ARS | Publication request: Using molecular markers and field performance data to characterize the Pee Dee cotton germplasm resources

Submitted to: Euphytica
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: February 27, 2009
Publication Date: August 21, 2009
Repository URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10113/34632
Citation: Campbell, B.T., Williams, V.E., Park, W. 2009. Using molecular markers and field performance data to characterize the Pee Dee cotton germplasm resources. Euphytica. 169:285-301.

Interpretive Summary: Long-term strategies to effectively increase lint yield and fiber quality in cotton breeding programs rely on working knowledge of genetic diversity within and among key cotton germplasm sources. In cotton, the Pee Dee germplasm enhancement program represents one of the most historically significant cotton breeding programs and is known as a key source of fiber quality genes for commercial cultivars. The unique, genetic foundation of the Pee Dee germplasm was formed over 50 years ago using strains from Upland, Sea Island, and primitive diploid cottons. In this study, we used DNA molecular markers and field performance data to characterize genetic relationships within the Pee Dee germplasm collection. Molecular marker and field performance data showed the Pee Dee germplasm collection still maintains useful amounts of genetic diversity. This working knowledge of Pee Dee germplasm genetic relationships provides plant breeders the ability to best utilize the Pee Dee germplasm in their respective breeding programs. Plant breeders can use these data to enhance their ability to meet the goal of developing new high yielding cultivars with excellent fiber quality.

Technical Abstract: Knowledge of genetic diversity and relationships in crop breeding programs provides valuable information that can be used by plant breeders as a parental line selection tool. In Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), the Pee Dee germplasm program represents one of the most historically significant Upland cotton breeding programs and is known as a key source of fiber quality genes for commercial cultivars. The foundation of the Pee Dee germplasm is known to represent a wide array of genetic diversity involving the hybridization of G. hirsutum L., G. barbadense L., and triple hybrid strains (G. arboreum L. × G. thurberi Todaro × G. hirsutum L.). In this study, we characterized genetic relationships within the Pee Dee germplasm collection using molecular marker and field performance data. Molecular marker and field performance data showed the Pee Dee germplasm collection still maintains useful amounts of genetic diversity. These data provide plant breeders a resource to select specific Pee Dee germplasm parental line combinations based on a combination of genotypic (molecular marker) and phenotypic (field performance) information rather than relying on pedigree and phenotypic information alone.