes in research conducted at each location. Often the
relationship of research between locations has been described.
Many individuals contributed information and suggestions
included in this section. Without their cooperation it would not
have been possible to complete the review. I thank each of those
individuals. They greatly increased the accuracy and value of
the information.
Early History and Administration
Research on wheat and rye in the U. S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) was initiated in 1863 when the area on the
mall in Washington, D. C. between the 12th and 14th streets was
assigned to the Dept. of Ag. as an experimental tract by the
Commissioner of Public Buildings. However, until April, 1865 the
land was not available because it was "essentially necessary to
the War Dept. as a cattle yard". In the fall of 1865, part of
the land was plowed, fertilized, and planted to 346 cultivars
including 62 cultivars of winter wheat, mostly from France,
Russia, Prussia, Great Britian, Chile, and China. In the spring
of 1866, 66 cultivars of spring wheat, including Arnautka durum,
17 of oats, 13 of barley, including Oderbrucker, 17 of rye, 19 of
corn and 4 of sorghum were planted.
A tragedy occurred in connection with the experiments in
1866. In July, a thunderstorm was approaching during the
harvesting of the wheat plots, and in helping to put some of the
wheat under shelter, Commissioner Isaac Newton, who had hurried
from his office dressed warmly and wearing a silk hat, was
overcome by heat and over exertion. He never fully recovered
from this shock which caused his death on July 19, 1867 at the
age of 67. It is not recorded that any other Dept. of Ag.
employee has died from over exertion in caring for cereal plots.
In 1867, the cereal cultivars in the plots included 43 winter
wheat, 66 spring wheat, 5 winter rye, 16 spring rye, 21 barley,
20 oats, 10 corn and 3 sorghum.
Commissioner Newton's successor, Horace Capron, was of the
opinion that an adequate field test of cereal cultivars could not
be made on the limited 40-acre area of the Experimental Farm.
Therefore, to reduce expenses, the experiments were discontinued
in the fall of 1867. The area was then landscaped and planted to
ornamentals to furnish a suitable surrounding for the new
original Dept. of Ag. building that was completed in 1868.
In 1886, George Vasey, the Dept. of Ag. Botanist,
investigated the grasses of the arid districts of KS, NE, and
Eastern CO, and recommended that the "government should provide
an experiment station for the trial of grasses and forage plants
in properly conducted, and well continued experiments". During
the 1887 session of Congress, an unsuccessful attempt was made to
establish an experimental station. However, in 1888, the
appropriation of the Div. of Botany was increased to provide for
an experiment station.
In Aug. 1888, 240 acres of land on the north bank of the
Arkansas River, two miles from Garden City, KS was leased without
cost from J. M. Jones, and J. A. Sewall of Denver, CO was
appointed superintendent. This experimental farm was under the
supervision of Vasey. In 1888, small plots were covered with
sods of six or eight kinds of native grasses. Seedings in the
spring of 1889, included alfalfa, several kinds of native and
cultivated grasses including Johnson grass, and millet. In the
fall of 1889, red kafir, and several cultivars of sorghum, and
forty acres of Arctic rye was sown. In 1890, 8-10 acres of
Polish Wheat, and 80 acres of different cultivars of sorghum
including White Durra and Red Kaffir were sown.
The Garden City Exp. Sta. was discontinued in Oct. 1893.
However, in his report for that year, F. V. Colville, Chief, Div.
of Botany, recommended that similar experiments be tried on new
areas. No further field experiments with cereal crops were
conducted by the Div. of Botany. Seed of the grains mentioned
above including Polish wheat, had been distributed free to
farmers in small lots after their value was indicated in the
experiments.
In 1891, research was initiated in the Dept. of Ag. on
cereal rusts. This research, which was conducted at Garrett
Park, MD, near Washington, D. C., and in cooperation with the KS,
NE, SD, and ND Ag. Exp. Stas., was continued for several years.
That research will be discussed in the section on Agronomic,
Production, and Breeding Research.
The coordination of the research in the Dept. of Ag. on
wheat, rye, and Triticum species was initiated when the Bureau of
Plant Industry (BPI) was organized in 1901. The leaders and
assistant leaders of that research from 1901 to 1972 are shown in
Table 1. Until about 1944, those individuals were located in the
Dept. of Ag. building in Washington, D. C. After 1944 they were
at the Beltsville Ag. Res. Center, Beltsville, MD.
In 1901, when the BPI was organized, M. A. Carleton was
designated Cerealist in charge of the Cereal Lab. in the Div. of
Veg. Physiol. and Path. Carleton was directly in charge of all
wheat experiments from 1901 until his 14 month furlough from July
1912 through Sept. 1913. In 1901 and 1902 C. S. Scofield studied
durum wheats and methods of classifying wheat in the Div. of
Botany. Carleton was assisted from 1902 to about 1906 by L. A.
Fitz in the hard winter wheat region, by H. A. Miller in the
eastern states, and by J. S. Cole in the spring wheat region.
From 1906 to 1909, H. J. C. Umberger assisted in supervising the
testing and distribution of durum wheat. Carleton directed
most of the experiments on minor cereals including rye, spelt,
and emmer until April 16, 1911 when A. B. Derr was appointed to
be responsible for that project, and wheat experiments in the
South Eastern States. From 1907 to 1910 W. M. Jardine was
responsible for the Dry Land Ag. Project.
While Carleton was on furlough in 1912 and 1913, C. R. Ball
was acting Cerealist in charge. In Sept. 1912, C. E. Leighty was
appointed to take charge of wheat investigations in the humid
areas. From Oct. 3, 1913, when Carleton returned, until he
resigned in 1918, Ball was made agronomist in charge of research
on wheat in the western region, and since Derr had resigned on
Sept. 15, 1913, Leighty was designated agronomist in charge of
research on wheat in the eastern regions. In July 1914, J. A.
Clark was transferred to Washington, D. C. from the Dickinson,
ND, Field Sta. to assist Ball on the western wheat project. Ball
and Leighty were also responsible for the research on minor
cereals in the western and eastern regions, respectively.
However, the geographic line between the eastern and western
wheat regions was never definitely and permanently established.
From 1918 until Nov. l8, 1930, research on wheat and minor
cereals was divided into western and eastern regions. Leighty
was in charge of the research in the eastern regions until Nov.
18, 1930 when he transferred to the Div. of Dry Land Ag. Ball
was in charge of research in the western region until May 18,
1918, when he became Cerealist in Charge, Office of Cereal
Invest. At that time, J. A. Clark was placed in charge of the
western project. He was in charge until July l, 1931. Clark was
in charge of research in both the eastern and western regions
from when Leighty was transferred in 1930 until July 1, 1931 when
S. C. Salmon was appointed Principal Agonomist and Leader, Wheat
Investigations..
Leighty had two assistants. They were W. C. Eldridge, from
Nov. l9, 1919 to March 22, 1920, and W. J. Sando after June 1,
1921. In Jan. 1919, J. H. Martin was transferred from the Burns,
OR., Field Sta., and made an assistant to Clark, who was then in
charge of research in the western region. On August 1, 1925,
Martin resigned to spend full time as Leader, Sorghum Invest.,
and K. S. Quisenberry was hired to replace Martin as Clark's
assistant.
Salmon was the appointed Leader, Wheat Investigations on
July 1, 1931. However, from 1946 until about1950, following
World War II, Salmon was assigned to duty as Agricultural Advisor
on General MacArthur's staff in Japan. During his absence,
Quisenberry, and B. B. Bayles acted as Leaders, Wheat Invest.
After Salmon returned in 1950, he served as Leader, Wheat Invest,
until 1954 when he was appointed Assist. Head. Cereal Crops
Section. L. P. Reitz, who was Coordinator, agronomic production
and breeding research in the Hard Red Winter Region, was then
transferred from Lincoln, NE to Beltsville, to be Leader, Wheat
Invest. Reitz served as Leader, until the 1972 reorganization.
Salmon made several changes after becoming Leader, Wheat
Invest. Scientists trained in many disciplines were assigned to
that Investigations. On Sept 25, 1933, the pathologists in the
Div. of Pl. Path. who were conducting research on wheat, were
assigned to the Wheat Invest. Beginning in the 1930s the four
Wheat Quality Labs. with chemists, cereal tech, and physiologists
were established, and the cytogenetic and interspecific
hybridization research was greatly expanded. Both Salmon from
1937 until 1954, and Reitz from 1954 until the 1972
reorganization had assistants who coordinated the agronomic,
production and breeding research in each of the four regions,
Eastern States, Hard Red Winter Wheat, Hard Red Spring and Durum
Wheat, and Western States. However, the scientists involved in
pathologic, physiologic, quality, cytogenetic and interspecific
hybridization research were supervised by a senior scientist or
Lab. Leader, or directly by the Salmon and Reitz, Leaders, Wheat
Invest.
Agronomic, Production and Breeding Research
The scientists, who conducted agronomic, production and
breeding research on wheat or rye in the USDA are listed in Table
2. Included is where they were located, their primary
discipline, the crops they studied, and the years they were at
that location. Some individuals have been included who were not
full time employees of the Dept. of Ag., but were collaborators
or agents of the Dept.
Some of the early research on Dry Land Agriculture and at
Field Stations in the Great Plains, and in the Western States is
discussed in this section. That research was primarily related
to production, and selection of crops adapted to growing with low
rainfall. Wheat, rye, emmer, and spelt were usually the primary
crops in those studies.
Information relating to the introduction, and maintenance,
of germplasm, and to the classification, and distribution of
wheat cultivars is included at the end of this section. Although
the research on classification of wheat cultivars was conducted
by scientists at the Wheat Invest. Headquarters in Washington, D.
C. and Beltsville, most of the scientists involved in agronomic,
production or breeding research at other locations cooperated
and benefitted from that research.
On July 1, 1931, Bayles transferred to Washington, D. C.
from the Mocasin, MT, Field Sta. to direct the wheat experiments
in the pacific coast and intermountain region. Clark assumed
similar responsibilities in the hard spring wheat region, and
Quisenberry in the hard winter wheat region. On March l, l936,
Quisenberry's headquarters was changed from Washington, D. C. to
the Univ. of NE at Lincoln. When Quisenberry went to Lincoln, C.
A. Suneson, who had been conducting research on wheat, oats, and
barley at Lincoln, transferred to Univ. of CA at Davis. In the
summer of 1937, Bayles was assigned the responsibilities for
wheat research in the Eastern States, and Suneson the
responsibilities for wheat research in the Western States that
had been supervised by Bayles.
Beginning in 1937 until the reorganization in 1972 the
responsibility for agronomic, production and breeding research in
the Wheat Invest. was divided into 4 regions: Eastern States,
Hard Red Winter Wheat, Hard Red Spring and Durum Wheat, and
Western States. The individuals assigned the responsibility for
coordinating that research in each region were designated
regional coordinators. The coordinator in each region cooperated
closely with the Leader, Wheat Invest. in coordinating the
agronomic, production, and breeding research in their region. By
coordinating Regional Uniform Wheat Performance Nurseries they
worked closely with most wheat breeders in their respective
regions. They visited most locations annually or even more
often, and thus became familiar with the research on wheat
cultivar improvement and production throughout their region. The
coordinators also conducted individual research programs on wheat
improvement at their locations.
The discussion of this research will be divided by the four
regions The research in each region was coordinated by a
different regional coordinator, and the research in each region
was on a different market class of wheat.
Eastern States Region
The Eastern States Region consisted primarily of those
states east of the Mississippi River in which soft red winter and
soft white winter wheat was grown. There were assistants to the
Leader, Wheat Invest. who were specifically assigned to
coordinate the research in this region, from 1902 until 1931 when
Salmon became the Leader. From 1931 until 1937 when Bayles was
assigned as coordinator in this region, no one was specifically
assigned as coordinator. However, Bayles did assist Salmon in
coordinating the research in the region during that period.
Washington, D. C. and Beltsville, MD
The coordinators, from 1937 to 1972, responsible for
coordinating the agronomic, production, and breeding research in
this region, were all located at either Washington, D. C. or at
Beltsville, MD. They worked closely with personnel in the Soft
Wheat Quality Lab. which was established at Wooster, OH. in 1937.
Bayles was the regional coordinator from 1937 until his
death in Beirut, Lebanon while on a business trip in April,1954.
In addition to being the regional coordinator, he often acted as
Leader, Wheat Invest. in Salmon's absence. He also assisted M.
A. McCall, K. S. Quisenberry, and H. A. Rodenhiser, who were in
Charge, Cereal Crops Research. He was organizing the
International Wheat Rust Nursery Program while on the trip to
Beirut where he died. That nursery program was implemented
within a year after his death. He also organized the Uniform
Southern Soft Wheat and Uniform Eastern Soft Wheat Performance
Nurseries.
In 1955, L. W. Briggle tranferred from Fargo, ND to
Beltsville to be Regional Coordinator. He retained that position
until 1968 when he became Leader, Oats Invest. He continued
coordinating and expanding the Eastern Uniform Wheat Performance
Nurseries. He determined the genetics of resistance in wheat to
the powdery mildew pathogen, and developed near-isogenic lines
for resistance to powdery mildew. Those lines have been used by
many scientists in breeding, pathologic, physiologic, and genetic
studies.
In 1969, K. L. Lebsock transferred from Fargo, ND to
Beltsville to be the Regional Coordinator. He served as
coordinator until the 1972 reorganization. He continued
coordinating the Region Wheat Performance Nurseries, and the
genetic research on resistance in wheat to the powdery mildew
pathogen.
Some of the scientists located at Washington, D. C. or
Beltsville, did not conduct research relating to wheat grown in
the Eastern States Region. W. M. Jardine, who was Secretary of
Agriculture from 1925 to 1929, and F. D. Farrell, coordinated the
Tillage and Rotation Research which was being conducted in the
Western Region from 1907 to 1910 and from 1912 to 1918,
respectively. J. A. Clark assisted Ball in coordinating the
Western Wheat Project from 1914 to 1918, and coordinated the
Project from 1918 to 1931, and then was Coordinator, Hard Red
Spring and Durum Region from 1931 until he retired in 1951.
Quisenberry assisted Clark as Coordinator, Western Region from
1925 until 1931 when he became Coordinator, Hard Red Winter
Wheat Region. In 1936, he transferred to Lincoln, NE.
V. H. Florell was on a special assignment from 1928 to 1930
after leaving Davis, CA, and before transferring to Moscow, ID as
a small grains breeder. J. W. Taylor was the wheat breeder at
Arlington Farm in VA, and at Beltsville from 1919 until he
retired about 1950. He cooperated closely with Bayles, and other
wheat breeders throughout the Eastern States Region. He
developed and distributed improved wheat lines especially to
breeders in the Southeastern States for use in their breeding
programs. Some of his lines were selected, increased, and
released as wheat cultivars. Atlas 66, and Atlas 50, which were
released by the North Carolina Ag. Exp. Sta, are two examples.
Purdue Univ., Lafayette, IN
H. S. Jackson, an agronomist-pathologist conducted research
on the improvement of wheat and other small grain cultivars at
Purdue from 1918 to 1929. His research was partially supported
by the Wheat Invest.
R. M. Caldwell was supported as an agent part or full time
from 1928 until 1937, when he became a full time employee of
Purdue Univ., and leader of a very large and effective small
grain breeding program. They developed and released many short
strawed, productive, disease resistant, high quality cultivars
that were grown extensively throuhgout the Region. L. E.
Compton, and J. J. Roberts were wheat Invest. employees who
assisted on the breeding project from 1919 to 1962 and from 1966
to 1972, respectively.
MI State Univ., East Lansing, MI
After the Cereal Leaf Beetle, which had been introduced from
Europe, was discovered in South Western Michigan, D. H. Smith
Jr. was hired in l965 to identify sources of wheat resistant to
that insect. He identified several wheat accessions in the USDA
Small Grains Collection with special leaf hairs that made them
resistant to the beetle. Those accessions were then used to
develop Cereal Leaf Beetle resistant wheat cultivars.
Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY
W. T. Craig and H. H. Love were two wheat breeders who were
jointly supported by the Wheat Invest. and Cornell Univ.
beginning in 1924. They developed several cultivars adapted and
grown in New York, and adjacent states.
Coastal Plains Exp. Sta., Tifton, GA
D. D. Morey at the GA Coastal Plains Exp. Sta. at Tifton
collaborated with Reitz in the growing, testing and breeding of
rye from about 1955 until the 1972 reorganization. He developed
and released some diploid and tetraploid rye cultivars that were
grown in SE United States.
Hard Red Winter Wheat Region
The Hard Red Winter Wheat Region consisted of the states,
mostly in the Great Plains, where Hard Red Winter Wheat was
grown. That region extended from Texas and New Mexico on the
south to Wyoming and South Dakota on the north. Many of the
State Ag. Exp. Stas. and Field Stas. in this region cooperated in
the early research of Dry Land Ag. and other research on wheat,
rye emmer and spelt. That research is discussed at the end of
this section, since the research was on agronomic practices,
production, and cultivar and selection testing.
Univ. of NE, Lincoln, NE
In 1898, scientists at the NE Ag. Exp. Sta. at Lincoln
began cooperating with the Dept. of Ag. project on testing wheat
cultivars and selections for resistance to rust. This
collaboration continued on an unofficial basis until 1930, when
C. A. Suneson was hired and assigned to Lincoln as a wheat
breeder.
After 1936, the coordinators for the Hard Red Winter Wheat
Region were all located at Lincoln where they cooperated with
breeders at the NE Ag. Exp. Sta. They also cooperated closely
with the Hard Red Winter Wheat Quality Lab. which was established
in 1938 at Manhattan, KS. The coordinators initially supervised
regional wheat trials consisting of a Uniform Yield, and Uniform
Winterhardiness Nurseries, and Uniform Field Plots. In 1959, the
regional trials were revised with the Uniform Yield and
Winterhardiness Nurseries becoming the Southern Regional
Performance and Northern Regional Performance Nurseries,
respectively. The Uniform Field Plots were discontinued. An
observation type Winterhardiness Nursery comprised of northern
material and southern material sections was initiated. The
coordinators annually distributed reports on the nursery results,
and regional meetings of wheat research workers were held at
intervals of 3-5 years.
C. A. Suneson was the first Wheat Invest. breeder at
Lincoln. He was there from 1930 until 1936, when he transferred
to Davis, CA to be the Coordinator, Western Wheat Region. In
1936, Quisenberry, who had been the Regional Coordinator since
1931, transferred from Washington, D.C. to Lincoln. He was the
Coordinator until 1946 when he transferred to Beltsville as Head
Agron. in Charge, Div. Cereal Crops and Diseases. L. P. Reitz,
who was at KS State Univ, Manhattan, was hired to succeed
Quisenberry as the Coordinator. In 1954, when Reitz transferred
to Beltsville to be Leader, Wheat Invest., V. A. Johnson, who was
NE Ag. Exp. Sta. wheat breeder was appointed Coordinator.
Johnson was Regional Coordinator until the 1972 reorganization.
Suneson initiated a broad breeding program. He developed
wheat germplasm with hard wheat quality and winter hardiness.
Quisenberry developed several cultivars including 'Pawnee',
which was selected from a cross made at KS State Univ., and
jointly released by NE and KS in 1943. Pawnee became the most
widely grown cultivar in U.S. because of it's productivity,
performance stability, and wide adaption. Quisenberry also
supervised several graduate students, who cooperated with Luther
Smith at Univ. of MO,, Columbia in studying the inheritance of
traits in diploid wheat.
Reitz continued Quisenberry's breeding program with
additional emphasis on winterhardiness, quality, and disease
resistance. He developed valuable breeding stocks from which
many outstanding cultivars were subsequently selected.
Johnson, in cooperation with J. W. Schmidt, the NE AG. Exp.
Sta. wheat breeder, relied on germplasm developed by Quisenberry
and Reitz in their cooperative breeding program. Their cultivar
'Scout' became the most widely grown cultivar in U. S. since
'Pawnee', and for several years was grown on more than seven
million acres. Johnson initiated a program to enhance the
protein in wheat. He and his students identified genes affecting
protein content and quality of wheat grain, and transferred some
of those genes to hard red winter cultivars. He also established
an International Winter Wheat Evaluation Network to identify
superior winter wheat germplasm. The network was comprised of
nurseries grown in as many as 50 countries
Texas A & M, Denton and College Station, TX
I. M. Atkins, who was a joint Wheat Invest., and Texas A & M
employee at Denton from 1930 until 1954 when he transferred to
College Station, developed and released many productive wheat
cultivars. Those cultivars were high yielding, leaf and stem
rust, and greenbug resistant, and adapted to growing conditions
in TX. D. E. Weibel, who was a Wheat Invest employee at Denton
from 1953 to 1958, contributed to the development of wheat
cultivars, and studied loose smut control and vernalization.
After Atkins transferred to TX A. & M, College Station in
1954, he was Leader, of the small grain breeding programs in TX
until he retired in 1969. E. C. Gilmore was supported by the
Wheat Invest. as a graduate student cooperating on the wheat
breeding project from about 1957 until 1959 when he transferred
as a graduate student on the wheat breeding project at Univ. of
MN, St. Paul. In 1958, O. J. Merkle was hired as a full time
Wheat Invest. employee to assist with the wheat breeding program
at College Station. He was on that project until the 1972
reorganization.
Ok State Univ., Stillwater, OK
A. M. Schlehuber, was a joint Wheat Invest. and OK State
Univ. employee at Stillwater from 1945 to 1966. He was leader of
the small grain breeding program in Ok. He and his staff
developed several outstanding, high yielding, leaf and stem rust,
and greenbug resistant hard red winter wheat cultivars adapted to
Ok and adjacent states. Several outstanding plant breeders and
pathologists received their Master's Degree in Agronomy and Plant
Path. while assisting on the program at Stillwater
KS State Univ., Manhattan, KS
J. H. Parker(1917 to 1939), L. P.. Reitz (1939 to 1946), and
E. G. Heyne 1938 to 1961), were joint Wheat Invest, and KS State
employees. They were responsible for conducting wheat breeding
and production research in KS. Since KS is the largest wheat
producing state, and grows several million acres of wheat
annually, there were many state supported programs in KS. D. E.
Wiebel was a full time Cereal Crops employee at Manhattan from
1947 to 1953. He assisted with the wheat breeding program, but
also worked on the Oats and Sorghum projects.
IA State Univ., Ames, IA
L. C. Burnett was a joint employee with the Cereal Branch
including Wheat Invest. and IA State Univ., Ames from 1907 until
he retired in 1949. He conducted yield nursery tests throughout
IA, and cooperated with the IA wheat breeders in developing
cultivars adapted to IA.
Dry Land Ag. Stas. in KS, TX, NE, SD, CO, OK
M. A. Carleton, who was in charge of Wheat Invest,
recognized the need for cultivation and rotation experiments for
cereals in the dry land areas. In 1904, through the efforts of
B. T. Galloway, Chief BPI, who had become interested in dry land
experiments, sufficient funds for beginning this work were made
available from appropriations for cereals. Carleton then
employed E. C. Chilcott, Agriculturalist and Vice Director , SD.
AG. Exp. Sta., Brookings, who had been a collaborator in cereal
experiments since 1899. On July 1, 1905, Chilcott reported for
duty in Washington, D. C.
On July 1, 1905, an appropriation of $25,000 for several
phases of grain investigations became available. One phase of
that appropriation was "to determine the best methods of
cultivation of grain for different districts." Although
ostensibly responsible to Carleton, Chilcott almost immediately
assumed independent control of plans for the tillage and rotation
program. On July 1, 1906, the Div. Veg. Physiol. and Path. was
subdivided into 11 indepentent offices of the BPI. The Office of
Grain Invest. was headed by Carleton, and the Office of Dry Land
Ag. by Chilcott.
Thirty Dry Land Ag. Stas. were established. Twenty four of
those stations were in the Great Plains. The scientists at those
stations studied soil preparation and crop rotations. When
individuals trained in cereal breeding were present, they tested
various crops and cultivars, and developed new cultivars better
adapted to dry-land conditions. More information regarding the
Dry Land Stations can be obtained in the publication by Karl
Quisenberry 1/ Karl Quisenberry (Date ? After 1973). The Dry Land
Stations; their Mission and the Men", Agricultural History 218
to 228
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Hays, KS
Carleton cooperated in establishing the first research
station to study dry land agriculture at Hays, in 1901. A. L.
Halstead was in charge of the dry land research at Hays for
several years. He was recognized throughout KS and nationally
for his innovative research. In 1933, A. F. Swanson, a breeder,
was supported by the Wheat Invest. at Hays. He cooperated
closely with J. H. Parker at Manhattan, who was responsible for
wheat breeding research in KS at that time.
Dry Land Ag. Stas., Channing and Amarillo, TX
In the fall of 1903, experiments with winter grains were
begun by A. H. Leidigh on the XIT Ranch at Channing, TX. Sorghum
and other spring grains including wheat were sown in 1904. In
the fall of 1905, a Dry Land Field Station was established at
Amarillo, TX. After the 1906 crop, all experiments were
transferred from Channing to Amarillo. Three years later the
experiments were moved to another farm near Amarillo. The
research was continued under J. F. Ross until 1920 when that type
of research was discontinued at Amarillo. However, TX Ag. Exp.
Sta. employees at Amarillo continued cooperating with Wheat
Invest. employees on the breeding and testing of wheat cultivars
and selections. They were still cooperating when ARS was
reorganized in 1972.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., North Platte, NE
The Dry Land Sta. at North Platte, was established in 1906.
In 1912, L. L. Zook transferred from the Corn Research Proj. at
Washington, D. C. to be Director of that station. He was in
charge of the dry land research at that station for many years.
From 1924 to 1928, G. F. Sprague, and from 1929 to 1932, N.
E. Jodon were Cereal Invest. employees at North Platte. They
were responsible for research on the production and testing of
cereal crops including wheat, rye, spelt and emmer. Sprague
transferred from North Platte to the Corn Invest., Project at
Washington, D. C., and later was Leader, Corn & Sorghum Invest.
Jodon transferred from North Platte to the Rice Proj at Crowley,
LA where he bred and released many productive rice cultivars.
Dry Land Ag. Stas., Newell and Highmore, SD
Some of the scientists at the two Dry Land Stas. at Newell,
and Highmore had long careers in the Dept. of Ag. There were
three scientists at the Newell station. S. C. Salmon was there
from 1908 until 1912. He later became Leader, Wheat Invest. J.
H. Martin, replaced him in 1914. In1918, he transferred to Burns,
OR for one year before transferred in 1919 to Washington, D. C as
assist to the Leader, Wheat Research, Western Region. Martin
later became Leader, Sorghum Invest. A. D. Ellison, who had been
at the Dry Land Sta. at Nephi, UT, replaced Martin. He was there
until 1920 when the station was closed because of lack of funds.
There were three scientists at the Highmore Station. M.
Champlain was there from 1909 to 1911. J. D. Morrison, who
became an outstanding Ag. Scientist, was there from 1911 to 1918.
He was succeeded by E. S. McFadden, who was there from 1918 until
1920 when that station was also closed because of lack of funds.
He conducted some outstanding research on interspecific crosses
with wheat. That research will be discussed in the section on
Cytogenetic and Interspecific Hybridization.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Akron, CO
There were three scientists at the Akron, Dry Land Sta.
They were C. H. Clark from 1910 to 1913, G. A. McMurdo from 1914
to 1917, and F. A. Coffman from 1917 to 1923. Coffman
transferred to the Oat Invest. Washington, D. C in 1924 where he
had a long and distinguished career as an oat breeder.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Woodward, OK
E. Stephens and V. C. Hubbard, who were at Woodward from
1931 until about 1948 conducted testing and production research,
and cooperated closely with the wheat breeding program at
Stillwater, OK.
Hard Red Spring and Durum Region
This region was the smallest of the four regions. The
region included MN, ND, SD, WI. and Eastern MT, where hard red
spring and durum wheats were grown. The Coordinators cooperated
closely with the staff at the Hard Red Spring and Durum Wheat
Quality Lab. at Beltsville, which was moved to Fargo in 1963.
They cooperated with the breeders of Hard Red Spring and Durum
Wheat and coordinated the Uniform Hard Hed Spring and Durum Wheat
Performance Nurseries which were grown be breeders at several
locations.
From 1931 until he retired in 1951, J. A. Clark was the
Regional Coordinator. Clark was located at Washington, D. C. and
then at Beltsville, MD. He had many additional administrative
responsibilities in the Cereal Crops Office.
In 1951, E. R. Ausemus at St. Paul, MN assumed the
responsibility as Coordinator, and continued until he retired in
1963. E. C. Gilmore was Acting Coordinator for a few months
until K. L. Lebsock at Fargo, ND was appointed Coordinator in
1964. Lebsock was Coordinator until late 1968 when he
transferred to Beltsville to be Coordinator, Eastern States
Region. From 1969 until the 1972 reorganization, R. E. Heiner,
located at St. Paul, was the Coordinator.
Univ. of MN, St. Paul, MN
J. H. Parker was the first Cereal Crops breeder at St. Paul.
He was responsible for the research on breeding and production of
small grains from 1913 until 1917 when he transferred to
Manhattan, KS where he continued that research. O. S. Aamodt was
the plant breeder from 1917 until 1928 when he transferred to
Washington, D. C. Both he and Parker conducted breeding programs
to transfer the resistance to stem rust into new cultivars.
Ausemus was the wheat breeder at St. Paul from 1928 until he
retired in 1963. In addition to being the Regional Coordinator
from 1951 to 1963, he conducted a large wheat breeding program
and trained many plant breeders. D. W. Sunderman and E. C.
Gilmore , from 1952 to 1960, and from 1959 to 1965, respectively,
assisted Ausemus with the breeding program while they were
graduate students at Univ. of MN. In cooperation with
pathologists at the Univ. of Mn, and the USDA Cereal Rust Lab.,
which was established in 1962, they developed wheat cultivars and
selections with outstanding resistance to leaf and stem rust
which have been used by wheat breeders world-wide. They
developed the first US spring wheat semidwarf, rust resistant,
high yielding cultivar, 'Era', which set a new standard for grain
yield in the hard red spring wheat production area.
After Ausemus retired in 1963, R. E. Heiner was hired in
1965. Heiner continued Ausemus's breeding program, and initiated
basic studies on breeding techniques using mutagens, and special
genetic and statistical procedures. He was Coordinator until the
1972 reorganization.
ND. Ag. Field Stas., Dickinson and Mandan, ND
The first research on wheat in ND was conducted at the two
Field Stations at Dickinson and Mandan. J. A. Clark was
responsible for the wheat cultivar and selection testing, and
production research at both Dickinson and Mandan from 1911 until
1914 when he tranferred to Washington, D. C. R. W. Smith
continued the research on all small grains at Dickinson from 1914
until 1947 when that research was discontinued. E. R. Ausemus
was responsible for wheat breeding research at Mandan from 1925
until 1928 when he transferred to St. Paul, MN. The wheat
breeding research in ND was transferred from Mandan to Fargo when
G. S. Smith was hired in 1929.
ND State Univ., Fargo, ND
The wheat breeding and genetics programs at Fargo were
conducted in cooperation with ND State Univ. From 1929 to 1947,
when he became a state employee, G. S. Smith developed durum
cultivars resistant to the prevalent stem rust races, including
race 56. However, those cultivars were susceptible to race 15B,
and were heavily damaged by that race in 1953 and 1954.
From 1948 until he resigned in 1956, R. M. Heerman conducted
the breeding program on durum wheat. He also studied sawfly
resistance in hard red spring wheat until 1953, when K. L.
Lebsock was hired to lead that part of the program. The sawfly
resistant cultivar, 'Fortuna', the first to be developed by this
program, was released in 1966. Lebsock assumed the
responsibility for the durum breeding program after Heerman's
resignation in 1956. Heerman and Lebsock in cooperation with the
Cereal Rust Lab at St. Paul, MN developed several durum cultivars
and germplasm lines that were highly resistant to leaf and stem
rust, and with shorter, and stronger straw, and good grain yield
and quality.
In 1954, L. W. Briggle was hired as a Geneticist to
cooperate with the wheat breeding programs. After Briggle
transferred to Beltsville, MD in 1956, N. D. Williams was hired
in 1957 to continue that program. They identified and determined
the number and linkage of genes for resistance to stem rust, and
assisted in developing rust resistant cultivars and germplasm. In
1968, L. R. Joppa was hired to concentrate on basic
genetic-cytogenetic research on durum. He employed aneuploid
techniques to identify genes and gene locations for important
agronomic and quality characteristics. When Lebsock transferred
to Belftsville in 1969, Joppa temporarily assumed the
responsibilities for breeding new durum cultivars. The Wheat
Invest. discontinued the wheat cultivar breeding programs in1970
when ND Stat Univ. hired a durum breeder, and Joppa continued his
basic genetic and cytogenetic research until the 1972
reorganization.
Univ of WI, Madison, WI
R. G. Shands was employed as a plant breeder jointly by the
Wheat and Barley Invests. from 1929 until his death in 1965. He
developed some disease resistant, (powdery mildew), productive,
high quality cultivars adapted to WI and adjacent states.
South Dakota and Montana
The research on Hard Red Spring and Durum Wheat in these two
states was conducted by either Wheat Invest. or State Ag. Exp.
Sta. breeders, who also breed other types of wheat. The
research on wheat in SD is discussed in the section on Hard Red
Winter Wheat, and that in MT is discussed in the section on
Western State Region.
Western States Region
The Western States Region included those states in Western
U. S. and the Intermountain Area. There was a great diversity in
classes of wheat grown in that region. The coordinators were
responsible for three Regional Wheat Performance Nurseries grown
throughout most of that region, and small nurseries with durum
wheat and Triticale grown at fewer locations. The three Regional
Nurseries were Spring,(both white and red) White Winter
(primarily soft), and Hard Red Winter Wheat. The coordinators
cooperated closely with the staff at the Western Wheat Quality
Lab. which was established in 1946 at Pullman, WA.
C. A. Suneson at Davis, CA was the Coordinator from 1937
until 1946. R. H. Bamberg, a pathologist at Bozeman, MT., served
as Acting Coordinator after Suneson resigned until in late 1946,
when O. A. Vogel, at Pullman, WA was appointed Coordinator.
After Vogel resigned as Coordinator in 1956, F. H. McNeal at
Bozeman, became the Coordinator. McNeal was the Coordinator
until the 1972 reorganization.
Univ. of CA, Yuba City, Modesto, Davis, Chico, and Berkeley
Cooperative investigations on cereals were begun with the
CA. Ag. Exp. Sta. in the fall of 1904. Two tracts of land were
leased, one near Yuba City, and the other near Modesto. The
tests were continued at those locations until after the 1907 crop
when they were transferred to Davis, and Ceres. The cooperation
ended after 1909, and the Dept. of Ag. experiments in CA were
conducted at the U. S. Pl. Introduction Garden at Chico. In the
fall of 1921, the cooperation with the CA. Ag. Exp. Sta. at Davis
was resumed, and the cereal experiments at Chico were
discontinued.
In the fall of 1904, and in 1905 L. A. Fitz was in charge of
the experiments in CA, and from 1906 to 1911 they were in charge
of H. F. Blanchard. From 1912 to 1917, the experiments at Chico
were directed by E. L. Adams from the Biggs Rice Field Sta, and
from 1918 to 1921 by V. H. Florell, who was located at Chico. In
1921, Florell moved to Davis where he continued his breeding
research on all three small grains until he transferred to
Washington, D. C. in 1928. The cultivar 'White Federation',
which Florell released in 1920 while at Chico, was an important
cultivar in CA, and was the foundation for many subsequent
cultivars developed in CA.
In 1929, G. A. Wiebe transferred from Aberdeen, ID to
replace Florell as breeder of all small grains in CA. Wiebe
initiated a program of incorporating Hessian Fly resistance into
wheat cultivars. Two Hessian Fly cultivars 'Poso 44', and 'Big
Club 43' were later released from that program. Wiebe
transferred to Washington, D. C. in 1935.
In 1936, C. A. Suneson transferred from Lincoln, NE to
Davis, and was made the Coordinator of the Western State Region.
In addition to being Regional Coordinator from 1936 to 1945,
Suneson finished developing and released the two Hessian Fly
resistant cultivars from Wiebe's program. He also collaborated
in genetic studies, and transferred the awnless character and
resistance to stem rust into new cultivars. When Suneson retired
in 1968, the Wheat Invest. discontinued the wheat breeding
research in Davis.
W. W. Mackie, who was a joint employee with the Cereal Crops
and the Univ. of CA at Davis from 1917 until 1926, and F. N.
Briggs, who was a pathologist with Cereal Crops located at
Berkeley from 1919 until 1930 when he was appointed to the Univ.
of CA faculty, cooperated closely on small grain improvement.
Although located at Berkeley, Briggs conducted his field research
at Davis. Briggs pioneered in the backcross procedure of
breeding, and emphasized the use of single race of pathogens in
studying the inheritance of bunt and powdery mildew resistance in
wheat.
WA State Univ., Pullman, WA.
In 1931, O. A. Vogel was assigned to Pullman. Vogel was in
charge of the wheat breeding research at Pullman from 1931 until
the 1972 reorganization. He has been recognized as one of the
most successful plant breeders in the U. S. He crossed 'Norin
10', a short productive wheat introduced from Japan by S. C.
Salmon, with 'Brevor', a smut resistant cultivar. The cultivar
'Gaines;, selected from that cross, was the first of several
highly productive, short strawed, lodging resistant wheat
cultivars developed in U. S. and in other countries. Selections
from Vogel's cross of 'Norin 10' by 'Brevor' were the foundation
of the short, productive, daylength insensitive cultivars
developed by the Rockefeller Foundation in Mexico. The"Green
Revolution" in Mexico, and Asia resulted from those cultivars.
Vogel also developed small plot thrashers, planters, and
harvesters, which have been used by small grain breeders
world-wide. He was Coordinator for the Western States Region
from 1936 until Febr. 16, 1956.
In 1970, C. J. Peterson was hired to continue Vogel's
breeding program after he retired. Peterson was with the
breeding program when ARS was reorganized in 1972.
From 1954 to 1956, E. H. Everson was hired as a geneticist
to cooperate with the wheat breeding program. After Everson
resigned, R. E. Allan was hired in 1957. Allan was with the
program until the 1972 reorganization. He identified the genes
that controlled straw shortness and other characteristics of the
short strawed wheat cultivars.
J. C. Craddock also assisted with the breeding program while
a graduate student from 1953 until 1958 when he transferred to
Beltsville.
MT State Univ., Bozeman, MT
F. H. McNeal was in charge of the spring wheat breeding
program at Bozeman from 1948 until the 1972 reorganization. He
was hired after Bamberg, a pathologist resigned. McNeal
developed and released several high yielding, good quality,
disease and Wheat Stem Sawfly resistant cultivars. In
cooperation with entomologists he screened the USDA World Wheat
Collection for resistance to Wheat Stem Sawfly. He developed
near-isogenic populations for evaluating plant characters, a
recurrent selection program for improving grain protein content,
inheritance of stem solidness, and other plant characters.
M. A. Berg, and C. R. Haun assisted with the winter wheat
breeding at Bozeman from 1953 to 1972, and from 1953 to 1968,
respectively.
ID Ag. Exp. Sta., Aberdeen, ID.
L. C. Aicher was the first of several Wheat Invest.
employees at Aberdeen. He was responsible for the dry land
research at that location from 1911 until 1921 when irrigation
was installed.
G. A. Wiebe, was hired in 1922 to conduct breeding research
on all small grains. He was there until 1929 when he transferred
to Univ. of CA at Davis. L. L. Davis succeeded Wiebe, and was
responsible for the research until 1931 when H. Stevens was
hired. Stevens was responsible for the program until he retired
on disability in 1965. Wiebe, Davis and Stevens were responsible
for breeding all small grains, and also for growing seed
increases for many other Cereal Crop Office scientists. When
Stevens retired the responsibility for growing seed increases was
assumed by F. C. Petr from 1965 to 1967 and by D. M. Wesenberg
from 1968 until the 1972 reorganization.
In 1954, P. J. Fitzgerald was hired as a full time wheat
breeder. After Fitzgerald resigned in 1960, D. W. Sunderman
transferred from St. Paul, MN. Sunderman was there until the
1972 reorganization. Fitzgerald and Sunderman developed several
productive good quality, smut and snow mold resistant cultivars.
Univ of ID, Moscow, ID
V. H. Florell was transferred to Moscow from Washington, D.
C. in 1930. He cooperated with the wheat breeding program until
he resigned in 1933.
OR. Ag. Exp. Sta., Pendleton, OR
The wheat breeding and production research at Pendleton was
in cooperation with the breeding programs at OR State Univ,
Corvallis, and at WA State Univ, Pullman. J. F. Martin, who
transferred from Moro, Or, was in charge of that program from
1929 until 1955. In 1947 and 1948, while Martin was in Korea, F.
H. McNeal was in charge of that program. C. R. Rohde cooperated,
as an agronomist, on that program from 1953 until 1957 when the
breeding research was discontinued. Many cultivars released by
OR and WA State Ag. Exp. Stas. were developed or selected from
nurseries and other tests conducted at
Pendleton.
Univ. of AZ, Tucson, AZ
A. T. Bartel was a joint employee between the Cereal Crops
Office and Univ of AZ from 1930 to about 1953. He cooperated
with many small grain scientists by growing a winter crop of
small grains at various locations in AZ.
UT State Univ., Logan, UT.
R. W. Woodward was a joint employee with the Cereal Crops
Office and Utah State Univ. from 1930 to 1966. He cooperated in
genetic studies with breeders in other states, and developed
productive resistant cultivars grown in UT and adjacent states.
Dry Land Ag. Stas., UT, MT, OR, WA, and WY
There were Dry Land Ag. Stas. established in 5 states in the
Western States Region beginning in 1907. The individuals in
charge of those stations conducted studies on production and
rotation practices of crops adapted to areas of low rainfall.
Research at some of those stations was discontinued when
irrigation became available or when Federal Gov't funds were
reduced. Wheat was the main crop used at most of the locations.
