A major QTL for common bacterial blight resistance derives from the common bean great northern landrace cultivar Montana No.5

Knowledge of the evolutionary origin and sources of pest resistance genes will facilitate gene deployment and development of crop cultivars with durable resistance. Our objective was to determine the source of common bacterial blight (CBB) resistance in the common bean Great Northern Nebraska #1 (GN#1) and GN#1 Selection 27 (GN#1 Sel 27). Several great northern cultivars including GN#1, GN#1 Sel 27, and Montana No.5 (the female parent of the common x tepary bean interspecific population from which GN #1 and GN # 1 Sel 27 were derived) and known susceptible checks were evaluated for CBB reaction in field and greenhouse environments. These genotypes and CBB resistant and susceptible tepary bean including Tepary #4, the male parent and presumed contributor of CBB resistance toGN#1 and GN#1 Sel 27, were assayed for presence or absence of three SCAR markers tightly linked with independent QTLs conditioning CBB resistance. The parents and F₂ of Montana No. 5/GN #1 Sel 27 and Montana No.5/Othello(CBB susceptible) were screened for CBB reaction and SCAR markers. CBB resistance in Montana No.5 was comparable to that of GN#1 and GN#1 Sel27. The SAP6 SCAR marker present in GN#1 and GN#1 Sel 27 was also present in Montana No.5, and it co-segregated (R ² =35%) with the CBB resistance in the Montana No.5/Othello F₂ population. Although a few CBB resistant and susceptible transgressive segregants were found in the F₂ of MontanaNo.5/GN #1 Sel 27 and later confirmed by F₃ progeny tests, SAP6 SCAR marker was present in all progenies. None of the tepary bean specific CBB resistance-linked SCAR markers were present in GN#1, GN#1 Sel 27, or Montana No.5. A cluster analysis of 169 polymorphic PCR-based markers across three common bean and Tepary #4 indicated that GN#1, GN#1 Sel 27, and Montana No.5 were closely related, and not related at all with Tepary #4.Thus, these results clearly indicate Montana No.5, not Tepary #4, as the source of CBB resistance in GN#1 and GN#1 Sel 27. This revised version was published online in August 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

Combining ability of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) genotypes for root traits across diverse environments

Root system architecture is important for common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) adaptability to diverse environments. Beans employ complex adaptive root mechanisms for coping with multiple stresses in production environments. Understanding genetic control of root traits is central to improvement of common bean for adaptation to marginal environments. The objectives of this study were to (i) determine combining ability of root and agronomic traits and (ii) estimate the heritability and genetic correlation of root and agronomic traits in common bean. Four bean lines with superior root traits were crossed with four locally adapted varieties in a North Carolina II mating scheme to generate 16 crosses. The 16 F₁s were selfed and advanced to F₂ generation. Eight parents and their F₂ progenies were evaluated in an alpha-Lattice design with two replications. General and specific combing ability mean squares were significant (p ≤ .05) for all traits measured. General predictability ratios ranged from .47 to .68 across locations suggesting that both additive and non-additive gene action modulate root traits and seed yield. Positive and significant (p ≤ .05) phenotypic and genetic correlations revealed significant association between root traits and yield. Moderate to high heritability estimates of between .43 and .67 were realized. Such estimates point to possible deployment of a successful selection programme. Genotype AFR398 displayed significant positive GCA effects among its crosses for both root and agronomic traits hence a potential candidate genotype for inclusion in a bean genetic improvement programme for marginal environments.     

Introgression of Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray Genes into the Phaseolus vulgaris L. Genome

The tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray) is a desirable genetic resource for incorporation of improved disease, pest, and stress resistance into common bean (P. vulgaris L.). Reproductive barriers separate the two species and the degree to which tepary genes may be introgressed into the common bean genome has not been well described. Greenhouse studies of gene introgression through recurrent back-crossing to common bean were performed using two first backcross (BC₁) and nine second backcross (BC₂) populations. The truncate primary leaf characteristic of tepary bean was readily observed but the short primary leaf petiole and narrow bract tepary traits were infrequently observed in both BC₁ and BC₂ populations. In one BC, population high frequencies of adaxial stomata (characteristic of P. acutifolius) and the presence of a 30 kD cotyledon polypeptide from P. acutifolius were also observed; however, a diapho-rase isozyme from P. acutifolius appeared to be eliminated from BC₁ progeny at a high rate whereas 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase alleles appeared to be transmitted normally. The expression of tepary primary leaf truncate morphology and bract width were correlated with decreased fertility in one of the two BC₁ populations. Given suitable parental genotypes and population sizes it should be possible to transfer genes from P. acutifolius to P. vulgaris, especially in regions of the genome which are not associated with inviability or sterility. It will be difficult to transfer factors from certain regions of the tepary genome which are preferentially eliminated during introgression.     

