Project Number: 1245-21000-265-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Jan 12, 2011
End Date: Jul 30, 2013

Objective:
1. Identify alfalfa genetic markers associated with resistance and adaptation to abiotic stresses. Emphasis should be on markers associated with water-use efficiency that may aid adaptation of alfalfa production to variations in water availability associated with climate change and reductions in water resources available for irrigation. (NP215 C3: PS H1) 2. Identify alfalfa genetic markers associated with resistance and adaptation to biotic stresses. Emphasis should be on markers associated with diseases, nematodes and insect pests associated with irrigated alfalfa production systems. (NP215 C3: PS H1)

Approach:
The research project will utilize short sequence repeats (SSR) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) technologies to identify genetic markers associated with resistance and adaptation of alfalfa to abiotic and biotic stresses. Markers will be validated through cooperative research collaborations with ARS scientists in Prosser, WA; Logan, UT; Madison, WI; and St. Paul, MN. Emphasis will be placed on markers associated with water-use efficiency and disease and pest resistance.