Author
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Kindiger, Bryan |
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Submitted to: Intech
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 11/15/2011 Publication Date: 4/1/2012 Citation: Kindiger, B.K. 2012. Sampling the genetic diversity of tall fescue utilizing gamete selection. In: Caliskan, M., editor. Genetic Diversity in Plants. Rijecka, Coratia: InTech. p. 271-284. Interpretive Summary: A underutilized form of plant selection termed ‘gamete selection’ is discussed in its application toward tall fescue improvement. This form of selection is more advantageous than traditional selection approaches in that it is rapid and more efficient in the identification of superior genetic characteristics and plant types. Examples are provided where the gamete selection approach has been applied toward identifying individual plants exhibiting superior levels of stress tolerance, resistance to disease and quality nutritional characteristics. When applied correctly, utilizing gamete selection in tall fescue breeding programs can provide for the development of new and superior tall fescue cultivars. This research will be of value to researchers of tall fescue breeding programs that are focused on developing improved germplasm. Technical Abstract: Gamete Selection is a plant breeding selection methodology that has been traditionally shown to be effective in the development of a wide array of plant species. Widely utilized in corn, wheat, rye and legumes, a gamete selection approach has not been applied toward tall fescue germplasm development. The chief advantages of gamete-selection are the expected superiority in yield potential of superior selected individuals from within a population at the gamete level; and how a limited sampling of a population can be effectively utilized to identify superior genotypes. Gamete selection as discussed in this paper focuses primarily on the selection of a single genotype provided by the paternal gamete and the generation of dihaploid tall fescue lines. The recent discovery that dihaploid lines in tall fescue can be predictably generated can allow tall fescue breeders to practice this rapid and highly effective form of selection. The research paper outlines how gamete selection can be applied in tall fescue breeding utilizing dihaploid lines and examples are provided of its use in disease selection, forage quality and plant persistence under stress. Utilizing the described may provide for the development of new and superior tall fescue cultivars. This research will be of value to researchers of tall fescue breeding programs that are focused on developing improved germplasm. |