Common bean breeding for resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses: From classical to MAS breeding

Summary Breeding for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses of global importance in common bean is reviewed with emphasis on development and application of marker-assisted selection (MAS). The implementation and adoption of MAS in breeding for disease resistance is advanced compared to the implementation of MAS for insect and abiotic stress resistance. Highlighted examples of breeding in common bean using molecular markers reveal the role and success of MAS in gene pyramiding, rapidly deploying resistance genes via marker-assisted backcrossing, enabling simpler detection and selection of resistance genes in absence of the pathogen, and contributing to simplified breeding of complex traits by detection and indirect selection of quantitative trait loci (QTL) with major effects. The current status of MAS in breeding for resistance to angular leaf spot, anthracnose, Bean common mosaic and Bean common mosaic necrosis viruses, Beet curly top virus, Bean golden yellow mosaic virus, common bacterial blight, halo bacterial blight, rust, root rots, and white mold is reviewed in detail. Cumulative mapping of disease resistance traits has revealed new resistance gene clusters while adding to others, and reinforces the co-location of QTL conditioning resistance with specific resistance genes and defense-related genes. Breeding for resistance to insect pests is updated for bean pod weevil (Apion), bruchid seed weevils, leafhopper, thrips, bean fly, and whitefly, including the use of arcelin proteins as selectable markers for resistance to bruchid seed weevils. Breeding for resistance to abiotic stresses concentrates on drought, low soil phosphorus, and improved symbiotic nitrogen fixation. The combination of root growth and morphology traits, phosphorus uptake mechanisms, root acid exudation, and other traits in alleviating phosphorus deficiency, and identification of numerous QTL of relatively minor effect associated with each trait, reveals the complexity to be addressed in breeding for abiotic stress resistance in common bean.     

Genetic gain in agronomic traits of common bean in the region of Planalto Catarinense

The purpose of this study was to predict the genetic progress in the selection for common bean agronomic traits based on the trait expression, using two indices of adaptive selection. The existence of correlation between various traits in common bean breeding is a major restriction, but some tools that allow breeders to predict the expected gains could optimize results. The following traits were evaluated: (1) plant cycle (days), (2) plant height (in cm), (3) stem diameter (cm), (4) insertion of the first pod (cm); (5) number of pods per plant; (6) number of grains per pod; (7) pod length (cm). Results show the possibility of selecting accessions for several agronomically important traits evaluated together. The only genotype selected by both indices was UDESC 03, confirming the possibility of selecting plants with superior agronomic traits among genotypes of common bean landraces.     

Genetic diversity of Phaseolus vulgaris L. and P. coccineus L. landraces in central Italy

The genetic diversity of 66 Phaseolus genotypes was investigated, which included 14 local varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris and nine local varieties of P. coccineus, collected in Marche, central Italy. Their genetic diversity was assessed using three types of molecular marker: inter simple sequence repeats (ISSRs), nuclear gene‐tagged simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and chloroplast simple sequence repeats (CpSSRs). Phaseolus vulgaris shows a higher genetic diversity than P. coccineus for the SSRs and CpSSRs, but not for the putative neutral ISSR markers. These data suggest that selection by farmers and adaptation to heterogeneous environments has maintained the diversity in landraces of the common bean. Comparing genetic diversity in Marche with that of the American controls reveals that 71% of the local P. vulgaris varieties in Marche are of Andean origin. The two gene pools of the common bean can be found on the same farm, and there is some evidence of past hybridization events between these two gene pools.     