Some of the scientists moved between stations, and many of them
became leaders in the USDA, or at State Ag. Exp. Stas. The
following is information regarding some of the personnel at 6 of
the Dry Land Stas.:
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Nephi, UT
There were five scientists located at the Dry Land Sta. at
Nephi from 1904 until 1918. W. M. Jardine, and F. D. Farrell
were in charge from 1904 to 1906, and from 1907 to 1910,
respectively. They both became Dean of the Ag. Exp. Sta, and
president of KS State Univ. at Manhattan, and Jardine was
Secretary of Ag. from 1925 to 1929. P. V. Cardon, who succeeded
Farrell was at Nephi from 1910 to 1912, was later Administrator
of Ag. Res. Service. A. D. Ellson, who succeeded Cardon was at
Nephi from 1912 to 1915, and was succeeded by J. W. Jones who was
there from 1915 until 1918. Ellison was in charge of the Dry
Land Sta at Newell, SD. when it was closed in 1920 because of
lack of funds. Jones transferred to Nephi from the Dry Land Sta.
at Archer, WY.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Mocassin, MT
The Dry Land AG. Sta. at Mocassin was started in 1909 with
E. L. Adams in charge. That station was still being operated as
a Branch Ag. Exp. Sta. of MT. State Univ. in 1972. Adams was in
charge of the station until 1911 when he transferred to the USDA,
Rice Res. Sta. at Biggs, CA. J. L. Sutherland, who was Director
of that station from 1911 until after 1933, was partially
supported by the Cereal Office. P. V. Cardon, who was at Nephi
from 1910 to 1912 and with the USDA from 1913 to 1918, was at
Moccasin and Bozeman from 1918 to 1921. R. W. May was in charge
of the cereal project at Mocassin from 1921 until 1927 when B. B.
Bayles transferred to that station from the Dry Land sta. at
Moro, OR. In 1931, Bayles transferred to the Wheat Invest. in
Washington, D. C. where he held several positions in the Wheat
Invest. and the Cereal Office.
Dry Land Ag Stas., Burns, and Moro, OR
The two Dry Land Stas. at Burns and Moro, were started in
1911 and 1910, respectively. L. R. Breithaupt was in charge at
Burns from 1911 to 1918 when J. H. Martin transferred from the
Dry Land Sta. at Newell, SD for one year from 1918 to 1919,
before transferring to Wheat Invest. in Washington, D. C. to be
assistant to J. A. Clark, who was in charge of the Western
Region. Martin was later Leader, Sorghum Invest. In 1919, L. R.
Shattuck succeeded Martin. The Dry Land research was terminated
in 1920 because of lack of funds. However, the station remained
as a Branch Ag. Exp. Sta., OR State Univ. through the 1972
reorganization.
At least six scientists conducted research on wheat at the
Dry Land Ag. Sta. at Moro between 1910 and 1938. They were H. J.
C. Umberger, 1910 to 1912, D. E. Stevens, 1913 to 1938?, B. B.
Bayles, 1923 to 1927, and J. F. Martin, 1927 to 1930, who studied
primarily wheat, and F. J. Schneiderhan, 1917 to 1918, and R. B.
Hoskinson 1928 to 1932 who studied wheat only. After Bayles
transferred to the Dry Land Ag. Sta. at Mocassin, MT in 1927 he
was succeeded by Martin. Martin transferred to Pendleton, OR in
1929, and was at Pendleton at the time of the 1972
reorganizatlion of ARS.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Lind, WA
M. A. McCall was in charge of the Dry Land Ag. Field Sta. at
Lind from 1915 until 1924 when he transferred to Washington, D.
C. where he later became Leader, Cereal Office. After the
support of the Dry Land Ag. Sta. was terminated the station
continued to operate as a Branch Ag. Exp. Sta.
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Archer, WY.
J. W. Jones was in charge of the Dry Land Sta. at Archer
from 1912 until 1915 when he transferred to the Dry Land Sta. at
Nephi, UT. Jones was later Leader, Rice Invest. V. H. Florell
was in charge from 1915 until 1918 when he transferred to the
USDA Plant Introduction Station at Chico, CA.
Introduction and Maintenance of Wheat and Rye Germplasm
The introduction and maintenance of wheat and rye germplasm
is included because some of that germplasm was very important in
the Agronomic, Production and Breeding Research of wheat, rye and
tricicum Sp.
In 1898 Congress appropriated $20,000 for the introduction,
from foreign countries, of rare and valuable seeds, plants, etc.,
to be tested in cooperation with State Ag. Exp. Stas. This was
the beginning of organized introduction of wheat and rye
germplasm. In 1898, M. A. Carleton was sent to Russia to obtain
cereals resistant to cold, drought, and fungal diseases. In 1897
and 1898, N. E. Hansen, Horticulturist, SD Ag. Exp. Sta., made a
trip to Russia, Siberia, and Turkestan under the auspices of the
USDA. He collected many samples of cereals.
The Plant Introduction Project was an independent unit of
the Ag. Dept. under D. G. Fairchild from July l to Oct. 28, 1898
when it became a Section of the Div. of Botany under O. F. Cook.
The Section was supervised by O. F. Cook from 1898 until 1900,
and by Jared G. Smith from then until March 1, l901 when Foreign
Plant Introduction was separated from the Div. of Botany with
Ernest A. Bessey in charge. In 1902, Foreign Plant Introduction
was merged with the Div. of Seed Distribution under the direction
of A. J. Pieters. In 1904, Fairchild, who had continued as the
Plant Explorer in the Dept. since 1898, was appointed supervisor
of foreign plant introductions in the Div. of Seed and Pl.
Introduction and Distribution. On Sept. 20, 1906, Pieters
resigned and shortly thereafter Fairchild was placed in charge of
a separate Div. Seed and Plant Introduction. In 1927, K. A.
Ryerson, assumed charge of the Div., and he was succeeded by B.
Y. Morrison in 1933. In 1948 C. O. Erlanson succeeded Morrison.
In 1957, the Div. Seed and Pl. Introduction, and Distribution was
renamed the New Crops Res. Br., Crops Res. Div., ARS, and
Erlanson was Chief until he retired in 1965. J. E. Creech was
then Br. Chief from 1965 until the reorganization of ARS in 1972.
A more complete documentation of the history, objective and
accomplishments of this research is in, "The National Program for
Conservation of Crop germplasm" (Edited by Sam Burgess and
published by ARS and Cooperating St. Ag. Exp. Stas. in 1971)
Miscellaneous seed lots of cereals were received from time
to time from when the Ag. Dept. was first organized in 1862 until
1897. Beginning in 1898 special plant and seed exploration trips
were organized and many accessions of wheat and other cereal crop
germplasm were introduced. Some of the early exploration trips
from which wheat and rye germplasm was introduced are included in
Table 3. Included are the names of the explorers, the years and
countries they visited and crops they introduced. The trips by
Carleton, and Hansen in 1898, and in 1897 and 1898, respectively
were mentioned previously. On his exploration trip in 1900,
Carleton stopped at the World's Fair in Paris where he collected
samples of wheat and barley which were being grown in other
countries such as Korea, and China. He then proceeded to collect
Durum and other wheat in Russia. In 1900, Fairchild and C. S.
Scofield conducted an exploration trip into Algeria in North
Africa where they collected durum wheat and barley adapled to the
Mediterrean region. In 1903, Bessey, who was then in charge of
Pl. Introduction, conducted an exploration trip into Russia, and
Turkestan where he collected wheat. In 1923 and 1924, H. V.
Harlan, who was Leader, Barley Invest.,conducted an extensive
exploration trip through Eastern Russia, India, Ethiopia and
North Africa. He collected primarily barley but also obtained
some wheat accessions. In 1926, H. H. McKinney obtained many
wheat accessions while on a plant exploration trip in West
Africa to collect cereals which may be resistant to virus
diseases.
In 1948 D. J. Ward was hired by the Div. Cereal Crops and
Diseases to develop, maintain, and distribute seed from the USDA
Small Grains Collection at Beltsville. That collection contained
wheat and other small grains ( rye, barley, and oats) that had
been collected world wide by scientists in the Div. Cereal. Crops
and Diseases located in Washington, D. C., and Beltsville, and
many of the cultivars developed and released in North America.
When Ward resigned in 1958, J. C. Craddock transferred from
Pullman, WA to be responsible for that collection. Craddock was
in charge of the collection when ARS was reorganized in 1972. At
that time there were over 70,000 accessions in the collection.
Over 30,000 of those accessions were wheat. Seed from that
collection had been distributed free to scientists in the United
States and throughout the world.
Classification and Distribution of Wheat Cultivars
Information on the classification and distribution of wheat
cultivars is being included in this section, because the Leaders,
Wheat Invest. pioneered in the publication of bulletins in which
cultivars were classified and their distribution reported.
Although the bulletins were prepared by scientists in the Wheat
Invest. at Washington, D. C. or Beltsville, many wheat
breederthroughout the U. S. assisted by growing material and
furnishing information for those bulletins. The bulletins have
been used not only by scientists interested in cultivar
improvement and production, but by individuals including farmers
interest in wheat.
Four bulletins were published in which wheat cultivars grown
in specific years were classified. The first wheat
classification bulletin published in 1922, by J. A. Clark, J. H.
Martin and C. R. Ball was Classification of American Wheat
Varieties, U.S. Dept. Agr. Bull. 1074. That bulletin set the
pattern for the next three classification bulletins. The
information in that publication consisted of a key to species and
cultivars of wheat, a description and historical information
about some 200 cultivars, sorting of synonyms used to denote the
same cultivar, and an estimate of the number of acres of each
cultivar grown state by state. The other three classification
bulletins were published at about 10 year intervals. The last
bulletin was by Briggle, L. W. and Reitz L. P., 1963.
Classification of Triticum species and of Wheat Varieties Grown
in the United States U.S. Dept. Agr. Tech. Bull. 1278.
The surveys and publication of bulletins on the distribution
of wheat cultivars were conducted in cooperation with Economic
Res. Service. The first bulletin was published in 1919. There
were 12 subsequent bulletins. The surveys, reported in those
bulletins, recorded the shifts in cultivars as new cultivars were
developed. The survey reported in each bulletin included the
acreage and percentage of each wheat cultivar in each state and
included from 175 to 235 cultivars. The last bulletin on surveys
of wheat cultivars prior to the 1972 reorganization was by Reitz,
L. P., Lebsock, K. L., and Hasenmyer, G. D. 1972 Distribution of
the Varieties and Classes of Wheat in the United States in 1969.
U.S. Dept. Agr. Statistics Bull. 475.
Table l. - Leaders and Assist. Leaders, Wheat Invest., Cereal Crops Research
Branch, U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1901 to 1972
===================================================================
Years Leaders Years Assistants Regions
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1901-12 M. A. Carleton 1/ 1901-02 C. S Scofield Durum
1902-06 L. A. Fitz HRW 4/
1902-06 H. A. Miller Eastern
1902-06 J. S. Cole SW 4/
1906-09 H. J. C. Umberger Durum
1907-10 W. M Jardine Dry Land Ag
1911-12 A. B. Derr Minor Crops
1912-13 C. R. Ball 2/ 1912-13 C. E. Leighty Humid Area
1912-13 A. B. Derr SE U.S. 4/
1913-18 M. A. Carleton 1913-18 C. R. Ball Western
1914-18 J. A. Clark Western
1913-18 C. E. Leighty Eastern
1918-30 C. E. Leighty 1919-20 W. C. Eldridge Eastern
(Eastern) 1921-31 W. J. Sando Eastern
1919-25 J. H. Martin Western
(Western)
1925-31 K. S. Quisenberry Western
1930-31 J. A. Clark
1931-46 S. C. Salmon
1946-50 K. S. Quisenberry 3/
B. B. Bayles 3/
1950-54 S. C. Salmon
1955-72 L. P. Reitz
===========================================================================
1/ Many individuals assisted Carleton, and Ball on specific
projects, but they maintained overall responsibility for all research on
wheat. The other leaders delegated responsibilities to their assistants
including the supervision of other scientists.
2/ Ball was acting Leader while Carleton was on leave for
14 months in 1912-1913.
3/ Quisenberry and Bayles shared the responsibilities as
Leader while Salmon was an Ag. Advisor to MacArthur in
Japan from 1946 to about 1950 following WWII.
4/ HRW = Hard Red Winter SW = Spring Wheat, and SE U.S. =
Southeastern United States.
Table 2. - Scientists, who conducted Agronomic, Production
and Breeding Research on Wheat and Rye in the U. S.
Department of Agriculture, 1903 to 1972.
========================================================================
Name Discipline Crops Years of Service
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington, D. C. and Beltsville, MD
Bayles, B. B. Agronomy Wheat 1931 to 1953
Briggle, L. W. Agronomy Wheat, Oats 1955 to 1972
Lebsock, K. L. Agronomy Wheat 1969 to 1972
Jardine, W. M. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1907 to 1910
Farrell, F. D. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1912 to 1918
Clark, J. A. Agronomy Wheat 1914 to 1951
Quisenberry, K. S. Agronomy Wheat 1925 to 1936
Florell, V. H. Agronomy Wheat 1928 to 1930
Taylor, J. W. Agronomy Wheat, Barley 1919 to 1950
Univ. of AZ, Tucson, AZ
Bartel, A. T. Agronomy Small Grains 1930 to 1953 1/
Univ. of CA, Chico, Modesto, and Yuba City, CA
Fitz, L. A. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1904 to 1905
Blanchard, H. F. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1906 to 1911
Adams, E. L. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1912 to 1917
Florell, V. H. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1918 to 1921
Univ. of CA, Berkeley, and Davis, CA
Florell, V. H. Agronomy Small Grains 1921 to 1928
Wiebe, G. A. Agronomy Small Grains 1929 to 1935
Suneson, C. A. Agronomy Small Grains 1936 to 1968
Mackie, W. W. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1917 to 1926 1/
Briggs, F. N. Agron.-Path. Small Grains 1919 to 1930 1/
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Akron, CO
Clark, C. H. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1910 to 1913
McMurdo, G. A. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1914 to 1917
Coffman, F. A. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1917 to 1923
Coastal Plains Exp. Sta., Tifton, GA
Morey, D. D. Agronomy Rye,Small Grains 1955 to 1972 1/
ID Ag. Exp. Sta., Aberdeen, ID
Aicher, L. C. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1911 to 1921
Wiebe, G. A. Agronomy Small Grains 1922 to 1929
Davis, L. L. Agronomy Small Grains 1929 to 1931
Stevens, H. Agronomy Small Grains 1931 to 1965
Petr, F. C. Agronomy Primarily Barley 1953 to 1967
Wesenberg, D. M. Agronomy Primarily Barley 1968 to 1972
Fitzgerald, P. J. Agronomy Wheat 1954 to 1960
Sunderman, D. W. Agronomy Wheat 1960 to 1972
Univ. of ID, Moscow, ID
Florell, V. H. Agronomy Wheat 1930 to 1933
Purdue Univ.,West Lafayette, IN
Jackson, H. S. Agron.-Path. Small Grains 1918 to 1929 1/
Caldwell, R. M. Path.-Agron. Small Grains 1928 to 1937 1/
Compton, L. E. Agronomy Wheat 1919 to 1962
Roberts, J. J. Agronomy Small Grains 1966 to 1972
IA State Univ., Ames, IA
Burnett, L. C. Agronomy Small Grains 1907 to 1949 1/
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Hayes, KS
Halstead, A. L. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. Several Years
Swanson, A. F. Agronomy Wheat 1933 to 195?
KS State Univ., Manhattan, KS
Parker, J. H. Agronomy Sm.Grains,Sorgh. 1917 to 1939 1/
Reitz, L. P. Agronomy Wheat 1939 to 1946 1/
Heyne, E. G. Agronomy Wheat, Oats 1938 to 1961 1/
Weibel, D. E. Agronomy Oat, Wheat, Sorgh.1947 to 1953
MI State Univ., East Lansing, MI
Smith, D. H., Jr Genetics Small Grains 1965 to 1972
Univ. of MN, St. Paul, MN
Parker, J. H. Agron,Path. Small Grains 1913 to 1917 1/
Aamodt, O. S. Agronomy Wheat 1917 to 1928
Ausemus, E. R. Agronomy Wheat 1928 to 1964
Sunderman, D. W. Agronomy Wheat 1952 to 1960
Gilmore, E. C. Agronomy Wheat, Flax 1959 to 1965
Heiner, R. E. Genetics Wheat 1965 to 1972
MT State Univ., Bozeman, MT
Cardine, W. M. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1918 to 1921
McNeal, F. H. Agronomy Wheat 1949 to 1972
Berg, M. A. Agronomy Wheat 1953 to 1972
Haun, C. R. Agronomy Wheat 1957 to 1968 1/
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Moccasin, MT
Adams, E. L. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1909 to 1911
Sutherland, J. L. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1911 to 1933 1/
May, R. W. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1921 to 1927
Bayles, B. B. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1928 to 1930
Univ. of NE, Lincoln, NE
Suneson, C. A. Agronomy Wheat 1930 to 1936
Quisenberry, K. S. Agronomy Wheat 1936 to 1946
Reitz, L. P. Agronomy Wheat 1946 to 1954
Johnson, V. A. Agronomy Wheat 1954 to 1972
Dry Land Ag. Sta., North Platte, NE
Zook, L. L. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1912 to 195?
Sprague, G. F. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1924 to 1928
Jodon, N. E. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1929 to 1932
Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY
Craig, W. T. Agronomy Small Grains 1924 to 19?? 1/
Love, H. H. Agronomy Small Grains 1924 to 1940 1/
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Dickinson, ND
Clark, J. A. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1911 to 1914
Smith, R. W. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1914 to 1947
ND State Univ., Fargo, ND
Smith, G. S. Agronomy Wheat 1929 to 1947 1/
Heerman, R. M. Agronomy Wheat 1948 to 1956
Lebsock, K. L. Agronomy Wheat 1953 to 1969
Briggle, L. W. Genetics Wheat 1954 to 1956
Williams, N. D. Genetics Wheat 1957 to 1972
Joppa, L. R. Genetics Wheat 1968 to 1972
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Mandan, ND
Ausemus, E. R. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1925 to 1928
Hubbard, V. C. Agronomy Wheat 1929 to 1936
OK State Univ., Stillwater, OK
Schlehuber, A. M. Agronomy Small Grains 1945 to 1966 1/
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Woodward, OK
Stephens, E. Agronomy Wheat 1931 to 1948?
Hubbard, V. C. Agronomy Wheat 1936 to 1940
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Burns, OR
Breithaupt, L. R. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1911 to 1918
Martin, J. H. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1918 to 1919
Shattuck, L. R. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1919 to 1920
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Moro, OR
Umberger, H. J. C. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1910 to 1912
Stevens, D. E. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1913 to 1838
Schneiderhan, F.J. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1917 to 1918
Bayles, B. B. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1923 to 1927
Martin, J. F. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1927 to 1929
Schneiderhan, F. Agronomy Wheat 1917 to 1018
Hoskinson, R. B. Agronomy Wheat 1929 to 1933?
OR Ag. Exp. Sta., Pendleton, OR
Martin, J. F. Agronomy Primarily Whea 1929 to 1955
McNeal, F. H. Agronomy Wheat 1947 to 1948
Rohde, C. R. Agronomy Wheat 1953 to 1957
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Highmore, SD
Champlain, M. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1909 to 1911
Morrison, J. D. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1911 to 1919?
Mcfadden, E. S. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1918 to 1920
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Newell, SD
Salmon, S. C. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1908 to 1912
Martin, J. H. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1914 to 1918
Ellison, A. D. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1919 to 1920
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Amarillo, and Channing TX
Leidigh, A. H. Agronomy Sorghum, Wheat 1904 to 1908
Ross, J. F. Agronomy Primarily Wheat 1905 to 1920
TX A & M Univ., College Station, TX
Atkins, I. M. Agronomy Small Grains, Flax 1954 to 1969 1/
Gilmore, F. C. Agronomy Wheat 1957 to 1959
Merkle, O. J. Agronomy Wheat 1958 to 1972
TX Ag. Exp. Sta., Denton, TX
Atkins, I. M. Agronomy Small Grains 1930 to 1954 1/
Weibel, D. E. Agronomy Wheat, Oats 1953 to 1958
UT State Univ., Logan, UT
Leidigh, A. H. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1903 to ?
Woodward, R. W. Agronomy Small Grains 1930 to 1966
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Nephi, UT
Jardine, W. M. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1904 to 1906
Farrell, F. D. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1907 to 1910
Cardon, P. V. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1910 to 1912
Ellison, A. D. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1912 to 1915
Jones, J. W. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1915 to 1918
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Lind, WA
McCall, M. A. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1915 to 1924?
WA State Univ., Pullman, WA
Vogel, O. A. Agronomy Wheat 1931 to 1972
Peterson, C. J. Agronomy Wheat 1963 to 1972
Everson, E. H. Agronomy Wheat 1954 to 1956
Allen, R. E. Genetics Wheat 1957 to 1972
Craddock, J. C. Agronomy Wheat, Oats 1953 to 1958
Univ. of WI., Madison, WI
Shands, R. G. Agronomy Wheat, Barley 1929 to 1965
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Archer, WY
Jones, J. W. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1912 to 1915
Florell, V. H. Agronomy Dry Land Ag. 1915 to 1918
==================================================================
1/ State employees who cooperated closely with USDA, and
may have received some financial support from USDA.
Table 3 - Introduction and Maintenance of Wheat and Rye Germplasm in the U.
S. Department of Agriculture, 1897 to 1972
========================================================================
Years Explorers Countries visited Cereal Introduced
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1897-98 N. E. Hansen Russia, Turkestan, Kubanka Wheat,
and Siberia and other Cereals
1898 M. A. Carleton Russia Durum Wheat, Oats,
and Barley
1900 M. A. Carleton France, Russia Kharkov Wheat,
and Barley
1900 D. G. Fairchild, Algeria Durum Wheat, and
C. S. Scofield Barley
1903 E. A. Bessey Russia and Wheat
Turkestan
1923-24 H. V. Harlan Russia, India, Ethiopia Barley, and other
and North Africa Grains
1926 H. H. McKinney Weat Africa Virus Diseases of
Cereals (Wheat)
1948-58 D. J. Ward In charge, USDA Small Wheat, Rye,
Grains Collection Barley, and Oats
1958-72 J. C. Craddock In charge, USDA Small Wheat, Rye, Barley,
Grains Collection and Oats
============================================================================
Pathologic and Physiologic Research
Prior to 1933, most of the pathologists, who were studying
diseases of cereal crops in the Dept. of Ag., were in the Div. of
Pathology and Mycology. In a reorganization in Sept. 1933, those
pathologist were reassigned to specific Crop Invest. in the Div.
of Cereal Crops and Diseases. However, prior to 1933 some
pathologist-breeders, who were in the Div. of Cereal Crops and
Diseases, conducted research on the resistance of wheat to
pathogens. The discussion of the pathologic and physiologic
research on wheat will be divided into research that was
conducted prior to the 1933 reorganization, and to research that
was conducted after that reorganization. The research prior to
the 1933 reorganization will be described by when, who and where
the research on specific pathogens of wheat was conducted. The
research following the 1933 reorganization will be divided into
diseases caused by rusts, smuts, fungal pathogens other than
rusts and smuts, viruses, and physiologic research not disease
related.
The scientists who conducted pathologic and physiologic
research on wheat and rye are listed by location in Table 4.
Included is their major discipline, crops and diseases, and years
of service at specific locations. Since some scientists studied
many different diseases or physiologic stresses, the diseases or
stresses they studied are not indicated on the table. However,
when known they are mentioned in the discussion of the research.
Research on Wheat Pathogens conducted prior to 1933
The Commissioners of Ag. in articles or correspondence
dealing with cereal culture frequently included statements
regarding diseases of cereals, their causes and remedies. In
1886, the investigation of plant diseases was assigned to the
Div. of Botany. In 1887, a separate Section of Mycology under F.
Lamson-Scribner was created in the Div. of Botany. In 1888,
Lamson-Scribner was succeeded by B. T. Galloway, and in 1890, the
Section of Mycology was made a separate Div. of Veg. Path. In
1895, this Div. was reorganized as the Div. of Veg. Physiol. and
Path. In 1901, Galloway became Chief, of the Bureau of Plant
Industry (BPI), and A. F. Woods succeeded him as Head, Div. of
Veg. Physiol. and Path. which was continued until split into
separate offices in 1906.
The first contribution of the Dept. of Ag. to cereal
pathology was a description and illustration of corn smut, corn
rust, and remedies for wheat bunt in the 1887 report of
Mycologist, Lamson-Scribner. On March 30, 1891, W. T. Swingle
was appointed to the Div. of Veg. Path. to conduct studies of
cereal diseases. He wrote Farmers Bull. No. 5, "Treatment of
Smuts of Oats and Wheat" that was published in 1892. After
additional experiments he wrote Farmers Bull. No. 75, "The Grain
Smuts" How they are caused, and how to prevent them". That
bulletin was published in 1898.
In the autumn of 1891, a small grain nursery was planted at
Garrett Park, MD to investigate methods of controlling rust by
seed, and soil treatments, spraying and dusting. Those
experiments were continued for two years under the supervision of
Galloway, Swingle, P. H. Dorsett, and D. G. Fairchild, and were
supplemented by similar experiments near Manhattan and Rockport,
KS. It was concluded, from those experiments, that the best
method for controlling rust would be by developing rust resistant
cultivars. This led to the appointment of M. A. Carleton, in the
Div. of Veg. Path. on a full-time basis on Jan. 23, 1894. In
March, Carleton came to Washington, D. C., and began a search for
rust resistant grains. Field experiments with wheat, principally
for determining rust resistance, were conducted at Garrett Park,
MD in 1894, and 1895, at Salina, KS in 1896, at Manhattan, KS in
1897, and at Lincoln, NE in 1898. Laboratory and greenhouse
studies, and field collections of all cereals were conducted in
conjunction with the field experiments. After July 1898, when
Carleton began introducing and testing cereals from Russia and
other countries, only limited attention was given to cereal
diseases.
Carleton was the only cereal pathologist in the Dept. of Ag.
for more than 10 years from 1894 to 1905. The rust epidemic of
1904 again focused attention on pathological problems, and
emphasized the resistance of durum wheat to stem rust,
particularly the cultivar 'Iumillo'. On Aug. 17, 1905, E. M.
Freeman was appointed as pathologist at the Univ. Farm, Univ. of
MN, St. Paul. Carleton then devoted his time largely to agonomic
and administrative problems. Freeman's experiments dealt
principally with the causal organisms and the life history of
rusts and smuts, and the breeding for rust resistance. On June
13, 1907, E. C. Johnson became Freeman's assistant, and succeeded
to the position of cereal pathologist after Freeman's resignation
on Dec. 31, 1907 to become the first Plant pathologist of the Mn
Ag. Exp. Sta. Freeman continued his association with the Office
of Cereal Invest. on a part-time basis.
On July 16, 1908, A. A. Potter was appointed special agent
to assist with cereal disease experiments at Univ. Farm, St.
Paul, MN. On July 1, 1909, Potter was appointed as an expert on
cereal diseases, and was tranferred to Washington, D. C. to study
primarily sorghum smuts, and loose smuts of small grains
including wheat. Johnson resigned on Sept. 30, 1912, to become
Superintendent of Farmer's Inst. Work in KS. During the next
five months Potter was the only cereal pathologist in the Dept.
of Ag.
On March 1, 1913, H. B. Humphrey was appointed cereal
pathologist. Extensive cereal disease investigations were
established under Humphrey's direction. However, the expansion
was gradual previous to America's entrance into World War I. J.
H. Parker was appointed at St. Paul, Mn on July 1, 1913 to take
charge of cereal breeding for rust resistance, and other rust
investigations. Humphrey was directly in charge of the
experiments with bunt, until H. M. Woolman was appointed on Aug.
16, 1913, as a part time collaborator at Pullman, WA, to assist
in the bunt investigations in that state. In 1914, three of the
four full-time cereal plant pathologists were Christian
Scientists. On July 1, 1915, F. J. Piemeisel was appointed as an
agent to study the pathological phases of rust at Univ. Farm, St.
Paul where J. H. Parker was engaged in breeding wheat, and other
cereals for rust resistance.
Kolpin-Ravn of Denmark, who visited the U. S. in the summer
of 1915, was appointed a collaborator in the Office of Cereal
Invest. to survey cereal diseases and pathological research in
cooperation with various members of that Office. Kolpin-Ravn's
discovery of stripe rust, Puccinia glumarum, in western U. S.
resulted in the appointment of C. W. Hungerford on Oct. 1, 1915
to investigate that disease. By examining herbarium specimens,
Humphrey found that stripe rust had been present in Western WA
state as early as 1892.
After July 1, 1917, additional funds became available for
studying cereal diseases from increased appropriations, and from
was emergency funds designated for "stimulating Agriculture".
Consequently, numerous appointments were made for field surveys
to determine the losses from smut, rust and other diseases, for
conducting demonstrations on smut control, for the study of
overwintering and phases of the epidemiology of rusts. On Febr.
25, 1917, O. C. Drechsler was appointed field assistant to study
rust epidemiology at the Univ. of WI at Madison.
New appropriations available on July 1, 1918, included
$150,000 for barberry eradication, $100,000 for smut control, and
$100,000 for "black and stripe rust" investigations.
On July 1, 1918, E. C. Stakman was given immediate charge of
stem rust investigations, and until April 16, 1919 also directed
the barberry eradication campaign. From April 16 to July 1,
1919, C. R. Ball assumed direct supervision of the barberry
programs. From July 1, 1919, until Nov. 1927 F. E. Kempton was
in charge of barberry eradication, and on the latter date his
assistant, L. D. Dutton, took charge of that project. Kempton
remained in the barberry eradication work until his resignation
on Dec. 15, 1929, when a separate Office of Barberry Eradication
was set up with F. E. Meier in charge.
C. S. Reddy, at ND State Univ, Fargo, temporarily dropped
his flax disease investigations, to direct the smut eradication
campaign from July, 1918 to May, 1919. On Oct. 22, 1918 G. M.
Reed was appointed to take charge of smut investigations.
On Oct. 11, 1919, V. F. Tapke was transferred from Cereal
disease survey and extension work in pathology to take charge of
the loose smut investigation which Potter had been conducting
since his transfer to Washington, D. C. in 1909. Following
Tapke's appointment Potter devoted his efforts to the planning
and constructing a greenhouse at Arlington Farm, Arlington, VA,
which was to contain large chambers with controlled temperature
and humidity. Potter resigned on Dec. 31, 1919, after work on
the greenhouse was suspended owing to a shortage of funds.
Eventually, the greenhouse was completed without the control
chambers.
Reed resigned on Dec. 31, 1920, and on Jan. 1, 1921, W. H.
Tisdale was transferred from rice disease studies, and placed in
charge of smut investigations. From when Tisdale resigned on
Dec. 15, 1926 until J. A. Faris was appointed on June 1, 1931 to
take charge of smut investigations, Tapke was acting in charge of
smut investigations. Faris continued to direct the smut research
until his death on Sept. 24, 1933. In 1930, H. A. Rodenhiser was
transferred to Arlington Farm, Arlington, VA to work on the smut
project. From 1929 to 1931, when he transferred to conduct
research on flax rust at Fargo, ND, H. H. Flor conducted research
on wheat smut and other diseases at WA State Univ., Pullman.
After Flor left, the smut project was expanded in 1931 by the
addition of C. S. Holton to the staff at Pullman, WA.
On July 16, 1918, A. G. Johnson, at Univ. of WI, Madison,
was placed in charge of investigations of imperfect and sac
fungi, which included nearly all disease problems other than
those of rusts and smuts. About 1919, wheat scab research was
initiated at Univ. of Wi, Madison by Johnson. On July 1, 1925
Johnson transferred from Madison, to Washington, DC to be in
charge of all cereal disease investigations. At that time,
Humphrey assumed direct charge of rust investigations. Johnson
was in charge on Sept 25, 1933 when the Div. of Cereal Crops and
Diseases was reorganized on a crop investigation basis and all
pathologists were assigned to one or more of the Crop
Investigations.
During World War I the greatly augmented funds for emergency
pathological problems were difficult to administer. Appointees
were continually drafted for military service, and many were
poorly trained to conduct the studies. Delays in payment of
salary, and expenses occasionally resulted in individuals being
stranded in hotels for several days until money was received to
enable them to check out. One member of the staff on a field
trip was arrested as a suspicious charactor (or probably a German
spy), and escorted to the city limits. Two others were locked up
on suspicion of being draft evaders. In 1919, three barberry
scouts, due to mistaken identity, were jailed and charged with
bank robbery and murder.
In April 1919, the flag smut and rosette diseases of wheat,
(the latter at the time believed to be the Take-all disease,
Ophiobolus graminis) were discovered near Granite City, IL. An
appropriation of $50,000 for "Cereal disease control",. beginning
July 1, 1919, was obtained to study and eradicate those two
diseases. On April 8, 1919, H. H. McKinney was appointed at
Univ. of WI, Madison, and assigned to investigate those two
diseases. After several years, McKinney demonstrated that
"rosette" was a soil borne virus disease. On Aug. 16, 1926,
McKinney transferred to Arlington Farm, Arlington, VA to take
charge of virus diseases of cereals.
Research on Wheat Diseases conducted after 1933
This research is discussed by the diseases caused by rusts,
by smuts, by fungal pathogens other than rusts and smuts, and by
viruses, and physiologic research not related to diseases. Some
research initiated prior to the1933 reorganization, and continued
after that reorganization will be discussed.
DISEASES CAUSED BY RUST PATHOGENS
There were three rust diseases on wheat. Stem and leaf
rusts were most severe on Hard Red and Soft Red Winter, Hard Red
Spring, and Durum wheats. Stripe rust was restricted to wheat
grown in the Pacific Northwest. Much of the early research on
wheat stem and leaf rusts was conducted at the Univ. of MN at St.
Paul MN. However, some research was conducted by individual
scientists at other locations. The following is a discussion of
research on wheat rust diseases at various locations.
Univ. of MN, St. Paul, MN
E. C. Stakman, who was supported by the Cereal Office from
1915 until he retired in 1953, directed the USDA personnel
assigned to cooperative wheat rust projects at St. Paul. As
Head, Plant Pathology Dept, he initiated, and supervised many
special projects such as physiologic race surveys, uniform rust
nurseries, barberry eradication, breeding wheat for resistance to
rusts, and epidemiological studies.
The severe stem rust epidemics of 1953 and 1954 caused by
race15B, greatly reduced the production of Hard Red Winter, Hard
Red Spring, and Durum wheats throughout the midwest. E. B.
Hayden, who had been a graduate student since 1950, was appointed
in 1954 to cooperate with the wheat breeders in developing stem
rust resistant cultivars. When he resigned in 1955, J. D.
Miller, who had been a graduate student since 1953, was hired.
Miller initiated studies on genetics of host-pathogen
interactions between wheat and the stem rust pathogen. When
Miller transferred to Puerto Rico in 1965, D. V. McVey
transferred from Puerto Rico to St. Paul to be responsible for
that research. McVey was on that project through the 1972
reorganization.
In 1962, the Cereal Rust Lab. (CRL) was organized at St.
Paul. J. B. Rowell was acting Lab. Director until R. W. Romig
was hired in 1963 to be the Director. Romig was responsible for
planning the new Lab. facilities, and developed an elaborate
statistical procedure for determining the development of rust
epidemics in North America and in other countries. When Romig
resigned in 1968, Rowell became the Director, and was the
Director when ARS was reorganized in 1972.
Three scientists conducted physiologic studies on rust
diseases. Helen Hart conducted physiologic studies from 1924
until 1933 when she became a full time employee of the Univ. of
MN. She determined that one resistance mechanism of wheat to
stem rust was the exclusion of the infection peg of the fungus.
She also dermined other physiologic and morphologic relationships
between the wheat plant and the rust pathogens. In 1955, Rowell
was hired to conduct laboratory and field studies on the efficacy
of fungicides for controlling rusts. He continued those studies
while Leader CRL from 1968 through the 1972 reorganzation. In
1960, W. R. Bushnell was hired to study the physiology of rust.
Bushnell was the first to successfully culture rust fungi on
artifical media. He also developed procedures for photographing
the infection of wheat plants by rust and powdery mildew
pathogens.
ND State Univ., Fargo, ND
Support for pathologic research on wheat stem rust was
initiated at Fargo in about 1953 when E. A. Schwinghamer was
hired as part of a team to study the inheritance of resistance in
wheat to stem rust. After he resigned in 1955, F. J. Gough was
hired in 1957 to continue that research. When Gough transferred
to College Station, TX in 1967, J. D. Miller transferred from
Mayaguez, PR to Fargo. Miller continued that research through
the 1972 reorganization. Those pathologists cooperated closely
with the USDA wheat geneticists, Briggle, and Williams, in using
specific cultures of the stem rust pathogen to identify, and
transfer genes for resistance to stem rust into advanced
selections and cultivars.
Washington, D. C. and Beltsville, Ag. Res. Center, Beltsville, MD
Prior to 1933 many scientists, who were conducting
pathologic research on wheat rusts in Washington, D. C ., became
administrators and discontinued their rust research. From 1933
until 1950 little wheat rust research was conducted in
Washington, D. C. or at Beltsville.
In 1950, C. Lowther was hired to conduct research on wheat
stem rust. Lowther was initiating research on resistance of
wheat to stem rust when he suddenly died in 1953.
In the 1940s, during World War II, Rodenhiser conducted
cooperative
research on wheat rust with Fort Detrick, at Frederick, MD. They
established nurseries in Argentina, Peru, Chile, Brazil and
Puerto Rico to study reactions of wheat to rusts in those
countries. In 1954, Bayles in cooperation with the Rockefeller
Foundation in Mexico was arranging for the expansion of the world
wide testing program of wheat for reactions to rusts, when he
died in Beirut, Lebanon.
W. Q. Leogering, who had been on wheat rust project in St.
Paul for several years, was hired in 1953 to develop the
International Rust Nursery (IRN) program. The two primary
objectives of those nurseries were (1) to evaluate the reactions
of advanced breeding lines, and new cultivars for wheat breeders
world wide, and (2) to distribute outstanding new sources of rust
resistant wheat to all wheat breeders. In about 1955, Loegering
began coordinating the URNs, which had been coordinated at St.
Paul. The objectives of the URN program was to identify new
physiologic races of the wheat stem and leaf rust pathogens by
the reactions of differential varietes, and from collections of
the pathogens made at several locations in North America.
Loegering expanded the IRN to include over 50 countries and over
1000 entries. He also studied the genetics of host pathogen
interactions between wheat and stem rust.
When Loegering retired in 1967, R. A. Kilpatrick transferred
from College Station, TX to assume the responsibilities for the
IRN and URN programs. Kilpatrick was in charge of those two
programs until the 1972 reorganization. Both Loegering and
Kilpatrick conducted studies on lypholization and preservation of
rust spores, and cooperated with the evaluation of wheat
reactions to specific physiologic races of stem rust in Puerto
Rico.
USDA Plant Introduction Sta., Mayaguez, PR
Following the stem rust epidemics in 1953 and 1954 caused by
15B, the rust nursery program was established at Mayaguez. The
objective of that program was to evaluate the reactions of
advanced selections, and new cultivars of cereals developed by
both USDA and State Ag. Exp. Sta. breeders for their reactions to
physiologic races of rusts with new virulence characteristics
found at only a few locations in North America.
In 1954, T. N. Theis was hired to be in charge of that
program. He was in charge until 1961 when he was reassigned
within ARS. From 1959 until 1965, when he transferred to the CRL
at St. Paul, D. V. McVey assisted with that nursery program.
When McVey transferred to St. Paul, J. D. Miller transferred from
St. Paul to Mayaguez. Since the breeders became less interested
in having their breeding material tested, Miller transferred from
Mayaquez to Fargo, ND in 1967. From 1967 until the 1972
reorganization the program was supervised by L. P. Reitz, Leader,
Wheat Invest. at Beltsville, through technicians located in
Puerto Rico, and the assistance of Loegering and Kilpatrick.
Purdue Univ., West Lafayette, IN
The wheat rust research at Purdue was initiated by E. B.
Mains, a pathologist, and H. S. Jackson a breeder-pathologist.
From 1918 until 1930 when he resigned, Mains identified
physiologic races of leaf rust in cooperation with C. O. Johnston
at Manhattan, KS, and on breeding wheat for resistance to leaf
rust with Jackson from 1918 until 1928 when Jackson resigned.
In 1928, R. M. Caldwell was hired and assumed responsibility
for both the pathology of leaf rust and breeding of wheat for
resistance to diseases including leaf rust. Caldwell was
jointly supported by the Cereal Office and Purdue Univ. until
1937 when he became a full time employee of Purdue Univ., and the
direct support for pathology research at Lafayette was
discontinued.
Kansas State Univ., Manhattan, KS
The wheat leaf rust research at Manhattan was initiated by
C. O. Johnston in 1919. Johnston cooperated with Mains at Purdue
on the identification of physiologic races of wheat leaf rust.
After Mains retired in 1930, Johnston assumed complete
responsibility for that project. Until he retired in 1963, he
cooperated closely with the KSU, wheat breeder in developing
resistant cultivars.
In 1958, L. R. Browder was hired to study wheat stem rust.
By 1963, when Johnston retired, most of the new wheat cultivars
were resistant to stem rust, but most were susceptible to leaf
rust. Therefore, Browder assumed the responsibility for the
physiologic race identification of wheat leaf rust. Browder also
studied the genetics of host-pathogen interactions between wheat
and leaf rust pathogen, and the effect of environment on those
interactions.
In 1965 J. R. Burleigh, and M. Eversmeyer were hired to
study the epidemiology of wheat leaf rust. Burleigh resigned in
1971, and his position was discontinued. Eversmeyer continued
his research through the 1972 reorganization.
TX A. & M Univ., College Station, TX.
About 1952, M. C. Futtrell was hired to study wheat stem and
leaf rust at College Station. When R. A. Kilpatrick was hired in
1964, Futrell transferred to the Flax Invest. In 1967,
Kilpatrick transferred to Beltsville, MD, and F. J. Gough
transferred from Fargo, ND to College Station. The rust research
in TX was oriented toward surveying rusts in South TX and Mexico
as part of the rust epidemiologic surveys. They also cooperated
with the breeding programs. From 1958 to 1965, C. Hobbs assisted
on that rust project.
OK State Univ., Stillwater, OK
R. C. Bellingham was assigned to Stillwater as a pathologist
from 1957 until 1967, Bellingham cooperated closely with the
wheat breeders in OK and adjacent states in developing rust, and
virus resistant cultivars.
Univ of CA, Berkeley, CA
R. F. Allen's research at Berkeley, on the physiology and
cytology of the infection process of the wheat leaf rust
pathogen, was partially supported by ARS from 1918 to 1936 when
she became a full time state employee. Studies on the infection
process of rust were then discontinued in the Wheat Invest. until
W. R. Bushnell was hired in 1960, and assigned to the CRL, St.
Paul.
