Location: Crop Genetics Research
Project Number: 6066-21220-016-029-R
Project Type: Reimbursable Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Oct 1, 2025
End Date: Dec 31, 2026
Objective:
The Uniform Soybean Tests is a cooperative testing program that is the main mechanism for U.S. public soybean breeders to obtain multi-state field data to support the release of varieties and germplasm. Separate tests for each of maturity groups OO to VIII are grown in appropriate locations across 18 states and two Canadian provinces. The ARS and collaborators screen lines for resistance to important soybean diseases and pests. Seed samples are sent to labs for seed composition analysis. The objective of this grant is to support the Uniform Soybean Test program.
Approach:
ARS and our collaborators will:
a. Organize the Uniform Soybean Test – Southern States and the Uniform Soybean Test – Northern Region. Tasks include receiving and re-distributing seed to cooperators in the spring, maintaining stocks of checks, as well as preparing and distributing location lists, data collection sheets, and entry lists.
b. Collect, validate and compile data from the testing location for analysis. Data are analyzed and the results sent to participants for review, and data are re-analyzed, if required.
c. Prepare, copy, bind and distribute the final annual report based on the compiled data, then post the final reports online.
d. Contribute pedigree data to Parentage Database located at Soybase.org.
e. Grow tests for maturities IV and V in Mississippi.
f. Grow tests for maturities I, II, III and IV in Indiana.
g. Screen entries for southern stem canker resistance.
h. Screen northern test entries for the Rps gene, which confers resistance to Phytophthora stem and root rot.
i. Analyze seed produced in the tests for protein and oil percentage.
j. Analyze seed produced in the tests for fatty acids.
k. Screen soybean lines for reaction to soybean cyst nematode.
l. Screen soybean lines for reaction to root-knot nematodes.
m. Analyze DNA from seed samples for molecular markers using the SoySNP6K assay.