Achievements and limitations of contemporary common bean breeding using conventional and molecular approaches

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) improvement programs have been successful using conventional breeding methods to accomplish a wide array of important objectives. Specific achievements include the extension of range of adaptation of the crop, the development of cultivars with enhanced levels of disease and pest resistance and breeding lines that possess greater tolerance to drought. The most effective breeding method depends on the expression and inheritance of the trait to be selected and the target environment. Many bean improvement programs use molecular markers to facilitate cultivar development. In fact, several recent germplasm releases have used molecular markers to introgress and or pyramid major genes and QTL for disease resistance. Related species (P. coccineus and P. acultifolius) via interspecific hybridizations remain an important albeit long-term source for resistance to economically important diseases. Slow progress has been made in the improvement of traits such as adaptation to low soil fertility and tolerance to high levels of soluble Al in the soil using conventional breeding methods. The inability to directly measure root traits and the importance of genotype × environment interaction complicate the selection of these traits. In addition, symbiotic relationships with Rhizobium and mycorrhiza need to be taken into consideration when selecting for enhanced biological N fixation and greater or more efficient acquisition of soil P. Genomic examination of complex traits such as these should help bean breeders devise more effective selection strategies. As integration of genomics in plant breeding advances, the challenge will be to develop molecular tools that also benefit breeding programs in developing countries. Transgenic breeding methods for bean improvement are not well defined, nor efficient, as beans are recalcitrant to regeneration from cell cultures. Moreover, if issues related to consumer acceptance of GMOs cannot be resolved, traits such as herbicide tolerance in transgenic bean cultivars which would help farmers reduce production costs and decrease soil erosion will remain unrealized.     

New techniques for breeding maize (Zea mays) varieties with fall armyworm resistance and market-preferred traits for sub-Saharan Africa

Deploying maize varieties with fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda [J.E. Smith]; FAW) resistance, desirable product profiles (PPs) and climate resilience is fundamental for food and economic security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study reviewed and identified challenges and opportunities for effective and accelerated breeding of demand-led maize hybrids with FAW resistance and adaptation to the diverse agro-ecologies of SSA. Lessons were drawn on improving breeding efficiency through adequate genetic variation delivered via prebreeding programmes, speed breeding and a reduced breeding stage plan. Appropriate PPs aligned with demand-led breeding approaches were highlighted as foundations for variety design and commercialization. Challenges to accelerated FAW resistance breeding in maize included inadequate funds and modern tools; poor adaptation of some exotic donor parental lines; lack of information on FAW resistance among local varieties; lack of integration of molecular markers associated with FAW resistance and agronomic traits into selection plans; and limited infrastructure for FAW rearing and germplasm screening. Integration of modern breeding tools and scientific innovations were recommended for accelerated development and release of FAW resistant and market-preferred maize varieties.     

绿豆分子遗传图谱构建及若干农艺性状的QTL定位分析

利用花叶1号×紫茎1号杂交后代衍生的208个F2家系组建群体,构建含有95个SSR标记位点的遗传连锁图谱,该图谱包含11个连锁群,全长1457.47 c M,标记平均间距为15.34 c M。利用复合区间作图法,对株高、幼茎色、主茎色、生长习性、结荚习性、复叶叶形和成熟叶色等农艺性状进行QTL分析,分别检测到与株高、幼茎色、主茎色、复叶叶形有关的QTL各1个,贡献率在8.49%~66.64%之间;与结荚习性有关的QTL3个,贡献率在60.32%~80.36%之间;与成熟叶色有关QTL 4个,贡献率在69.06%~87.35%之间;与生长习性有关的QTL数量最多,共26个,贡献率在58.32%~99.51%之间。上述QTL主要分布在LG1、LG2、LG4、LG8和LG10连锁群,其中LG1最少,仅检测到生长习性的1个QTL,LG4最多,包含了幼茎色、主茎色、结荚习性、生长习性、复叶叶形、成熟期叶色6个农艺性状的15个QTL;这些QTL既可以应用于绿豆育种的分子标记辅助选择,也对深入研究这些性状的遗传奠定了基础。     

Effect of water deficit on morphoagronomic traits of black common bean genotypes (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with contrasting drought tolerance

Brazil is the world's largest producer of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Drought stress harms the morphological and agronomic traits of beans. This study evaluates the reaction to water deficit in five genotypes of black beans. The experiment was conducted in the IDR-IAPAR-EMATER in Londrina-PR, Brazil. A split-plot design was used, with three replications. The genotypes were included in the subplots and the treatments with or without water deficit in the plots. Water deficit was induced on the pre-flowering stage and maintained for 20 days in the plots submitted to drought stress. For the growth analysis, plants were collected at 35, 54 and 70 days after emergence. At the stage of physiological ripeness, several morphological and yield traits were evaluated. The genotypes IPR Uirapuru and BRS Esplendor can be considered tolerant and used as a tolerant source to water deficit in common bean germplasm banks. The line LP 08-90 has morphological and agronomic adaptations efficient to overcome water deficit's effects, presenting a higher grain yield in both crop conditions, which indicates the success of black beans breeding to deal with water deficit.     