Univ. of ID, Moscow, ID
C. W. Hungerford began his studies on stripe rust in 1915 in
Washington, D. C. In 1919, he transferred to Moscow where he
conducted disease surveys, studies on the life cycle of the
stripe rust pathogen and resistance of wheat and grasses. After
Hungerford retired in 1927, W. M. Bever was hired in 1928. Bever
studied the effect of environment on the rust, and the
identification of physiologic races. When Bever transferred to
Urbana, IL in 1940, the research on wheat stripe rust in the
Wheat Invest. was discontinued.
WA State Univ., Pullman, WA
In 1953, L. H. Purdy began studies on stripe rust resistance
in wheat and pathogenicity of the pathogen at Pullman in
cooperation with State employees. After Purdy resigned in 1966,
R. F. Line was hired in 1968 to conduct the research on stripe
rust. Line expanded the studies on resistance, pathogenicity and
surveys. By 1972 he had conducted research on disease
forecasting, loss assessment, and the use of chemicals.
Diseases caused by smut pathogens
Smut diseases of wheat including loose smut (Ustilago Sp.)
and bunt (stinking smut) (Tilletia spp.), were among the first
diseases of wheat studied in the Dept. of Ag. Two of the
pathologist that were assigned to the Wheat Invest. when the Div.
of Cereal Crops and Diseases was reorganized in 1933 were
studying smuts. They were C. S. Holton at Pullman, WA and H. A.
Rodenhiser at Arlington, VA.
Arlington Farm, Arlington, VA, and Beltsville Ag. Res. Center
Beltsville, MD
Rodenhiser, who was at Arlington Farm and Beltsville, MD,
studied the effects of environmnent and physiology of the smut
fungi from 1930 until 1951 when he became Assist. Head Div.
Cereal Crops & Diseases.
WA Sta. Univ., Pullman, WA
From 1929 until 1931 when he transferred to study flax rust
at Fargo, ND, H. H. flor conducted studies on wheat smuts at
Pullman. Holton, who was at Pullman from 1931 until he retired
in 1968, studied all aspects of bunt and flag smut of wheat. In
1953, following a series of smut epidemics in the Pacific
Northwest the Northwest Regional Smut Lab. was established in
Pullman. Holton also studied oat smuts and part of his salary
came from Oat Investigations. J. P. Meiners and L. H. Purdy
were assigned to the Lab. in that same year, followed by E. L.
Kendrick in 1954.
Meiners studied the biology of dwarf bunt in wheat and the
relationships of bunts on grasses to those on wheat until he
transferred to Beltsville in 1958 as Assist. Chief Cereal Crops
Res. Branch (CCRB). The research on bunts on grasses was in
cooperation with J. R. Hardison of the Forage Crops Res. Branch
at Corvallis, OR. Meiners was succeeded by J. A. Hoffman in
1958. Hoffman, who reoriented that research to include dwarf
bunt, transferred to Logan, UT in 1971.
Purdy studied the efficacy of fungicides for the control of
smuts. Purdy's research was discontinued after he resigned in
1966.
Kendrick was responsible for cooperating with the breeders
in the identification and development of smut resistant wheat
cultivars. The research, that Kendrick conducted was
discontinued after Kendrick transferred to Beltsville, MD, as
Assist. Chief CCRB in 1965.
The research at the Regional Smut Lab. was in cooperation
with the Pacific Nortwest states of ID, MT, OR, UT, and WA, and
experimental nurseries were maintained in each of those states.
The comprehensive pathology and breeding programs on the wheat
smuts resulted in such effective control of the smut diseases
that all of the research on wheat smut conducted at Pullman had
been discontinued at the time of the reorganization in 1972.
Ut. State Univ., Logan, UT
From 1971 until the reorganization in 1972 Hoffman continued
much of the research on dwarf bunt and flag smut that he had been
conducting at Pullman.
OR. State Univ., Corvallis, OR
In 1954, research on wheat bunt was initiated at Corvallis
in cooperation with Or. State Univ. R. J. Metzger a genetists-
pathologist was hired to study host resistance to wheat bunt.
He determined the genetic resistance of wheat to different
pathogenic strains of the smut pathogen present in OR and in WA.
He also conducted studies on dwarf bunt and flag smut.
From 1954 to 1959 when he resigned, R. W. Newburgh studied
the physiology of the wheat smut smut fungi. Newburgh was
succeeded in 1959 by E. J. Trione who continued those studies.
Trione was conducting those studies in 1972.
Diseases caused by fungi other than rusts and smuts
Fungal diseases other that rusts and smuts were studied by
single pathologists at several locations. The following is a
list of those pathologists, and where, when and what diseases
they studied.
R. Sprague Corvallis, OR 1929-40 Septoria, foot & root rots
Mandan, ND 1940-47 All fungal diseases but
Rusts and Smuts
H. Fellows Manhattan, KS 1926-59 Root rots, eptoria tritici
R. A. Kilpatrick College Station,TX 1964-1967 Root rots, Seed borne
pathogens
C. Lowther Beltsville, MD 1950-1953 Powdery Mildew
H. R. Powers, Jr spp. " 1954-1959 P. Mildew,Septoria
A. L. Scharen spp. 1960-1972 P. Mildew, Septoria
D. M. Kline Raleigh, NC 1956-1972 Septoria spp.
R. J. Cook Pullman, WA 1965-1972 Soil borne diseases
A. G. Johnson Madison, WI 1914-1925 fungi imperfecti
J. G. Dickson " 1918-1961 Wheat scab
H. H. McKinney " 1919-1925 Ergot (rye),Take-all
(Virus Diseases)
H. Fellows " 1923-1926 Leaf spotting diseases
(Virus Diseases)
OR State Univ., Corvallis, OR, & ND Field Sta., Mandan, ND
R. Sprague conducted the first extensive studies of
epidemiology, taxonomy, and host range of many fungi pathogenic
on cereals and grasses throughout U. S. While at Corvallis from
1929 to 1940 he studied Septoria, Cercosporell, phaeoseptoria,
and Selenophora spp. His 1950 volume "Diseases of Cereals and
Grasses in North America: prepared while at Mandan from 1940 to
1947, which pertains to all fungi except smuts and rusts, remains
a classic reference today.
KS State Univ., Manhattan, KS.
At Manhattan from 1926 to 1959, H. Fellows studied many of
the root and foot rotting diseases affecting winter wheat in the
dry areas of Kansas, and Septoria tritici. He also cooperated
with the wheat breeding program
Texas A & M, College Station, TX
R. A. Kilpatrick studied seed borne fungi, and factors
affecting black point of wheat, and the root rotting pathogen
Sclerotium rolfsii while at College Station from 1964 until 1967
when he transferred to Beltsville, MD.
Beltsville Ag. Res. Center, Beltsville, MD
Three pathoogists were involved in research on diseases
other then the rusts and smuts at Beltsville from 1950 to 1972.
From 1950 until his death in 1953, C. Lowther initiated a
research program on wheat powdery mildew by collecting cultures
of the pathogen from many locations in U. S. From 1954 until he
resigned in 1959, H. R. Powers, Jr. conducted studies on the
genetics of the host-pathogen interaction between wheat and
powdery mildew. A. L. Scharen, who succeeded Powers in 1960,
continued the studies on powdery mildew, and initiated studies on
determining differences in physiologic resistance of wheat to
powdery mildew and Septoria pathogens. By using CO2 analysis
equipment to measure CO2 uptake (Photosynthesis) and CO2
evolution (respiration) he determined the effects of Septoria and
other diseases on plant growth and development. Scharen also
initiated uniform nurseries to determine the resistance of wheat
to powdery mildew and Septoria pathogens, and the pathogenicity
of those pathogens at various locations.
NC State Univ., Raleigh, NC
From 1956 until the 1972 reorganization, D. M. Kline
conducted lab. studies on environmental factors affecting the
growth and reproduction of Septoria, and the reactions of many
winter wheats in the field.
WA State Univ., Pullman, WA.
From 1965 until the 1972 reorganization R. J. Cook initiated
extensive studies to identify the pathogens causing foot and root
rotting of winter wheat in the dry soils in WA.
Univ. WI, Madison, WI
Four pathologists at Madison were involved in research
diseases of wheat caused by other than rust and smut fungi prior
to the 1933 reorganization. All that research was in cooperation
with the Univ. of WI. The research of those pathologists has
been described.
Diseases Caused by Viruses
Beltsville, Ag. Res. Center, Beltsville, MD.
McKinney was the pioneer in studying virus diseases of
cereals. He began studying the rosetting of winter wheat in
fields in IL while at Madison, WI from 1919 to 1925. He assumed
the rosetting was caused by a soil borne pathogen. He continued
those studies after coming to Washington, D. C. in 1926. Later
he proved that a soil borne virus transported by a motile spore
fungus caused that disease. McKinney use host plants to identify
and differentiate viruses, and to determine the pathogenic
variability and stability of several viruses which infect wheat.
His studies on wheat virus diseases were discontinued when he
retired in 1959. However, McKinney continued those studies until
the 1972 reorganization.
Univ. of NE., Lincoln, NE
The studies on wheat viruses at Lincoln were initated by W.
C. Burger, a biochemist, while he was at Lincoln for one year in
1953 to 1954. M. K. Brakke, pathologist-biochemist was hired in
1955 to expand the studies on wheat virus diseases. Brakke was
there through the 1972 reorganization. He developed new sucrose
density gradient procedures and other biochemical techniques for
identifying and differentiating viruses. In about 1970 he was
recognized as the pathologist whose papers were referred to more
than those of any other pathologist in U. S.
Disease and Insect Lab., Brookings, SD
E. D. Gerloff, a physiologist, and S. G. Jenson were at
Brookings from 1965 through 1972, and from 1962 through 1972,
respectively. They had a project on the determining the
resistance or tolerance of wheat to the Barley Yellow Dwarf
Virus (BYDV). They cooperated with wheat breeders in several
states on that project.
NC State Univ., Raleigh, NC
From 1950 until 1954, when he transferred to Beltsville,
MD., J. G. Moseman conducted field studies evaluating wheat
germplasm and cultivars for reactions to the soil borne viruses
in NC and VA. He cooperated with plant breeders in the Soft Red
Winter Wheat region. After Moseman transferred to Beltsville, MD
in 1954, N. F. Sommers was hired in 1955. Sommers continued that
research on viruses for the one year he was at Raleigh. The
research on wheat diseases at Raleigh was reoriented after
Sommers left, and the research on viruses was discontinued at
that location.
Physiologic Research not Disease Related
There were three physiologists involved in studies that were
not related to diseases. Two physiologists studied winter
hardiness and one studied drought resistance.
KS State Univ., Manhattan, KS
From 1954 until 1957, G. C. Throneberry cooperated closely
with plant breeders in developing methods for measuring the
drought resistance of hard red winter wheat grown in KS. When
he resigned, the research on drought resistance was discontinued
by the Wheat Invest., but continued by KS Ag. Exp. .
MI State Univ., East Lansing, MI
A. V. Barker was hired at East Lansing to study winter
hardiness of wheats in eastern U. S. He was only there for about
one year in 1967 to 1968. Although, primarily on the Barley
Invest., C. R. Olien did some research on winter hardiness in
cooperation with the MI State wheat breeder E. H. Everson between
1957 and the1972 reorganization.
OR Field Station, Pendleton, OR, and WA State Univ., Pullman, WA
D. W. George conducted research on winter hardiness of winter
wheat in the Pacific Nortwest at Pendleton from 1954 until 1965
when he transferred to Pullman, WA. He continued that research
at Pullman until the 1972 reorganization. He developed
effective methods for measuring the winter hardiness of winter
wheat that were used by plant breeders in developing winter hardy
cultivars for that region.
* * * * * *
Table 4. - Scientists, who conducted Pathologic and
Physiologic Research on Wheat and Rye in the U. S.
Department of Agriculture, 1887 to 1972
=====================================================================
Names Discipline Crops Years of Service
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington, DC, and Beltsville Ag. Res. Center,Beltsville, MD
Lamson-Scribner, F. Pathology Wheat, Corn (Smut) 1887 to 1889
Galloway, B. T. Pathology Small Grains (Rust) 1891 to 1893
Swingle, W. T. Pathology Wheat, Oats (Rust) 1891 to 1898
Carleton, M. A. Path-Agron. Cereals (Rust) 1894 to 1918
Potter, A. A. Pathology Cereals (Smut) 1909 to 1918
Humphrey, H. B. Pathology Cereals (All, Rust) 1913 to 1946
Johnson, A. G. Pathology Cereals (All) 1925 to 1940
Kolpin-Ravn, F. Pathology Wheat (Stripe Rust) 1916 to 1916
Hungerford, C. W. Pathology Wheat (Stripe Rust) 1915 to 1919
Ball, C. R. Agron-Path. Cereals (Barberry) 1918 to 1919
Kempton, F. E. Pathology Wheat (Barberry) 1919 to 1929
Dutton, L. D. Pathology Wheat (Barberry) 1927 to 1929
Meier, F. E. Pathology Wheat (Barberry) 1929 to 1938
Reed, G. M. Pathology Cereals (Smut) 1918 to 1920
Tapke, V. F. Pathology Cereals (Smut) 1919 to 1953
Tisdale, W. H. Pathology Cereals (Smut) 1921 to 1926
Faris, J. A. Pathology Cereals (Smut) 1926 to 1933
Rodenhiser, H. A. Pathology Wheat (Smut, Rust) 1930 to 1951
Lowther, C. Pathology Wheat (P. Mildew) 1950 to 1953
Powers, H. R. Jr. Pathology Wheat (P. Mildew) 1954 to 1959
Scharen, A. L. Pathology Wheat (P. M., Sept.) 1960 to 1972
McKinney, H. H. Pathology Small Grains (Virus) 1926 to 1959
Bayles, B. B. Agron-Path. Wheat (Rust) 1930 to 1954
Loegering, W. Q. Pathology Cereals (Rust) 1954 to 1968
Kilpatrick, R. A. Pathology Cereals (Rust) 1967 to 1972
Elliott, C. Pathology Cereals (Bacteria) 1918 to 1947
Hurd-Karrer, A. M. Physiology Wheat, Weeds 1918 to 1949
Boyle, L. W. Pathology Wheat 1931 to 1934
Univ. of CA, Berkeley, CA
Allen, R. F. Physiology Wheat (Rust) 1918 to 1936
Univ. of ID, Moscow, ID
Hungerford, C. W. Pathology Wheat (Stripe Rust) 1919 to 1927
Bever, W. M. Pathology Wheat (Stripe Rust) 1928 to 1940
Raeder, J. M. Pathology Wheat 1922 to 1932 1/
Univ. of IL, Urbana, IL
Bever, W. M. Pathology Wheat (Smut) 1940 to 1959
Purdue Univ., West Lafayette, IN
Mains, E. B. Pathology Wheat, Barley (Rust) 1918 to 1930
Caldwell, R. M. Path-Agron. Small Grains (All) 1928 to 1937 1/
KS State Univ., Manhattan, KS
Johnston, C. O. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1919 to 1963
Browder, L. E. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1958 to 1972
Burleigh, J. R. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1965 to 1971
Eversmeyer, M. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1965 to 1972
Fellows, H. Pathology Wheat (Other) 1926 to 1959
Throneberry, Physiology Wheat (Drought) 1954 to 1957
Ficke, C. H. Pathology Wheat 1930 to 1940
Haskett, W. C. Pathology Wheat, Oats 1952 to 1955
MI Stat Univ., East Lansin, MI
Barker, A. V. Physiology Small Grains (W. Hardy) 1967 to 1968
Olien, C. R. Physiology Barley, Wheat(W.Hardy) 1957 to 1972
Univ. of MN, St. Paul, MN
Freeman, E. M. Pathology Small Grains (Rust) 1905 to 1907
Johnson, E. C. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1907 to 1912
Potter, A. A. Pathology Small Grains(General)1908 to 1909
Parker, J. H. Path-Agron. Small Grains (Rust) 1913 to 1917
Piemeisel, F. J. Pathology Small Grains (Rust) 1915 to 1918?
Stakman, E. C. Pathology Small Grains (Rust) 1918 to 1953 1/
Levine, M. N. Pathology Wheat, Barley(Rust) 1917 to 1955
Bamberg, R. H. Pathology Small Grains (All) 1929 to 1936
Hayden, E. B. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1954 to 1956
Miller, J. D. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1957 to 1965
McVey, D. V. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1965 to 1972
Rowell, J. B. Physiology Wheat (Rust) 1955 to 1972
Romig, R. W. Pathology Wheat, Oats (Rust) 1962 to 1968
Hart, Helen Phys-Path. Wheat (Rust) 1924 to 1933
Bushnell, W. R. Physiology Wheat (Rust, P.Mild.)1960 to 1972
MT State Univ, Bozeman, MT
Bamberg, R. H. Pathology Wheat 1936 to 1948
Univ. of NE, Lincoln, NE
Burger, W. C. Biochemistry Wheat (Virus) 1953 to 1954
Brakke, M. K. Path-Biochem. Wheat (Virus) 1955 to 1972
Langerberg, W. G. Path-Biochem. Wheat (Virus) 1968 to 1972
NC State Univ., Raleigh, NC
Moseman, J. G. Pathology Small Grains (Virus) 1950 to 1954
Sommers, N. F. Pathology Small Grains (Virus) 1955 to 1956
Kline, D. M. Pathology Small Grains (Sept.) 1956 to 1972
ND State Univ., Fargo, ND
Reddy, C. S. Pathology Small Grain
Schwinghamer, E. A. Pathology Wheat(Rust)
Gough, F. J. Pathology Wheat (Rust)
Miller, J. D. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1967
ND Ag. Fld Sta., Mandan, ND
Sprague, R. Pathology Wheat(Root Rots,Sep.)1940 to 1947
OK State Univ., Stillwater, OK
Bellingham, R. C. Pathology Wheat (Virus) 1957 to 1967
OR State Univ., Corvallis, OR
Metzger, R. J. Path-Genetics Wheat (Smut) 1954 to 1972
Newburgh, R. W. Chemistry Wheat (Smut) 1954 to 1959
Trione, E. J. Chemistry Wheat (Smut) 1959 to 1972
Sprague, R. Pathology Wheat(Root Rots,Sep.)1926 to 1940
OR Br. Ag. Exp. Sta., Pendleton, OR
George, D. W. Physiology Wheat (W. Hardy) 1954 to 1965
North Grain and Insect Lab., Brookings, SD
Jensen, S. G. Pathology Wheat, Corn (Virus) 1962 to
1972
Fitzgerald, P. J. Agron-Path Wheat, Corn (Virus) 1962 to 1968
Gerloff, E. D. Physiology Wheat, Corn (Virus) 1965 to 1972
TX A and M Univ., College Station, TX
Futrell, M. C. Pathology Wheat, Sorgh. (Rust) 1962 to 1964
Kilpatrick, R. A. Pathology Wheat (Rust, Other) 1964 to 1967
Gough, F. J. Pathology Wheat (Rust, Sept.) 1967 to 1972
Hobbs, C. D. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1958 to 1965
UT State Univ., Logan, UT
Hoffman, J. A. Pathology Wheat (Smut, Bunt) 1971 to 1972
WA State Univ., Pullman, WA
Woolman, H. M. Pathology Wheat (Bunt) 1913 to 19?
Gaines, E. F. Pathology Wheat 1933 to 1960 1/
Flor, H. H. Pathology Wheat (Smut) 1929 to 1931
Holton, C. S. Pathology Wheat, Oats (Smut) 1931 to 1968
Meiners, J. P. Pathology Wheat (Smut) 1953 to 1958
Hoffman, J. A. Pathology Wheat (Smut) 1958 to 1971
Purdy, L. H. Pathology Wheat (Smut, Rust) 1953 to 1966
Line, R. F. Pathology Wheat (Stripe Rust) 1968 to 1972
Kendrick, E. L. Pathology Wheat (Smut) 1954 to 1965
Deitz, S. M. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1957 to 1966 1/
Cook, R. J. Pathology Wheat (Root Rots) 1965 to 1972
George, D. W. Physiology Wheat (W. Hardy) 1965 to 1972
Univ. of WI, Madison, WI
Johnson, A. G. Pathology Wheat (Imperf.,Sac) 1918 to 1925
Drechsler, O. C. Pathology Wheat (Rust) 1917 to 1919
Leukel, R. W. Pathology All Cereals 1919 to 1920
McKinney, H. H. Pathology Wheat (Smut,Take-all) 1919 to 1926
Dickson, J. G. Pathology All Cereals 1918 to 1961 1/
Fellows, H. Pathology Wheat (Root Rots) 1923 to 1926
USDA Plant Introd. Sta., Mayag uez, PR
Theis, T. N. Pathology Wheat, Oats, Sorgh. 1954 to 1961
McVey, D. V. Pathology Wheat, Oats, (Rust) 1959 to 1965
Miller, J. D. Pathology Wheat, Oats, (Rust) 1965 to 1967
Reitz, L. P. Agronomy Wheat 1967 to 1972
============================================================================
1/ State employees who cooperated closely with USDA, and may
have received some financial support from USDA.
* * * * * *
Wheat Quality Research
Analyses and quality determinations of cereals were
conducted in the Div. of Chemistry almost from the inception
of that Div. Those investigations were continued in the
Food Res. Div., Bureau of chemistry and Soils, and later in
the Regional Res. and Development Div., ARS.
The scientists who conducted wheat quality research are
listed by the five locations at which there were quality
laboratories. Included in the table are the names of the
scientists, their discipline, crops they studied and the
time of service at that location.
Studies of commercial grading and handling of grain
were begun in the Div. of Botany in the Bureau of Plant
Industry (BPI) in 1901 under F. V. Coville. C. S. Scofield
was in charge of those studies. In 1905, Scofield became
officer in charge of the Office of Western Ag. Ext., and the
grain grading investigations were transferred to the Seed
Lab. under Edgar Brown.
On July 1, 1906, a special authority in the BPI
appropriation permitted the sampling and examining of grain
as a basis of establishing grain grades. One Lab. was
established at Baltimore, MD under L. A. Fitz, and another
at New Orleans under C. E. Leighty. Additional Labs. were
established, and S. W. T. Duval transferred from the Seed
Lab. to take charge of laboratory methods. On Oct. 1, 1906,
the Office of Grain Standardization was established under J.
D. Shanahan. When Shanahan resigned in 1911, Duval was
appointed to be in charge of the Office of Grain
Standardization until 1916, when that Office was transferred
to the Bureau of Markets, and designated the Grain Div. In
1921, the Bureau of Markets was merged with other
organizations to form the Bureau of Ag. Econ.
M. A. Carleton became interested in the utilization of
durum wheat after introducing that crop in 1899.
Consequently, Carleton entered into a cooperative
arrangement with the Bureau of Chemistry to analysis and
test durum wheat and other cereals. In 1903, J. S.
Chamberlain was transferred, as Physiological Chemist, from
the Bureau of Chemistry to Carleton's payroll to cooperate
in the cereal technology studies. Chamberlain continued on
those cooperative studies until his resignation in 1909.
In 1905, Le Clarc, of the Bureau of Chemistry, was
assigned to investigate the relationship of crop environment
to cereal grain composition in cooperation with Carleton.
Those experiments were continued until about 1917. During
that period, the so call "tri-local" experiments in which
seed was exchanged between three stations was undertaken
with various grains.
In 1908, the Office of Grain Standardization, later
designated Grain Div., transferred Fitz from Chicago, IL, to
the ND. Ag. Ex.p. Sta. at Fargo, to take charge of the
Department's cooperative milling and baking experiments in
which samples of wheat from plot experiments at various
Cereal Field Stations were sent for testing. Beginning with
the 1915 crop, a uniform list of cultivars was sent to each
Field Sta. This cooperative arrangement continued until
1918, when the Dept. staff was transferred to Washington, D.
C., where a new laboratory of milling and baking quality was
established under the direction of J. A. Shellenberger.
Wheat Quality Lab. Washington, D. C., and Beltsville, MD
In 1924, J. A. Clark, who was in charge of Western
Wheat Research, began special studies on the inheritance of
protein content in wheat. Different individuals
were employed from time to time by the Cereal Div., and were
first detailed to the Grain Div. of the Bureau of Ag. Econ.
and later to the Bureau of Chemistry.
On July 1, 1929, experiments were undertaken in
cooperation with the Grain Div. to determine the quality of
wheat cultivars. On Dec. 16, 1929, C. C. Fifield was
appointed as Baking Technologist. Fifield was in charge of
that Lab. Res. until 1963, when the research on hard red
spring, & durum wheat was transferred to a Lab. at Fargo,
ND. Several chemists were assigned to the Lab. at
Washington, D. C. and then at Beltsville between 1929 and
1963. C. E. Bode was there from 1935 until 1937 when he
transferred to the new Soft Wheat Quality Lab. at Wooster,
OH. A. J. Pinckney, who joined the Lab. in 1941, was
transferred to the Hard Red Spring & Durum Wheat Lab. in
Fargo when the Lab at Beltsville was closed in 1963. W. T.
Greenway was in that Lab. from 1957 until 1963 when the Lab.
was closed. He accepted another position in the Beltsville
area. S. R.. Snider was a chemist in that Lab sometime
while it was associated with the wheat quality research.
Wheat quality research was an important part of the
Wheat Invest. Those earlier projects were expanded over the
years, so that, a laboratory facility was established to
study each of the four major classes of wheat. The
following is a description of the development, operation,
and objectives of each of those four Labs.
Soft Wheat Quality Lab. (SWQL), Wooster, OH
Prior to the l936 crop, the milling, chemical, and
baking quality of all classes of wheat were evaluated in the
USDA Lab. located in Washington, D. C., where C. C. Fifield
was in charge. In l936, the U. S. Congress established the
SWQL at Wooster, to work with plant breeders in the eastern
soft wheat region in cooperation with the OH Ag. Exp. Sta.
(Later renamed the OH Ag. Res. and Development Center,
OARDC). Studies were begun in that Lab. in 1937 with E. G.
Bayfield in charge. Bayfield was followed by V. H. Morris
from 1939 to 1948; by C. E. Bode, who had been transferred
from the Wheat Quality Lab. in Washington, D. C. in 1937,
from 1948 to 1961; and by W. T. Yamazaki, who had been in
the Lab. since 1944, from 1961 to 1972
In 1936, most of the commercial cultivars had poor
milling and baking quality, which generated demands by
processors for an eastern soft wheat improvement program.
The tests in use at that time were neither applicable to
small samples of wheat nor reliable for evaluating soft
wheat cultivars or breeding lines for confectionery
products such as cookies, cakes, and crackers, their
intended applications. The objectives of the SWQL were to
determine the biochemical bases for differences in milling
and baking quality, determine the contribution of flour
components to specific performance attributes, develop
appropriate tests based on those findings to more accurately
measure quality potential in breeding lines, adapt such
tests to micro scale for early generation screening, and
carry out cooperative evaluations of breeding lines to
ensure the quality level of released cultivars.
Chemists who were involved in research at that laboratory
are listed in Table 5. Many of those scientists were later
assigned to other quality laboratories.
Hard Red Winter Wheat Quality Lab. (HRWWQL) Manhattan, KS
In l937, the U. S. Congress established the HRWWQL at
Manhattan to work with plant breeders of the Great Plains,
and in cooperation with the KS Ag. Exp. Sta. at Manhattan.
Research began in the Lab. in l938 with M. A. Barmore in
charge, and K. F. Finney, as Res. Chemist, and M. E.
McCluggage as Experimental miller.
In 1937, a significant percentage of the commercial
Hard Winter Wheat cultivars included 'Chiefkan', 'Early
Blackhull', and 'Blackhull' which had undesirably short
dough mixing requirements, poor mixing tolerances, and
unsatisfactory loaf volumes. Also, in l937, there was a
lack of basic information on the effect of formula
ingredients and techniques in experimental breadmaking, and
breadmaking quality meant different things to different
people. The objectives of the HRWWQL were to develop bread
making methods that would give a full expression of the
potential quality of commercial cultivars and breeding
lines; apply those methods to reveal how protein content,
environment, harvesting at various stages of maturity,
disease infection, and processing variables affect
functional properties and breadmaking; develop micro tests;
and determine why cultivars
varied in quality. The researh in that Lab. resulted in the
identification and development of many outstanding high
quality hard red winter wheat cultivars.
In 1942 McCluggage left the Lab. In l943, Barmore and
Finney, together with research underway on hundreds of hard
winter and hard spring wheat flours, were transferred to the
SWQL at Wooster, where they continued research that included
soft winter wheats. In Dec. l946, J. A. Shellenberger, Head
Dept. Milling Industry, who was associated with Lab. until
l970, requested that Finney be transferred back to Manhattan
in charge of the HRWWQL. Finney was in charge of the Lab.
through the 1972 reorganization.
Other scientists and when they were at the HRWWQL are
listed in Table 5. Included is their discipline and when
they were at the laboratory.
Western Wheat Quality Lab. (WWQL), Pullman, WA
In l946, the WWQL was established as a part of the
Dept. of Ag. Chemistry of the WA. Ag. Exp. Sta. at Pullman.
M. A. Barmore transferred from the SWQL at Wooster to be in
charge of the WWQL. Barmore was in charge of that Lab.
until he retired in l969. G. L. Rubenthaler, who
transferred from the HRWWQL at Manhattan in l966, succeeded
Barmore, and was in charge in l972.
The primary purpose of the WWQL was to cooperate with
plant breeders of the western states by evaluating the
processing properties of new selections or hybrids being
developed, and those of commercial wheat cultivars; to
develop new and improved methods of determining and
evaluating processing properties (particularly those
required by major export customers of soft white wheat); and
to study factors responsible for quality differences in
wheats.
The scientists who were at the WWQL are listed in Table
5. Some of them were involved in special research projects.
Hard Red Spring & Durum Wheat Quality Lab. (HRS&DQL) Fargo,
ND
The quality Lab. for hard red spring and durum wheats
was in Washington, D. C., or Beltsville from l918 until
1963. During those years the laboratory was operated in
cooperation with the Ag. Marketing Service. C. C. Fifield
was in charge of the Lab. from l929 until l963. In 1963,
the HRS& DWQL was established in cooperation with the ND
State Univ. at Fargo. W. C. Shuey was in the charge of the
Lab. from l963 until l972.
The objectives of the HRS&DWQL were similiar to those
of the other Quality Labs. They cooperated with plant
breeders in the evaluation of their selections and advanced
lines and new cultivars, and conducted research related to
wheat quality.
Since the four quality laboratories were established,
there has been a profound improvement in the functional
properties of cultivars representing all classes of wheat,
and a highly significant understanding of what constitutes
wheat quality. Many of the contributions of the wheat
quality labs. were discussed in the publication, Finney, K.
F., and W. T. Yamazaki. 1967. "Quality of Hard, Soft, and
Durum Wheat", In K. S. Quisenberry and L. P. Reitz (ed.)
Wheat and Wheat Improvement. 1st. ed. Amer. Soc Agron.
Monograph 13:471-503.
Table 5. - Scientists, who conducted Quality Research on Wheat and Rye in
the U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1901 to 1972
=========================================================================
Name Discipline Crops Years of Service
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington, DC and Beltsville, MD
Scofield, C. S. Chemist Grain 1901 to 1905
Brown, Edgar Chemist Grain 1905 to 190?
Duval, S. W. T. Chemist Grain 1906 to 1916
Shanahan, J. D. Chemist Grain 1906 to 1911
Chamberlain, J. S. Chemist Grain 1903 to 1909
Le clarc, Chemist Cereals 1905 to 1917
Shellenberger, J. A. Chemist Wheat 1918 to ?
Fifield, C. C. Chemist Wheat 1929 to 1963
Bode, C. E. Chemist Wheat 1935 to 1937
Pinckney, A. J. Chemist Wheat 1941 to 1963
Greenway, W. T. Chemist Wheat 1957 to 1963
Soft Wheat Quality Lab. Wooster, OH
Bayfield, E. G. Chemist Wheat 1937 to 1939
Morris, V. H. Chemist Wheat 1939 to 1948
Bode, C. E. Chemist Wheat 1937 to 1961
Yamazaki, W. E. Chemist Wheat 1944 to 1972
Heiser, H. K. Chemist Wheat 1938 to 1968
Finney, K. F. Chemist Wheat 1943 to 1946
Barmore, M. A. Chemist Wheat 1943 to 1946
Pascoe, E. d. Chemist Wheat 1943 to 1945
Kissell, L. T. Chemist Wheat 1948 to 1972
McCammon, J. F. Chemist Wheat 1950 to 1952
Abbott, D. C. Chemist Wheat 1951 to 1954
Donelson, J. R Chemist Wheat 1955 to 1972
Clements, R. L. Chemist Wheat 1968 to 1972
Hard Red Winter Wheat Lab., Manhattan, KS
Barmore, M. A. Chemist Wheat 1938 to 1943
Finney, K. F. Chemist Wheat 1938 to 1943
McCluggage, M. E. Chemist Wheat 1938 to 1942
Shellenberger, J. A. Chemist Wheat ? to 1970 1/
Miller, B. S Chemist Wheat 1946 to 1961
McCammon, J. F. Chemist Wheat 1947 to 1949
Meyer, J. W. Chemist Wheat 1950 to 1952
Konecny, J. F. Chemist Wheat 1953 to 1955
Bolte, L. C. Milling Tech. Wheat 1955 to 1972
Hoseney, R. C. Chemist Wheat 1956 to 1970
Shogren, M. D. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1957 to 1972
Rubenthaler, G. L. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1961 to 1966
Pomeranz, Y. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1962 to 1969
Hubbard, J. D. Chemist Wheat 1968 to 1972
Western Wheat Quality Lab., Pullman, WA
Barmore, M. A. Chemist Wheat 1946 to 1969
Rubenthaler, G. L. Chemist Wheat 1966 to 1972
Seeborg, E. F. Chemist Wheat 1948 to 1960
Sollars, W. F. Chemist Wheat 1949 to 1972
Udy, D. C. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1950 to 1959
Bresson, C. R. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1951 to 1954
Barrett, F. F. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1956 to 1966
Kitterman, S. J. Chemist Wheat 1956 to 1972
Elling, H. R. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1957 to ?
Bequette, R. K. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1961 to 1966
Archiszewski, H. E. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1961 to 1966
Jeffers, H. C. Food Tech. Wheat 1966 to 1972
Hard Red Spring & Durum Wheat Quality Lab., Fargo, ND
Fitz, L. A. Chemist Wheat 1908 to 1918
Shuey, W. C. Cereal Tech. Wheat 1963 to 1972
Pinckney, A. J. Chemist Wheat 1963 to 1970
Youngs, V. L. Chemist Wheat 1965 to 1970
====================================================================
Cytogenetic and Interspecific Hybridization Research
Cytogenetics and interspecific hybridization was an
important part of the Wheat Invest. The scientists who
conducted cytogenetic and interspecific hybridization
research on wheat, rye, and
wheat related species are listed by location in Table 6.
Included are their names, discipline, major crops they
studied, and the years at specific locations.
The following is a discussion of the cytogenetic and
interspecific hybridization research conducted on wheat.
The genetic and cytogenetic research at Fargo, ND by L. W.
Briggle, N. D. Williams, and L. R. Joppa, was discussed
previously because it was part of a large project on
developing resistance in wheat to leaf and stem rust. That
project involved genetists, breeders and pathologists for
many years.
Univ. of MO., Columbia, MO
Columbia was an important center for cytogenetic and
interspecific hybridization research on wheat and rye. In
the late 1920s, L. J. Stadler used both diploid and
polyploid wheats in his pioneering X-ray mutation
experiments. The wheat cytogenetics research was started
about 1932 by Luther Smith when he was a Ph. D. student
under Stadler. Smith conducted a genetic analysis of
diploid wheat using varietal differences and induced
mutations. In 1935, a projected was established under
Stadler to investigate polyploidy in wheat, with Smith the
first employee. Smith continued studying diploid wheat in
cooperation with graduate students under K. S. Quisenberry
at NE Univ., until he joined the Army in World War II in
1943.
In 1936, J. G. O'Mara and E. R. Sears joined the
project. They studied procedures for chromosome doubling and
behavior in diploid and amphidiploid hybrids. O'Mara
pioneered in the production of wheat-rye addition lines and
developed the first systematic method for producing such
lines. He produced the first hexaploid triticale before
leaving the project for war-related service in 1942. In
1937, Sears began producing aneuploids and exploiting them
in the genetic analysis of common wheat. Sears extended the
knowledge of the origin and evolution of wheat by using
aneuploids, and transferred chromosome segments from wild
relatives to cultivated wheat. He developed the first set
of nullisomic and monosomic lines of wheat in the cultivar
'Chinese Spring', and many other cytogenetic stocks. Those
stocks have been used by many scientists throughout the
world in genetic studies and for cultivar improvement.
Sears received international recognition for developing the
highly resistant cultivar 'Transfer' by transferring high
rust resistance from Aegilops species, and later for
discovering and exploiting a genetic method for inducing the
transfer of genes from wild relatives. Sears continued his
research through the 1972 reorganization.
SD Field Sta., Redfield, SD, and TX A & M, College Station,
TX
E. S. McFadden was an intermittent USDA employee at
Redfield, SD from 1918 to 1934. In 1930, McFadden's
development of 'Hope' and 'H44' from a cross of 'Marquis'
wheat by 'Yaroslav' emmer was the first demonstration of
useful genes being transferred to bread wheat from other
Triticum species. The resistance of 'Yaroslav' emmer to
stem and leaf rust, bunt, and powdery mildew in 'Hope' and
'H44' has been transferred by other scientists into many
wheat cultivars. In 1934, after six months at the Univ. of
MN, St. Paul, McFadden transferred to College Station, TX.
Although assigned primarily to breeding wheat cultivars, he
maintained his research program on interspecific hybrids.
In 1944, in cooperation with E. R. Sears, he showed that
bread wheat had arisen as a constant hybrid (amphiploid)
between a macaroni-type wheat and a wild grass, Aegilops
squarrosa.
Washington, D. C. & Beltsville Ag. Res. Center, Beltsville,
MD
W. J. Sando, who was located in Washington, D. C. and
Beltsville, MD from 1921 until he retired in 1955, was
successful in crossing wheat with Agropyron, rye and other
related genera and species. He developed a tetraploid rye
that contained a high percentage of rutin. Rutin is used to
treat capillary fragility, a condition that may result in a
stroke. The fertile derivatives from Sando's numerous
crosses have been used by many wheat breeders. Sando
continued his research at Beltsville for several years after
he retired.
OK State Univ., Stillwater, OK
E. E. Sebesta, who was at Stillwater from 1958 through
the 1972 reorganization, cooperated closely with the wheat
breeding program at that location. Sebesta successfully
employed X-radiation for inducing the transfer of useful
genes to wheat from related species and genera.
Table 6. - Scientists, who conducted Cytogenetic and
Interspecific Hybridization Research on Wheat and Rye in the
U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1921 to 1972
====================================================================
Name Discipline Crops Years of Service
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington, DC, and Beltsville Ag. Res. Center,Beltsville, MD
Sando, W. J. Genetics Wheat 1921 to 1955
Univ. of MO, Columbia, MO
Stadler, L. J. Genetics Corn, Wheat 1930 to 1943 1/
Smith, L. Genetics Wheat, Sp.,Barley 1935 to 1943
O'Mara, J. G. Genetics Wheat Sp., Oats 1936 to 1942
1944 to 1950
Sears, E. R. Genetics Wheat Sp., Rye 1936 to 1972
ND State Univ., Fargo, ND
Briggle, L. W. Genetics Wheat 1954 to 1956
Williams, N. D. Genetics Wheat 1957 to 1972
Joppa, L. R. Genetics Wheat Sp. 1966 to 1972
Dry Land Ag. Sta., Redfield, SD
McFadden, E. S. Genetics Wheat Sp. 1929 to 1934
TX A & M Univ., College Station, TX
McFadden, E. S. Genetics Wheat Sp 1935-1955
OK State Univ., Stillwater, OK
Sebesta, E. E. Genetics Wheat Sp. 1958 to 1972
=======================================================================
1/ Employee supported by Univ. of Mo. and USDA.
--------------------
II. CONTRIBUTIONS
PRIVATE COMPANIES
AGRIPRO BIOSCIENCES, INC.
Joe Smith*, John Moffatt*, Jim Reeder* --Berthoud, CO; (303-
532-3721)
Hard Red Winter Wheat. Research Assistant Steve Perry
resigned effective December 31, 1992. Steve will be taking
on managerial responsibilities for a family cattle operation
in Montana. We want to acknowledge the great contribution
that Steve made to our program and wish him well in his
new endeavor.
The 1991/92 crop year provided relatively good yield
information from only five of eleven locations planted with
those trial means ranging from 44 bu/a at Rome, KS to 129
bu/a at Berthoud, CO. We experienced significant levels of
leaf rust at every core site in Oklahoma and Kansas. Most
of our northern and western sites were affected or destroyed
by either hail or freeze damage late in the season. Severe
foliar disease pressure from both leaf rust and Septoria
were experienced at locations from Salina, KS south.
AgriPro Varieties "Laredo" and "Pecos" were released to
our associate network in 1992 and will be available to the
farmer in 1993. AgriPro Laredo (formerly tested as W87-018)
is a "Victory-type" with a much improved response to wheat
streak mosaic virus. AgriPro Laredo's performance to date is
comparable to that of AgriPro Tomahawk. AgriPro Laredo
displays yellowing symptoms to both soilborne and spindle
streak mosaic viruses and is being positioned as a western
wheat with good standability under irrigated conditions.
AgriPro Variety Pecos, formerly tested as WI88-181 and more
recently as Falcon, is a short statured semidwarf with early
maturity. It has resistance to Hessian fly (tracing to
Arkan). AgriPro Pecos has good performance in the west under
irrigation and in southern Kansas and Oklahoma. AgriPro
Pecos is resistant to the soilborne and spindle streak
mosaic viruses and has a fairly good response to wheat
streak mosaic virus, similar to that of Mesa.
Hard Red Spring Wheat. The hard red spring wheat
project personnel consist of Joe A. Smith, Breeder; John
Martin, Assistant Breeder; Barb Cook, Technician; Jerry
Betz, Technician.
The cool season of 1992 was good for generating high
yields and low disease infections. We were able to complete
harvest at three of our four Red River Valley sites. The
northern site at Stephen, MN was very late and very lodged,
therefore it was discarded. Our yield data was highly
correlated between sites with medium and late maturing
cultivars usually yielding the highest. AgriPro Nordic,
Norm and AgriPro Krona were in the top three spots.
