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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Madison, Wisconsin » Vegetable Crops Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #245975
Title: Potato Improvement Using Exotic Germplasm: Prospects and Challenges

Author
item Jansky, Shelley

Submitted to: Common Tater
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/9/2009
Publication Date: 11/17/2009
Citation: Jansky, S.H. 2009. Potato Improvement Using Exotic Germplasm: Prospects and Challenges. Common Tater. 61(11):16-18.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: While genetic diversity in potato cultivars is low, tremendous variation exists in wild relatives. Many of these relatives contain valuable genes for disease resistance, tuber quality, storability, and stress tolerance. Some are more easily crossable with the cultivated potato than others. In addition, when hybridized with the cultivated potato, variation exists among wild species in the ability to produce desirable tubers, adapted plants, and fertile offspring. This article summarizes challenges associated with the use of wild potato relatives in breeding and discusses their potential for cultivar improvement.