Wild emmer: genetic resources,gene mapping and potential for wheat improvement

Wild emmer, Triticum dicoccoides, the progenitor of cultivated wheat, harbors rich genetic resources for wheat improvement. They include many agronomic traits such as abiotic stress tolerances (salt, drought and heat), biotic stress tolerances (powdery mildew, rusts, and Fusarium head blight), grain protein quality and quantity, and micronutrient concentrations (Zn, Fe, and Mn). In this review, we summarize (1) traits and controlling genes identified and mapped in T. dicoccoides; and (2) the genes transferred to cultivated wheat from T. dicoccoides. These genes, controlling important agronomic traits such as disease resistance, high protein and micronutrient content, should contribute to wheat production and food nutrition. However, most of the rich genetic reservoir in wild emmer remains untapped, highlighting the need for further exploration and utilization for long-term wheat breeding programs.     

Genetic linkage map construction for white jute (Corchorus capsularis L.) using SRAP,ISSR and RAPD markers

White jute (Corchorus capsularis) and dark jute (Corchorus olitorius) are two important cultivated crops that are used for natural fibre production. Some genetic maps have been developed for dark jute, but the genetic map information for white jute (C. capsularis) is limited. In this study, a linkage map comprising 44 sequence‐related amplified polymorphisms (SRAPs), 57 intersimple sequence repeats (ISSRs) and 18 randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) covering 2185.7 cM with a mean density of 18.7 cM per locus was constructed in an F₂ population consisting of 185 individuals derived from a cross between two diverse genotypes of ‘Xinxuan No. 1’ and ‘Qiongyueqing’ in white jute. These markers were evenly distributed in the linkage groups without any clustering. This genetic linkage map construction will facilitate the mapping of agronomic traits and marker‐assisted selection breeding in white jute.     

Study of genetic diversity in safflower genotypes using agro-morphological traits and RAPD markers

This research was conducted to study the genetic diversity in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) using agro-morphological traits and RAPD markers. Sixteen selected lines derived from landraces growing in various agro-climatic regions of Iran along with four exotic genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications under field conditions. Days to emergence, days to initial flowering, days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, branches per plant, capitula per plant, seeds per capitulum, 1,000-seed weight, seed yield per plant, seed yield, and reaction to powdery mildew (Leveillula taurica Arnaud) were evaluated in this study. Genetic diversity of the genotypes was assessed by RAPD markers. The results indicated significant differences among genotypes for the agro-morphological traits and clustering based on these traits classified the genotypes into five groups. Analysis of the RAPD markers revealed 15 polymorphic primers out of 50 used primers. Based on RAPD data, the highest genetic similarity was observed between the cultivars of “AC Sunset,” “AC Sterling” from Canada and the lowest relatedness observed between a local breeding line “E₂₄₂₈” and genotype “GE₆₂₉₂₃” from Germany. Cluster analysis based on RAPD markers and 54% coefficient of similarity divided the genotypes into five distinct groups. Comparing the clusters based on agro-morphological traits with those from molecular markers showed slight similarities. The finding of high genetic variation for agro-morphological traits and polymorphism at DNA level reveal that agronomic traits can be improved by selection programs.     