We will be releasing a new hard red spring wheat
cultivar in 1993 to be named AgriPro Sonja. It was
previously tested as N87-0306. AgriPro Sonja is a strong
strawed semidwarf with medium-early maturity. It has very
good protection to leaf and stem rust and foliar diseases.
Its protein levels are intermediate, similar to Vance.
While AgriPro Sonja has performed very well across the
spring wheat region, its short height may limit it to the
high production areas.
Hard Wheat Hybrid Development. The Hard Wheat Hybrid
Development Project includes Jim Reeder, Manager, and Steve
Askelson, Sr. Assistant Plant Breeder.
Almost 950 hard red winter wheat hybrids were made in
1992 at Berthoud, CO and Hereford, TX. Chemical hybridizing
agent (CHA) technology was used to produce these hybrids.
The top 500 seed yielders will be performance tested in 1993
throughout the region. The yield advantages of previously
made hybrids continue to be very encouraging. The yield
stability of hybrids over locations and over years continues
to be high. During the 1993 season, we will continue out-
location test hybrid production at either Dumas or Hereford,
TX in anticipation of full hybrid production as CHA's become
registered.
Approximately 680 hard red spring wheat hybrids were
made at Berthoud using CHA technology. Approximately 300 of
these will be tested for heterosis in the Red River Valley
of North Dakota and Minnesota. The heterosis observed in
1992 was very encouraging. In addition to Berthoud, test
hybrids will be produced at two locations in North Dakota
and/or Minnesota in 1993.
Purification of inbreds is progressing so that pilot
production can be done as soon as a CHA is registered.
--------------------
Barton Fogleman, Keith Taylor -Jonesboro, AR (501-935-
3941)
Southern Soft Red Winter Wheat. The gentle spring of
1992 salvaged some very questionable wheat fields in the mid-
south and, coupled with a relatively dry heading and anthesis
period, produced some superior yields of scab-free grain.
Disease pressures were much less intense compared to the last
few seasons. A two week rainy period that began just as the
earliest cultivars were ready for harvest negated their ten
day time advantage and probably saved the late maturing wheats
from drought related test weight problems. This also led to
some minor head-sprouting problems. We did collect sprouting
data on harvested plots from our location near Stuttgart, AR.
Data from this location for maturity (based on average green
peduncles and heads on 5/12) and sprouting of harvested grain
is reported below with maturity on a 1-9 scale (1.5 - 6.0 =
early variety; 8.5 - 9.0 = late variety) and sprouting as a
percentage of 500 randomly selected kernels. Test weights
were very good to fair.
1991-92 ABI MATURITY AND PRE-HARVEST SPROUTING DATA
===================================================
5/12 %
Cultivar Mat. Sprout
-----------------------------------------
AGRIPRO HUNTER 1.5 1.0
NK/COKER 9227 2.0 1.4
MADISON 2.5 0.6
AGRIPRO SAVANNAH 3.5 0.8
NK/COKER 9803 4.5 0.2
AGRIPRO TRAVELER 5.0 0.8
FFR 525W 6.0 0.6
AGRIPRO MAGNUM 6.0 1.0
BAYLES 6.5 0.4
NK/COKER 9105 6.5 0.6
AGRIPRO CHEROKEE 6.5 10.6
ABI 88-1903 7.0 0.4
CLARK 7.5 0.2
PIONEER brd.2555 7.5 0.6
NK/COKER 9835 7.5 0.6
NK/COKER 9543 8.0 0.0
SALUDA 8.0 0.2
PIONEER brd.2548 8.0 0.2
AGRIPRO SAWYER 8.0 0.4
KEISER 8.0 0.4
AGRIPRO MALLARD 8.0 0.6
FLORIDA 302 8.5 0.0
NK/COKER 9024 8.5 0.2
TERRAL 101 8.5 0.4
AGRATECH 91W 8.5 0.6
NK/COKER 9877 9.0 0.4
VERNE 9.0 0.8
PIONEER brd.2510 9.0 1.8
NK/COKER 833 9.0 2.2
CARDINAL 9.0 44.0
=========================================
Keith Taylor has assumed responsibility for parent
identification and test cross production for our southern
hybrid program. Our hybrid data continues to be very
encouraging.
ABI 88-1903 is being released as a new variety and will
be named before the 1993 harvest. This cultivar is broadly
adapted and has shown high yields and good test weights from
southern Indiana to Maryland and from northern Louisiana to
South Carolina. This variety should be available to farmers
in the fall of 1994.
Koy E. Miskin, Gregory J. Holland, Curtis L. Beazer.
Brookston, IN 47923
Soft Red Winter Wheat. 1992 was a devastating year in
the northern soft wheat region. We had a very warm fall
which did not allow the wheat to properly harden off and
prepare for freezing temperatures. About October 31, the
temperature dropped from about 60 degrees to 7 degrees F.
This killed all of the top growth but the wheat did green up
again. However, these severe temperature fluctuations
occurred three more times killing most of the wheat. If any
wheat did survive, Rhizoctonia took full advantage of the
weakened plants and killed all survivors. Our main breeding
location was totally destroyed.
February 7 we had a break in the weather, the soil
thawed a little, and we replanted 16.5 acres on a sandy
field about 25 miles south of Brookston. It was very cold
and wet. It was snowing and the ground was freezing up as
we finished. All of our F2, F3, F4, F5, Pure Seed Increases
and 45 test hybrid production and Male Identification
blocks were re- planted. F1 seed from the fall crossing
block was vernalized and transplanted to the field in
April.
The February 7, planting was right at the limit of the
vernalization requirement for several lines. Varieties that
missed or nearly missed vernalization are listed below:
Nearly missed vern. Missed Vernalization
Caldwell Pioneer 2510
Cardinal Pioneer 2545
AgriPro Lincoln
Coker 833
Excel
Howell
Dynasty
Several of our experimentals missed vernalization
completely. We also observed a number of lines that seemed
to be segregating for spring type. We have seen this in the
South and mid-south but never in the northern soft wheat
area. The spring planting conditions allowed this
characteristic to be expressed.
Later in the spring we experienced a severe drought. In May
and June, we received a total of 0.5 inch of rainfall. The
late planting and drought resulted in lower yields and
reduced seed sets in test hybrid production. Frequent rain,
on the other hand, made harvest difficult and some sprouting
was observed. The Pure Seed Increase plots had yields in
the 30 to 40 bu/A range. Hybrid seed set averaged only 34
%. The climatic conditions of the year caused a number of
the hybrid combinations to miss nick.
Hybrid performance data was limited mainly to the lower
midwestern and the mid-south soft wheat regions since most
wheat across the northern region winterkilled. Only one
northern location, Findlay, Ohio, survived sufficiently to
produce reasonably good data. However, the yield of 250
hybrids averaged 11 bu/A above 150 advanced lines in yield
trials.
AgriPro Boone, is the name given to ABI88*2451. It
will likely be limited to the Kansas - Missouri area and
will be released to growers fall of 1993. AgriPro Boone is
a selection from an acquired F2 from the University of
Guelph. Its parentage is Tecumseh/Hybrid 841. It is an
awned, white chaffed, short strong strawed variety. It is
early in maturity (equal to Caldwell) and has excellent
milling and baking quality. Its test weight is a pound
higher than Caldwell. AgriPro Boone exhibits high
resistance to WSSMV, SBMV, and good to very good resistance
to powdery mildew, the Septoria complex, and leaf rust.
--------------------
CARGILL HYBRID SEEDS, Fort Collins, Colorado
Sid Perry * , Dave Johnston, Sally Clayshulte, Jill
Handwerk, and Dana Shellberg
1991-1992 SEASON. We evaluated F1's, F2's, and lines
at five locations, plus six contract test sites. Dry
planting conditions were present at several sites. The
winter survival differential in Nebraska was relatively
poor, and only slightly better in Colorado. Significant
leaf rust levels occurred at all locations. Infections of
septoria tritici and powdery mildew occurred in our Kansas
nurseries. Test weights were generally ower across the
region. Trial means ranged from 30 bu/acre at Coffeyville,
Kansas, to 116 bu/acre at Fort Collins, Colorado.
F1 PERFORMANCE. Almost 2200 hybrids were evaluated.
The donor lines, testers, tester hybrid, and variety checks
were included in the trials. There were 291 hybrids which
exceeded the yield of BH203 (the tester hybrid combination)
and possessed acceptable agronomics. The best performance
exceeded BH203 by 16%.
F2 PERFORMANCE. We continue to evaluate the potential
of F2 populations as a marketable product. There were 550
selected F2's tested over five locations. From these
trials, 52 combinations exceeded the performance of the best
check, and also had acceptable agronomics. Two years of
data have indicated F2 yields to be about 90% of their
corresponding F1 yields, although the best F2 yield in 1992
was 107% of its corresponding F1.
PERSONNEL. Dave Johnston, senior plant breeder, has
announced his retirement, effective January 1, 1993. Dave
has served with Cargill for 25 years, primarily as R-line
breeder. His contributions to Cargill, the hard winter
wheat region, and hybrid wheat in particular, are greatly
appreciated. His experience will be greatly missed. We
wish Dave a happy retirement.
--------------------
CARGILL ARGENTINA HYBRID WHEAT PROGRAM
N. Machado, P. Paulucci, H. Martinuzzi
We have had a very good season for selection and
production in our country. In the wide area of production,
different conditions affected the crop, but in general,
yields were above pre-harvest estimations. Diseases were
not signifi-cant and weather at harvest was moderately good.
The most important diseases were Xanthomonas and
Fusarium.Bacterial infection started before heading on upper
leavesand continued on peduncles and in some genotypes, on
the heads. The symptoms were very clear and selection notes
were quite effective. Apparently, when the infection did
not reach the head, the plant did not reduce its yield. For
the second consecutive year, excessive rain in the south
east delayed planting until early August(normal is
June/July). As in the 1991 season, an extremely cold spring
allowed good tillering, excellent head fertility and an
optimum grain quality expressed as 1000 kernel weight.
Yield Trials. Late plantings affected the evaluation
of intermediate cycles and also results for short cycles
will have to be considered very carefully due to the
abnormal weather conditions. Averages of years will be
considered.
Hybrid Production. Five hundred seventy CMS hybrids
were produced using 23 different restorers. The seed set
was fairly good in those combinations with good nicking.
Most new hybrids were produced based on results we obtained
from chemical hybrids. B-lines showing good combining
ability were used with different restorers and new restorers
were selected with the same criteria. We will see next year
if this procedure is efficient to predict the best
combinations.
Hybrid Evaluation. Four hundred seventy-eight CMS
hybrids were evaluated in our three main research stations
and twenty pre-commercials were tested in six locations.
Out of these twenty, we think we will select two new
commercials. Seven hundred chemical hybrids produced with
Monsanto 21200 were evaluated in one location. Results are
not ready yet.
Commercial Hybrids in Market.
Trigomax 204 Intermediate cycle Released 1992
Trigomax 201 Intermediate cycle Released 1987
Trigomax 200 Intermediate cycle Released 1986
Trigomax 100 Semi-short cycle Released 1988
Trigomax 101 Semi-short cycle Released 1993
Trigomax 202 Short cycle Released 1989
--------------------
CARGILL AUSTRALIA
Richard Daniel, David Donaldson, Garry Lane, Michael
Materne, Michael Nowland, Chris Tyson, Jane Wilson
& Peter Wilson - Tamworth, N.S.W., Australia
A SIMPLE HYBRID PRODUCTION SYSTEM? An investigation is
underway to examine the production of hybrid wheat using
material which expresses complete male sterility under
certain environmental conditions, yet is completely male
fertile under normal conditions.
RELEASE OF NEW HYBRID Cargill Seeds has released a new
F1 hybrid, named Hybrid Pulsar, for sowing in the 1993
season. This hybrid will complement our existing hybrid,
Hybrid Meteor.
Hybrid Pulsar has better leaf rust resistance than
Hybrid Meteor and is slightly higher yielding, especially
under more productive conditions. These two factors should
see Hybrid Pulsar find a niche in the better rainfall areas.
Hybrid Pulsar's outstanding feature is its high yield
in the seed production phase. Yields of 4.2 and 4.9 t/ha of
female were obtained in A x B and A x R production blocks
respectively, last season. This compares with 2.9 t/ha and
3.4 t/ha for Hybrid Meteor under similar conditions.
The higher yields in seed production fields help to
reduce seed costs.
Root lesion nematode (RLN) resistance. Root Lesion
Nematodes (Pratylenchus thornei) are a major problem in
large areas of the Queensland and northern N.S.W. wheat
belt. To date no resistant cultivars are available although
sources of resistance are currently being incorporated into
several adapted cultivars by other breeding programs.
In advanced trials this year a hybrid with RLN
resistance performed particularly well, outyielding the best
check by 13%. In the presence of RLNs it would be expected
that this advantage would be much greater. We hope to have
this hybrid released by 1995, giving farmers in badly
affected RLN areas a chance to return to wheat growing.
--------------------
GOERTZEN SEED COMPANY, Haven, Kansas
Kenneth*, Betty and Kevin Goertzen
Hard white winter wheat. In 1992 wheat the variety
Snow White was introduced. It has genetically high protein,
very good bread quality and will be grown on an identity
preserved basis under contract. It has good winter
hardiness and sprouting in the head resistance. Several new
white wheat lines are being considered for release. These
have a wide range of quality characteristics, and sprouting
in the head resistance. Some of these whites exceeded
yields of all the commercial hard red winter wheats in our
trials. The variety Haven which is grown on an identify
preserved basis was available to mills for the first time in
1992. The grain has been well received by millers.
Hard red winter wheat. The new variety Discovery is
being marketed. It is early and produced quite well in
South Central, Kansas in 1992.
Triticale. The forage variety Roughrider is now being
marketed.
Goertzen Seed Research will continue its development of
added value cereals and will focus much of its efforts on
white and red hybrid wheat and hybrid Agrotriticums.
Roy Lanning, a former employee of Goertzen Seed
Research was made Manager of Goertzen Quality Wheat Inc. and
is responsible for coordinating production and marketing of
Goertzen Seed Research developed identity preserved grain.
Goertzen Quality Wheat Inc. is owned by employees of
Goertzen Seed Research.
--------------------
HYBRITECH SEED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
John Erickson, Steve Kuhr, Karolyn Ely, Dennis Delaney,
Bud Hardesty, Jerry Wilson - Wichita, KS;
Gordon Cisar - Lafayette, IN; Hal Lewis - Corvallis, OR
Hybrid Development. Our program continues to grow as
we initiated work in two additional market classes in 1992.
Dudley Leaphart transferred to Billings, MT to reestablish
our HRS project. Hal Lewis of Corvallis, Oregon was
employed to develop the SWW project. Hal has experience in
CHA technology and breeding. He will utilize our Genesis
compound in SWW hybrid development.
Our SRW program was devastated by severe cold in the
fall of 1991. All of the crossing blocks and much of the
breeding material at Lafayette, IN were destroyed.
We have begun testing our HRW germplasm for aluminum
tolerance. About 65% of the hybrids tested were rated
intermediate to tolerant, while 50% of the parents attained
the same level, and only 34% of commercial varieties
expressed this level of tolerance. Inheritance ranged from
partial to full dominance.
Male Project. Access to GHA (Genesis hybridizing
agent) technology continues to cause procedural evolution in
developing new males. We are gradually shifting emphasis
from cyto-sterile/restorer work toward developing male
parents with Triticum aestivum cytoplasm. More than 600 new
crosses for parent development were made in 1992 and 30%
have normal cytoplasm. We welcome the opportunity to
introduce new germplasm while not always being restricted to
the need for restorer genes.
Male breeding nurseries for 1993 are located at Wichita
(17,000 F4 headrows) and Leoti (6,000 F4 headrows) in Kansas
and Billings, Montana (8,000 F4 headrows). Bulk observation
plots are planted at these additional sites: Hoxie, KS
under irrigation, Hastings and Sidney in Nebraska, and Ft.
Benton in Montana. We are also evaluating 550 lines for
performance, 224 as lines and 326 in hybrids for 1993.
Seventy-seven of these are candidates for crossing block
males in 1994.
Spring freeze damage caused less than desired results
in our 1992 crossing blocks. The mean female yield on 1769
GHA hybrids produced at our Mt. Hope, KS farm was 41.5 BPA.
This was 83% of the mean male yield. We produced 884 CMS
and 440 GHA hybrids combined at the Wichita and Halstead, KS
sites. Yield levels were lower than at Mt. Hope.
Female Project. The 1991-1992 growing season provided
some good information, a March 10 freeze at Wichita
separated our winter tender material. Good leaf rust
infections at Wichita and Mt. Hope allowed us to select
different reactions. Stem rust was not prevalent at our
locations in 1992. We advanced 98 new lines to be used as
parents in our Southern crossing blocks, while 30 lines from
our Central area and approximately 100 entries from the
Northern program were selected.
For 1993, we have moved our Western Kansas breeding
material from Leoti to an irrigated site near Hugoton, and
have placed our line trials in the western areas of the
Great Plains solely under irrigation in addition to our more
eastern and northern locations.
We have also sent many of our advanced Central lines to
the University of Nebraska where they will be inoculated in
their stem rust nursery. The Cereal Rust Lab is also
screening several of our advanced lines to determine which
stem rust genes they contain.
Three A-lines were advanced to our foundation seed
division for initial seed increase.
Brett Sowers joined our project in 1992 as a research
assistant in charge of parent seedstocks and breeder seed.
Brett received his B.S. from Kansas State University and
M.S. from Washington State University.
Quality Lab. We finished the 1991 crop with slightly
over 10,000 samples tested. This was about 1,000 less
samples than the year before. Bread baking was completed
about mid-June, just as the 1992 crop samples began
arriving. So far we have tested, or are in the process of
testing, over 9,000 samples.
This past year was plagued by equipment breakdowns.
Our NIR (near infrared) analyzer needed major repair three
times during the year and in December we lost the use of our
Brabender Quadramat Sr. mill. We have devised an alternate
milling method using our Quadramat Jr. mill and a series of
sieve stacks. The alternate method is slower and more labor
intensive.
In conjunction with local AACC meetings, laboratory
staff have toured the USDA Grain Marketing and Research
Laboratories and the Kansas State University Milling and
Baking Department facilities in Manhattan, Kansas. We also
toured Kice Industries, a milling equipment manufacturer in
Wichita, Kansas.
Chemical Technology Department. Dennis Dunphy, Sam
Wallace, Richard Evans - Lafayette, IN; Kent Baker, Wally
Bates - Mt. Hope, KS; Sally Metz - St. Louis, MO
Performance of GENESIS in 1992. We continued to test
GENESIS (MON 21200) hybridizing agent over a wide range of
environments and genotypes in 1992. Excellent sterility was
obtained in all regions. Much of the wheat in Northern
Indiana was lost due to Rhizoctonia/winter injury, so
testing in the SRW region was concentrated north and south
of this area. Seed yields of the long term SRW check line
in research plots averaged 72 to 74 percent outcrossing,
compared to the seven year average for this region of 79%.
Seed set in the western HRW region was again excellent at
all locations, ranging from 60 to 100%, with an average of
83%. The six year average for this region is 87%.
Commercialization. HybriTech will market GENESIS
hybridizing agent for wheat as soon as regulatory approval
is received. Registration of GENESIS is proceeding on
schedule, and we anticipate receiving full registration for
this compound. We are continuing to provide technical
support to cooperating breeding programs who license the
GENESIS technology, and expect to have approval to produce
limited amounts of hybrid seed during the 1994 season.
--------------------
HYBRINOVA
Hybrid Wheat Research Developed by ORSAN/ORSEM, France
A. Gervais
In July 1992 HYBRINOVA was created by ORSAN with the
purpose of bringing to a fully successful commercial
operation the hybrid wheat research project which was
initially and mainly developed by SOGETAL and ORSEM, its
subsidiaries. In order to meet its goals the new company
has been equipped with the best technology and research
resources as follows:
A Chemical Hybridizing Agent (CHA): Initially
developed by SOGETAL laboratory, this CHA has been studied
since the fall of 1989. An application for registration was
filed in mid-1992 in France. A provisional approval is
expected in mid-1993.
A hybrid and parental line breeding program which is
performing today: This program was originated by ORSEM.
The first three hybrids entered CTPS registration trials in
France in 1992. Our breeding program is being pursued with
well-known partners located in the public sector (especially
INRA) and in the private sector (Partners of GIE HYBRIBLE, a
Research Association: UCASP, Momont, Blondeau). In 1993,
the company will extend its breeding activity to all
European countries where wheat crops play a strategic role.
A dynamic research activity in the field of industrial
production of F1 hybrid wheat seeds. The strength of our
research is based on the use of the previously mentioned CHA
and the mastering of its results. All the work is done
under the direction of HYBRINOVA and is being conducted with
the collaboration of French professionals in the wheat seed
sector.
An increasing marketing activity on hybrid wheats: Our
marketing activity focuses especially on the definition of a
technical itinerary to be used for each new developing
hybrid.
The management is confident that, with all the work
done, HYBRINOVA will be in a position to market its
varieties of hybrid wheats in two to four years in France.
HYBRINOVA'S organization centers around four location
sites:
1) Head Office: HYBRINOVA, Z. A., de Courtaboeuf 1, 16
Avenue de la Baltique, 91953 LES ULIS CEDEX (France).
General Manager: Alain Gervais. In his position, Alain
Gervais is responsible for the management of the company and
for setting up a distribution system for marketing the
products in the upcoming years.
2) Two breeding stations:
(a) Northern France: HYBRINOVA 56, Ryue Theophile Havy, 60190
ESTREES ST DENIS. Manager: Stephen Sunderwirth. In his
position, Stephen is responsible for the management of the
station and the hybrid wheat breeding program for Northern
Europe, including France, Great Britain, Belgium and
Germany.
(b) Southern France: HYBRINOVA - 32480 POUY-ROQUELAURE.
Manager: Christian Quandalle. In his position, Christian is
managing the station and the contiguous haplodiploidization
laboratory. He is also responsible for the hybrid wheat
breeding program for the Southern France, Spain, Italy and
other Southern European countries. He works in close
relationship with other hybrid durum wheat breeders.
3) A development station: Central France: HYBRINOVA, ST
Germain, 28310 FRESNAY L'EVEQUE. Manager: Laurent Batreau.
In his position, Laurent is responsible for the management
of the station and for the development of industrial
production techniques of F1 seeds for each developed hybrid
and of F1 cultivating techniques.
Prospects for 1993: In 1993, the industrial production
of hybrid wheat seed will be conducted on lots covering at
least one hectare and in close relationship with the Control
Assessment officials' department to obtain certified seeds.
Several hybrids, identified during the 1991 and 1992
testing programs, are multiplied in view of filling an
application for registration to the CTPS in August 1993.
Moreover, in 1993 we expect to create approximately 1800 new
hybrids and to test 1200 hybrid varieties. We have
integrated into our breeding program the new market
requirements and farmer needs which are changing under the
impact of the present economic environment.
--------------------
NORTHRUP KING COMPANY
Fred Collins*, June Hancock, and Craig Allen - Bay, AR
Production Season. Whereas the previous season was the
worst for production in the Mid-South and Mid-West, the 1992
season was probably one of the best in the Mid-South and
Southeast. Production in the Mid-West, however, was
severely reduced by winter conditions. Wheat acreage is
being impacted by multiple years of poor production.
Race patterns of leaf rust and powdery mildew pathogens
are shifting. The pattern for leaf rust (LR) and powdery
mildew (PM) has changed little, if any, in the Southeast;
however, the new PM race(s) prevalent in the Southeast
appear to be moving east. Apparently it has entered eastern
Mississippi. A new LR race pattern has shown up in SW
Arkansas; Coker 9733 is susceptible to the new race(s) which
appear to be moving westward from Texas.
New Releases. Two new varieties were offered to TGN
(Two Great Names) seed growers/dealers who will produce
certified seed for sale in the fall of 1993. Coker 9134
(tested as C 87-13 wh) will be positioned to replace Coker
9766. Coker 9904 (tested as CL850643) will be a replacement
for Coker 9907 which succumbed to the new race(s) of PM in
the Southeast.
Coker 9474 has been approved for release and turned
over to our production department. It was tested as
AL880437. It will be positioned for Missouri, S.Illinois,
S.Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
--------------------
PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Department of Wheat Breeding
Ian B. Edwards
Wheat research operations remain focussed on North
America and Europe, but with additional support for the
Middle East and North Africa. Significant improvements were
made during 1992 in product performance advantages in both
North America and Europe. Use of High Molecular Weight (HMW)
glutenin subunit analyses conducted at the Pioneer
Laboratory in Aussonne, France, is greatly facilitating the
identification of soft wheat with favorable breadmaking
characteristics.
Varietal Releases:
l. U.S.A. - Soft Red Winter Wheat: 2571 - an early maturing for the U.S.
corn belt;
2566 - a high-yielding line with Hessian Fly resistance for the
south and southeast U.S.;
2580 - a top-yielding line with good overall disease
resistance for the south and southeast U.S.;
2. Spain : Estero - a hard white dwarf wheat of very high baking quality.
Mulero - a HRS wheat with broad adaptability.
3. Greece: Estero
Staff
Dr. Hyoung Suh of Pioneer's International Operations is
assisting with varietal testing and product line development
in the Middle East, Africa, and West Asia.
Dr. Paul Wilson joined the staff of Pioneer Hi-Bred (U.K.)
Ltd. during fall 1992, and he will be assisting with the
variety trial and selection nurseries in England.
Windfall, IN: Gregory C. Marshall, William J. Laskar,
and Ryle J. Lively
The 1991-92 Season. With the early corn and soybean
harvest during the fall of 1991, farmers had plenty of time
for fall tillage and wheat planting. Though seedbeds tended
to be dryer than optimum, rains and warm temperatures in
late October resulted in excellent seedling emergence and
good fall plant growth. However, the warm temperatures
provided little cold hardening of the rapidly growing wheat
crop. On November 9, a sudden drop in temperatures to a low
of 8øF severely burned back the non-dormant wheat fields
across much of our testing region. Mild temperatures in
November stimulated recovery of all but the most tender
lines, but a sudden return to cold temperatures, as low as
4øF in early December, repeated the severe plant damage.
Though mild overall, as the winter progressed, the erratic
temperatures continued; and more fields, including our plots
here in Windfall, showed more plant death. Conditions also
favored Rhizoctonia root rot, which confounded and magnified
the cold damage. In March an early green-up and another
period of severe cold finished off a lot of wheat. We
abandoned three off-station locations and all plots at
Windfall but the surviving F3 and F6 headrows.
For the wheat that survived mild spring and summer
temperatures, adequate moisture, and low disease pressure
resulted in an extended growing season. Harvest began nearly
two weeks later than average with excellent yields and test
weights, even in fields with some winter damage. Our Ft.
Branch nursery in southern Indiana was excellent, with just
enough disease pressure for selection and high yield levels.
The Ft. Branch location was especially valuable to us, in
that, it provided us a back-up for selection of the material
that was lost at Windfall, and the yield tests served as
seed source for fall 1992 planting. As the harvest moved
north, wet weather delayed harvest another two weeks or more
in many areas. With the rain, test weight of the standing,
mature wheat fields declined rapidly.
New Releases. In August of 1992, we released a new soft
red winter wheat variety, 2571. 2571 is an awned, early
maturing variety with excellent leaf and stem rust
resistance, as well as superior leaf blight tolerance for
its early maturity. On the average, 2571 heads 3 days
earlier than 2548, with a slight yield advantage. 2571 was
tested as XW502 in the 1991-92 Uniform Eastern and Southern
Cooperative nurseries.
Equipment. We purchased a belt style thresher to use
on some of our hand harvested material. It is the "SPT-1"
single plant threshing machine made by Agriculex. Probably
the best features of the machine are its safety and quiet
electric motor. There is adjustment to the belt clearance
and air flow to get a good, clean sample when threshing a
few heads at a time. We harvest our F3 headrows by cutting
off all the heads, with about six inches of straw and put
them in a large paper bag for threshing later. With the high
number of heads, they must be fed through the belt thresher
slowly so that clumps of heads don't get pulled through too
quickly without threshing. Also, to get the large sample
clean, some kernels may be blown out and/or some pieces of
heads may need to be screened out. However, if only a small
representative bulk sample is needed for replanting, then
the belt thresher can do an adequate job on headrows.
ST. MATTHEWS. SC: Benjamin E. Edge and Phil L. Shields
The 1991-92 Season. The 1991-92 growing season was
nearly ideal along much of the U.S. East Coast. In the
Mississippi River Valley, wet conditions and hard freezes
limited yields somewhat, but overall it was an average to
above average year. There were few serious disease
outbreaks, although leaf rust was severe at some locations.
There was some serious Hessian fly damage in the Pee Dee
area of Southern Carolina, but few reports otherwise. The
cereal leaf beetle continued to be a concern in some areas,
especially with the long, cool spring we experienced.
That long, cool spring gave wheat an extended grain fill
period, and yields and test weight were good, at least at
the beginning of harvest. Rain in June and July hampered
efforts to get the crop in, but test weight at the beginning
of the season was high enough that dockage was not as bad as
the previous year. Some early varieties did suffer from
sprout damage, however.
Selection Nursery. Again, the relative lack of disease
pressure made selection difficult in our nursery, but there
was probably enough leaf blight and leaf rust present to
make some progress. F3 headrows for 1992-93 will be around
45,000. Our yield plot numbers will be considerably higher
in 1993, around 8100. We continue to shuttle material
between the Windfall station and St. Matthews, and plan to
do more of this with our European stations in France and
Spain. We are conducting more specialized screening
nurseries (similar to our Hessian fly nursery) for problems
such as powdery mildew, leaf rust, leaf blight, and
bacterial blight.
Effect of Hessian Fly on Wheat Yield. Our Hessian fly
nursery was a failure in 1992, as warm days followed by cold
nights with temperatures just below freezing killed newly
hatched fly larvae. There were large numbers of fly in our
spreader strips going into the winter, but we never found
enough fly in the screening nursery to rate the lines for
resistance reaction. We did have a severe infestation of fly
at our Manning, SC, yield test location, and the yield data
appears below:
Effect of Hessian Fly on Wheat Yield in Southeastern US
(1991-92)
=========================================================================
Mean of 11 Mean of 10
Manning, S.C. Locations Locations
(Excl. Manning)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Variety Yield Rank Yield Rank Yield Rank HFE
(bu/ac) (bu/ac) (bu/ac) Score
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coker 9835 125.5 1 93.6 1 90.4 1 7
2580 100.3 5 90.5 2 89.6 2 1
2566 121.4 2 90.1 3 86.9 3 9
Coker 9766 100.6 4 81.2 4 79.2 6 7
Coker 983 57.0 6 80.5 6 82.8 5 5
2555 101.8 3 75.3 7 72.6 7 2
LSD (.05) 23.7 9.0 6.5
========================================================================
*HFE Score is a rating based on results of Purdue lab
screening to Biotype E. 9 = resistant, 1 = susceptible
This data offers a striking example of how Hessian fly can
affect yield test results. It also shows that there are fly
resistant varieties that have excellent yield potential for
the Southeast. Pioneer variety 2580 ranked second overall
in the yield test, but it fell to fifth at the severely
infested manning location. The variety ranked fourth with
the fly location excluded (Coker variety 983) fell to
seventh at Manning. Neither of these varieties has
resistance to Hessianfly, as evidenced by their biotype E
scores, yet 2580 yielded almost as well as two resistant
varieties, 2555 and 9766. coker variety 9835 and Pioneer
variety 2566, both resistant, performed equally well with
and without fly pressure. Pioneer brand 2555, which has
field tolerance (does not show up in lab screens)to biotype
E, was third ranked at Manning, but fell to seventh when the
effect of fly was removed as a limiting factor of yield.
New Releases. Pioneer brands 2566 and 2580 were
released in August of 1992 in limited quantities. Larger
amounts will be available for planting in the fall of 1993.
2566 is an awned, medium-early maturity, soft red winter
wheat variety adapted primarily to the East Coast and Gulf
Coast states. 2566 has high yield potential, excellent test
weight, and excellent overall disease tolerance. It is
resistant to the predominant biotypes of Hessian fly in the
Southeast. 2566 is 1-2 days earlier than Pioneer brand 2548.
It has exhibited better resistance to powdery mildew, leaf
rust, and soil borne mosaic virus than 2548, and is more
tolerant of soil borne mosaic virus. 2580 is susceptible to
Hessian fly. 2580 was tested as 'XW504' in the 1991-92
Uniform Southern and Uniform Eastern nurseries.
Frowille, France: Guy Dorlencourt, Robert Marchand
and Quitterie Vanderpol
The 1991-92 Season. The nurseries and test locations
were planted on time, December was dry and conditions very
mild. Fortunately, some rainfall and cooler temperatures in
late March slowed the regrowth, and good rain and cooler
than normal temperatures during April improved tillering.
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe araminis) and stripe rust (Puccinia
striiformis) appeared during April. Very hot temperatures
during May caused drought stress on the light, chalky soils
of Reims, and late tillers suffered severely. Good rains
came in late May around heading time and continued into
June. Good stripe and leaf rust infections were recorded on
susceptible lines. Overall, the season was patchy, with good
yields at Beauvais and Peronne, average to below average
yields at Oucques, and very poor yields at Reims.
Varietal Development. Four Pioneer varieties entered
first-year registration in September 1992 with a 3-8% yield
advantage over the official check cultivars, based upon
three years of multi-location testing. They are: 2254 - a
bearded semidwarf, medium maturity, very high yield
potential, good overall disease resistance and B2 quality.
2256 - a bearded semidwarf, medium-early, excellent overall
disease resistance, strong straw, high yield potential, and
B1 quality. 2259 - a bearded semidwarf, very early
maturity, top yield potential, and C2 quality. 2282 - a
bearded semidwarf with very early maturity, high yield
potential, excellent overall disease resistance, and B1
quality.
Of the four official check cultivars, Soissons was the
top yielder in 1992 (mean yield = 85.3 qu/ha) followed by
Apollo, Recital, and Thesee. Sideral was the highest
yielding of the released varieties (mean 88.7 qu/ha).
Hybrid Wheat. Seven hybrid trials of 30 entries each were grown
at three locations. Overall, the top hybrids outyielded the check
cultivars by 13-15%. Several showed superior mixograph scores to that
of either parent; this is the result of complementation of favorable
HMW glutenin subunits in the hybrid. The leading hybrids are now
showing yield, quality and disease resistance advantages over the top
cultivars. Additional efforts are being made to perfect the hybrid
delivery system, and consistently produce high yields of pure hybrid
seed.
Sevilla, Spain: JoQe-Maria Urbano, Maximiliano Hidalgo, and
Manuel Peinado
The 1991-92 Season. A large contrast between northern and
southern Spain was encountered during 1991-92. In the north heavy
rains delayed planting, and the latter was finally completed on
January 15, 1992. In contrast, the south was extremely dry and
moisture stress was encountered by early February, particularly
on the lighter textured soils. Despite some rain, moisture stress
became more severe in April, and two of the three locations in
Portugal were lost. At the irrigated locations, good powdery
mildew and Septoria differentials were obtained. Good data was
obtained in northern Spain from both the sprinq and winter wheat
test locations.
Spring Wheat Variety Development. The elite spring wheat
test was grown at 6 locations. The top-yielding variety, Moro,
outyielded Cartaya by 15% and Yecora Rojo by 24% in Andalucia (4
locations). It entered first-year registration in 1992-93, along
with two other new lines, Caro and Torero. These varieties,
respectively, fit into the early, medium, and late maturity
categories among the spring wheat in Spain, and have a ten-day
spread in flowering dates.
Mercero, a medium height, late-maturing wheat with high
yield and medium baking quality was advanced to second-year
registration in 1992-93. In addition, Estero and Mulero were
registered in 1992. Estero offers both yield and disease
resistance advantages over Yecora Rojo, and has similar maturity
and the same high quality. It is targeted for Andalucia.
Winter Wheat Variety Development. Testing was conducted at
Burgos, Navarra, Jaca, and Alava in northern Spain during
1991-92. The top-yielding line was WBE0189A, with a 7-13% yield
advantage over the check cultivars. Good differentials for
powdery mildew and Septoria tritici were obtained, with Recital
being the most susceptible check. Parent seed of Trento was sold
to a producer/distributor in 1992, and certified seed will be
marketed in 1993. A winter wheat trials network was established,
combining operations in southern France and northern Spain.
Durum Wheat Development. Trials were conducted at three
locations in Andalucia, and 80 experimental lines were tested.
Three new experimental durums are undergoing final seed
purification in 1992-93, and they have a 4-12% yield advantage
over the top check, Vitron. The durum program was increased
during 1992, and both spring and facultative lines are being
crossed. The durum wheat area increased in Spain from 383,000 ha.
in 1991 to 558,000 ha. in 1992. Mean yields and quality premiums
were higher than those of bread wheat.
Sissa (nr. Parma, Italy: Mauro Tanzi
The elite durum wheat test (consisting of 52 entries) was
grown at five locations in the Po River Valley. The top-yielding
location was Ferrara, where Pioneer Variety TDM0062 yielded 98.4
quintals/hectare, and five other experimentals exceeded 90
quintals. Eight new lines were identified with yields,
significantly above the check cultivars and the leading new
commercial variety. Final quality evaluations will be completed
during 1992-93, and seed purification and increase is being
handled in France.
PARNDORF, AUSTRIA: Gunther Reichenberger
Austrian program currently comprises screening nurseries,
preliminary variety trials and preregistration tests. Compared with
the official check cultivars, our experimental lines are
shorter-strawed, earlier-maturing (up to 10 days) and have improved
lodging resistance. A good powdery mildew differential was obtained,
with Claudius being the most susceptible check. Currently, two
varieties are in second-year registration, and five new lines entered
first-year registration in 1992-93. Austria currently has quality,
milling, and feed wheat categories, and these are defined on the basis
of wet gluten and gluten-swelling tests. With the impending entry of
Austria into the EEC, some changes may be anticipated in quality
standards and varietal classification.
Winsford, Cheshire, England: Ian Edwards and Simon Jones
In 1992 a selection nursery and segregating bulk populations were
grown at Eyeworth, Bedfordshire, and preliminary preregistration
trails were conducted at three locations. This was the second-year of
testing under U.K. conditions. Haven was used as the feed wheat check,
and Mercia was used as the quality check cultivar. Good differentials
were obtained for powdery mildew, stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis)
and Septoria tritici. Heavy lodging pressure was obtained at the Kent
location. In the preliminary test, four new experimental lines yielded
equal to or greater than Haven, with higher lodging resistance. A
quality wheat, WBE0431, outyielded Mercia by 23.4 percent. Three lines
were identified as candidates for National List trials in 1993-94.
Buxtehude, Germany: Heidemarie Schoenwaelder and Ian Edwards
Selection nurseries were grown at Rodinghausen in northern
Germany, and at Neuenstein-Kirchensall in southern Germany. The
northern nursery provided a stronger test for winterhardiness and
differentiated varieties better adapted to southern Germany, and the
U.K. Preregistration trials were grown at four locations with two
replicates given high management treatments (fungicides, etc.), and
two replicates given reduced management. Compared to the official
check cultivars (Contra, Ares, Orestis, and Henzog), the top four
Pioneer lines showed an average yield response to the high management
of 12.0 percent, versus 20.2 percent for the checks, and showed a 4
percent yield advantage under reduced management. It is a commonly
shared view that varieties requiring less fungicide and management
inputs will assume a greater importance in the future as attention is
focussed on maximum economic yield. Five wheat varieties are
undergoing seed purification in 1992-93, prior to entering
reqistration trials.
--------------------
TRIO RESEARCH, INC.
James A. Wilson, Wichita, KS
During 1992, one HRW wheat and two SRW wheats were released as
contract varieties. Farmers under contract with Trio distributors may
save seed for use on their own farms but are restricted from selling
the varieties for planting purposes. The hard wheat, T13, a T 107/T
105 derivative, was tested in the 1992 SRPN, and has been entered for
testing again in 1993. This variety is very similar to Tam 107 except
it is 3-4 days later in heading. It is presumed to be best adapted to
eastern Colorado, western Kansas and southwest Nebraska where leaf
rust resistance is of minor importance. The soft wheats, T441, and
T63, have been evaluated in the ESRWWPN. T441, a Tyler/Auburn
derivative, is earlier than either parent and is around Caldwell in
maturity. It has better leaf rust and Hessian fly resistance than its
Tyler parent and carries resistance to fly races GP, B and E derived
from its Auburn parent. It is intermediate in regards to leaf rust
resistance but carries high resistance to mildew that appears equal to
Tyler. It has been consistently higher yielding than Caldwell and is
expected to be adapted to the regions where Caldwell has been grown.
T63, is a Coker 747/2550 derivative that is higher yielding, shorter
and earlier than Caldwell. It is presumed to be best adapted to the
southern half of the areas where Caldwell is grown since it has
superior resistance to leaf rust. Certification has been applied for
with all 3 varieties but no PVP filing has yet been made.
A number of hybrid parent stocks are being evaluated by farmers
under direct contract arrangement with Trio in the southern plains
region. These lines, if successful as cultivars, will allow the
opportunity for increasing female seed stock under reasonable
isolation standards. We are totally committed to the Timopheevi cms
system, and thereby, need isolation which a significant acreage may
provide. Likewise, the successful use of a male parent may allow much
needed isolation and facilitate establishment of hybrid seed
production contracts.
--------------------
SVALOF WEIBULL AB - Wheat Breeding Activities
Landskrona, Sweden: Gunnar Svensson *
During 1992 the two Swedish breeding organisations Svalof AB and
W. Weibull AB have been merged. The new company Svalof Weibull AB,
owned by the farmers coops, SLR, has a wheat breeding program in
Landskrona, Sweden. Dr Gunnar Svensson is made responsible for the
spring wheat breeding and the international coordination, Dr Nils
Johansson is responsible for the winter wheat breeding and Jan J”nsson
runs a successful resistance breeding program for Sweden and Europe.
Actual varieties bred by this Swedish team are: Kosack the
leading winter wheat, Tjelvar a dwarf bunt resistant winter wheat,
Tryggve with good sprouting resistance, Dragon the leading spring
wheat with wide disease resistance, Dacke with 1 % higher protein
content and Sport with 2,5 % higher protein, Tjalve the leading spring
wheat in Norway, early, short straw, strong gluten and Satu one of the
most grown spring wheat varieties in Finland, Troll, recently listed
in Germany, nematod resistant and Canon recommended in England.
