ARS | Publication request: Evaluating the Pee Dee germplasm resources

Submitted to: World Cotton Research Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: June 15, 2007
Publication Date: September 10, 2007
Citation: Campbell, B.T. 2007. Evaluating the Pee Dee germplasm resources [abstract]. Proceedings of World Cotton Research Conference-4, September 10-14, 2007, Lubbock, Texas. 2007 CDROM.

Technical Abstract: Over the last fifty years, the Pee Dee Cotton Genetics program has developed a large amount of valuable, genetic resources. These genetic resources consist of over 90 officially released germplasm lines and varieties. These germplasm lines and varieties are known as key sources of enhanced fiber quality genes used by the industry to develop higher quality commercial cultivars. The objective of this study was to evaluate a representative subset of the Pee Dee germplasm resources for yield potential, regional adaptation, and fiber quality potential as compared to current commercial cultivars grown in the United States. Eighty-two Pee Dee germplasm lines and varieties and six commercial cultivars were evaluated over three years in replicated, multi-location field trials across North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Mississippi. Based on these evaluations, numerous Pee Dee lines significantly improve fiber quality compared to commercial cultivars. Several lines also combine acceptable lint yield with superior fiber quality potential. Ultimately, these data provide information for the selection of specific Pee Dee lines for specific breeding objectives.