Svalof Weibull has wheat breeding programs in Great Britain, in
the Cambridge area at Abbots Ripton headed by Richard Gregory and at
Throws Farm headed by Douglas Joyce. In France Jean Pierre Josset and
his team have run an efficient wheat breeding program since 1981, see
below. In Lectour Maurice Schehr runs a program for southern France,
northern Spain and Italy. He has the quality variety Lony in advanced
trials. In southern Spain, Juan Pedro Hidalgo is breeding alternative
wheat varieties for different parts of the world. Varieties such as
Sofia, Alias, Bahia and Mouna are listed in Marocko and/or Alg‚r. In
the Netherlands Loek Suijs is breeding wheat varieties at Emmeloord
beside his main task: Triticale breeding. His spring wheat Jondolar is
a high yielding variety listed in some countries.
Through the daughter company, Semundo GmbH, Svalof Weibull has
the famous winter wheat breeding organisation in Hadmersleben in the
group with well known winter wheat varieties like Alidos, Faktor,
Kontrast, Mikon, Ramiro and Zenos. Prof Porsche and Dr K. Richter and
their team have made Saatzucht Agrar in Hadmersleben known for
varieties with good quality and stable disease resistance.
--------------------
SVALOF-WEIBULL, France
Jp. Josset, E. Menager, S. Martinon
As mentioned above, our company name has changed from W. Weibull
to Svalof-Weibull.
In 1992 winter wheat was grown on an area of about 4,680,000 ha.
The total production was slightly below that of last year with 30.8
million tons. Average yield in the country was 6,590 kg/ha, a
decrease compared to 6,800 kg/ha in 1991. The quality of the crop was
generally good.
Leading cultivars were Soissons (34%), Thesee (13%), Apollo (6%),
Recital (5%), Scipion (5%), Sleipner (2%), Festival (2%), Baroudeur
(2%).
For the fourth year in a row the growing season has been dry with
much lower rainfall than normal and a moderate disease pressure.
Powdery mildew was the most serious problem at our three screening
nursery sites.
The shuttle breeding system initiated in 1991 between Sweden,
France and Chile continues to work well for the facultative wheat
program.
One new cultivar was entered in first year of official trials in
France. It is a biscuit type wheat, medium early, combining high
yield with good overall disease resistance.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM ARGENTINA
College of Agriculture, kCordoba National University, Cordoba
F. Bidinost, B. Ferro, W. Londero, R. Roldan, and R. Maich,
Intravarietal Differences and Seed Source in Wheat. The
objective of this work was to determine the effect of the
environmental conditions where a seed is multiplied (ECM) on the
agronomic response of the plant developed from it. A second objective
was to determine the presence of intravarietal variability within a
wheat variety recently released (PROINTA Oasis). During 1991 was
evaluated the grain yield of G-derived lines visually selected in 1990
in two locations (C¢rdoba and Marcos Ju rez). The statistics analysis
was performed according a factorial model. Significant differences
between ECM were observed and between G-derived lines selected at
Marcos Ju rez. The ECM affected the agronomic performance of the
derived plant. In the other hand, the variability within variety
observed to point out the importance of a correct maintenance of
genetic purity during the seed production process.
C. Olmos, C. Ferraris, M.J. Miakra, and R. Maich
Selection During Early Generations under Interspecific and
Intergeneric Competition Conditions in Bread Wheat. II Testing
Environment x Competing Ability Interactions. To determine the effect
of plant competition on genetic gain, two segregating populations of
bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were planted in alternated rows
with others of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) and barley (Hordeum
vulgare L.) in 1989 using three sowing dates. One plant from each
experimental unit was selected. In 1990 (F2:3) and 1991 (F2:4) the
grain yield per plot of the F2-derived lines was evaluated. A
factorial model of Anova was performed. During 1990, a significative
and negative effect of plant competition on response to visual plant
selection was observed (AWN 38:52); however, in 1991, not significant
differences were observed between lines selected under any type of
plant competition. The results of this study could be discussed in the
light of the agrometeorological characteristics of the two years of
testing. 1991 was drier than 1990 showing evidence of a positive
relationship between the agronomic performance of the F2-derived lines
and intensity of competition used during the visual plant selection
process, principally in the earlier-maturing cross.
D. Bonelli, W. Londero, F. Salvagiotti, R. Roldan, M.J. Miarka,
C. Ripoll, S. Beas, F. Gil, and R. Maich
Integrated Teaching Programme. When Science Takes Up the Place
of Art in Plant Breeding.Art is important in plant breeding,
particularly when visual selection is being done; however, for
teaching plant genetics purposes is necessary to undestand some
concepts in genetics and to learn about methodology in plant breeding.
The objective of this study was to compare, through the response to
visual plant selection for grain yield, eight samples selected by
undergraduate students of our College. During 1990 a bulk of F3 seeds
of wheat was grown on an area of 900 m2, subdivided in 80 grids. Ten
grids were used by each Selector, from each one five plants were
selected according their own criteria. The sample of fifty plants from
each Selector was threshed in bulk. During 1991, the eight F4 bulks
were evaluated for grain yield (GY), biological yield (BY) and harvest
index (HI) in three sowing dates without replications per date. Not
significant differences were obtained among the eignt sample means for
GY and BY, except HI. Harvest index was positively correlated with
grain yield. Thus, those Selectors who chose higher and lesser
tillering plants produced populations with much higher HI than did
those Selectors who chose semi-dwarf plants with high tillering
ability. It is likely that the latter group of Selectors has the
opportunity to modificate their selection criteria looking for in the
future to improve the efficiency of visual plant selection.
R. Maich, W. Londero, M.J. Miarka, C. Ripoll, R. Roldan, F.
Salvagiotti, D. Bonelli, N. Guzman, and G. Manera
Agroecophysiological Aspects of Earweight in Wheat. The
environmental conditions (sites, sowing dates, years, densities,
spatial arrangaments, etc.) where a wheat crop is grown affect their
economic production. Moreover, the relationships of seed size and/or
seed source and yield have been investigated in various experiments. A
study was conducted to evaluate the influence of seed of different
weights and origins on wheat earweight. In 1990, the S1 seeds from one
segregating population of wheat was grown at three locations
(Ferreyra, Marcos Ju rez, and Casilda). A field experiment, using
sized or unsized S2 seeds obtained from the three sources, was
conducted in 1991 at Ferreyra in three sowing dates (may, june and
july), three densities (25, 50 and 100 seeds/m2) and two spatial
arrangaments (equidistance: 10x10, 15x15 and 20x20 cm, and rows: 5x20,
10x20 and 10x40 cm within and between rows respectively). Net plot
consisted of 50 seeds nearly without replications. A random sample of
five plants was taken from each experimental unit for determination of
earweight. Analysis of variance of the experiment was conducted
according to the factorial model. Significant differences were
obtained among densities (1 %), spatial arrangaments (10 %) and sowing
dates (1 %), but not by seed size and source. We concluded that the
impact of seeds of different sizes and origins was of relatively
little importance on earweight, however the data suggest there may be
merit in maintaining the seed source identity and to use the heavier
seeds.
W.H. Londero, C.A. Ripoll, J.C. Funes, and R.H. Maich
Effects of Seed Size on Response to Selection in Wheat. The
field performance in wheat with seeds of differing size is known; but
its impact on the efficiency of visual selection has not been well
documented. A S1 bulk of seeds was classified using a 2.5 mm diameter
sieve in five classes (C). During 1990 the material was cultivated in
three sowing dates (SD) and three locations. From each experimental
unit two plants were selected, wich progenies (S1:2) were tested
(1991) for grain yield (GY), biological yield and harvest index in
three dates of seeding. For GY there were not significant differences
between C; however, the significant C x SD interaction for all
characters indicate that in unfavourable environmental conditions the
mechanical classification of seeds would increase the efficiency of
visual selection.
R.M. Roldan, F. Salvagiotti, N.C. Guzman, C. Bainotti, and R.H.
Maich
Comparison of Alternative types of Recurrent Selection Schemes in
Wheat. The objective of this study was to determine the efficiency of
three recurrent selection strategies in the first selection cycle. The
initial population (P0) was evaluated under three different levels of
imbreeding (S0. S1 and S1:2). Fifteen selected progenies from each one
were intercrossed to form P1, P2 and P3 filial populations. During
1989, 1990 and 1991 the genetic progress was evaluated using a random
sample of 40 progenies from each population. The results show that
significant progress can be obtained for grain yield when S0 progenies
are used as selection unit. However, if we assess the genetic gain
outside the environmental context where the plant breeding program is
being conducted, it is possible to find not significant differences
between cycles.
G.A. Manera, D.R. Bonelli, J.C. Miranda, and R.H. Maich
Visual and Indirect Selection for Yield in Wheat. Our objective
was to study the response to visual and indirect selection for grain
yield (GY) using the biological yield (BY), harvest index (HI) and
earweight (PSP) as selection criteria. During 1990 a random sample of
800 S1 plants was characterized through BY, HI and PSP. From each
selection criteria two groups (superior and inferior) of fifteen S1
plants each one were constituted. Simultaneously, the best fifteen
were selected according to the phenotypic value. In 1991, 105 S1:2
lines were tested for GY, BY and HI in three sowing dates. For GY,
significant differences among groups were found for PSP selection
criteria. Among superior groups, significant differences between
selection criteria were found for HI, where the material selected for
PSP and HI performed better.
S.E. Beas, M.J. Miarka, J.Casati, and R.H. Maich
Looking for Optimal Genotype x Environment Interactions in Plant
Breeding. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of
selection environment on the genetic progress under marginal
conditions of evaluation (the target area). During 1990 six
segregating populations of wheat with different biological cycles (BC)
were cultivated in three locations (L) and three sowing dates (SD) per
site. From each experimental unit two plants were selected, wich
progenies (S1:2) were tested (1991) in three dates of seeding in the
target area. For grain yield not significant differences were found
between L or SD; but, significant BC x L interaction existed. For
long-season materials the highest genetic progress was achieved
selecting under optimal environmental conditions, while for short- and
intermediate- tended to be greater at the marginal ones.
R.H. Maich, R.M. Roldan, W.H. Londero, and G.A. Manera
Early Generation Testing in Wheat. The purpose was to relate the
performances of F1/S0 progenies and F2-/S1- derived lines from them.
The F1 seed of 153 crosses (Trial 1) and S0 seed of 560 crosses (Trail
2) were evaluated for grain yield (GY). Within each trial two groups
(superior and inferior) of ten crosses each one were constituted. The
F2 and S1 generations were cultivated in three and two locations,
respectively. One or two plants were selected from each experimental
unit. The F2:5 and S1:2 lines were tested for GY, biological yield
(BY) and harvest index (HI). Significant differences among groups were
found for GY in Trial 1, and for BY and HI in Trial 2. For GY and BY,
the derived lines classified as superiors yielded more than those
inferior ones. The tendency was inverse for HI.
M.J. Miarka, F. Salvagiotti, C.A. Ripoll, N.C. Guzman, and R.H.
Maich
The Effect of Density and Spatial Arrangament on the Efficiency
of Visual Plant Selection in Wheat. The objective of this study was
to determine the effect of plant density-D (25, 50 and 100 seeds/m2)
and planting arrangament-S (equidistant: 10x10, 15x15 and 20x20 cm,
and rows: 5x20, 10x20 and 10x40 cm within and between rows
respectively) on response to selection in segregating populations of
wheat with different biological cycles and cultivated in three
locations. Two S1 plants from each experimental unit were selected,
wich S1 -derived lines were tested for grain yield, biological yield
and harvest index (HI) in three sowing dates. Significant differences
were found between D for HI. The highest values of HI were achieved by
selecting at 25-50 seeds/m2 densities.
D.R. Bonelli, S.E. Beas, J.C. Miranda, and R.H. Maich
Grid Selection in Wheat. To determine the relationship between
grain yield (GY) of a derived line and the agronomic characteristic of
the grid from wich the plant was selected, a bulk of F3 seeds
constituted by 40 crosses was cultivated on a area of 900 m2 divided
into 80 grids. A plant was selected from each grid. During two years,
in two contrasting environmental conditions per year, two groups of 13
F3 -derived lines each one were tested. GY, biological yield (BY) and
harvest index (HI) were recorded for each plot. Significant
differences among groups were found for BY. For all characters
examined the materials selected from agronomically inferior grids gave
the highest yield performance. Group mean differences tended to be
greater at the low yielding environmental conditions of testing.
N. Contin, D. Bonelli, F. Salvagiotti, C. Ripoll, and R.
Maich
Crossover Effects depend on the Biological Characteristic of the
Selected Material. The objective of this study was to determine the
effect of selection environment on the genetic progress under marginal
conditions of evaluation in wheat. Four different trials using
populations of wheat with different maturities (C) were cultivated in
two sites (E), high (HYE) and low (LYE) yielding environments. The
derived lines were tested in the target area (LYE). Grain yield,
biological yield and harvest index were recorded. For grain yield not
significant differences were found among E, but significant C x E
interactions existed. For long season materials the highest genetic
progress was achieved selecting under HYE, while for the short ones
tended to be greater at the LYE.
R. Maich, N. Guzman, M.J. Miarka, W. Londero and G. Manera
Density Effects on Response to Visual Plant Selection. Three
segregating populations of wheat with different maturities (M) were
cultivated under three densities - D (25, 50 and 100 seeds/m2) in
three sites - S (low, intermediate and high yielding environments).
From each experimental unit four S1 plants were selected and the S1:2
lines were evaluated for grain yield during 1991 in two locations
without replications per site. Not significant differences were
observed betweeen densities, however D x M and D x S significant
interactions existed. For the long season materials the highest
genetic gain was achieved selecting under the lowest density, the
inverse was observed for the early materials. In the other hand, a
negative relationship between site and density was observed. For the
high yielding environment increased genetic progress ocurred at the
lowest density, but under the low yielding environment the highest
density improved the efficiency of visual plant selection.
--------------------
Institute of Biological Resources, Castelar
G. Tranquilli, G. Covas, I. Cetour, B. Formica, L. Faraldo, L.
Bullrich, N. Zelener, M. Lorences, G. Perez
Camargo, L. Appendino, M. Arteaga, A. Suarez, L. Gonzalez and E. Y.
Suarez
Norin 10 Alleles Effects in the Argentinian Wheat Area. A wide
range of experiments using isogenic Rht lines, kindly supplied by M.
Gale of the Cambridge Laboratory JII, was carried out during 1991.
The lines were developed in two spring varieties: Maringa, from
Brazil, and Nainari 60, from Mexico. Rht alleles in Maringa
background showed the following general effects:
1. Plant height reduction
2. Slight increase on ear-emergence time
3. Tiller number increase
4. None or reduced effects on spike length
5. No effect on numb er of spikelets per spike
6. Increase in grain number per spikelet
7. Grain weight reduction
8. Yield increase from early sowing or at localities of high
soil fertility
Nainari 60 isogenic lines, on the other hand, showed similar
general effects, except that no differences were observed for tiller
number, spikelets per spike and yield. Particularly remarkable is the
last result, because even in the major wheat area rht genotypes showed
better or similar yields than the semidwarf ones.
G. Tranquilli and E. Y. Suarez
Gene Location for Leaf Rust Resistance in a Brazilian Line. The
Brazilian line of bread wheat PF 869107 is known to be resistant to a
large number of pathogen agents. It has a seedling resistance to two
Argentina biotypes, 66 and 77, of Puccinia recondita sp. tritici. To
determine the chromosomic location of the genes involved, 17 F2
monosomic families were evaluated against each biotype. Analyses
indicated a dominant allele was present in PF 869107 in each case, and
16 families displayed a good fit to the 3:1 ratio. The critical
chromosomes were 5A and 2B for biotypes 66 and 77, respectively.
Since chromosome 2B has been reported to carry genes for leaf rust
resistance (Lr23 and Lr16), the PF 869107 reaction could be due to one
of these. No information was found to suggest that chromosome 5A
carries genes for rust resistance. However, chromosomes 5B and 5D
have been reported as carrying Lr genes, so a homeoallelic form in 5A
could be expected.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM AUSTRALIA
NEW SOUTH WALES
CSIRO Grain Quality Research Laboratory (formerly Wheat Research
Unit), North Ryde, (Sydney) NSW, Australia
Progress towards more effective testing of wheat-grain quality
at the molecular level has been extended by further defining the
aspects of protein composition that relate to appropriate dough
properties (suited to specific products), or to either hard- or soft-
grained quality type. We also know more about what aspects of lipid
composition relate to baking quality and about starch structural
characteristics needed for noodle-processing quality. Improved test
methods arising from the basic research involve antibody-based test
kits, HPLC, gel electrophoresis, automated interpretation of
electrophoretic patterns, and the use of the micro Mixograph and of
the Rapid Visco Analyser. A major avenue for applying these tests has
been in breeding programs, with the aim of the early elimination of
unsuitable lines together with the retention of good-quality lines.
Gluten composition and dough quality. The established importance
of the glutenin fraction of dough protein has been ascribed to its
subunit structure involving combinations of high- and low-molecular
weight (HMW, LMW) polypeptides. The difficulties of screening for LMW
subunit composition have been alleviated with the development of a
one-step electrophoretic procedure. A further tool to assist in the
interpretation of glutenin-subunit composition is the software program
Allele , which can identify the specific alleles represented in an
electrophoretic pattern of LMW and HMW subunits allocating them to the
six relevant genetic loci. Using such means, we have assigned
notional contributions to dough strength by the various glutenin sub-
units (both bread wheat and durum wheat ), permitting their use to
predict genetic potential for dough properties.
The functional importance of subunit composition appears to lie
particularly in the ways in which the polypeptides associate,
particularly in the formation of very large aggregates, the
quantitation of which (SDS extra cation and SE-HPLC) provides improved
prediction of dough strength (phenotype, as distinct from genotype).
These associations have been studied directly by added purified
glutenin subunits to a dough in the MicroMixograph (2g flour), using a
cycle of rupture and re-formation of SS bonds to ensure incorporation
of the added subunit. In this way, we are establishing the
contributions of individual subunits to dough properties, thereby
checking contributions previously hypothesised by correlation studies.
Starch structure and wheat quality. In addition to dough
properties, starch structure plays an important part in the value of
wheat for processing into noodles. The Rapid Visco-Analyser has been
used as an efficient means of characterising starch properties to
select flours best suited for Japanese-style white salted noodles, in
collaboration with the Bread Research Institute. This approach is
being implemented in breeding programs in Australia and Japan, and is
being trialled in Western Australia by the Australian Wheat Board for
the improved segregation for such wheat types at receival. Study of
the structure of starch from genotypes well suited to noodle
manufacture has indicated the type of branching structure that is
apparently required in the amylopectin fraction, thus providing a more
basic approach to the selection of wheats suited to noodle
manufacture.
More efficient screening for quality. Near infrared spectroscopy
is being developed to exploit its great potential to analyse for basic
composition and to evaluate qualitative aspects such as baking quality
in wheat and malting value for barley. New developments with whole-
grain analysis offer great potential to breeders, since the analysis
is non-destructive. Our studies are also designed to assist the
breeder in coping with conflicting pressures e.g., to improve disease
resistance (using alien sources of genes) whilst maintaining grain
quality (sometimes impaired by the alien sources). The basic studies
have assisted in understanding the causes and thus developing
remedies. Antibodies are being developed to screen more efficiently
for specific proteins indicating the introgression of such alien
genes. In particular, we have made available to several breeding
programs, a prototype test kit that identifies 1B/1R progeny from a
cross involving this type of rye translocation line. We have also
provided all Australian breeding programs with an antibody-based test
kit to predict dough strength, thus allowing the breeder to eliminate
lines likely to later show excessive dough strength or weakness. This
type of testing is well suited to a breeding program, since large
numbers of small-sized samples may be processed efficiently with
automatic plate-reading equipment and low labour input. In addition,
antibodies have been used in the localisation of specific protein
fractions within the cells of developing wheat grains and to identify
the amino-acid sequences likely to be most responsible for differences
in dough properties. Antibody-based testing has also proved
particularly suitable for increasing the efficiency of screening for
the various "grain protectants" used to ensure that the range of food
grains are free from insect infestation during storage and transport.
Kits under development include assays for organophosphates, for
carbaryl (especially relevant to barley), for methoprene (an insect
growth regulator), and for synthetic pyrethroids. Manufacture and
distribution of the kits is being undertaken in collaboration with the
Millipore Corporation. The first set of prototypes kits has been
trialled with potential Australian users including grain-handling and
marketing authorities, food processors and maltsters. These studies
are now being extended into the analysis of environmental chemicals in
irrigation water and into new approaches to rapid detection.
--------------------
The University of Sydney, Plant Breeding Institute
Plant Pathology, Sydney and PBI, Cobbitty, NSW
D. Backhouse, J. Bell, L.W. Burgess, G.N. Brown, R.A. McIntosh,
D.R. Marshall, J.D. Oates, R.F. Park, J. Roake, F. Stoddard, D. The, C.R.
Wellings
A major change at Cobbitty was the establishment of a National
Cereal Rust Control Program largely supported by the Grains Research
and Development Corporation. This program formally recognises our
activities in rust surveys for all cereal crops and introduces a local
research base for rust resistance in all winter cereal crops. Our
first objective is to increase the research effort on oat rust
resistance and two graduate students have been appointed in this area.
Pathogenicity Studies: The 1992 cropping season in Western
Australia and much of the southeast was wet. Inoculum carryover and
early infections resulted in high levels of leaf rust in W.A. and
South Australia where few cultivars have resistance. Approximately
100,000 ha of wheat were sprayed for leaf rust control in W.A. The
only pathotype isolated from W.A. was 104-1,2,3,6,(7),11. The
predominant pathotypes in the east were 104-2,3,6,(7),11 and 104-
1,2,3,6,(7),11 which differ in pathogenicity on wheats with Lr20.
Further studies showed that these pathotypes differ from the
previously predominant Australian pathotype, 104-2,3,6,(7), by several
pathogenic and isozymic characteristics indicating no evolutionary
closeness despite the similar pathogenic formulae based on the current
differential set. Two isolates of pt. 53-1,6,(7),10,11 and one of
10,1,2,3,4 were identified.
In contrast to oats, stem rust on wheat was at extremely low
levels throughout the country. However, later in the season, with
continuing wet conditions, samples of pt. 343-1,2,3,5,6 came from S.A.
and W.A. This may lead to carryover of inoculum into 1993.
Despite early sightings, stripe rust developed to significant
levels only in S.A. and a small area of southern N.S.W. where a non-
recommended susceptible cultivar from W.A. was grown. Pathotypes were
predominantly 104 E137 A- and 104 E137 A+. One pathotype was virulent
on seedlings of Carstens V. Stripe rust on barley grass was very
widespread and disease levels very high, strengthening our belief that
pathogenicity on barley grass has increased since stripe rust was
introduced in 1979. A graduate student will research this aspect.
Genetics and Cytogenetics: 1. A new gene for leaf rust
resistance was found in the Australian cultivar Harrier. The origin,
distribution and significance of this gene are yet to be determined.
2. The close association of Lr34/Yr18 has been further
confirmed by genetic studies. All leaf ust gene combination stocks
involving Lr34 and generated in Canada by Dr. Kolmer carry Yr18. The
near-isogenic line RL6070 with Lr34 carries two genes for adult plant
stripe rust resistance relative to Thatcher - the first is Yr18 and
the second can be separated by selecting for leaf rust susceptibility.
3. A set of monosomics in a highly (adult plant) susceptible
selection of Avocet will be used to examine the effects of aneuploidy
per se on stripe rust response, and as a parent for monosomic analyses
of genes for adult plant stripe rust resistance that have been
identified in crosses of the Avocet selection and Australian wheat
cultivars. We hypothesise that certain sources of durable resistance
are composed of gene combinations (including Yr18) and our aim is to
separate the genes, locate and characterise them and to reassemble the
combinations.
4. One of two genes in a hexaploid derivative from a durum wheat
produced by Dr. R.A. Hare is located in chromosome 6A - it is probably
allelic with Sr13 and a gene in Golden Ball. The second gene was not
located.
5. The Polish triticale, Lasko, possesses two genes for stem
rust resistance not present in Australian triticales.
Tan spot: Early generation material screened in the greenhouse
for tan spot response during the summer was field sown at Cobbitty for
rust assessments and at Narrabri for agronomic observation and field
response to tan spot. However, dry conditions prevented disease
development at Narrabri. The testing cycle will be repeated in 1993.
Studies on inheritance of tan spot resistance were commenced.
N.L. Darvey, S. Venkatanagappa and A. Aranzi
1. Triticale: A short selection of Madonna will be released in
1993 as "Maiden". Maiden has higher grain yield, but lower forage
production than the dual-purpose parent. A tall selection of Madonna
with high grazing potential is being increased for release in 1994.
2. Rye: Ryesun will be registered and re-released in 1993. It
was originally released in 1982. An improved forage rye is likely to
be released in 1994.
3. Anther Culture: Major advances were achieved in 1992-93 with
the use of hydroponically grown triticale plants. Several auxins
which produce high quality regenerants of wheat were identified. The
most effective were PAA (phenyl acetic acid) and PCPAA-ME (para chloro
phenoxy acetic acid-methyl ester).
P.J. Sharp, A.M. Bennett, H-S. Hwang, M. Turner, J. Silk, S.
Carlson, L. Ferrari, and C. Wiencke
The Australian Triticeae Mapping Intitiative probe collection is
well developed at Cobbitty. Over 1100 probes from wheat, barley, and
oats have been obtained from overseas and within Australia. They have
been transformed, checked, and stored, and are being distributed to
requesting workers. In addition, information about each RFLP probe is
being collated in a database.
Two projects are being undertaken in collaboration with R.
Appels, E. Lagudah and S. Rahman, CSIRO Plant Industry, Canberra.
The first involves transferring HMW subunits of glutenin from
Triticum tauschii (subunit combinations 5+12, 2+T1+T2, and 5+10) and
hexaploid landraces (null+12, null+10, and 2.1+10) to cv Meering by
backcrossing. BC3 isolines were selected and bulked and field trials
will be grown this winter to provide material for dough and bread
quality tests. The second project involves development of further
tests for genetic variation at the grain softness protein locus on
chromosome 5D.
--------------------
Wheat Improvement Program, I.A. Watson Wheat Research Centre,
Narrabri.
L. O'Brien, F.W. Ellison, D.J. Mares, R.M. Trethowan, S.G. Moore,
M.J. Barnes, K. Mrva, M.N. Uddin and Z. Zhen.
Seasonal conditions at Narrabri in 1992 were characterised by a
mild winter with radiation frosts down to -4.5 C, a cool spring and
early summer. Rainfall was below average in late winter and early
spring and breeding areas were irrigated on two occasions. Rainfall
in November and December resulted in sprouting damage.
New cultivars: Sunstate (SUN148L) - a quick season, prime hard
quality wheat for the export market with improved stem, leaf and
stripe rust resistance and better flour milling and dough properties
compared with Hartog. Best suited to mid-late May to July plantings.
To be released in 1993.
Sunmist (SUN61A) - a midseason maturing, prime hard quality wheat
for the export market with improved stem and stripe rust resistance
compared with Miskle. Best suited for late April to late May
plantings. Released as a replacement for Miskle.
M3345 - a high yielding, stem, leaf and stripe rust resistant
feed grade wheat to be jointly released with NSW Agriculture in 1994.
Sunland (SUN155C) - a quick season, high yielding prime hard
quality wheat for the export market with different genes for stem and
leaf rust resistance. Best suited to late May to July plantings,
this cultivar is to be released in 1995.
Research: Protein composition in relation to wheat breeding:
(D.J. Mares and Z. Zhen). A new, simple extraction system and a one
step SDS-PAGE procedure allowing the complete separation of all high
molecular weight (HMW) and B group low molecular weight (LMW) glutenin
subunits was developed. These proteins account for a large part of
the variation in quality between cultivars. Prior to the development
of this new method the separation of these proteins required several
steps or multi-dimensional electrophoresis. As a consequence the new
method opens the way for large numbers of breeding lines to be
routinely and cheaply screened for quality-related grain storage
proteins at a very early stage in the breeding program. In addition
to its application in cultivar development the method facilitates the
characterisation of 1B/1R wheat/rye substitution and translocation
lines and the identification of the most common chromosome
substitution (2D(2R)) in substituted triticales.
Approximately 100 advanced breeding lines from the Sydney
University program, together with all wheat cultivars currently
recommended in Australia were characterised with respect to HMW and B
group LMW glutenin subunit composition and with respect to another
electrophoretic group of proteins consisting of C group glutenin
subunits and gliadins. The advanced lines were examined for a range
of quality attributes and placed in groups according to high molecular
weight subunit composition. Analysis of the data indicated that the
presence of HMW subunits 5+10 was associated with a significantly
longer mixing time than lines with the common alternate subunits 2+12.
Both sets of subunits are common in Australian germplasm, although
there has been a recent increase in the frequency of lines with 5+10
subunits which have been associated with better quality and strength.
In some populations the presence of 5+10 was also associated with a
significantly higher protein content. These observations were
confirmed in a study of sister lines from populations segregating for
the 5+10 and 2+12 alleles. Compared with cultivars in other wheat
producing countries, Australian wheats had a higher frequency of
reputedly good quality alleles at the Glu-B1 locus but this was
counterbalanced by the high frequency of subunits 2+12 at Glu-D1,
particularly in comparison with high quality Canadian and US wheats in
which subunits 5+10 predominate.
A population was developed from the parents Cook and Suneca,
which possess different Glu-1D and Glu-1B alleles and were
representative of the two main LMW glutenin patterns in Australian
wheats. The results confirmed the effects of subunits 5+10 on dough
mixing time and, in addition, showed that the LMW glutenins from
Suneca were associated with a significantly shorter dough mixing time
than those of Cook. These observations have important implications
for the development of high protein wheats with shorter mixing time
suitable for the Australian domestic market.
Studies of heterosis in bread wheat. (M.N. Nizam Uddin, F.W.
Ellison, L. O'Brien and B.D.H. Latter): A comprehensive study was
undertaken in north western NSW to investigate those aspects upon
which the decision to breed hybrids of pure lines is based. Hybrids
were evaluated along with their parents in replicated experiments sown
at three different planting times in each of two years and levels of
mid- and high-parent heterosis up to 31.5% and 26.8%, respectively,
were observed.
Hybrid versus parental performance and genotype x environment
analysis indicated the hybrids were marginally more stable than their
parents. The performance of hybrids replicated in a range of plot
types viz., spaced plants, hill plot and multi-row plots indicated
consistent ranking of performance across plot types with a reduced
level of heterosis in the multi-row plot compared with the other two
plot types. The yield of F6 and F7 pure lines developed by the single
seed descent procedure compared favourably with the hybrids from which
they were derived. These results indicated that sufficient levels of
heterosis are attainable to sustain a hybrid wheat breeding program.
However, the detection of pure lines comparable in yield to the hybrid
would suggest that the decision to breed or not to breed hybrids
depends more on commercial than scientific considerations.
Application of biochemical chromosome markers to wheat
improvement. (D.J. Mares and M. Barnes): The aim of this program is
to examine existing biochemical chromosome marker systems such as
isozymes, enzyme inhibitors, restriction fragment length polymorphisms
(RFLP's) for linkage to genes which are of considerable agronomic
importance but which are difficult to screen (e.g. recessive genes
which control grain dormancy/sprouting tolerance, and late maturity a-
amylase production) or which are masked by other genes (e.g. an
effective stem rust gene in an already resistant background). Systems
which show potential will be assessed for ease of use and any
limitations in applications.
Factors controlling the production of a-amylase in wheat during
the later stages of grain ripening. (D.J. Mares and K. Mrva): A
number of wheats developing unacceptably high levels of a-amylase
during the later stages of ripening in the absence of rain or pre-
harvest sprouting were identified. This phenomenon recently prevented
the release of some high yielding lines, with otherwise excellent
quality, from breeding programs in N.S.W., Victoria and Western
Australia. At least one W.A. line was released into commercial
cultivation before this problem was identified. There are also
confirmed reports of non-weathered grain samples from South Australia
in 1987 with very low falling numbers (high amylase). For some lines
the phenomenon occurs in all environments, albeit worse in some
seasons than others, whilst for other cultivars (e.g. the Victorian
line BD159 and the U.K. variety Huntsman and its derivatives) the
phenomenon occurs only occasionally. Such cultivars pose a
considerable threat to receival authorities (since there is no
physical evidence of the high amylase levels) and to markets which
utilise wheat for end products which are sensitive to higher than
normal levels to alpha-amylase.
--------------------
Agricultural Research Centre, Tamworth
R.A. Hare
Durum Wheat. The 1992 Australian durum wheat harvest increased to
80,000 tonnes. Record rainfall in South Australia resulted in high
grain yields however, continued rains before and during harvest caused
significant black point infection and pre-harvest weather damage.
Consequently there is a shortage of a good millable durum in Australia
this year. Domestic pasta sales (51,000 tonne in 1992) continue to
grow by 4% per annum, while imported pasta (14,000 tonnes) accounts
for 22% of the total market. A small export trade in pasta (4000
tonnes) is growing steadily, despite strong competition from Europe.
Australian pasta/semolina manufacturers have invested many
millions of dollars in new modern plant to capture the growing
domestic and overseas markets.
Durum Cultivar Improvement. The Tamworth based program will now
be recognised as the National Durum Wheat Improvement Program
following a detailed review of Australian grain crop improvement.
Significant expansion in the breeding/research activities is planned.
A new improved (quality) cultivar (Code No 880096) will be
released in 1993 as commercial acceptance is assured following the
completion of successful industrial processing trials in 1992. The
new cultivar is similar to Kamilaroi and Yallaroi in many respects
(agronomic/disease resistance) but has improved quality over the
previous cultivars (slightly higher grain protein content 0.5%,
bright clear yellow semolina/pasta, strong dough strength).
Tetraploid Research
Stem Rust. Our present understanding of the inheritance of stem
rust resistance in the tetraploid wheats and corresponding pathogen
virulence is rather limited especially outside North American
germplasm. As the majority of Australian durum germplasm is derived
from non-American sources, an investigation of this topic has been
commenced.
Protein Content. The pasta industry has called for a high
priority project to improve grain protein levels by 1%. Since the
genetic variability for grain protein in current breeding populations
is limited, additional diversity needs to be located. Twelve
accessions of Triticum dicoccoides selected for large grain size and
high protein content ( 18%) have been crossed to advanced durum lines
with the expectation that at least part of the high protein genetic
potential will be introduced into a commercial durum background. The
development of a series of RFLP linkage markers (group 1 chromosomes)
will facilitate the transfer of these protein genes. Within one F3
cross population, protein content in large seeded types has ranged
from 19% to 11%. Further experiments are being conducted to confirm
this variation.
--------------------
QUEENSLAND
QWRI Toowoomba, Australia
Brennan, P.S., Banks, P.M., Sheppard, J.A., Mason, L.R.,
Uebergang, R.W., Keys, P.J., Agius, P.J., Fiske, M.L.,
Ross, J.C., Hocroft, P.I., Haak, I.C. and Kammholz, S.
Dr Phillip Banks joined the QWRI wheat breeding group as a wheat
breeder after spending seven years with CSIRO in Canberra on the transfer
of barley yellow dwarf virus resistance from Thinopyron intermedium to
wheat. Dr Banks will run the midseason maturity wheat breeding program
and will set up and conduct of a laboratory for the routine screening of
breeding lines for molecular markers.
Jamie Ross replaces Graham Smith and will take responsibility for
early generation yield evaluation and will answer to Mr Sheppard.
Steven Kammholz joined the program to work on the recently funded
program to identify molecular and electrophoretic markers for the wheat
quality attributes flour yield, whiteness index, short dough development
time and long dough extensibility.
Breeding. Yield evaluation in Queensland was hampered by the
continuation of the drought which restricted our activities in 1991.
While most trials were successfully conducted, there has to be a
considerable concern about the predictive value of the data because of
the atypical conditions that prevailed.
There were widespread infections of crown rot. This disease has
increased in recent years which has been attributed to increased stubble
retention. This highlights the need to develop varieties with high
levels of resistance to this disease.
One variety, Houtman, was released in 1992. It has very high
yield
in central Queensland but has less than optimal dough extensibility. It
is recommended for cultivation in areas where the grower, because of
lower soil nitrogen, has a low probability of achieving higher protein
and, therefore, a maximum quality classification.
Four varieties will be considered for release in 1993:
QT4546: High yielding, short season, strong straw, prime hard
quality.
QT4639: Tolerant to the root lesion nematode, moderate crown rot
resistance, prime hard.
QT4636: Awnless Hartog with a functional level of yellow spot
resistance.
QT5648: Very quick maturing, high yielding, prime hard and a moderate
level of crown rot resistance.
Re-evaluation of our yield testing procedures have indicated that
the material coming through the QWRI program is more widely adapted than
that produced 10 years ago. This is seen as a strong endorsement of our
yield evaluation procedures and the classification procedures used to
devise this program. Details of this re-evaluation will be presented at
the 8th International Wheat Genetics Symposium in Beijing.
Other Research activities: A number of PCR markers unique to 2H
(the barley chromosome where the à-amylase inhibitor is located) have
been identified and these are being used to screen regenerants from
callus cultures of F1's containing a univalent of 2H and 42 wheat
chromosomes.
Single seed descent lines from three crosses involving the most
popular commercial variety Hartog and the weathering resistant lines
Transvaal, AUS1490 and Chile 59, were evaluated for weathering
resistance. Molecular marker profiles for these lines are being
generated.
A large number of wheats from many countries have been evaluated for
the target quality attributes (flour yield, whiteness index, short dough
development time and dough extensibility). Cultivars with high levels
of these attributes were identified and some have been crossed to Hartog.
Work to produce double haploid populations from these crosses will
commence in the near future using the maize pollen technique determined
by David Laurie (Cambridge Lab, Norwich).
--------------------
G.B. Wildermuth and R.B. McNamara
Severe crown rot in Queensland. Crown rot caused by Fusarium
graminearum Group 1 was widespread and severe throughout the wheat
growing area of Queensland in 1992. High levels of inoculum from
previously diseased crops and low rainfall during the growth of the crop
contributed to the high disease levels, high incidence of deadheads and
loss in yield. Both wheat and barley crops were severely affected by the
disease. In both wheat and barley the disease was so severe in some
crops that plants were killed before elongation was completed. High
levels of disease were found in all wheat and barley cultivars. However,
the high levels of disease in many crops of Batavia, a recently released
cultivar, were of concern.
Bread wheat, durum, triticale and rye cultivars and lines were tested
for susceptibility to crown rot in a field test. The bread wheat
cultivars and lines varied from being highly susceptible to partially
resistant, whereas all durum cultivars/lines were highly susceptible and
triticale and rye cultivars/lines were moderately susceptible. In some
paddocks where unexpected high levels of disease occurred in some bread
wheat cultivars, the previous crop had been a durum wheat. The high
inoculum levels in these paddocks is probably due to the high
susceptibility of durum wheats and the build-up of the disease under
those crops.
Eleven bread wheat lines which are in the final phases of yield
evaluation were tested for susceptibility to crown rot in a field test.
Three lines showed levels of partial resistance to the disease. Each of
the lines had Potam and Cook as parents. It is hoped that one or more
of these lines may be released as cultivars in the next 1 or 2 years.
Common root rot. Common root rot occurred in wheat and barley crops
throughout Queensland. Its presence was overshadowed by the severe
effects of crown rot. Incorporation of resistance to the disease is
occurring in association with Dr P. Brennan. Sources of resistance
include lines from Dr R.D. Tinline's program at Saskatoon. Three
backcrosses are made and resistant lines are being selected in the BC1F2,
BC1F3, BC3F2 and BC3F3 generations.
--------------------
R.G. Rees, P.S. Brennan and G.J. Platz
Resistance to Pyrenophora tritici-repentis. The 1991 drought
resulted in a relatively low carryover of wheat residues and inoculum of
P. tritici-repentis. Continuing dry conditions during 1992 further
contributed to generally low levels of tan (yellow) spot in Queensland
wheat crops.
Progress continues to be made with developing adapted wheats
resistant to P. tritici-repentis. An advanced Vicam/3*Hartog line,
QT5360, was included in evaluation trials for a third year in 1992 as
quality measurements in 1991 trials were not as good as in previous
years. A decision on this resistant line will be made in 1993.
Resistance sources used in 1992 included BR23, BR37 and PF8721. In
addition, adapted lines developed in the program are now being used as
donor sources of resistance. Recurrent parents are generally advanced
elite lines from the Queensland wheat breeding program.
Greg Platz has been examining the effects of intermittent wetting
and drying on infection with P. tritici-repentis. Drying for as little
as 1 hour after germination commences has been found to almost prevent
infection. This is being examined further.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM BRAZIL
Centro Nacional de Pesquisa de Trigo/EMBRAPA, Passo Fundo, RS
C.N.A. de Sousa*, E.P. Gomes, J.C.S. Moreira, J.F. Philipovski, L. de
J.A. Del Duca, P.L. Scheeren, and S.D. dos A. e Silva
New Brazilian wheat cultivars. Three new wheat cultivars from lines
produced by EMBRAPA (CNPT in Passo Fundo or UEPAE-Dourados in Dourados) were
released for cultivation in 1992. EMBRAPA cultivars are now coded as
EMBRAPA. Previously, EMBRAPA releases are coded as Trigo BR or CNT.
Between 1975 and 1991 10 CNT cultivars and 43 Trigo BR cultivars were
released.
EMBRAPA cultivars released in 1992.
===========================================================================
Cultivar Line Cross State*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
EMBRAPA 10-Guaj MS 21169-85 CNT 8*3/SONORA 64 MS
EMBRAPA 15 PF 85137 CNT 10/BR 5//PF 75172/ RS,SC
SEL TIFTON 72-59
EMBRAPA 16 PF 86238 HULHA NEGRA/CNT 7//AMIGO/ RS
CNT 7
===========================================================================
*MS = Mato Grosso do Sul; RS = Rio Grande do Sul; SC = Santa Catarina.
All these cultivars are spring type, awned, and mid-tall. EMBRAPA 15
and EMBRAPA 16 are tolerant while EMBRAPA 10 is susceptible to soil acidity
(aluminum toxicity). EMBRAPA 15 and EMBRAPA 16 are resistant to powdery
mildew (Erysiphe graminis tritici), to soilborne wheat mosaic virus, and to
all races of Puccinia graminis tritici found in Brazil. EMBRAPA 15 is also
resistant to all races of Puccinia recondita foundin Brazil. EMBRAPA 10 and
EMBRAPA 16 have a strong gluten.
--------------------
J.C.S. Moreira and C.N.A. de Sousa
1992 Wheat Cultivar Yield Trials in Passo Fundo. About 520 wheat
genotypes were tested in 20 yield trials in the National Research Center for
Wheat of EMBRAPA in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The process for
releasing a new cultivar in Rio Grande do Sul, the Southern State in Brazil,
was described in the 1986 Annual Wheat Newsletter 32:38-39.
Climatic conditions during the wheat cycle (June to November) were good
for the wheat development. Leaf rust and soilborne wheat mosaic virus
affected some genotypes. Yields were high and several lines yielded more
than 5000 kg/ha.
Trials were carried out in a rotation area (2 years without wheat) and
the fertilizer application was 12,5 kg/ha N, 63 kg/ha P2O5, 50 kg/ha K2O and
45 kg/ha N as top-dressing. No fungicide was applied. Checks used were BR
23, BR 35 and RS 8-Westphalen. BR 23 continues to be the main cultivar in
Rio Grande do Sul, occupying about 270,000 ha (56%) of the wheat growing
area in this state in 1992.
Cultivars have outstanding yield in some trials carried out in Passo,
as shown below:
===========================================================================
Cultivar Cross Yield(kg/ha)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cultivar State Trial
EMBRAPA 16 16HLN/CNT7//AMIGO/CNT7 4247
EMBRAPA 15 CNT 10/BR 5//PF 75172/SEL TIFTON 72-59 3891
BR 35 (best check) IAC 5*2/3/CNT 7*3/LD//IAC 5/HADDEN 3810
RS 8 (check) CNT 10/BURGAS 2//JACUI 3687
BR 43 PF 833007/JACUI 3617
Trial Mean 3201
South Brazilian Trial
PF 88566 AMIGO/JACUI//PF 7673/CANDIOTA 4238
PF 87103 SL 5200/PAT 7219//TIFTON 4052
PF 87107 ENC/PF 79768//PF 80284 3970
PF 869120 PF 83743//PF 83182/F 25716 3922
PF 88603 TIFTON SEL/PF 79763/3/N BOZU/3*LD//B 7908 3909
BR 35 (best check) IAC 5*2/3/CNT*3/LD//IAC 5/HADDEN 3859
Trial Mean 3710
Regional Yield Trial
Regional A
PF 891 CEP 14/PF 79782//CEP 14 4300
PF 84316 PF 7650/NS 18-78//CNT 8/PF 7577 4204
CEP 8966 CEP 14/CEP 82113//BR 14 4153
PF 89122 PF 839278/MNO 82//PF 839278/PF 79547 4106
PF 88600 ENC/PF 79768//PF 80284 4094
RS 8 (check) CNT 10/BURGAS 2//JACUI 3864
Trial Mean 3741
Regional B
PF 89230 COKER 762/2*PF 79547 4213
PF 89232 CI 14119/2*PF 8237 4182
PF 89292 PF 8515/PF 85271//PF 82252/BR 35 4157
PF 89166 ENC/PF 79768/PF 80284 4048
RS 8 (check) CNT 10/BURGAS 2//JACUI 4051
Trial Mean 3652
Multilocated Preliminar Trials (5 locals with lines in 2nd
year of test)
Lines that outyielded the check - 1st M.P.T.
PF 86242 HLN/CNT 7//AMIGO/CNT 7 4423
PF 889119 CEP 14 P/F 79782//CEP 14 4195
PF 86233 HLN/CNT 7//AMIGO/CNT 7 4168
BR 35 (check) IAC 5*2/3/CNT 7*3/LD//IAC 5/HADDEN 4057
2nd M.P.T.
PF 904 BR 35/PF 84386//AMIGO/BR 14 4240
BR 35 (check) IAC 5*2/3/CNT 7*3/LD//IAC 5/HADDEN 3897
Preliminary Trials (lst year trial)
Wheat Genotypes out of 308 lines yielding more than
5000 kg/ha and were superior to the checks
PF 9132 PF 83743/PF 85362 5993
PF 9157 BR 35/PF 85946/3/PF 772003*2/PF 813// 5915
PF 83899
PF 91116 PF 91191/PF 839278//BR 8/SULINO 5721
PF 9194 PF 853048/PF 843025 5404
PF 91141 PF 839020/PF 83743/3/BR14*3//LD*6/FB6628 5366
PF 9190 F 31645/4/ENC/PF79768//PF80284/3/PF85489 5171
PF 91215 PF 853048//BR 14*2/CI 17959 5112
PF 91594 BR 35*5//BR 14*2/LARGO 5112
PF 9189 F 31645/4/ENC/PF79768//PF80284/3/PF85489 5083
PF 91198 PF 82899/PF 813//F 27141 5010
17th ERCOS (South Cone Wheat Cultivar Yield Trial)
Cooperative trial organized in Argentina with wheat cultivars
from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
Best 6 cultivars in the trial.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cultivar Cross Origin kg/ha
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
MY 74 "S"/MON "S" Bolivia 4791
BR 23 (best check) CC/ALONDRA SIB/3/IAS
54-20/COP//CNT 8 Brazil 4529
ALD "S"/PVN "S" Bolivia 4381
BR 20-Guat BH 1146*3/ALONDRA SIB Brazil 4329
BR 37 MAZOE/F 13279//PELADO
MARAU Brazil 4281
BR 35 (check) IAC 5*2/3/CNT 7*3/LD//
IAC 5/HADDEN Brazil 4017
===========================================================================
--------------------
Centro Nacional de Pesquisa de Trigo - CNPT/EMBRAPA, Passo Fundo, RS
A. L. Barcellos
Effect of seed treatment with triadimenol on leaf rust in wheat flag
leaf. The objective of this research was to quantify the effect of seed
treatment with triadimenol (160 g/100 kg seeds) on leaf rust severity
(Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici) in wheat flag leaf. Traditionally this
fungicide is used on seeds to control powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis f.
sp. tritici). In research on the genetics of the adult plant resistance to
leaf rust, under greenhouse conditions, powdery mildew is undesirable.
Wheat plants grown from seeds with and without the fungicide were compared
concerning rust severity, during the spring of 1991 in the National Center
for Wheat Research at Passo Fundo. Flag leaves of 8 cultivars wee uniformly
inoculated with one isolate of Puccinia recondita to compare the fungicide
effect. From 43 to 79 days after seeding, while the flag leaf was fully
extended and no later than anthesis, approximately 14 days after the
inoculation, the severity was assessed. Reduction on the rust severity was
detected for 67% of the flag leaves of the plants which seeds had been
treated with triadimenol. This reduction ranged from 3.5 to 100% and was
observed on early and susceptible plants (cv. IAC 13) as well as on late
plants with adult plant resistance (cv. Toropi). It can be concluded that
triadimenol applied to the seeds reduce the leaf rust on the flag leaf and
is not an appropriate chemical to control powdery mildew in adult plant
research.
Ph.D. thesis supplemental investigation, Universidade Federal do Rio
Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
--------------------
EMBRAPA/Dourados, MS
A. C. P. Goulart and F. de A. Paiva
Control of wheat stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) by
fungicide spraying, 1991. The objective of this experiment was to select
fungicides for the control of wheat stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f.
sp. tritici. The experiment was conducted under field conditions, at the
Experimental Station of EMBRAPA, Dourados, during 1991. Wheat, cv. BR 18-
Terena, was sown on July 3, 91 in 11-row plots (2.2 x 7.0 m) arranged in a
randomized complete block with 11 treatments with four replications.
Fertilization consisted of 240 kg/ha of 4-30-10 (N-P-K) applied at planting.
Fungicides were applied with a CO2 pressurized sprayer (rate of flow - 240
1/ha). Two sprayings were made, the first of Zadoks' growth stage 54 and
the second at stage 68. Plots were harvested on Sept. 27. Treatments were
(g.a.i./ha):mancozed (2,000); diniconazole (75); flusilazole (125);
prochloraz (450); flutriafol (94 and 125); propiconazole (125); tebuconazole
(187.5); cyproconazole (20 and 30) and untreated control.
Stem rust was better controlled with tebuconazole and propiconazole, 98
and 96% of effective control respectively, followed by cyproconazole 30
(92%), flutriafol 125 (88%) and diniconazole (88%). Prochloraz and mancozeb
were the least efficient treatments, with less than 70% effective control.
All treatments increased yield, with distinction to tebuconazole (increase
of 106.5%) and propiconazole (103.5%). All treatments improved test and
kernel weights. A highly significant negative correlation (r=-0.65) was
obtained between infection and yield.
Evaluation of fungicides for control of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.
blast (Pyricularia grisea), 1991. The aim of this work was to select
fungicides for control of wheat blast (Pyricularia grisea). The experiment
was carried out under field conditions, during 1991, at Itapora county,
State of Mato Grosso do Sul, using the Anahuac cultivar. The plots were
planted April 17 and harvested August 9, using a randomized complete block
design of eight treatments and four replications. The field was fertilized
at the time of planting with N4+P30-K10, at the rate of 240 kb/ha. Three
sprayings of fungicides were applied with CO2 pressurized sprayer (flow rate
= 240 1/ha). The first at Zadoks growth stage 54 and the others at 12 day
intervals. The evaluation was done by calculating the percentage of blasted
heads. The treatments were (g.a.i./ha): mancozeb (2,000); methyl
thiophanate + mancozeb (350 + 1,600); triphenyl tin acetate + mancozeb (88 +
1,248); tricyclazole (255); tebuconazole (250); prochloraz (450);
flusilazole (125) and unsprayed control.
The fungicides tricyclazole (39% effective control), tebuconazole
(32%), mancozeb (28%) and methyl thiophanate + mancozeb (27%) for the
control of wheat blast. These results show low efficiency of the tested
fungicides for blast control however, fungicide treatments increased yield
above the unsprayed control, with distinction to tricyclazole (35.5%
increase) and tebuconazole (29.8%). Improved and kernel test weights were
obtained with all fungicide treatments. A highly significant negative
correlation coefficient (r=-0.51) was obtained between spikes infected by P.
grisea and yield.
Evaluation of fungicides for the control of brown spot
(Helminthosporium sativum) in wheat, 1991. The aim of this work was to
evaluate the efficiency of several fungicides in the control of wheat brown
spot, their effect on yield, kernel weight, test weight and on incidence of
Helminthosporium sativum in harvested seeds. The experiment was carried out
under field conditions, during 1991, at EMBRAPA, Dourados, Mato Grosso do
Sul State. The cultivar IAPAR 6-Tapejara was planted in 11-row plots (2.2 x
7.0 m) April 17, using a randomized complete block design with 11 treatments
and four replications. The field was fertilized with 240 kg/ha of 4-30-10
(N-P-K) applied at planting. The plots were harvested on August 7, 1991.
Fungicides were twice applied with CO2 pressurized sprayer and the flow rate
was adjusted to 240 1/ha. The first application was at growth stage 54 and
the second at stage 68 (Zadock's scale). The treatments were (g.a.i./ha):
mancozeb (2,000); diniconazole (75); flusilazole (125); prochloraz (450);
flutriafol (94 and 125); propiconazole (125); tebuconazole (187.5);
cyproconazole (20 and 30) and untreated control.
Propiconazole and tebuconazole gave best control of brown spot, both
with control efficiency of 92% Next best were flutriafol 125 (88% of
control efficiency), flusilazole (85%) and prochloraz (81%). The least
effective fungicides were cyproconazole 20 and 30, with less than 54% of
control. The best yield results were obtained with tebuconazole and
propiconazole, with increases of 35.2 and 38.3%, respectively. Test kernel
weights were increased by all chemicals. The incidence of H. sativum on
harvested seeds was reduced with fungicide sprayings with the best results
from tebuconazole, propiconazole and flutriafol. A negative and relatively
low (r=-0.46) correlation coefficient was found for brown spot incidence and
yield.
Associated fungi with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seeds produced in
mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil, 1991. Samples of wheat seeds of several
cultivars, from seven counties (Dourados, Itapora, Rio Brilhante, Amambai,
Maracaju, Ponta Pora and Aral Moreira) were analyzed in the Plant Pathology
Lab at EMBRAPA, Dourados, to determine the fungi incidence in wheat seeds
produced in Mato Grosso do Sul State, during 1991. A total of 498 samples
from 23 cultivars were analyzed. The sanity of wheat seeds was determined
using the blotter test, without pretreatment. Samples of 200 seeds were
placed into germboxes containing three layers of filter paper previously
sterilized and soaked in 0.02% 2,4-D solution and incubated for 7 days at
22-24 in cycles of 12 hours darkness and 12 hours light (day and NUV
lights). Each seed was examined under a stereoscopic microscope and the
incidence of each fungus was recorded.
Twenty-four genera of fungi were detected. The most prevalent,
detected in 100% of the analyzed samples, was Helminthosporium sativum,
followed by Aspergillus sp. (92.2%), Penicillium sp. (68.1%), Alternaria
tenuis (60.1%), Rhizopus stolonifer (51.0%), Phoma sp. (47.9%), Culvularia
lunata (42.3%), Fusarium spp. (42.1%) and Cladosporium sp. (41.5%).
Pyricularia grisea was registered in 15.9% of the samples, at relatively low
levels. The storage fungi (Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp.) were
detected at relatively high levels. The results showed that H. sativum was
the most important fungus associated with wheat seeds produced in Mato Mato
Grosso do Sul State, with an average incidence of 38%.
Efficiency of chemical treatment of wheat seeds on the control of
Pyricularia grisea and Helminthosporium sativum, 1991. The objective of
this research was to evaluate the efficiency of several fungicides applied
as seed dressing for the control of Pyricularia grisea and Helminthosporium
sativum. Lab (blotter) and field tests were performed, using seeds of the
wheat cultivar Anahuac with 16% and 65.5% of natural contamination with P.
grisea and H. sativum, respectively. Seed treatments were applied just
prior to planting by shaking seeds and chemicals in erlenmeyers. In
laboratory experiments, 10 replications of 20 seeds/treatment were placed
into germboxes (20 seeds/germbox) and maintained for 7 days at 22-24 C in
cycles of 12 hours darkness and 12 hours light (day and NUV lights). Each
seed was evaluated and the incidence of both pathogens was recorded. In the
field, plots were seeded April 22 using a randomized complete block design
consisting of 17 treatments and 4 replications. Plots were composed of six
rows x 1.5 m with a row spacing of 0.2 m and fertilized with 240 kg/ha of 4-
30-10 (NPK) at planting. Percentage field emergency and disease were
recorded 2 and 3 weeks after planting. The treatments were (g.a.i./100 kg
of seeds): carboxin + thiram (94 + 95); iprodione + thiram (50 + 150);
iprodione + car bendazim (52.5 + 26.2_; triflumizole + methyl thiophanate
(30 + 90); guazatine + imazalil (60 + 4); thiram (210); prochloraz (50);
flutriafol (7.5); diniconazole (8); pyroquilon (125); difenoconazole (30);
triflumizole (45); iminoctadeine (62.5); triadimenol (40); tebuconazole +
thiram j(4.5 + 150); tebuconazole (5) and control.
All chemical treatments reduced the incidence of both pathogens in lab
(blotter) test. P. grisea was eradicated when the seeds were treated with
iprodione + thiram, iprodione + carbendazin, triflumizole + methyl
thiophanate, guazatine + imazalil and iminoctadine. Carboxin + thiram,
triflumizole and prochloraz were less efficient. Seed transmission of P.
grisea was detected in the field in seedlings coming from the following
treatments: control, prochloraz, flutriafol, tebuconazole, tebuconazole +
thiram, pyroquilon and thiram, which showed, respectively, 4.5, 1.9, 1.8,
1.8, 1.8, 1.6 and 1.3% of seedlings with P. oryzae. The best control of
Helminthosporium sativum in the seeds was obtained with guazatine +
imazalil, followed by iminoctadein and triflumizole. Iprodione + thiram and
triflumizole + methyl thiophanate gave a good control of this pathogen. No
treatment completely eradicated the fungus from the seeds. In the field,
difenoconazole, guazatine + imazalil, iminoctadine, triflumizole, iprodione
+ thiram, flutriafol, triadimenol and triflumizole + methyl thiophanate were
the best in controlling the transmission of H. sativum. Significant
differences in emergence and yield due to fungicide treatments were observed
in the test.
Losses in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) caused by Pyricularia grisea.
Yield losses due to Pyricularia grisea infection regardless of the effects
of other diseases, under natural conditions and without fungicide sprayings,
were determined during the 1988, 1989 and 1990 growing seasons for the cv.
Anahuac. Commercial fields and experimental plots at Rio Brilhante, Dourados
and Itapora counties were used. The losses were determined using the
following formulas:
GWHS
PY = NHS x NTS PY = Potential yield
GWHS = Grain weight of healthy spikes/m2
NHS = Number of healthy spikes/m2
NTS = Total number of spikes/m2
AY = GWHS + GWIS AY = Actual yield
GWHS = Grain weight of healthy spikes/m2
GWIS = Grain weight of infected spikes/m2
L = PY - AY L = Losses
In 1988 and 1989, at Rio Brilhante, yield losses were 10.5% of the
estimated yield. An average of 48% white spikes was observed. In 1990, at
/Dourados, losses were greater than those recorded in 1988 and 1989,
reaching 40% of the estimated yield, with the 93% average incidence of white
spikes. In the same year at Itapora losses were 32% with 86% white heads.
In the three years, the spike weight loss caused by early infection was
greater (48%) than with late (24%), regardless of locality. It was observed
that grains below the infection point in the rachis were larger than the
normal ones, thus compensating to some extent for presence of empty
spikelets. Because white spikes were more visible, disease incidence may be
over estimated.
Table 1. Percentage of infected spikes and losses caused by
Pyricularia grisea in wheat, cv. Anahuac, at Rio Brilhante, Dourados and
Itapora counties, MS, in 1988, 1989 and 1990.
==========================================================================
% Loss
County Year infected spikes Kg/ha %
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rio Brilhante1 1988 51 274 11
Bio Brilhante2 1989 45 270 10
Dourados3 1990 93 892 40
Itapora4 1990 86 1,034 32
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
1Average of 2 replications 2Average of 3 replications
3Average of 6 replications 4Average of 5 replications
Table 2. Grain weight/spike and losses in relation to healthy spikes, in
wheat, cv. Anahuac, at Rio Brilhante, Dourados and Itapora counties, MS, in
1988, 1989 and 1990
============================================================================
Grain weight/spike (g) % loss
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Early Late Early Late
Country Year Healthy infection infect. infect. infect.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rio Brilhante1 1988 0.77 0.56 0.66 27 14
Rio Brilhante2 1989 0.96 0.50 0.78 47 18
Dourados3 1990 0.77 0.31 0.31 59 27
Itapora4 1990 1.30 0.53 0.55 60 38
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1Average of 2 replications 2Average of 3 replications
3Average of 6 replications 4Average of 5 replications
Response of wheat cultivars and breeding lines to blast (Pyricularia
grisea) under field conditions, 1991. The objective was to evaluate the
response of several wheat cultivars and breeding lines to blast (Pyricularia
grisea) under field conditions. This experiment was carried out at Itapora
County, Mato Grosso do Sul State. The experiment was seeded April 23, in
five-row plots (1.0 x 5.0 m) and the fertilized with 240 kg/ha of 4-30-10
(NPK) at planting. In laboratory evaluations only spikes that showed
characteristic blast symptoms (infection black point in the rachis) were
considered infected. Cultivars and breeding lines were classified using the
following scale based on percentage of spikes with blast symptoms:
R (resistant) = 1 to 5% MR (moderately resistant) = 6 to 25%
MS (moderately susceptible) = 26 to 50% S (susceptible) = 51 to 75%
HS (highly susceptible) = more than 75%
The results obtained showed different behavior among cultivars and
breeding lines tested (Tables 1 and 2).
Only cv. BH 1146 was considered resistant (R), with 4.5% blanched
spikes. Cultivars BR 18-Terena, BR 21-Nhandeva and BR 40-Tuiuca were
moderately resistant, with 8.2; 17.2 and 24.6T, respectively, of blasted
spikes. Cultivars BR 29-Juvae, BR 20-Guato, BR 30-Cadiueu and IAC 18-
Xavantes were moderately susceptible (MS) and cultivars that showed
susceptible (S) behavior were BR 36-Ianomami, BR 41-Ofaie, IAC 5-Maringa, BR
17-Caiua and BR 11-Guarani. Highly susceptible (HS), cultivars exceeding
76% blanched spikes were: IPAR 29-Cacatu, IAPAR 28-Igapo, IAPAR 6-Tapejara,
IAPAR 17-Caete, Anahuac, IAC 13-Lorena, BR 31-Miriti and INIA 66.
The highest yields were produced by BR 40-Tuiuca, BR 18-Terena,
followed by BR 36-Ianomami, IAPAR 29-Cacatu and BR-17 Caiua. Although BH
1146 was the most resistant (R), its yield was lower than cultivars rated
MR, MS and S. Lodging observed in BH 1146 plots may explain this
difference. The cultivars classified as HS showed lowest yields with P.
grisea and yield. A significant negative correlation (r = -0.53) was found
for P. Grisea infection and yield.
No breeding line was resistant (R). Only breeding lines UEE-PJN, MS
1132-87 and cultivars OCEPAR 16, BR 42, SERI 82, OCEPAR 14 and GEN were
considered MR. The higher yields were obtained with UEE-PJN and SERI 82,
with 548.00 and 522.56 g/plot. OCEPAR 16, BR 42, OCEPAR14, IAPAR 47, BR 37
and Jupateco 73 were used as controls.
Table 1. Percentage of blanched spikes (Pyricularia grisea) resistance
rating and yield of wheat. EMBRAPA, Dourados, MS. 1991
========================================================================
Blanched Resistance Yield(c)
Cultivar spikes(a) (%) rating(b) (kg/ha)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
BH 1146 4.5g R 2.179 bcd
BR 18-Terena 8.2 fg MR 2.425 b
BR 21-Nhandeva 17.2 ef MR 2.71 bcd
BR 40-Tuiuca 24.6 e MR 2.856 a
BR 29-Havae 42.2 MS 2.090 cdef
BR 20-Guato 46.8 cd MS 1.799 fgh
BR 30-Cadiueu 47.0 MS 2.180 bcd
IAC 18-Xavantes 49.0 cd MS 1.751 gh
BR 36-Ianomami 53.1 cd S 2.300 bc
BR 41-Ofaie 60.4 bcd S 2.127 bcde
IAC 5-Maringa 60.6 bcd S 1.853 defgh
BR 17-Caiua 63.5 bc S 2.188 bc
BR 11-Guarani 64.4 bc S 2.120 bcdef
IAPAR 29-Cacatu 76.8 b HS 2.220 bc
IAPAR 28-Igapo 85.2 HS 1.845 efgh
IAPAR 6-Tapejara 90.0 HS 1.578 h
IAPAR 17-CAETE 90.9 a HS 1.758 gh
Anahuac 90.9 a HS 1.831 efgh
IAC 13-Lorena 92.3 a HS 1.567 h
BR 31-Miriti 93.2 a HS 2.004 cdefg
INIA 66 96.1 a HS 1.593 h
----------------------------------------------------------------------
MEAN 59.85 - 2.020.45
C.V.(%) 13.72 - 9.91
----------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Transformation used: arc sine x/100
(b) R = resistant; MR = moderately resistant; MS = moderately susceptible;
S = susceptible; HS = highly susceptible.
(c) Means followed by the same letter are not signficantly different
(Duncan, 5%).
Table 2. Percentage of blanched spikes (Pyricularia grisea), resistance
rating and yield of wheat. EMBRAPA, Dourados, MS. 1991.
========================================================================
UEE-PJN 10.7 j MR 548.00
MS 1132-87 11.0 j MR 417.89
OCEPAR 16 (cv) 13.7 j MR 433.94
BR 42-Nambiquara (cv) 14.0 j MR 371.61
SERI 82 18.6 i MR 522.56
OCEPAR 14 (cv) 21.3 hi MR 317.44
GEN 23.0 gh MR 467.12
BT 501 27.0 g MS 313.34
MS 1012-87 42.7 f MS 401.01
PF 86525 49.3 e MS 308.43
MS 3187 53.3 e S 363.66
IAPAR 47 (cv) 67.7 S 332.31
MS 5587 73.7 S 351.69
MS 2-87 76.0 HS 308.90
BR 37 (cv) 80.0 b HS 223.12
Jupateco 73 (cv) 95.0 HS 288.47
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
MEAN 42.31 - 373.72
C.V. (%) 5.42 - -
========================================================================
(a) Transformation used: arc sen x/100.
(b) R = resistant; MR = moderately resistant; MS = moderately susceptible;
S = susceptible; HS = highly susceptible.
(c) Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different
(Duncan, 5%).
--------------------
L.J.A. Del Duca*
Small Grain Yield Trials in Anticipated (Early) Sowing In order to
identify wheat genotypes adapted to early sowing, 4 trials comprising 93
wheat cultivars and lines and one cultivar each of triticale, rye, and
barley were tested at the National Research Center for Wheat of EMBRAPA, in
Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, during 1992. Knowledge of early maturing
wheats could provide a valuable alternative for the Brazilian southern
region (states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and southern - Center
of Paran ) to reduce soil losses caused by erosion as well as to minimize
nutrient losses as a result of better soil covering after soybean harvest
(March-April) and before planting winter crops (from June onwards in most
areas). Furthermore, theoretically it could increase grain yield potential
due to better crop development (increased root development and best
agronomic type). Additionally, such technology could reduce grain yield
losses through greater stability in crop production, due to the
diversification of cultivars and sowing periods.
Outstanding cultivars and lines in the four different trials (TP 1 to
4) yielding higher than the best check (RS 8) are detailed in Table 1.
Additional data regarding rye, barley and triticale varieties and BR 23
(another wheat check) are also listed.
===========================================================================
Line/ Yield % RS 8 Height
Trial Cultivar Cross (kg/ha) (check) (cm) Flowering
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
TP-1 COKER 80.33 - 4256 109 95 Sep, 14
TP-1 FL 301 - 4204 107 110 Sep, 11
TP-1 FL 303 - 4056 104 90 Sep, 4th
TP-1 EMB 16 HULHA NEGRA/CNT 7// 3992 102 110 Sep, 4th
AMIGO/CNT 7
TP-1 IPF 55204 FL 301/COKER 762 3981 102 80 Sep, 14
TP-2 PF 87128 TIFTON SEL/PF 79763/ 4411 126 105 Sep, 4th
3/N BOZU/3*LD//B 7908
TP-2 PF 86247 HULHA NEGRA/CNT 7// 4318 124 115 Sep, 9th
AMIGO/CNT 7
TP-2 PF 87451 COKER 762/BR 14 4030 115 80 Sep, 14
TP-2 PF 86245 HULHA NEGRA/CNT 7// 3989 109 110 Sep, 8th
AMIGO/CNT 7
TP-2 PF 87158 TIFTON SEL/PF 7668// 3744 107 115 Sep, 14
JACUI/PF 79583
TP-2 PF 87338 COKER 762/CEP 14 3726 106 90 Sep, 4th
TP-2 PF 8945 PF 839197/F 22449 3681 105 100 Aug, 28
TP-2 PF 87163 CNT 9/TIFTON SEL//PF 3607 103 100 Sep, 4th
7658/IAS 20
TP-3 PF 89131 PF 7815/LAP 689//PF 4663 112 115 Sep, 14
7815/PF 80278/3/PF
813019
TP-3 PF 87452 COKER 762/BR 14 4556 109 90 Sep, 9th
TP-3 PF 88708 COKER 762/BR 14 4544 109 80 Sep, 4th
TP-3 PF 89111 CEP 14//ALD SIB/3*
JACUI/3/UM 75 R
27-1//JACUI
TP-3 PF 88512 LAP 689/2*CNT 10//PF 4278 103 90 Sep, 4th
79777
============================================================================
Line/ Yield % RS 8 Height
Trial Cultivar Cross (kg/ha) (check) (cm) Flowering
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
TP-4 TCL BR 4 (TRITICALE) 4904 125 80 Aug,28
TP-4 PF 89224 IAC 5*6/AGENT//CEP 4181 106 110 Sep,14
7780/3/PF 839278
TP-4 PF 89191 PF 79547/MNO 82 4063 103 105 Sep, 9th
TP-1 CENTEIO BR 1 (RYE) 2674 68 140 Sep, 4th
TP-1 MN 599 (BARLEY) 2315 59 85 Sep, 8th
TP-1 BR 23 CC/ALD SIB/3/IAS 54- 3630 93 95 Sep, 4th
20/COP//CNT 8
============================================================================
--------------------
L.J.A. Del Duca*, J.F. Philipovsky*, E.M. Guarienti*, C.N.A. de Sousa,
P.L. Scheeren
Breeding Activities Aiming at Alternative Wheat Ecoideotype for
Southern Brazil - Considerations regarding potential use of an alternative
wheat ecoideotype were described previously in the 1992 Annual Wheat
Newsletter, 38:72. This ideotype particularly adapted to early sowing, with
a long vegetative phase and a short reproductive phase could: a) reduce soil
erosion and nutrient leaching; b) increase grain yield potential due to
better crop establishment, and enhancement of nitrogen absorption, resulting
from extending the vegetative phase; c) escape from frost damage at
flowering; d) fit the wheat-soybean crop system; e) provide greater crop
stability due to the diversification of cultivars and periods of sowing.
To reach the goals of disease resistance and good breadmaking quality,
crosses were made in 1992. For this purpose, 282 populations (F1 to F6
generations) were planted at a low seed rate and selected for resistance to
prevalent diseases, agronomic type and the conceived ecoideotype. In order
to simplify the selection procedure for the conceived cycle, 92 populations
(F2 to F7 generations) were seeded under a normal seed rate with clipping of
the plants that flowered up to September 15. We admit that frost risks
after September 15-20 are greatly reduced under Passo Fundo conditions. As
a higher breadmaking quality standard wheat is required by the industry,
selections based on the sedimentation test were performed.
Plots derived form 429 single plants selected in 1991 were seeded under
low seed rate and selected for the above-mentioned characteristics. Certain
crosses involving germplasm from the southeast areas of the USA (lines from
University of Georgia, Florida 301, Coker 762, Coker 80.12 and Coker 80.33),
EMBRAPA lines and cultivars (PF 79547, PF 84410, PF 8569, PF 869107, PF
869120, PF 87107, PF 87451, PF 89261, PF 89263, CNT 8, EMBRAPA 16, BR 14, BR
23, BR 27, BR 35) and others like Hulha Negra, CEP 14, Century, Oasis,
Sullivan, Vezhen, and Klein Chamaco were outstanding.
--------------------
Pedro Luiz Scheeren, Leo de J.A. Del Duca, Cantidio N.A. de Sousa,
Sergio D. dos A. e Silva and Edar Peixoto Gomes
Frost Tolerance in Wheats - The objective of the present project,
initiated in 1980 at the National Research Center for Wheat, Passo Fundo,
RS, was to assess damage caused by frost. Initially, differences in frost
tolerance were observed in some cultivars, evidencing the possibility of
selecting for that trait. Hundreds of lines and cultivars were then
evaluated.
Tests were carried out in growth chambers and in the field, and notes
on plant reaction to leaf damage, spike damage spike fertility, stem damage
(strangling), and relative yield reduction were taken.
In tests previously conducted in growth chambers, the following
cultivars showed higher tolerance: Kite (Australian); Erithrosperum 74,
Buriatskaja 79, Karagandinskaja 2, Karasnodarskaja 57, and Taieznaja
(Russian); CNT 1, CNT 8, CEP 19, and CEP 21 (Brazilian). In addition to
these cultivars, lines PF 87451, PF 87452, and PF 84455, selected in Passo
Fundo in anticipated sowings for tolerance to frost, also deserve to be
mentioned. On the other hand, cultivars IAC 5-Maring and BR 35 showed
higher susceptibility to frost.
In field tests using anticipated sowing, in an attempt to match wheat
flowering date with the occurrence of heavier frosts, it was observed that
among assessed genotypes none showed tolerance to frost, resulting in
shriveled, or simply undeveloped, grains.
It was possible to distinguish a number of genotypes for leaf and stem
damage. Lines PF 87451 and PF 87452, as well as cultivar Coker 8033, showed
more tolerance to leaf damage, whereas BR 35 and IAC 5-Maring showed high
percentages of leaf and stem damage, thus confirming test results under
controlled conditions. Additionally, some genotypes have higher tillering
capacity also showed a better grain yield recovery capacity.
Therefore, considering the many years of research activity, it seems
extremely difficult to succeed in obtaining either tolerance or resistance
to frost, when frost occurs at flowering or the beginning of grain
formation.
--------------------
O. S. Rosa*, O. s. Rosa Filho and A. C. Rosa
OR Melhoramento de Sementes Ltda (OR Seed Breeding Co), Passo Fundo, RS
We began the first crosses of our Wheat Breeding Program in 1987
winter. After 6 years of crosses, selections and introductions were
possible last year to make our first yield evaluation in the wheat region of
Rio Grande do Sul and Southern Parana States.
Looking for lines with good lodging resistance, high yield potential,
tolerance to diseases and improved industrial quality it was possible to
select lines which yield 6,500 kg/ha. At Passo Fundo, the most important
diseases of 1992 were soilborne mosaic virus, glume blotch, mildew and scab.
We are also developing a wheat program for warmer areas, located north
of parallel 24. Our greater yields were around 4,000 kg/ha, at Londrina,
Parana. In this region, the main diseases in 1992 were mildew, bacteria,
Helminthosporium sativum, a new race of leaf rust effective for Anahuac 75
(the main cultivar) and Piricularia oryzae. Continuous rains at harvest
resulted in spouting damage.
--------------------
O. S. Rosa
Theory about the origin of the durable leaf rust resistance of the
Brazilian wheat varieties. In many countries the adult plant resistance of
the Brazilian variety Frontana (Lr344+Lr13+LrT3) is being used with very
good results. In Brazil the cross of Frontana (Fronteira/Mentana) was made
in 1930 and the variety was released in 1942. At the present time, all
Brazilian cultivars with durable leaf rust resistance probably have this
type of resistance.
How this kind of resistance was selected? The mentioned resistance is
linked with resistance to stripe rust and the first selections were made for
stripe rust. Our former breeders looking for plants with resistance to
yellow rust selected together with leaf rust adult plant resistance. Our
theory is based on the following points:
1. During the beginning of this century, wheat production in South of
Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina was relatively good.
2. The first improved varieties used in South of Brazil named Artigas
and Larranaga came from Uruguay and Argentina. After good results, by the
year of 1927, a new problem - the yellow rust - destroyed all the fields of
these varieties and the wheat production in the South Cone of South America.
3. During this period it was possible to identify lines with good
resistance to stripe rust. The lines were called `Alfredo Chaves 1-20',
selected at the Veranopolis Experimental Station from land races used by
farmers in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil.
4. Using this kind of resistance made it possible to release yellow
rust resistance varieties in Argentina (Klein Acero, Klein 32), in uruguay
(Renascimiento, Porvenir and Centenario) and in Brazil (Nordeste, Farrapo,
Fronteira).
5. Since then, stripe rust is not a problem in this big region. It is
practically impossible to select for this disease because it is, nowadays,
only a curiosity on a few introduced varieties in cold years.
6. We have ecological conditions for occurrence of stripe rust in our
region. One year after the release of the variety Tifton (introduced from
USA-1970/80) the farmers had to apply fungicides to control stripe rust on
the fields of this variety. Brazilian varieties, at the same fields, had no
symptoms of the disease.
7. If we think about what happened 50 years earlier, it is possible to
conclude that it was easier to select drastic differences caused by Puccinia
striformis than quantitative differences at adult plant stage, due to
Puccinia recondita infection.
8. The information from Australia (Wheat Newsletter 38, p. 56) about
the `close genetic association of Lr34 and Yr18' gave us the first
scientific confirmation of our theory. Similarly, other Yr genes are
probably linked to other Lr genes, as Lr13, LrT3 etc. These genes in
combination are responsible for the durable and effective leaf rust control.
Fifty years of effective resistance, in this region, conditioned by Yr
genes is a very good indication for the breeders and phytopathologists from
other regions where yellow rust remains as a very important disease.
Possibly in areas with colder temperatures, this kind of resistance may be
less effective than in our ecological conditions, where it's important to
select for yellow rust as it's a mere curiosity today.
Publications
M. de Cunto, E. R. Cramer and D. V. Salgado. 1956. Estudos sobre o Trigo.
Servico de Alimentacao da Previdencia Social. p. 105-149.
--------------------
O. S. Rosa, C. E. de O. Camargo, S. Rajaram and A. C. A. Zanatta
Productivity of aluminum tolerant wheat. Aluminum tolerance linked to
limited wheat productivity has been affirmed by many breeders. Such
statement was based on results of some breeding programs relating progress
on Al tolerance with limitation on yield potential. In order to provide
further enlightenment on this question during the period that the first
author was working in EMBRAPA, Al tolerance was incorporated into cultivars
with known yield potential. Higher level of tolerance to Al in the soil was
incorporated, through back crossing method, into Jupateco 73 and Trigo BR-12
Aruana, wheat cultivars bred in Mexico, at CIMMYT. Seven and six lines
derived respectively from BR-12 and Jupateco 73 as recurrent parents were
evaluated for Al tolerance, in nutrient solution (IAC-Campinas/SP) as well
as under field and screen house conditions (EMBRAPA - Passo Fundo/RS). The
productivity of these lines was evaluated in irrigated trials, with
fungicide treatment, in soil without Al toxicity (Tatui, SP/Brazil and
Ciudad Obregon, Son./Mexico). In general, the lines yielded at least as
much as the respective recurrent parent cultivars. At Ciudad Obregon, all
lines yielded more than 6 t/ha, yielding equally or exceeding the recurrent
cultivars. The most productive lines reached 7.6 t/ha. The results
indicated that Al tolerance is not linked with low grain yield in wheat
germplasm. An article about this research was sent for publication in
Pesquisaq Agropecuaria Brasileira, August 1992.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM BULGARIA
K. Malkov, Institute of Introduction and Plant Genetic Resources, 4122
Sadova-Plovdiv
V. Vassilev
Estimation of quantitative wheat resistance to facultative
pathogenic microorganisms in the ear, using infectivity titration.
Pseudomonas syringae pv.atrofaciens (PSA) and Fusarium culmorum (FC)
cause bacterial glume rot and fusarial head blight of wheat ear,
respectively. In some years, they develop epiphitotically, reduce
significantly the yield, and deteriorate the grain production quality
in Bulgaria.
The PSA and FC inoculation was made by the methods of Vassilev et al.
(1990). Plants with PSA lesions out of the spot of inoculation were
considered as susceptible, and those with local necrosis only on the site of
injection or without any symptoms - as resistant. The median effective
dose (MED) at which 50% of the inoculated plants had a susceptible
response, was calculated by the method of moving averages. The median
effective dose at which 50% of the spikelets were blighted by FC, was
calculated by the regression analysis. The quantitative evaluation of
wheat resistance to the corresponding facultative pathogens was made by
comparing their MED.
The methods applied in wheat-PSA and wheat-FC systems allowed us to
estimate the resistance of the lines and cultivars precisely. Their
rating coincides with the responses to the PSA and FC at a slight, moderate
and severe natural attack by each of the pathogen in the field. These
methods allow the check of a sufficient number of accessions in all links of
the breeding process.
Sadovo 1, Sadovo super, Momchil, Pobeda and Katya are widely
extended in wheat production in Bulgaria (about 40% of the sown area) and
possess resistance to PSA. Some of them (Sadovo 1, Sadovo super and
Pobeda) were partially resistant to FC, but their resistance were quite
different than the top resistant cultivars (Sumai 3, Shanghai 3, Nanging
7840 and Nobeoka Bozu). Nobeoka Bozu and Shanghai 3 had complex resistance
to both pathogens.
PUBLICATIONS
Boyadjiev P. & Vassilev V. 1991. Influence of syringomycin on
differentiation of androgenic cultures in rice. International rice research
newsletter 16(1): 5.
Boyadjiev P., Vassilev V., Kabadjova D. & Ivanova E. 1991.
Influence of syringomycin on the differentiation and regeneration of wheat
callus culture. In Proceedings of the 4th International working group on
Pseudomonas syringae pathovars. Florence, Italy, 10-13 June 1991, 131-135.
Vassilev V., von Kietzell J., Toben H., Mavridis A. & Rudolph K. 1991.
Studies on wheat-Pseudomonas syringae interactions. In Proceedings of
the 4th International working group on Pseudomonas syringae pathovars.
Florence, Italy, 10-13 June 1991, 109-116.
Vassilev V. & Rudolph K. 1991 Pseudomonas pathogenicity of cereals.
In 3rd International Symposium on Pseudomonads Biology and Biotechnology.
Miramare-Grignano, Trieste, Italy, 16-20 June 1991, 127.
--------------------
S. Stoyanova
Variation of Gliadins Induced by Seed Aging and Regeneration of Wheat
Seeds - Genetic changes may occur in stored seeds, during their
regeneration, treatment and evaluation. Genetic drift happens in the
cultivars, within which differences may not be significant individually and
may depend on environmental factors.
Shifts of gliadin electroforetic spectra (GES) have been used in
analyses of wheat cultivars subjected to aging and regeneration for four
successive years. Gliadine spectrum biotypes (GSB) and their variation were
determined by analyzing individual seeds using acid (pH = 3.1) PAG-
electrophoresis. Genetic shifts of GES were estimated as a result of aging
treatment, differences between GSB in the genotype and the effect of
multiplication. The common effect of seed aging and regeneration on the
genetic integrity of seed accessions was described as a function of seed
productivity and seed survival per GSB, the biotype fractional composition,
the number of reproductions and seed sample size. Examination of 30
Bulgarian wheat cultivars and local populations showed that 12 of them
consist of more than 2 GSB.
Except for genetic shifts induced by seed aging, a dominant mutation
presented by new band configuration of GES of wheat cv. Sadovo 1 was
determined. The frequency of segregation in the next four generations
confirmed suggestion for homozygous dominant mutation (Table 1).
Table 1. The segregation ratio for a dominant mutation in Sadovo 1.
======================================================================
No. of No. of No. of Assumed x2-test
examined normal mutant segregation for ratio
Progenies lines genotypes genotypes ratio indicated
---------------------------------------------------------------------
A1 25 24 1 - -
A2 6 - 6 - -
A3 20 5 15 3:1
A4 85 24 61 3:1 0.47*
======================================================================
* degree of freedom, DF=1, probability P=0.05.
List of recent publications
Stoyanova, S.D. 1991. Genetic shifts and variation of gliadins induced by
seed aging. Seed Science and Technology 19(2).
Stoyanova, S.D. 1992. Effect of seed aging and regeneration on the genetic
composition of wheat. Seed Science and Technology, 20(13).
--------------------
K. Kolev, A. Dimov, V. Vassilev
The soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) collection consists of 6,312
accessions. Mostly they originate from the former Soviet Union, Europe,
Canada, Mexico, etc. The preserved samples are evaluated by their
morphological properties, biological features and economic virtues.
Their resistance to Puccinia graminis tritici, P. recondita tritici,
Erysiphe graminis, Fusarium culmorum, and Pseudomonas syringae pv.
atrofaciens is evaluated in the field with natural and artificial
inoculation, respectively. Some of the phytopathological tests are carried
out in terms of glasshouse or by the method of detached leaves.
Certain genotypes possessed resistance to one or two of the
investigated plant pathogens. Only a few accessions have a complex
resistance.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM CANADA
PRAIRIE WHEAT VARIETY SURVEY AND PRODUCTION
The 1992 Prairie Wheat Variety Survey was conducted jointly by Alberta
Wheat Pool, Manitoba Pool Elevators and Saskatchewan Wheat Pool. Percentage
of seeded area is indicated, with the 1991 figures in brackets.
Common - Katepwa 37.1(37.3), Laura 15.5(15.6), Columbus 15.3(14.5),
Neepawa 9.1(11.4), Roblin 7.7(5.7), Conway 4.2(4.6), Biggar 2.6(3.3),
Genesis 1.6(1.6), Leader 1.2(1.0), Park 1.1(1.5), Lancer 1.1(1.2), Makwa
1.0, Glenlea 0.7(0.7), Pasqua 0.3, Oslo 0.2(0.2), unlicensed 0.7(0.5) and
others 0.6(0.9) of 12.4(12.3) million hectares.
Durum - Kyle 56.5(52.2), Wakooma 10.7(11.3), Sceptre 9.8(11.3), Medora
9.4(9.1) Wascana 8.5(9.4), Plenty 2.4, Arcola 0.6(2.1) and others 2.0(4.6)
of 1.51(2.05) million hectares.
Winter - Norstar 94.5(95.9), Norwin 4.0(2.9), others 1.5(1.2) of
0.05(0.07) million hectares.
Statistics Canada's November estimate of 1992 wheat production on the
prairies:
========================================================================
Hectares Seeded Metric Tonnes Produced
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Manitoba - common 2,104,300 5,655,300
- durum 64,700 144,200
- winter 4,000 8,200
Saskatchewan - common 7,324,800 13,607,700
- durum 1,214,100 2,558,300
- winter 16,200 26,100
Alberta - common 2,994,700 5,832,300
- durum 232,700 435,400
- winter 28,328 59,900
--------------------
ALBERTA
Winter Cereal Development in Central Alberta
D.F. Salmon1, V.S. Baron2, P.A. Burnett2 J.H. Helm1, and P.E Jedel
In the early 1970's a winter cereal screening program was intiated by
Alberta Agriculture at Lacombe. The intention of this early work was to
determine the feasibility of producing winter cereals such as winter wheat
and winter triticale outside what is cconsidered to be the traditional
winter wheat area of southern Alberta. It was concluded that the available
varieties were not suitable due to poor straw strength and that agronomic
practises were not easily transfered outside of the tradition area of
production. However, with the exception of occasional losses due to
snowmould, winter wheat and triticale planted in late August and early
September demonstrated exceptionally high yield potential and were at least
3 weeks earlier in maturity than the hard red spring types.
In 1978 Alberta Agriculture initiated a small scale breeding program in
winter wheat and triticale at the Field Crops Branch (now Field Crop
Development Centre) Lacombe. The target area for the Lacombe program is the
black soil zone of central Alberta ranging from 52o to 54o north latitude
and 111o to 115o west longitude. This area produces primarily barley, canola
and oat. Consequently, crop divesification with winter cereals is a definite
benefit. This area produces approximately 300,000 acres of spring wheat
grading on average CWRS #2/#3. Approximately, 100,000 acres of early
maturing high quality winter wheat is well within reason.
The breeding program is currently concentrating on the development of
short statured cold tolerant winter wheat cultivars with good milling
quality. In the winter triticales, forage is an additional priority. Because
of the higher snowfall in the target area compared to the more traditional
winter wheat area of southern Alberta, snow mould resistance has become a
breeding objective. A second disease, powdery mildew has over-wintered
during the past two seasons and is currently under consideration.
At present, the long term impact of snow mould and powdery mildew is
not well defined. Cooperative evaluation trials at the field level are
currently been carried out by Alberta Agriculture and Agriculture Canada at
Lacombe. Lines identified as showing acceptable levels of snow mould
resistance have been sent to D. Gaudet at Agriculture Canada Lethbridge for
confirmation. Lines demonstrating resistance to powdery mildew are currently
under test along with common susceptible winter wheat cultivars to determine
the impact of the disease on yield potential.
Although the high snow cover in the target area provides good soil
insulation, early seeding of the crop in late August and early September is
required to insure good levels of winter survival. This is in direct
contrast to the traditional winter wheat area where delaying seeding until
mid-September is a way of escaping common winter wheat diseases and may have
a major impact on controlling losses due to the Russian Wheat Aphid. At the
present time the Russian Wheat Aphid has not been detected in the target
area.
Currently, the Alberta beef herd stands at 1.6 million head. Therefore
alternative end uses for winter cereals are also being considered by the
programs at FCDC Lacombe. Winter cereals have shown excellent potential as
forage crops. Winter cereals can be conventionally planted in the fall and
used for a grazing crop in the fall and spring prior to seed production.
However the growing season is extremely short (1300 growing degree days)
using conventional systems. Thus novel grazing systems have had to be
developed. Winter cereals can be planted in the spring alone or in
combination with spring cereals for silage production and fall grazing or
for season-long grazing (June-November). As a spring seeded grazing crop
winter wheat produces high quality forage during the early and mid-season
period. However spring seeded winter triticale cultivars such as Pika and
Wintri as well as fall rye provide superior late summer and fall grazing.
Due to the important forage potential of winter cereals in many areas of
Alberta, all advanced lines in the breeding program are evaluated for forage
potential as well as conventional seed production. This work is being
carried out in part as a cooperative project with Agriculture Canada
Lacombe.
The winter triticale cultivar Pika (PI547164) was registered in Canada
in 1990. Winter wheat lines with short stature and potentially acceptable
milling quality are in the preliminary stages of cooperative testing.
1 Field Crop Development Centre, Alberta Agriculture, Bag #47, Lacombe,
Alberta, Canada T0C 1S0.
2 Agriculture Canada, Research Station, Bag #5000 Lacombe, Alberta, Canada
T0C 1S0.
MANITOBA
Agriculture Canada Research Station, Winnipeg
Over-production of 1B HMW glutenin subunits. - O.M. Lukow
Seed of TAA 36, a landrace from Israel, was examined by SDS-PAGE and
was confirmed to produce twice as much of the high molecular weight (HMW)
subunit 7 as most allelic 1Bx subunits in commercial cultivars. Analysis by
RFLP using a HMW glutenin subunit probe strongly suggested a gene copy of
two for this subunit instead of a single copy reported for the other HMW
subunit genes. The Canadian cultivar Glenlea was also confirmed to over-
produce subunit 7 but only by 30%. This was shown to be not a result of
gene duplication. The over-production of subunit 7 may be related to
increased dough mixing strength.
Wheat leaf rust in Canada in 1992. - J.A. Kolmer
Wheat leaf rust was first detected in 1992 during the second week of
June, in winter wheat plots at Portage, MB. However, the lack of southerly
winds in June and July reduced the initial amount of inoculum and slowed the
general rate of leaf rust increase. By the first week of July, leaf rust was
present only in trace amounts at scattered locations throughout southern
Manitoba. By the second week of August, leaf rust had increased to moderate
severity levels in fields of Katepwa, Neepawa, and Biggar in southern
Manitoba. Yield loss due to leaf rust was possible in late planted fields of
these cultivars. Leaf rust levels were very low in fields of the resistant
cultivars Roblin, Columbus, Pasqua, and Grandin. The severity of leaf rust
infection on susceptible cultivars was significantly lower in eastern
Saskatchewan. Only trace levels of rust could be found north of Regina.
Losses were not expected in this area.
Physiologic specialization of Puccinia recondita on wheat in Canada in
1992.
Table 1. Frequency (%) of the most common virulence phenotypes as identified
on the Prt1 differentials.
======================================================================
Virulence Eastern Canada(2) Praires(3) British Columbia
phenotype
---------------------------------------------------------------------
KBG-14a,10 0.00 32.00 0.00
MBB-14a,10 0.00 0.00 40.90
MBG-14a 7.29 0.00 0.00
MBG-14a,10 26.04 2.00 0.00
MCB-14a,10 0.00 0.50 22.70
MFB-14a,10 2.08 13.50 0.00
PBD-10 0.00 0.00 27.30
PBL-B,10 34.30 0.00 0.00
TBG-14a,10 2.08 15.50 0.00
TDG-14a,10 0.00 8.50 0.00
TFB-14a,10 0.00 8.00 0.00
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Number 96 200 22
of isolates
--------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Phytopathology 79: 525-529
2 Ontario and Quebec
3 Manitoba and Saskatchewan
Table 2. Frequency (%) of wheat leaf rust isolates virulent to isogenic
Thatcher lines with different leaf rust resistance genes
=======================================================================
Resistance gene Eastern(1) Canada Prairies(2) British Columbia
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lr1 94.70 61.50 100.00
Lr2a 7.29 78.50 0.00
Lr2c 56.25 78.50 36.40
Lr3 89.58 100.00 100.00
Lr9 1.04 0.00 0.00
Lr16 0.00 0.00 0.00
Lr24 8.33 41.50 0.00
Lr26 5.20 29.00 0.00
Lr3ka 44.79 1.00 0.00
Lr11 38.50 66.00 0.00
Lr17 0.00 0.00 36.40
Lr30 1.04 1.00 0.00
LrB 48.90 0.00 0.00
Lr14a 57.29 100.00 72.70
Lr18 6.25 0.50 0.00
Lr10 90.60 100.00 100.00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Number of 96.00 200.00 22.00
Isolates
1 Ontario and Quebec
2 Manitoba and Saskatchewan
Downgrading of wheat due to smut from a weed. - P.L. Thomas, L.A.
Cooke, R.M. Clear.
Two reports of smut associated with "wild millet" were received in 1991
from farmers who noticed black clouds of spores while swathing or combining
their fields in southern Manitoba. Kernels in a sample of wheat from the
affected field near Treherne were all blackened by smut spores, especially
at the brush end. The sample lacked the smell that is characteristic of the
wheat bunts, but was downgraded because the Canadian grading standards state
that when more than 5% of kernels are "naturally stained", wheat will be
downgraded to feed. An examination of the sample, and the field yielding it,
revealed the presence of both yellow foxtail (Setaria glauca (L.) Beauv.)
and green foxtail (S. viridis (L.) Beauv.), but only the yellow foxtail
plants were affected by the smut. As many as 70% of the plants in dense
patches of the weed were smutted. Only two normal seeds were found on
examining 167 affected plants - the remaining seeds were all replaced by
smut spores. When examined by light and electron microscopy, the smut
teliospores from both the weed and the wheat sample fit the description of
Ustilago neglecta (Niessl.), a species that is world-wide in appearance on
Setaria species. This smut was listed as infecting S. glauca in Manitoba in
1938, but has not been noticed by plant pathologists since that time. Yellow
foxtail has only become common in farm fields in southern Manitoba in the
last decade.
Over 200 fields were searched during a routine cereal smut survey in
Manitoba in 1992. Yellow foxtail was only observed in 10 of these fields and
none of the plants that were observed were affected by smut. Due to its
potential to cause downgrading of seed of cereals, we plan to continue to
monitor the development of this disease in southern Manitoba. If the weed
continues to be widespread, and if a significant proportion of the
population becomes infected by smut, resultant reductions in grades of crops
could necessitate more stringent weed control measures.
Note: Address for LAC and RMC: Canadian Grain Commission, Grain
Research Lab. 1404-303 Main St., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3G8.
PCR-based DNA marker for a leaf rust resistance gene. - S. Fox, W. Kim,
F. Townley-Smith, E. Czarnecki, M. Wolf, N. Howes and J. Procunier.
By combining the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique with
the denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) gel system, a high level
of DNA polymorphism between wheat cultivars and/or alien species has been
observed. Amplified DNA fragments that differ by a single base pair can be
distinguished on polyacrylamide gels. These polymorphisms have been shown
to be repeatable by using different DNA extractions and PCR samples.
Utilizing a 20-60% denaturant gradient and random primers (Biotechnology
Laboratory, UBC), a single polymorphic band was observed between a pair of
near-isogenic lines (NIL) RL6043 and RL6044. Nearly 200 different random
primers were screened. Line RL6043 has the wheat leaf rust resistance gene
(Lr21) introgressed into the recurrent parent `Thatcher'. Line RL6044 lacks
this alien introgressed DNA segment and the resistance gene. Eleven other
`Thatcher' NIL lines which have different introgressed Lr genes did not show
this polymorphic band. Segregating F2 populations of crosses involving Lr21
are currently being tested to verify the linkage between the Lr21 gene and
the DNA marker.
Infestations of Hessian fly on cultivars/lines of wheat at Glenlea,
Manitoba, in 1992. W.J. Turnock and R.I.H. McKenzie
The numbers of reports of infestations of Hessian fly, Phytophaga
destructor (Say), have been increasing in Manitoba in recent years,
particularly in fields of HY320 or Biggar. At the same time, some heavy
infestations were noted among breeders lines at the Agriculture Canada
Glenlea Research Station. Although the Hessian Fly has been present in
Manitoba for about 100 years, it has not caused noticeable economic loss to
the Hard Red Spring Wheats. However, some reports indicate that Hessian fly
has become more abundant in these cultivars as well as in HY320 and Biggar,
which are known to be highly susceptible.
Current trends toward the growing of shorter-strawed wheats (Canadian
Prairie Spring type) coupled with an emphasis on the harvesting crops at a
more mature stage (no swathing) could lead to serious losses from Hessian
fly. Incorporation of resistance genes in new cultivars therefore seems
highly desirable. To efficiently incorporate genetic resistance into
cultivars for Manitoba it is necessary to identify the Hessian fly biotypes
that are present and to evaluate the performance of cultivars/lines that may
be used.
In 1992, the susceptibility/resistance of cultivars/lines from the
USDA-ARS Uniform Hessian Fly Nursery plus other lines in which the type of
genetic resistance to Hessian Fly was known were grown in a block at
Glenlea, MB.
After maturity, all the plants within, each row were pulled up and
stored in a labelled bundle at ~5øC. Subsequently, three plants were taken
from the bundle and each stem was examined for the presence Hessian Fly.
The number of infested stems and the number of Hessian Fly per infested stem
was recorded. Additional plants were examined for cultivars/lines in which
the numbers of stems per plant was small or if the percentage infestation
varied widely among the first three plants.
Response to resistance genes: Hessian fly was quite abundant at
Glenlea in 1992, when wheats with no resistance to Hessian fly had 30-33%
infested stems and Biggar, a super-susceptible cultivar, had 66% infestation
(Table 1). The Glenlea population of Hessian flies did not show virulence
to resistance genes H3, H5, H6, (H7-H8), H11, H13, H18, and 2RL.
Infestation on two cultivars said to have H3 (Howell and Cardinal) can be
attributed to variability in the presence of this gene.
Low levels of infestation occurred on cultivars with resistance genes
H9, H10, H12, (H14- H15), Marquillo, and T. tauschii. These results
probably indicate the presence, in the Hessian fly population, of some flies
that are virulent on this resistance gene. However, the possibility that
the Glenlea population has some tolerance for this type of resistance cannot
be excluded.
TABLE 1. Hessian fly differentials on wheat at Glenlea, 1992
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Resistance Source Numbers of Stem HF/stem
infected(%)
Plants Stems
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
None Blueboy 3 83 30 1.9
" Augusta 5 105 32 2.0
" Fl 302 4 52 33 1.5
" Biggar 64 64 66 2.8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H3 Monon 3 82 0 -
" Howell 5 124 35 2.3
" Cardinal 5 183 11 2.2
" Norkan 47 47 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H3 H5 Oasis 3 45 0 -
" SD8036 3 92 0 -
H3 H6 Clara Fay 3 70 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H5 Abe 3 53 0 -
H5 H6 Clark 3 57 0 -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
H6 Compton 4 73 0 -
" Caldwell 4 112 0 -
H6 H7 H8 Knox 62 3 62 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H7 H8 Seneca 3 90 0 -
" Stacey 3 60 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H9 Ella 3 55 2 1.0
" 8521B1-4-5 5 122 11 2.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H9 H10 Stella 5 149 8 1.1
H10 76529A5-3 5 80 1 2.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H11 Kay 3 72 0 -
H12 841453H15-1-1-2-5-2 6 96 2 1.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H13 KSH 8700 3 35 0 -
H13 86925RA1-16 3 87 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
H14 H15 82104 B1-3-2-5 5 100 3 1.0
H18 8686 A1-8 3 68 0 -
H18 Brule 3 70 0 -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2RL KS86HF012-23-6 3 44 0 -
Marquillo SD 8073 5 106 1 1.0
" Guard 6 96 2 3.5
T. tauschii KS89WGRC06 5 102 10 2.1
============================================================================
Durum wheat quality. - Howes, N.K., Leisle, D., Kovacs, M.I.P. and
Zawistowski, J.
We have been screening hybridomas secreting Monoclonal Antibodies
(MAbs) specific to cereal endosporum proteins for clones that have potential
applications in wheat breeding. One MAb specific to low molecular weight
glutenins subunits (LMWGS-2) binds to à 45 gliadin durums having LMWGS-2
(eg. Vic, Edmore, Quilafen) but does not bind to à 45 gliadin durums having
LMWGS-2- (eg. Medora, Sceptre, Kyle) or to durums having LMW1.
Progeny from a cross segregating for LMWGS 2 or 2- were evaluated for
protein (PRO), cooked gluten viscoelasticity (CGV) SDS sedimentation volume
(SV) and cooked pasta disc viscoelasticity (PDV). Lines homozygous for
LMWGS-2 had similar PRO and CGV but higher SV and PDV. These results show
that this MAb would be useful in selecting breeders lines having higher
cooking quality amongst à45 gliadin durums. Furthermore, protein and LMWGS
independently contributed to superior lines as measured by the cooked pasta
viscoelasticity test.
Screening for pasta quality with viscoelastograph. - M.I.P., Kovacs, G.
Dahlke and J.S. Noll
The usefulness of gluten viscoelasticity to predict pasta cooking
quality in durum wheat breeding programswas evaluated. Cooked gluten
viscoelasticity was expressed as relative recovery calculated from the creep
curve obtained by a viscoelastograph. Varieties with different quality
characteristics were tested for protein content, sodium dodecyl sulfate
sedimentation volume (SV), mixograph mixing development time (MDT), pasta
disc viscoelasticity (PDV), and cooked gluten viscoelasticity (CGV).
Pearson correlation coefficients and principal component analyses indicated
that cooked gluten viscoelasticity was associated with SV, MDT and PDV, but
not with protein content. Cooked gluten viscoelasticity can be used to
predict gluten strength and consequently durum wheat pasta quality.
Modifications to the method of measuring viscoelasticity have resulted in
better reproducibility and high sample output, both important in breeding
programs.
Developing Tolerance to Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus in Spring Wheats for
Western Canada. - S. Haber and F. Townley-Smith.
Until 1989 wheat streak mosaic (WSM) had not attracted much attention
in southwestern Manitoba and southeastern Saskatchewan. Since 1989, locally
severe losses have been observed in spring wheat fields in the vicinity of
winter wheat. We observed losses as high as 100% in some popular cultivars,
such as Laura and AC Minto, while other cultivars, such as Katepwa and
Columbus appeared to have been less seriously affected. A devastating
outbreak of WSM at Indian Head, Saskatchewan in 1989 not only showed that
popular cultivars such as Laura were extremely vulnerable, but also
provided, if unintentionally, a selection nursery for wheat lines with
greater disease tolerance. It was particularly striking that three head row
selection lines of BW122, an advanced breeding line then in the third year
of co-operative testing, were much less seriously affected by WSM than all
the others and, indeed, the BW122 bulk population.
Greenhouse experiments conducted in 1990 confirmed the initial
observations made at Indian Head, and showed that the apparent differences
in disease tolerance that had been observed in the field were due to
differences in tolerance to the virus disease and not to differences in
resistance to the mite vector (Table 1).
Table 1. Effect of Wheat Streak Mosaic (WSM) on Seed Yield 1990 Greenhouse
Test.
============================================================================
Yield per plant (8 reps)
---------------------------------------
Mock inoculated WSMV inoculated
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laura 5.75g 1.31g
Katepwa 9.26 5.27
BW122 7.52 4.83
" /43 8.83 6.88
" /50 7.82 7.13
" /100 7.36 7.10
============================================================================
The relative differences in sensitivity to WSM observed in greenhouse
trials were confirmed in controlled, replicated field trials. The absolute
effects of WSM were greater in the field trials because the
greenhouse-reared plants did not experience stresses related to extremes of
temperature or water deficit, and the additional effects these stresses
imposed on diseased plants. The three headrow selection lines of BW122 that
had appeared less severely affected by WSM at Indian Head than the BW122
bulk population in controlled field experiments (Table 2) as well as in
greenhouse tests. Wheat germplasm, such as the American cultivars Butte and
Oslo, that had been developed under the pressure of naturally-occurring WSM,
were also relatively tolerant (Table 2). After similar results were
obtained again in 1991, and it had become clear that WSM in spring wheat was
a serious problem that would accompany planting of winter wheat in
southwestern Manitoba and southeastern Saskatchewan, we decided that
tolerant germplasm already in the wheat breeding program should be
identified and exploited on a systematic basis.
Table 2. Effect of Wheat Streak Mosaic (WSM) on Seed Yield 1990 Field Test.
============================================================================
Yield per 50 cm row (8 reps)
-------------------------------------------
Mock inoculated WSMV inoculated
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laura 110.1g 59.7g
Katepwa 122.1 64.8
BW122 107.7 47.3
" /43 110.8 80.4
" /50 122.3 90.9
" /100 122.9 97.7
Butte 128.1 92.0
Oslo 113.5 83.2
===========================================================================
Before embarking on a full-scale selection program, we needed to know
whether artificially inoculated disease nurseries would enable reliable
screening of large numbers of entries, and the accurate identification of
the best candidates for selection. To be of greatest benefit in breeding
superior wheat cultivars, any identified WSM tolerance to be exploited would
need to protect seed quality as well as yield. The 1992 field trials
showed: a) that yield losses were fully accounted for by the combination of
reduced tillering, reduced number of seeds per head, and reduced seed size
(Table 3); b) that disease sensitivity or tolerance in one of these yield
components was reflected in total yield and, for the most part, the other
two yield components (Table 3); and c) that visual disease ratings taken at
mid-season (after tillering was completed) were excellent predictors of
yield loss (Table 4) and good predictors of loss of seed quality as
reflected in 1000-seed weight (Table 5).
Table 3. Effect of Wheat Streak Mosaic (WSM) on Yield Loss Factors: 1992
Field Test (virus- vs mock-inoculated).
=========================================================================
Wheat line Loss of Loss of Loss of Total
tillering seeds/head seed size yield loss
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laura 8.862 2.621 1.016 52.481
AC Minto 1.268 1.044 0.729 8.710
Katepwa 0.914 0.655 0.494 3.236
Columbus 0.653 0.489 0.536 2.570
Butte 0.636 0.406 0.474 2.344
Oslo 0.412 0.635 0.403 2.188
BW 155 0.463 0.259 0.546 1.820
BW 122/100 0.260 0.315 0.373 1.758
=========================================================================
Loss factors are expressed by the logit transformation: logit(x) = x/(1-x),
where x is the proportion of loss compared to mock-inoculated controls.
Table 4. Relationship between Wheat Streak Mosaic visual rating (0..best,
9..worst) at mid-dough and final yield loss (virus- vs mock-inoculated).
=========================================================================
Wheat line Visual Logarithm of Correlation
rating yield loss logit coefficient
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laura 7.81 1.72
AC Minto 5.81 0.94
Katepwa 5.13 0.51
Columbus 4.06 0.41 0.97
Butte 3.75 0.34
Oslo 4.44 0.37
BW 155 3.56 0.26
BW 122/100 3.38 0.25
========================================================================
Table 5. Relationship between Wheat Streak Mosaic visual rating (0..best,
9..worst) at mid-dough and loss of seed size (virus- vs mock-inoculated).
========================================================================
Wheat line Visual Seed weight Correlation
rating loss logit coefficient
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Laura 7.81 1.02
AC Minto 5.81 0.73
Katepwa 5.13 0.49
Columbus 4.06 0.54 0.93
Butte 3.75 0.40
Oslo 4.44 0.47
BW 155 3.56 0.55
BW 122/100 3.38 0.37
========================================================================
Our quantitative analysis of the differential effects of WSM on a
selected group of wheat cultivars and advanced breeding lines shows that
accurate, large-scale, screening of spring wheat germplasm for tolerance to
WSMV is feasible. Starting in 1993, the Western Canada Grains Foundation is
supporting a three-year project to screen and select bread-, durum-, and
Canada Prairie spring wheats. By identifying and exploiting improved
tolerance already available in germplasm adapted to western Canadian
requirements, it will be possible to develop superior tolerant breeding
lines and cultivars relatively quickly.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Agriculture Canada Research Station, Charlottetown
H. G. Nass and H.W. Johnston
Winter survival. Severe winter killing over most of the Atlantic
region of Canada had a negative effect on the winter wheat crop. In early
April it appeared that most fields had survived the winter as new growth
began to appear. However, several weeks later, it became evident that
fields of winter wheat were turning brown and the plants were dead. What
had happened during those 2-3 weeks in April ? Apparently growth had begun
in early April but around the middle of the month the night temperatures
dropped to -10 oC or lower for 3 days in a row. Most winter wheat crops,
irrespective of variety, were unable to withstand these severe conditions
and the plants winterkilled.
Greater emphasis is being placed on developing varieties of winter
wheat with a higer level of winter hardiness than in presently grown
varieties in Atlantic Canada. The LT50 test is conducted to supplement
field
data. This test is conducted on field grown material in late November just
before the onset of winter and before the frost settles into the ground.
Our best sources of winterhardiness come from Norway and the Soviet Union.
Diseases. The optimum time for data collection on resistance of wheat
to fusarium head blight (scab) is limited to the window of time between
symptom and onset of head senescence. On Prince Edward Island this window
of time allows for observations to be made over a period of about two to
three weeks. A method was devised using seed characteristics that can be
measured during the winter as an alternate method to ensure all lines in a
test are evaluated for disease resistance when time has not permitted
disease severity ratings to be completed in the field.
The best positive correlations between field symptom ratings and winter
observations were between symptom severity and percentage of lightweight
seed of each head, determined by using an air column separator and heads
that had been hand threshed without cleaning. Field disease severity and
ratings were also significantly correlated (negative) with yield loss
calculated on the basis of kernel weights.
Greenhouse data collection, while not considered to be as appropriate
as measurements of disease severity based on percentage of spikelets and
heads diseased, would allow disease severity data to be collected during the
winter to substitute for data not collected in the field during the summer.
--------------------
SASKATCHEWAN
Agriculture Canada Research Station, Swift Current
R.M. De Pauw*
New cultivar. AC Taber, red-kernel spring wheat, resembles Biggar but
has improved resistance to prevalent races of leaf rust and common bunt; and
exhibits superior quality to Biggar with higher protein content, better
milling quality, and increased gluten strength. It is eligible for grades
of the recently established wheat class, Canada Prairie Spring (red).
The Canada Prairie Spring class was established in 1985 and has grown
rapidly to become the third largest at about 1.6 million acres. There are
two sub-divisions based on kernel color, red and white. The end-use
suitability levels of this class are a medium protein content (11.0% to
12.0% on 13.5% moisture basis); medium kernel hardness (starch damage of 19
to 33 farand units); farinograph water absorption 56% to 60%; good milling
quality comparable to Canada Western Red Spring. The CPS-red would have a
strong gluten of good baking quality similar to USA Hard Winter Ordinary
while the CPS-white would have a medium gluten strength similar to the
Australian Standard White.
M.R. Fernandez; J.M. Clarke*; R.M. DePauw; B. Irvine; J.G. McLeod
Leaf spotting fungi in irrigated durum wheat grown at Swift Current and
Outlook, Sask., in 1991-1992. Leaf spots may cause significant yield
loss in wheat and have an adverse effect on grain quality. High levels of
resistance or tolerance to this disease complex are required to avoid the
financially and environmentally costly alternative of using chemical
control. A strategy for breeding for resistance to these pathogens includes
the assessment of the relative prevalence of each of the pathogens involved
in the leaf spot complex. Leaf samples from 14 durum varieties and advanced
breeding lines, grown under sprinkler irrigation at two locations in
Saskatchewan, Swift Current and Outlook, in 1991-1992, were plated on water
agar for identification and quantification of fungal pathogens causing leaf
spots. In both years and locations, leaf spots were mostly attributed to
Pyrenophora tritici-repentis (average of 76%). This was followed by Septoria
nodorum (19%), with Cochliobolus sativus being the least common (6%). For
both locations, P. tritici-repentis and C. sativus were more frequent in
1991 than in 1992 (84% and 11% in 1991, and 68% and 0.6% in 1992, for P.
tritici-repentis and C. sativus, respectively), with S. nodorum being more
prevalent in 1992 than in 1991 (5% and 32% for 1991 and 1992, respectively).
In both years, P. tritici-repentis was more frequently isolated from leaf
samples from Swift Current (81%) than from Outlook (71%). This was
accounted for by a greater presence of C. sativus in 1991, and of S. nodorum
in 1992, at Outlook than Swift Current (average for C. sativus: 15% and 7%
in 1991, and for S. nodorum: 39% and 25% in 1992, for Outlook and Swift
Current, respectively).
Black point and pink smudge on durum wheat kernels grown under
irrigated conditions near Outlook, Sask., in 1990-1992. Black point, pink
smudge, and red smudge on kernels reduces semolina quality and is reflected
in lower returns to the grower. Durum wheat is more susceptible to these
diseases than hexaploid wheat. Incidence of black point and pink smudge was
determined in 155-200 durum varieties and advanced breeding lines grown
under sprinkler irrigation in 1990-1992, at Outlook, Saskatchewan. Black
point was present at an average frequency of 27%, 19% and 41.3% in 1990,
1991 and 1992 respectively. The most prevalent organisms isolated from
black-pointed seeds of 14 genotypes from the 1991 and 1992 season were
Alternaria spp. (average of 75% and 55.6% in 1991 and 1992, respectively).
In 1991, these were followed by Cochliobolus sativus (13%) and Pyrenophora
tritici-repentis (5%). Other fungi, mostly saprophytes, and bacteria, were
isolated at a combined frequency of 9%. In 1992, the latter group of
organisms were the second most prevalent ones (31%), with C. sativus and P.
tritici-repentis being isolated at low frequencies (<5%). Pink-smudged
seeds were observed at less than 0.5% in 1990 and 1991, and at an average of
2.3% in 1992. P. tritici-repentis was isolated from all pink-smudged seeds.
Publications
Clarke, J.M., Romagosa, I., and DePauw, R.M. 1991. Screening durum wheat
germplasm for dry growing conditions: morphological and physiological
criteria. Crop Sci. 31(3): 770-775.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Lendrum, C.W.B., McCrystal,
G.E., and Payne, J.F. 1990. 'Frank' spring triticale. Can. J. Plant Sci.
70: 1155-1157.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Clarke, J.M., Lendrum,
C.W.B., and McCrystal, G.E. 1991. Registration of 'Kyle' durum wheat.
Crop Sci. 31: 236-237.
DePauw, R.M., and McCaig, T.N. 1991. Components of variation,
heritabilities and correlations for indices of sprouting tolerance and seed
dormancy in Triticum spp. Euphytica: 52: 221-229.
DePauw, R.M., Preston, K.R., Townley-Smith, T.F., Hurd, E.A., McCrystal,
G.E. and Lendrum, C.W.B. 1991. Biggar red spring wheat. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 71: 519-522.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Lendrum, C.W.B., McCrystal,
G.E. and Payne, J.F. 1991. Registration of 'Frank' spring triticale. Crop
Sci. 31(2): 490.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Clarke, J.M., Lendrum,
C.W.B. and McCrystal, G.E. 1991. Registration of 'Kyle' durum wheat. Crop
Sci. 31: 236-237.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Clarke, J.M., Lendrum,
C.W.B. and McCrystal, G.E. 1991. Registration of DT367 high yielding durum
germplasm. Crop Sci. 31: 1394.
McLeod, J.G., Townley-Smith, T.F., DePauw, R.M., Clarke, J.M., Lendrum,
C.W.B., and McCrystal, G.E. 1991. Registration of DT369 high yielding,
semidwarf durum germplasm. Crop Sci. 31: 1717.
McCaig, T.N. and DePauw, R.M. 1992. Breeding for preharvest sprouting
tolerance in white seed-coat spring wheat. Crop Sci. 32: 19-23.
De Pauw, R.M., McCaig, T.N., Clarke, J.M., McLeod, J.G., Knox, R.E., and
Fernandez, M.R. 1993. Registration of sprouting tolerant white-kernelled
wheat germplasm. Crop Sci. 32:838.
Clarke, J.M., DePauw, R.M. and Townley-Smith, T.F. 1992. Evaluation of
methods for quantification of drought tolerance in wheat. Crop Science 32:
723-728).
Knox, R.E., De Pauw, R.M., Morrison, R.J., McCaig, T.N., Clarke, J.M., and
McLeod, J.G. 1992 AC Taber red spring wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. (in
press).
McCaig, T.N., J.G. McLeod, J.M. Clarke, and R.M. DePauw. 1992. Measurement
of durum pigment with an NIR instrument operating in the visible range.
Cereal Chem. 69:671-672.
McCaig, T.N., R.M. DePauw, J.G. McLeod, J.M. Clarke, and N.B. McCrie. 1992.
Registration of near-isogenic wheat genetic stocks differing in
glaucousness. Crop Sci. 32:(in press).
--------------------
ITEMS FROM CHINA
Wheat Breeding Institute, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing
210014
Zhaosu Wu, Shirong Yu, Xizhong Wei, Youjia Shen, Guoliang Jiang, Jimin
Wu, Yong Xu, Xhaoxia Chen, Qimei Xia, Shijia Liu
Studies on the development of scab-resistance gene pool in wheat - A
preliminary report on effects of population improvement in the scab-
resistance resource gene pool. Different cyclical populations RODC, RC1,
RC2 and RC3 of the scab resistance resource gene pool (SRRGP) in wheat and
the resistant cultivar Sumai 3 were investigated during two crop seasons
1989-90 in Nanjing to evaluate the effects of the population improvement.
The experimental results showed that the resistance of the population to
scab was significantly improved by phenotypic recurrent selection. The
number of percentage of diseased male-fertile plants was significantly
reduced in the populations. Of these plants, the average of diseased
spikelets was decreased by about 20% per cycle and the frequency of plants
with R-level resistance tended to increase distinctly. The effects of
improvement were significant with spike length, total and seeded spikelets,
number and weight of grains per spike, population means of which increased
cycle by cycle. However, kernel weight in RC3 was lower than that in RC1
and RC2, and obvious change of plant height was not found during the
recurrent selection for the resistance. Genetic variability of the gene
pool was maintained, and the probability of superior plants obtained with
improved resistance as well as some desirable agronomic traits from it was
obviously enhanced. It was suggested that both selection for scab-
resistance and some agronomic characters should be simultaneously conducted
in further recurrent selection programs in order to improve the synthetic
performance of the gene pool.
A study on re-selection method for advanced strains of wheat. Re-
selection was made in two advanced generation strains. Genetic variation
and genetic gains of several principal characters of the two strains were
estimated, then the re-selection methods and effects were discussed. The
number of plants (basic population size) needed in multiple character
selection for different demands were estimated by using approximate
calculation of muultiple normal distribution. A new idea served for study
on genetic gains of multiple characters and estimation of basic population
size was represented in this study. Through analysis and probability
calculation on the two strains, we showed results that about 2.5%-5%
relative genetic gains of grains per spike and 1/grain weight of Nannong 82-
4 strain can be got while maintaining ears per plant at the original level
from pure line selection of 700-1500 plants, and about 2.5%-5%, 2.5%-5% and
7.5%-15% relative genetic gains of scab injury degree, anthesis and pre-
harvested sprouting rate of Nannong 2101 strain can be obtained when its
yield character remains at the original level from pure line selection of
2000-3000 plants.
Effects of phenotypic recurrent selection and mass selection on
improvement of agronomic traits in wheat populations. Two cycles of
phenotypic recurrent selection for plant height and spikes per plant of
sterile plants and two cycles of mass selection for plant height and yield
per plant of fertile plants in a wheat base population were evaluated to
measure the direct response for correlated traits. Results showed a
significant decrease of plant height for both sterile plants and fertile
plants, but no increment of spikes per plant and yield per plant were found.
Negative correlated responses were found in ear length and spikelets per
spike. The realized genetic gain achieved by mass selection for plant
height was greater than that of recurrent selection. Recurrent selection
for sterile plants could maintain more genetic variation than the mass
selection for fertile plants. Realized genetic gains of all agronomic
traits were lower than expected genetic gains.
Testing seed germination and screening of white-kerneled germplasm
resources for sprouting resistance. 141 wheat cultivars and breeding lines
from various regions of China and abroad were evaluated for seed
germinability in ears by plastic sack wrapping (PSW) and field testing
methods, respectively, in Nanjing during 1990-1991 crop season. There were
positive and highly significant correlations between the results of
germinability measured four times by three methods and the mean correlation
coefficient was 0.8389. A significant and negative correlation existed
sprouting percentage of grains in spikes and seed-coat color level (total
jr=-0.7344). Although germination rate of seeds in spikes of white-seeded
cultivars and lines was generally greater than that of the red-seeded ones,
obvious varietal differences were found for both the former and the latter
in sprouting resistance. Estimate of broad-sense heritability was 83.38%
for the resistance to viviparity with 51 breeding lines and one cultivar
(Yangmai 5) grown in a two-replicate randomized block layout. It was
suggested that 12 white cultivars and lines having sprouting resistance
could be used in wheat breeding programs and production.
Studies on principles and ways concerning the coordinative enhancement
of biomass and harvest index in wheat cultivars. A study was made by a
series of experiments involving genetics, physiology, anatomy and
morphology, etc. carried out in 1989-1991, and the principles and ways
concerning the coordinative enhancement of biomass and harvest index in
wheat cultivars are discussed at the levels of individual, of population and
of the relationship between individual and population.
Statistical genetic analysis with 125 cultivars, representing the
current genetic resources of the lower Yangtze region showed that the
harvest index of main stem of the available genetic resources is higher, but
the variances with high biomass are not plentiful and needed to be explored
for enriching the breeding basic materials. One cluster analysis based on
biomass components divided by vertical direction indicates that enhancing
the upper internode proportion of biomass is favorable for coordinate
increment of biomass and harvest index. Another cluster analysis based on
biomass components divided by horizontal direction hints that the
contradiction between biomass and harvest index is mainly a reflection of
the contradiction between culm dry weight and grain yield, and reducing the
lower internode proportions of biomass is profitable. Reforming the weight
proportions of different internodes by improving the length proportions of
internodes is expected to reduce the risk of lodging in practical breeding
programs. Anatomic morphological survey of main culm of 17 cultivars
suggests that increasing macro- or micro-bundles could enhance spikelet
fertility, and enhancing macro-bundles of the upper internodes is proposed
due to the positive relationship between macro-bundles and biomass. A
simultaneous test for dry weight development of different organs with 6
cultivars suggests that the dry weight of the upper internodes loses little
with higher filling rate, and brings about successive biomass increment
after flowering in stable high yield cultivars as Yangmai 5.
By approaching the physiological factors related with differences of
population biomass in 12 cultivars, it was discovered that nitrate reductase
(NR) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) of three enzyme system, i.e., carbon
assimilation, nitrogen nutrition and endogenous protection, is significant
for biomass development, because NR activity affects biomass by affecting
the tiller survival rate, and in different stages higher SOD activity is
needed for luxuriant growth of wheat plants in that time. The non-linear
regression analyses separately and synthetically on development of grain
yield, vegetable dry weight and biomass of population after flowering in 12
cultivars suggests that grain filling stage, grain filling rate and
vegetables dry weight could affect biomass. The necessary factors for
coordinately enhancing biomass and harvest index are proposed as higher
biomass in flowering stage, higher filling rate following lower and later
vegetable losses.
A significant cultivar x culture pattern was noted by carrying out a
contrast test between mixed cropping and pure cropping and using profitable
competition for enhancing population biomass is proposed based on a
discussion involving the results of heterosis utilization, the theory of
ecological genetics and progress on researches of plant ideotype.
PUBLICATIONS
Jiang, Cuoliang, Zhaosu Wu, Zhaoxia Chen, Dechong Huang, Qingpu Xiao, Huiagu
Chen, Han Zhu and Yimin Fang. 1992. Studies on the Development of Scab-
resistance gene pool in wheat. A preliminary report on effects of
population improvement in the scab-resistance resource gene pool (SCIENTIA
AGRICULTURA SINICA) 25(6):30-37.
Jiang, Guoliang, Zhaosu Wu and Zhaoxia Chen. 1992. Preliminary Report on
Determining Seed Germinability in Spikes and Selecting White-kerneled
Germplasm Resources with Sprouting Resistance in Triticum aestivum. Acta
Agriculturae Shanghai, 9(3):9-14.
Jiang, Guoliang. 1992. Advances on Genetic Mechanism of Resistance to
Headblight of Wheat and Improvement of Variety. Chinese Agricultural
Science Bulletin 8(5): 10-13.
Yang, Zhuping and Zhaosu Wu. 1992. Effects of Phenotypic Recurrent
Selection and Mass Selection on Improvement of Agronomic Traits in Wheat
Populations. (ACTA AGRONOMICA SINICA), 18(1):50-60.
Xu, Yong, Shirong Yu and Zhaosu Wu. 1992. A Study on Reselection Method
for Advanced Strain of Wheat, Scientia Agricultura Sinica, 25(6):38-43.
Yu, Shirong and Yong, Xu. 1992. Regional Evaluation of the Cultivar in
Cultivar Regional Test. J. of Nanjing Agricultural University, 15(4):12-18.
--------------------
Germplasm Enhancement Program in Henan Province
Ying-Jie Wang
Henan Province is the largest wheat producer in China, accounting for
about 18% of the wheat production in the country. There are several wheat
breeding programs aiming at developing new varieties for commercial use, and
our germplasm enhancement program focuses on collecting, identifying, and
preserving germplasms for breeding purpose and for creating new germplasms,
particularly for disease resistance, such as strip rust and powdery mildew.
A total of about 4,000 accessions have been collected and identified. Those
accesions represent germplasms from China and 40 other countries. A series
of V.P.M. from France has been used as resistant sources for diseases and a
series of T.J.B. from Britain have also been collected and utilized in
breeding programs. As a result of efficient use of germplasms, a high
yielding line Zhengzhou 79212, was developed. In addition, two other high
yielding cultivars, Yumai 13 and 16, have also been developed by our
breeders by using our local germplasm collections as donor materials.
The general procedure of using the germplasm resources is that crossing
the local high yielding cultivars as recurrent parents, such as Yumai 13 or
Yumai 16 (average yield under irrigation is 88 bu/acre) to selected
germplasms for disease resistance, followed by selection. Several advanced
lines with multiple disease resistance, short statue (70 cm), and good
agronomic characteristics have been produced in this manner. R84019,
R85100, and Zhengzi 8204 are some of the examples.
We continue to collect germplasms from different parts of the world,
identify and catalog their characteristics for breeding programs.
--------------------
Wheat Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences - Zhengzhou,
Henan
Zuoji Lin, Shenhui Jie, Xidan Zhou
1991-1992 season: A dry sowing season followed by dry winter caused
less tillering and vegetative growth. However, sufficient rainfall in
spring and favorable climate in grain-filling period resulted in high kernel
weight (about 3 g higher than under normal conditions). The total yield was
similar to that of last year, and a lot of larger area high yielding records
even occurred in irrigation regions due to the shorter plant causing less
lodging damage. The leading public cultivar was Yumai 13, which occupied
about 15% of the wheat area in Henan Province, and its high-yielding record
was up to 8.5 tons/ha.
Quality difference between Chines and western wheat varieties: Grain
protein content, sedimentation value, farinograph parameters, bread-making
quality and steam-bread-making quality of 36 Chinese varieties or lines and
21 western cultivars or lines were tested to study quality difference
between Chinese and western cultivars. Results indicated that the protein
content, sedimentation value and dough strength (measured with farinograph)
of Chinese cultivars or lines, except several cultivars with good baking
quality, were commonly lower than those of western cultivars or lines. Most
exotic and some domestic good quality cultivars or lines possessed good
bread-making performances. However, most local cultivars and Chinese main
cultivars had poor-bread-making quality. The results of HMW glutenin
subunits analysis showed that most Chinese good baking quality cultivars and
western cultivars had 5+10 subunits, indicating they possessed the same good
quality genes. This might be due to the fact that most of the good baking
quality Chinese cultivars had western resources in their pedigree. As to
steam-bread making quality, the performance of some Chinese main cultivars
were the best. Grain protein content and valorimeter value of these
cultivars usually were below 14% and 50. Most western and Chinese good
baking quality cultivars had poor steam-bread making quality. Steam bread
made from these cultivars usually had a shrunk surface and a dark color,
caused by high protein content (average about 15.5%) and high dough strength
(average valorimeter value about 65). The experiments suggested that the
quality requirements in protein content and dough strength for bread and
steam bread making are different.
--------------------
Dry Farming Institute, Hebei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 053000,
Hengshui
F.W. Zhao, H.M. Li, H.W. Li, Z.Z. Bai, C.S. Guo, L.Z. Sun, and Z.E.
Zhou
Preliminary research on a double-sexual line - Five year's research has
shown that advanced line 91-1, a newly developed genotype in our breeding
program, belongs to a double-sexual line (DSL) or a photo-thermo-sensitive
(PTS) nuclear male sterile/fertile line. Its fertility transition (FT) is
clear which is convenience for hybrid wheat production . The index of
realizing FT for temperature/daylight and young spike differentiation (YSD)
in Hengshui (37o44'N, 115o42'E) from 1991-1992 results were: planting before
October 6 in which total temperature (TT)/total sunshine time (TST) were
508.9o/397.5 hr and the YSD and spike stalk initiation (SSI) stage were
reached before winter, causing sterility. On the contrary, planting after
October 10 under the YSD was under elongation stage (ES) or under initiation
stage (IS) through winter produced good fertility and the seeds were viable.
Its characteristics were very satisfied both in the yield performance and in
heteroses utilization. Two studies were conducted.
1. 3-line study phase. DSL 91-1 was developed from the progenies of
FO (Jimai 21/Jinfeng 1) treated with Co60 irradiation. In 1987, it was
planted October 3, in our breeding nursery and produced sterile progeny.
Field managements were normal which ruled out the possibility of the
environmental factors causing the sterility. Eight steriles were pollinated
in order to save the sterile seeds and try to set up a new 3 cms system.
Unfortunately, progenies either from self-pollinations or from backcrosses
failed to set seed. Segregation for other characteristics occurred.
2. DSL/PTS nuclear male sterility study phase. After the failure
of setting up the 3 line system, fertility identification has been carried
out in 4 different wheat habit ecologic areas covering 3 states. In 1988-
89, plantings made at Jejiang Agricultural University, Hangzhou, Jejiang
province, performed fertile. In 1989-90, planting at Sichuan Crops
Institute, Chongqing, Sichuan province, segregating occurred between plants
and between main stems and tillers of individual plants; some fertile and
others sterile. In 1990-91 and 1991-92, plantings at Chong Agricultural
Research Institute, Chongqing, showed high sterility in the 2 years. In
1991-92, plantings on October 6 and on 12 in Hengshui, different results
were obtained in which the first planting performed sterile, the second
fertile.
Our results were:
1. Morphological index of FT of DSL 91-1. If planted before October
6 under which the YSD got to the SSI stage before winter, the end of
November in Hengshui, sterility resulted. But planted after October 10
under which the YSD is under IS or ES, fertile plants were produced. It
seems that the SSI stage is the morphological index for FT.
2. Factors influencing the index of FT. Two year results of 1991
and 1992 have shown that DSL 91-1 could reach the SSI stage where there was
more than 5 leaves and less than 6 leaves for the young plants. During this
period the TT was 435.5 - 508.9oC and the TST was 360 - 397.5 hr. For
practical purposes the TT/TST of 500oC/390 hr were more acceptable. In
Hengshui, this is the very time for wheat planting which could be analyzed
from meteorological data of 30 years (shown as CK below) 1960-1990 and from
the current year (CY) of 1991-92 wheat growing season.
Table 1. Average meteorological data of wheat growing season.
============================================================================
Month/Year 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
CY 14.1 5.1 -1.7 -1.7 1.4 5.8 15.5 20.3
Temp. CK 13.8 5.4 -1.5 -4.0 -1.3 5.9 14.0 20.9
oC Vari. 0.3 -0.3 -0.2 2.3 2.7 -0.1 1.5 -0.6
Sun- CY 238.1 189 172.8 163.4 23.2 164.3 273.5 275.4
shine CK 222.4 178.4 176.7 181.5 177.8 220.0 235.5 284.2
hr. Vari. 15.7 10.6 -3.9 -16.1 58.4 -55.7 33.0 -8.8
============================================================================
So we can see that if planted between October 1 and 10, the TT and TST could
be sufficient for FT.
3. The phenomenon of over-stage development of DSL 91-1 - Among the
cultivars grown DSL 91-1 performed an over-growth stage from early planting
but none from late planting. The results were as follows:
From Table 2 we can see: 1. Planted on October 6, the jointing,
flagging and flowering date of DSL 91-1 were 8-10 days earlier than checks.
Fertility data gave 2 different results in which 91-1 was sterile and the 2
checks, fertile. Planted on October 12, there were not many differences
among cultivars not only in growth stage but also in fertility. Comparing
planting dates, the differences with same check was only 1-2 days but with
DSL 91-1, 9-11 days. For DSL the heading date from first planting and
flagging date of second planting occurred the same day of April 22 which
gave a clearer picture in field.
Table 2. Growth differences between planting times and cultivars, 1991-92.
============================================================================
Planting Cultivar Winter Erecting Flagging Heading Flowering Maturity
Date Name Tolerance Date Date Date Date Date
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
91-1 2+ 15/3 11/4 22/4 28/4 5/8
6/10 Jimai 30 2- 23/3 21/4 1/5 5/5 9/6
Jimai 24 1 25/3 21/4 3/5 8/5 11/6
91-1 2 25/3 22/4 2/5 7/5 10/6
12/10 Jimai 30 2 25/3 22/4 2/5 7/5 10/6
Jimai 24 1 26/3 23/4 5/5 9/5 12/6
============================================================================
Note: 91-1 and Jimai 30= half-winter habit; Jimai 24 = winter habit.
4. Over-phase differentiation of young spike of DSL 91-1. In autumn
of 1992, 7 planting date (PD) experiments were made from September 10 to
October 20 in Hengshui. On December 2 the YSD of main stems was examined
under light microcrope in which big differences were observed. See results
in Table 3.
Table 3. Microscope results of YSD in different planting date, 1992.
============================================================================
Cultivar 91-1 Jimai 30 Jimai 24
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
PD Leaf No. YSD Leaf No. YSD Leaf No. YSD
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
10/9 8 meiosis 7.47 SIS 7.37 SSI
19/9 7.33 SIS 6.75 SSI 6.73 SSI
1/10 6.1 SSI 5.74 ES 5.18 ES
6/10 5.69 SSI 5.43 ES 5.46 IS
10/10 4.22 ES 4.59 IS 4.43 IS
15/10 3.53 ES 3.66 IS 3.68 IS
20/10 2.66 IS 2.29 IS 2.39 IS
============================================================================
SIS, spikelet initiation stage
Table 3 shows that DSL 91-1 is a thermophase non-sensitive line which
is very flexible to low temperatures during this period and enters easily
into photophase. It could reach this stage with 3 completely emerged leaves
but the checks, 5. Also, the over-phase differentiation of young spikes
happened at all planting dates. During this period the average d-
temperature/d-sunshine time were 20.8oC/6.92 hr, 12.3oC/6.92 hr and
4.3oC/6.26 hr for September, October and November, respectively. If planted
October 1-10, actual planting time in Hengshui, during which the plant
passes through winter in the SSI phase, there is no cold damage effect in
field, similar with previous research showing that cold tolerance decreases
after jointing.
5. DSL 91-1 has good agricultural characteristics - It is a half-
winter habit genotype: height, 78 cm; head length, 8.1 cm; spikelet, 30;
grain-weight, 42 g and with white-seed coat. As a normal cultivar, 5,250
kg/ha yield could be got and as a male sterile line, with 80% or more seed
set. Its combining ability is higher under which the crosses of 91-1/888-1
and 91-1/90117 performed 10% more advantage of heteroses than check, Jimai
24.
DSL 91-1, although found in 1987, its value has not been identified
until recently. Based on the point that it was easily passing on the
thermophase and easily to enter into photophase, and under SSI phase in
winter, maybe belongs to a photo-thermo sensitive nuclear sterile line. It
seems that the illumination is a main factor causing the fertility
transition in which the temperature has had a supplementary function. As
the mechanism of FT and the relationships between temperature and sunshine
time, morphology and cytology as well as its fertility inheritant behavior
should be further studied.
--------------------
Beijing Agricultural University, Department of Agronomy
Tiecheng Huang, Qixin Sun, Aimin Zhang
Semidwarf hybrid wheat breeding Several female lines with dominant
dwarf genes have been developed, two of them, BAU2410 (with
Rht3,45cm),BAU3338(with Rht gene from Agropyron, 55cm, good baking
quality),were used to produce hybrid seed in pilot plot using CHA
technology. Over 50 hybrids were tested for yield potential this year, two
of them yielded 20% more than best check cultivar,they will be retested next
year in 4 sites for yield stability,while the seed production plot was
planted for these two hybrids. The yield advantage over cultivars is mainly
contributed to heterosis in both kernel weight and grain number per spike.
Qi-xin Sun , Yinmin Song, Jihua Wang
A-line and R-line development. 1) CMS system of T.timopheevi
cytoplasm.Emphasis is placed upon the development of dwarf A-lines of easy-
to-restore and upon improvment of yield potential. We found that BAU2410A is
easy to restore and has good combining ability. For ten years,we are
developing R-lines by Cultivar/R1//R2 hybridation, using our local R-lines
as one parent, crossed by R-lines from Yugoslavia, including Zg41, Tc51887.
We developed R-lines with quite good restoring ability, even for those A-
lines, such as Honglian5A, Jingshuang3A, they can give nearly complete
fertility restoration under different environments.
2) CMS system of Ae.kotschyi and Ae.ventricosa cytoplasm. Although it is
reported that most common wheat cultivars without 1B/1R translocation can
restore fertility, we only found 3 out of 100 cultivars have fertility
restoration over 90%. It is interesting to note one of the three R-
lines,Yuan67/Youmanghong7 is also a restorer for T. timopheevi cytoplasm A-
line. Haploid production is still major limitation for using the kind of CMS
system with haploid production ranging from 0-50% for F1 hybrids.
Qixin Sun, Jihua Wang
Comparative study on pollen abortion in CMS lines with different
cytoplasms:CMS lines with T. temopheevi, Ae. kotschyi and Ae. ventricosa
cytoplasm are compared. Sectioning of anther and scanning electron
microscope of pollen in both A- and B-lines indicated that the abnormality
of anther development begin at differet developmental stages for T-type and
K-type CMS lines, uninucleate pollen stage for T-type, binucleate pollen
stage for K-type, resulting in differences in morphology of anther and
pollen with K-type showing partially stained pollen.
Ruqiang Xu, Tiecheng Huang, Aimin Zhang, Qixin Sun
Studies on BAU-2 induced male sterility in winter wheat (Triticum
aestivum L.): CHA(Chemical Hybridizing Agent) induced male sterility has
been used in production of hybrid wheat.BAU-2 is a newly synthesized
chemical hybridizing agent,the cytological mechanism and the performance of
BAU-2 induced male sterility and its application in production of hybrid
winter wheat(Triticum aestivum L.) were studied using four cultivars in the
year of 1990-1991.All field experiments were conducted at Dongbeiwang
scientific experimental station in Beijing,in which treatments included 3
stages, 4 concentrations and 3 liquid volumes of spraying in two completely
randomized split-block designs with 2x1.8m sizes of plot with three
replications. Observation on micro- and macroscopic events that take place
in anthers from treated plants were accomplished by optical microscope and
electron microscope.The results were as follows: (1)BAU-2 could induce
nearly complete male sterility, with 99.5%, 99.9%,97.2%and 100% male
sterility for the four cultivars, respectively.Among treatments of 95-100%
male sterility,the seed sets of natural cross pollination of the four
treated cultivars were up to 66.9%,30.4%,30.8% and 38.8%,respectively;and
that of supplementary cross pollination were up to 78.5%,66.5%,49.7% and
76.5%, respectively. (2)The height of treated plants was lightly
reduced,this was mainly due to the reduction of the first,second and third
internode length counted from the top. (3) The 100 kernel weight of
naturally cross pollinated seed from treated plants was significantly
decreased when overdose rate was applied,which could reduce germinating
rate. (4) It was found that primordial differentiation of pistil and stamen
to the formation of pollen mother cell was appropriate developmental stage
for spraying BAU-2,this was the stage of elongation of the second and third
internode counted from the base. 1-2 kg/ha was appropriate spraying dose
rate for BAU-2,but it was relatively narrow for a given cultivar. (5) The
performance of BAU-2 induced male sterility depended on variety,dose rate
and stage of spraying,and there was a significant interaction among the
three factors. However, dose rate was more important than concentration and
liquid volume of spraying. (6) The abortion of one nucleus microspore was
responsible for the BAU-2 induced male sterility,which was related closely
with the functional abnormality of tapetum in anther.
Xiyun Song, Tiecheng Huang, Aimin Zhang, Qixin Sun
Studies on heterotic parental group for hybrid wheat: In order to
increase yield advantage of hybrid wheat over cultivars, the selection of
parents is important. So it is necessary to study the heterotic parental
group for hybrid wheat with strong heterosis. In this paper,the performance
of wheat hybrids was studied with parents having special characters in order
to find the way for identifying crosses of strong heterosis.
The experiment was carried out at Dongbeiwang scientific experimental
station in Beijing from 1990 to 1992 with 16 parents. The parents were
classified into four groups:
A:with early maturity (parent No.1-4). B:with more spikes per
plant(parent No.5-8).
C:with large spikes (parent No.9-12). D:with larger kernels (parent
No.13-16).
The 16X16 diallel cross (120F1s) and their coresponding parents were
grown in autumn of 1991 with random plot design of 3 replications. The plot
was 2 rows and 2m long,spaced seeding with plant distance 10cm and row
spacing 30cm.Ten plants were taken for measurement of the following
characters:plant height(cm),main spike length (cm), the spike number per
plant, the kernel number of main spike, the kernel weight of main spike(g),
1000 kernel weight (g), and the yield per plant (g).
With a diallel cross of 4 special types of parents, 10 types of crosses
can be obtained. The heterosis values of various characters of different
types were calculaeted (see Tab.1).
Tab.1 The heterosis over mid parents and the heterosis over CK of
different cross types
---------------------------------------------------------------
cross Grain Yield spikes kernels 1000 kernel
per plant per spike weight
HM% HK% HM% HK% HM% HK% HM% HK%
----------------------------------------------------------------
BXB 41.23 43.59 -3.68 32.90 7.75 -8.98 13.27 2.82
BXD 38.56 51.72 4.87 23.15 3.81 -10.98 9.76 14.29
BXA 37.40 39.45 1.55 17.97 7.92 -4.66 12.72 2.56
BXC 27.03 40.00 -2.29 16.26 4.45 -9.40 14.25 17.33
AXD 23.80 36.15 1.81 4.61 4.03 -9.00 6.94 14.86
AXA 23.14 26.93 16.20 10.95 6.78 -0.90 7.47 -0.48
AXC 21.98 34.61 4.35 2.99 8.04 -2.90 8.80 13.96
CXC 18.54 41.65 0.61 2.09 6.32 -5.55 7.95 24.20
CXD 17.50 40.12 3.85 8.23 6.79 -6.55 6.60 25.43
DXD 10.18 26.86 0.82 8.92 3.12 -9.92 0.06 18.06
---------------------------------------------------------------
* HM: heterosis over mid- parent. HK: heterosis over check (Jing411).
From Tab.1,it seemed that the cross between parents group B had the
highest heterosis of 41.23%,followed by the cross between parents group B
and group D ,with an average heterosis of 38.56%. While the cross between
parents group D was the lowest (10.18%). Taking one of four group as one
parent(femal or male), the average heterosis over mid-parent is: for group
B:35.10%, for group A:27.22%,for group D:24.79%,for group C:21.77%. It is
found that group B give the most significant heterosis.From that, it could
be concluded that in order to increase the heterosis it was necessry to
select parents with more spikes under the experimental conditions. The
application of a hybrid depended not only on the heterosis (over mean of
parents),but also on the heterosis over the check.From Tab.1 ,the heterosis
over the check for crosses between parents group B and parents group D was
the highest (51.72%),much higher than the cross between parents group B. It
seemed that the crosses between parents group B and parents group D would be
more valuable.
Strong heterosis crosses with heterosis above 50% are listed in Tab. 2.
Tab. 2 Strong Heterosis and their parent type
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
parents type heterosis(%) parents type heterosis(%)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1x6 AxB 84.17 5x10 BxC 57.78
5x13 BxD 71.00 6x8 BxB 56.15
4x6 AxB 62.44 7x13 BxD 55.01
5x14 BxD 62.43 5x8 BxB 54.14
6x13 BxD 62.16 4x5 AxB 52.93
6x14 BxD 59.74 5x9 BxC 50.56
1x5 AxB 58.67 1x15 AxD 50.28
8x14 BxD 58.59 4x13 AxD 50.14
---------------------------------------------------------------
From Tab.2,it seemed that among the 16 crosses of strong heterosis, 14
had parents from group B,eight had parents from group D, six had parents
from group A and two had parents from group C. It was concluded that in
order to get a strong heterosis cross, it was very important to select
parents with more spikes. Also among the sixteen crosses of strong
heterosis, six are crosses between parents group B and D, four are crosses
between parents group A and B, two are crosses between parents group B, two
are crosses between A and D, and the first group had the largest proportion.
So it could be concluded that it
was a very effective way to select one parent with more spikes and the other
with greater genetic difference so as to increase heterosis. Parents with
early maturity and large kernels were also useful for getting strong
heterosis.
Guangtian Liu,Jinbao Zhu and Shuzhen Zhang
Strategies for breeding of winter wheat in north China. Through
investigations and studies on grain protain content, gluten content,flour
percentage, Farinogram, Extensogram, Mixogram and sedimentation value of
wheat varieties released in Beijing areas in 40 years, we concluded that (1)
The gluten quality of varieties in Beijing was poor with low gluten strength
, weak gluten elasticity and too high gluten extensibility. These were the
differences between chinese varieties and varieties from forein contries.
The key point for the improvement of grain quality suitable for making bread
and noodle in Beijing areas was not the increase of grain protein content
but the increase of gluten quality. (2) The yield has increased greatly for
40 years, but the grain protein content did not appear to decrease and
gluten quality also did not deteriorate or improve apparently. High yield
and good quality cold be integrated in one genotype. Breeding for high-
yield and good-quality varieties was possible. Since yield has been the
first priority since the beginning of wheat breeeding in China, quality has
now become the limiting factor and would be more and more important in wheat
production. Through importing new germplasm from foreign contries and other
researchers in China, we have finished crosses with good agronomic varieties
and selected better lines by sedimentation value in early generations and
baking tests in high generations. Some newly-bred lines with better baking
quality have been tested and might be released in the near future.
Jinbao Zhu, Guangtian Liu, Shuzhen Zhang and Jianshe Wang
Genetic studies on quality and agronomic characters. The heterosis of
yield and yield characters was greater and positive. The heterosis of
quality characters such as grain protein content (GPC), gluten content and
sedimentation value was lower than that of agronomic characters. The
heterosis of GPC was usually negative, while that of sedimentation value was
positive.
Grain protein content was negatively and significantly correlated with
all yield components except 1000 kernel weight. Sedimentation value was
negatively correlated with 1000 kernel weight, but had no relationship with
other components such as the number of spike of per plant, the number of
kernel of per spike, the weight of kernel of per plant. Bread-making quality
and yield could be improved simultaneously.
Studies on high molecular weight (HMW) and Low molecular weight (LMW)
glutenin subunits. Most of chinese wheat varieties contained 2 7 8 12 or 2 7
9 12 HMW glutenin subunits. Only a few varieties had 5+10 subunits. Although
5+10 subunits were positively correlated with bread-making quality, there
were exceptions. Other subunits such as 1 and 2* also had importent role in
bread-making quality.
An one-step one-dimensional SDS-PAGE procedure for the separation of
HMW and LMW glutenin subunits has been developed. The HMW subunits were
named as A group, while LMW subunits could be divided into B and C group. A
and B group had positive, while C group had negative influence on bread-
making quality.
The HMW glutenin subunits in F1 were co-dominant with gene dose in the
triploid endosperm. This could be used to detect the hybrid purity. Under
various enviroments, the SDS-PAGE band patterns of the same variety could
not be changed, while the quality of the same variety might be changed. The
changes were mainly caused by the differences of the contents and their
proportions of different protein components such as HMW, LMW glutenin
subunits and gliadin.
Selection responce. Grain quality characters appeared to be continous
distribution in F2 and F3 generations. Grain protein content, dry and wet
gluten content mainly deviated to the inferior parent or the mid-parent,
while sedimentation value mainly tended to be near or over the superior
parent.
As the generations increased, the contradictional relation between
grain quality characters and the yield per plant also its components
reduced. Sometimes there was significant or extremelly significant negative
correlation, but there appeared to be weak correlation in most cases, even
there was weak positive correlation. This indicated that it was possible to
improve wheat grain quality characters in keeping yield undecreased or to
improve these two classes of characters simultenously.
The selection of grain protein content in early generations was
effective. If plants with low grain protein content were selected in F2
generation, the decrease of the genetic advance of grain protein content of
F3 lines would be expected. On the contrary, if plants with high grain
protein content were selected, the increase of the genetic advance would be
expected. The selection of grain protein content in F2 also had positive
effect on other quality characters and yield, especially in some crosses,
the selection of high grain protein content plants did not result in the
yield decrease of F3 lines.
--------------------
Institute for Application of Atomic Energy, Chinese Academy of
Agricultural Sciences, Beijing
Luxiang Liu*, Jungyuan Cheng, Guoqin Sun and Linshu Zhao
Wheat Hybrid Breeding
Hybrid Production. Hybrid wheat seed was produced utilizing both
cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) and chemical hybridizing agent (CHA)
production systems during the 1991-1992 season. Ten CMS hybrid were produced
in 2 isolated plots that produced good amount of seed. Twenty-four CHA
hybrids were produced using the chemical hybridizing agent Sc 2053.
Combinations were done including advanced lines of different origins and
breeding material as well. Four advanced CHA hybrids, i.e., H91031, H91037,
H91040 and H91333 were produced in 3 hybrid production plots. These will be
tested in large areas in different environments in 1993.
Hybrid Evaluation. Three hybrid yield tests were grown during 1991-92.
Statistical analysis of data from 18 CMS hybrids with either T. timopheevi
(T) or Ae. kotschyi (K) cytoplasm showed that the hybrids yielded from 3 to
20 percent more than the check cultivar "Yuandong No. 3". The best T-
cytoplasm hybrid "T7125A x R344" and K-cytoplasm hybrid "K78-1A x Yuanhui-6"
outyielded the check by 20 and 19 percent respectively. These two hybrids
will be extensively produced during the 1993 season. Sixty-eight CHA hybrids
were evaluated in two yield trials and we have selected 10 combinations that
outyielded the check by 15 percent more, and one hybrid with excellent
bread-making characteristics and good yield pocential. We expected 2 more
hybrids will be released in 1994. Furthermore, from these trials, it was
found that 1000 kernel weight showed the highest vigour among the yield
components, being the main factor contributing to yield heterosis. We have
also evaluated and classified the parent germplasm accordingto their
combining ability.
Parent development. We have not only utilized the best current
conventional cultivars and advanced lines to directly produce CHA hybrids or
develop A-lines but also created or improved the special parental germplasm.
During the 1991-92 season, nearly 100 excellent individual plants were
selected in the F2 generations from the crosses between several special
germplasm, and most of them have large spike, high grain weight, semidarf
plant height, medium to early maturity, main diseases resistance, and good
anther extrusion. These will be again grown and selected in 1993. Six
outstanding A-lines with T. timopheevi cytoplasm and 3 good restorer lines
were made though backcrossing and accumulation method respectively. Twelve
A-lines with Ae. kotschyi cytoplasm have been developed, in which the
frequency of haploid production was zero or only 3 percent. Three restorer
lines with good yield potential and anther extrusion were also identified.
In addition, we were surprised to find some complete male sterility in
the F1 or F2 generations of 2 crosses between common wheat cultivars. The
sterile plants had complete seed set in all testcrosses, but the
headingdates were distinctly delayed than their sisters' lines. It was
expected that if these sterility can be used to produce hybrid wheat, then
these systems will be superior to current used CMS systems. Further
evaluation are needed.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM CROATIA
Plant Protection, Ltd., Zagreb
Bogdan Koric
Investigations of the Most Important Wheat Diseases in Croatia
Scientific work on diseases, namely on the problem of stem rust
Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici were begun before the second World War. At
that time, stem rust was the most serious disease in Croatia and was the
main reason to initiate investigations to determine pathotypes and to screen
for different sources of resistance effective against pathotypes encountered
in Croatia. The selected sources of resistance were utilized in a breeding
program to provide the highly promising line Zg 414/58 for that time.
Breeders incorporated the resistance of Zg 414/58 into several varieties,
the best known of which is Zlatna dolina. Almost all varieties available
today in Croatia possess stem rust resistance which originates from Zg
414/58. Upon development of high-yielding wheat varieties another disease
known as powdery mildew become increasingly evident. As soon as this was
observed, phytopathological investigations on this causal organism, i.e.,
the fungus Erysiphe graminis f. sp.tritici, was initiated. Investigations
focused on pathotypes and Pm genes for resistance. Many of our wheat
varieties possess in their pedigree some of these genes for powdery mildew
resistance namely resistant Pm2, Pm4, Pm6 and Pm8.
The problems of wheat disease in Croatia did not stop there. In the
meantime new diseases, such as Septoria nodorum blotch and scab (fusarium
head blight) appeared as a result of specific cultural practices.
Scientific workers again chose the most effective method of control, i.e,
phytopathological investigation and breeding for resistance. Investigations
of the fungi Leptosphaeria nodorum and Fusarium graminearum and today is
prevalent Fusarium moniliforme var subglutinans produced effective sources
of resistance which breeders incorporated by crossing and through the
breeding processes into new varieties Davorka and Iva (scab resistance from
cv Roason and two lines of Chinese wheat). The variety Marina has septoria
nodorum blotch, resistance incorporated from Nadodores 63.
--------------------
Slobodan Tomasovic
Institute for Breeding and Production of Field Crops, Department of
Small Grain Cereal Crops - Zagreb
Winter Wheat Breeding Based on Increased Grain Production of Spike -
With permanent reduction of acreages under wheat, necessity arises to
increase yield per area. One of the ways of doing it is by increasing grain
production per spike as one of the basic yield components.
Breeding winter wheat based on high spike production involves continuous
work many years, the beginnings of which date from long past, 1921 (Mirko
Koric). Genetic material we are working with is very rich. It was obtained
by mutually crossing the best genotypes, the carriers of traits for
programmed wheat ideotype. By accumulating various polymeric genes, among
which fertility genes, recombination of favorable genes took place, which
resulted in obtaining the most fertile genotypes. Multiple crossing
produced spike forms with elongated rachis and increased number of spikelets
and more kernels. Those crossings produced spike forms with 33 well-
developed spikelets. Spikes were found with more than 100 kernels. From
this material, and especially from the combination S9xT25, the first spike
forms were selected in 1946 that preceded the first branching (Ramifera,
1951), furrowing (Tetrastichon) and normal spike forms (normal) with
branching gene complex which elongates spikes and increases spikelet number.
A considerable contribution to the investigations dealing with increased
yield per spike was made since the discovery of genes that control
branching, furrowing and normal spike forms in Triticum aestivum ssp.
vulgare (Rm, Ts, and Nr genes) (Svetka Koric). Branching hexaploid wheat T.
aestivum ramifera S.K. was developed in the Institute for Breeding and
Production of Field Crops in Zagreb, and numerous genetic investigations
were carried out with it. The work was especially intensified after 1965
(Svetka Koric). Manifestation of genes that control branching or furrowing
may be inhibited by an inhibitor-normalizer factor (NR) which then permits
the development of normal spikes with branching gene complex. In this case,
the branching gene complex positively enhances higher production per spike
in three ways: increased number of spikelets per spike, increased number of
grain per spikelet (7-8 grains per spikelet have been reported, even 2-3
grains in a floret), and increased kernel weight. How this gene complex
will be manifested depends on the interaction with other genes of hexaploid
wheat, especially "major genes QQ, CC, and SS.
In our breeding work, we frequently use genes that control branching
for developing highly productive normal genotypes. Normal spikes with
branching gene complex may weigh 6.70 g with 103 kernels and kernel weight
of 50.3 mg. Branching genes account for a consideration contribution in
breeding winter wheat for development of high-productive genotypes with
normal spike form. In the near future, they will probably be used in a form
of productive furrowing or branching spike. This germplasm has attracted
world-wide interest because of the new spike architecture (sink capacity)
that is receiving growing importance, although this concept was abandoned
until the 1980's.
Regarding the guidelines for the future work on the above program aimed
at increasing grain production per spike, it is necessary to lengthen spikes
of normal forms even more and increase the number of their highly fertile
spikelets. The objective is to develop what cultivars with even higher
yielding capacity that is based on elongated spikes and increased kernel
number per spikelet, which is potentially made possible by branching or
furrowing genes called yielding genes.
Importance of Winter Wheat Breeding for Resistance to Fusarium Heat
Blight - In wheat production, genetic yielding potential is not being fully
realized, because of some negative factors adversely affecting yield, grain
and flour quality, as well as their sanitary condition. One of the negative
factors is Fusarium head blight, most frequently caused by Fusarium
graminearum Schw. and, more recently, by Fusarium moniliforme var.
subglutinans in our wheat growing areas.
Disease development is particularly favored by high temperatures at
anthesis, above 26oC, with high relative air humidity. Higher severities
usually occur as a result of narrow crop rotation (maize-wheat and vice-
versa and wheat following wheat), and intensive fertilizer rates, especially
nitrogen. Semidwarf genotypes and dense stands have lately favored more
severe spike infection. The parasite is permanently present in the soil and
has simple nutritional requirements. it is both parasite and saprophyte by
nature, which means that it can survive on living or dead organic matter.
Fusarium head blight may cause considerable yield reduction of as high as 50
or even 80% depending on the above environmental factors and the genotype.
By applying adequate crop rotation and planting healthy and quality
seeds, reliable results in protecting wheat against this disease can be
achieved. However, the most economical and most effective control is
achieved by growing resistant genotypes, because chemical control of this
problem has not been completely solved. Therefore, what wheat growers are
expecting most for the future are the solutions offered from breeding, i.e.,
growing resistant cultivars. A program of incorporating resistance to spike
Fusarium diseases into wheat is very complex, so is breeding mechanism and
mode of inheritance because we are dealing with a facultative parasite.
As early as in the beginning of the 1970's, while monitoring spike
disease development we came to realize that Fusarium diseases on spike would
pose a big problem in wheat production. Increased severities on spikes in
Republica Croatia were reported from 1975 on. Because of the growing
damages resulting from Fusarium, the Zegreb Institute for Breeding and
Production of Field Crops initiated work on solving this problem in terms of
developing resistant cultivars. Breeding program was started in 1978 and
was aimed at developing wheats resistant to Fusarium head blight. Prior to
that, in 1976 and 1977, work on collecting sources of resistance was
started. By 1980, 870 genotypes were collected and tested in Botinec under
artificial and natural infection and 25 genotypes stood out, of which 7
sources of resistance were chosen for further work based on their level of
resistance and valuable agronomic traits.
By using suitable methods of crossing, resistance genes from various
sources can be accumulated in progenies. Thus, new sources of improved
resistance level are obtained and then used in breeding programs for
developing of high yielding lines (cultivars) resistant to this disease.
During breeding process, the most resistant progeny was screened under
artificial infection from certain combinations among which the most
resistant plants with good agronomic traits were selected, and from which
new lines with improved resistance level relative to their parents (initial
sources) were selected in preliminary and comparative small-scale trials.
Five Zg-lines were screened which exhibited good agronomic traits and
improved resistance to Fusarium head blight was compared to the existing
resistance level in the world.
In the future work and further investigations for an improved
resistance level, we intend to introduce new techniques and methods,
especially those more effective screening methods. Improvements achieved by
using these new methods could provide higher effectiveness of breeding for
resistance to Fusarium head blight, which, in economic terms, is becoming an
increasingly important disease in some wheat growing areas. What we intend
to do in the next breeding cycle is to further improve grain and flour
quality of the new wheat lines.
Publications
Koric, Bogdan, and Slobodan Tomasovic. 1991. Wheat Disease Research.
Improvement of sources of resistance of new wheat lines (Triticum aestivum
ssp. vulgare) to Fusarium head blight (Fusarium graminearum Schw.). Ann.
Wheat Newsletter, Vol. 37, 1985-186.
Tomasovic, Slobodan and Bogdan Koric. 1991. Effect of Fusarium graminearum
Schw. on reductions in yield of wheat. Wheat Information Service, Number
73, 11-14, Yokohama, Japan.
Tomasovic, Slobodan. 1992. The present level of knowledge on how to
improve wheat yield through increased production per spike and increased
resistance to Fusarium spp. on spikes. Ann. Wheat Newsletter, Vol. 38, 93-
95.
Tomasovic, Slobodan. 1992. Improvement of wheat yield through increased
production per spike. Ann. Wheat Newsletter, Vol. 38, 95-96.
--------------------
ITEMS FROM THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Research Inskitute Or Crop Production, Prague 6 - Ruzyne
Z. Stehno, L. Dotlacil and M. Vlasak
Wheat genetic resources evaluation, newly released cultivars and
catalogue of wheat cultivars.
Genetic resources evaluation. ln 1992 collections of spring and winter wheat
have increased (133 and 130 accessions respectively). Into the main
evaluation (each cu]tivar on plot 4 m2 in one replication) 264 winter and
226 spring wheats have been included. Twenty seven most promising winter
cultivars and 30 spring ones were evaluated in experiments with 4
replications.
Among winter cultivars check variety 'Regina' (CSK) was outyielded by
'Albrecht'(DEU), 'Tombola'(NLD), 'Adular'(DEU), 'Hubertus'(AUT),
'Caste]l'(REL), 'Apollo'(DEU), 'Hana'(CSK) and 'Typhon'(NLD).
Only one cultivar of spring wheat 'Hanno' (fy. Nickerson) outyielded
check variety 'Sandra'(CSK). Next two cultivars 'Ventura' (FRA) and
'Dragon'(SWE) approached check in grain yield.
New cultivars released. Three winter and one spring cultivars were
released in l992.
'Blava' (Viginta/Fundulea 29) was bred at "Selekt" Bucany. It is
mid-early, mid-high winter cultivar with good tillering ability. Spike is
awned. The cu]tivar reaches middle level of grain baking qua]ity. Resistance
to powdery mildew and leaf rust is good, but resistance to stem rust and
Septoria is middle.
'Torysa' (Maris Marksman/Vala) is winter cultivar bred at Breeding
Station Maly Saris. The cultivar is mid-early ripening, mid-high, having
mid-high tillering ability. Spike is awned and 1,000 kernels weight reaches
48 - 51 g. Baking quality is low, and cultivar is suitable for feeding
purposes. Resistance to powdery mildew is very good, to leaf rust and
septoria good and to stripe rust middle.
'Vega' (Hana/Selekta) was bred at Breeding Station Hrubcice. This
winter cultivar is mid-late, higher (99 cm) wheat having awned spike. Baking
quality is good (7th degree within 9 degree scale). It has good resistance
to Septoria and mid-resistance to powdery mildew, stem rust and temporary
races of stripe rust. Resistance to logging is quite good.
'Linda' is a spring wheat bred at Breeding Station Stupice as a result
of crissing (Rena/ST-802-74) when ST-802-74 = (Mironovska 808/ Siete
Cerros). The cultivar is mid-early, with short straw (82 cm). Spike is
awned, mid-condensed. 'Linda' is fodder wheat with good resistance to stem
rust, powdery mildew and Septoria and mid-level of resistance to temporary
races Of stripe rust.
Catalogue "Genealogy and Gene Alleles Identified in 31 000 Cultivars
and Lines of Wheat" has been prepared and published by a group of authors
from Russian Academy of Agriculture, Information and Computation Center,
Tver and Research Institute Or Crop Production, Gene Bank, Prague-Ruzyne.
The catalogue contains data on genealogy and identification of major genes
completed by another 8 characters.
All available information from summary catalogues, national wheat data
bases, professional publications, lists of registered cultivars, recommended
lists of cultivars, breeding companies catalogues and personal communication
was taken as a source of data for this catalogue. Catalogue can be ordered
on the enclosed form. Publication: Martynov,S.P. Dobrotvorskaya,T.V.
Stehno, Z. Dotlacil, L. Faberova, I. Holubec V. 1992 Genealogy and Gene
Alleles Identified in 31 000 Cultivars and Lines of Wheat.
--------------------
P. Bartos, R. Hanusova and E. Stuchlikova
Genes for resistance to rusts and powdery mildew in Czech and Slovak
wheat cultivars. In 1992 the list of registered cultivars in the Former
Czechoslovakia contained 21 bread winter wheats, 2 durum wheats and 5 spring
bread wheats. Genes for rust 3nd powdery mildew resistances were estimated
according to the reaction to a set of rust and powdery mildew races and in
many cases results were conrirmed by analysis of F2 hybrids. Results are
listed in the table. Undetermined genes for seedling resistance are
designated with + or have preIimjnary designation derived rrom the name of
the cultivar. Blank = no seedling resistance to any of the races used in the
tests. Inh. = a specific gene inhibitor of expression of Pm8.
===========================================================================
Cultivar Reg. Pedigree Sr Lr Yr Pm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Winter Wheats:
Agra 1985 Purdue 66278 x (Aurora x S985) 31 +3,26 9 2,6,8
Blava 1992 Viginta x Fundulea 29 + + +
Branka 1988 (Weihenstephan 378/57x
x Mironovskaya 808) 31 3,26, +9 4b, 8 (BR
III 55 x
San
Pastore) x
Bezostaya
1x x No.
444
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Danubia 1984 (Aurora x SO g85) x
Purdue 5571 31 26+ 9 5,8
Hana 1985 (NS 984-1 x Mironovskaya 808)
Moisson 29 3 2
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ilona 1983 Amika x (Siete Cerros x
Kaykaz) 11+ 5
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iris 1983 Siete Cerros x Kavkaz 31, 26 9 5,8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kosutka 1981 (Nebojska x Kosutska x
Fleuron/ x Yaktana
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Livia 1991 K 3756-1-76 x Kosutka 31 26 9 8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mironovska 1966 = Mironovskaya 80 Bmp 3 from former USSR
Regional 1982 (Yubileynaya 50 x Zo-1,Z, S ra) x TadornaHe IV'
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selekta 1985 Slavia x Weihenstephan 378/57 31 26 g,+ 4b,8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Senta 1991 (Benno x Sava) x
9Mironovskaya 808
Artois Desprez) 31 3,26 9 8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Simona 1991 (WeihensteDhan 378/57
Zdar x Maris Huntsman)
x Zdar 2,4
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sofia 1990 (Mironovskaya 808x x
Artois Desprez)x x
(Weihenstephan 378/57 x
Maris Huntsman) 31 3,26 9 2,4b,8
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sparta 1988 same as Sofia 31 3,26 g ,4b,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Torysa 1992 Maris Marksman x Vala + + 2,6
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vega