南阳盆地适宜机械化收获绿豆品种（系）农艺性状分析

绿豆机械化生产是未来绿豆生产可持续发展的方向。在南阳盆地种植28个绿豆品种（系）,分析其农艺性状与第1批荚果产量的关系,为适宜机械化的绿豆育种提供参考。结果表明,第1批荚果产量与其主要性状的关联顺序为单株荚数>单荚粒数>主茎节数>株高>生育期>荚长>百粒重>主茎分枝数,其中与单株荚数呈极显著的正相关性（P<0.01）,与单荚粒数、主茎节数、株高、生育期和荚长呈极显著的负相关性;通过表型聚类发现,绿豆品种（系）遗传基础狭窄,在改良适宜机械化生产性状的同时,应拓宽品种（系）的遗传背景。     

Identification of a novel source of resistance to angular leaf spot disease of common bean within the secondary gene pool

Phaeoisariopsis griseola (Sacc.) Ferr., the agent of angular leaf spot disease of common bean, is a highly variable pathogen for which resistance gene diversification is required. This study analysed genetic resistance to this disease within genotypes of three Phaseolus species. Twenty-nine genotypes of Phaseolus vulgaris, Phaseolus coccineus and Phaseolus polyanthus were inoculated with 54 isolates of Phaeoisariopsis griseola. The genetic resistance was estimated according to the symptom intensity observed for each plant genotype-pathogen isolate combination. Globally, genotypes of the common bean secondary gene pool were resistant to a higher number of isolates than common bean varieties. Interactions between plant genotypes and pathogen isolates suggested vertical resistance genes within P. vulgaris, as well as within P. coccineus and P. polyanthus. The ‘NI666’accession (P. coccineus) showed resistance to all the fungal isolates inoculated while the variety ‘Aroana’(P. vulgaris) was susceptible to most of the isolates. Interspecific hybridization between these two genotypes gave F₁ hybrid plants which showed resistance to angular leaf spot disease.     

Genetic Variation for Agronomic Characters in a Burley Tobacco Synthetic Following Recurrent Selection for Increased Black Shank Resistance

Black shank, a fuagal disease caused by Phytophthora parasitica var. nicotianae, is a major hazard in the production of burley tobacco (Nicotiutta tubacum L.). Moderate levels of resistance have been bred into cultivars, but little success has been achieved in utilizing high levels of resistance found in the cigar line. Beinhart 1000-1. Beinhirt 1000-1 and seven burley cultivars were combined into a synthetic population and three cycles of selection for increased black slunk resistance were conducted. The objectives of this study were (i) t0 estimate genetic variability for agronomic traits in the original base population (C_o) and die three selection cycles and (ii) to characterize the effects of selection for black shank resistance on the agronomic traits. Fifty selfed lines From the base population and each of three selection cycles were evaluated in replicated field trials at Lexington and Princeton, KY. Differences among cycle means for six agronomic traits were not statistically significant. Genetic variation for the six traits among lines within cycles was highly significant and did not change during selection. The results indicated that previously assumed associations between black shank resistance in Beinhart 1000-1 and undesirable agronomic traits were due to chromosomal linkages which were apparently broken by intercrossing. The C₃ population would be a useful base population for selection to improve agronomic performance in black shank resistant genotypes.     

绿豆单株产量与主要农艺性状的灰色关联度分析

为探讨绿豆主要农艺性状对单株产量影响的主次关系，以15 个绿豆品种为试验材料，采用灰色关联度分析法，对绿豆7 个农艺性状与单株产量的关联度进行统计分析。结果表明：各性状因子与单株产量的关联度由高到低排序为单株荚数、株高、主茎节数、百粒重、单荚粒数、主茎分枝、生育期。因此，在山西高产绿豆新品种选育时，应首先注重单株荚数和株高。     

Variation in traits affecting nodulation of common bean under intercropping with maize and sole cropping

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), an important food crop in Europe, America, Africa and Asia, is thought to fix only small amounts of atmospheric nitrogen. It contributes significantly to the sustainability of traditional cropping systems because of the predominance of small-scale farmers who cultivate beans in those areas. The objectives of this work were to evaluate bush bean varieties under common agronomic cropping systems and to evaluate breeding lines under low N-fertility sole cropping and intercropping systems. The purpose of the study was to characterize the genotype and cropping system's variability in symbiotic and plant characters and to identify the most suitable genotypes to establish an effective symbiosis with indigenous strains of Rhizobium. No significant differences among the bush bean varieties evaluated under typical fertilization practices were observed for N₂-fixation and plant traits except for seed nitrogen. Significant differences among the bean lines studied under low N-fertilization conditions were detected for plant growth,plant component and N₂-fixation traits. A significant interaction of bean genotype x cropping system was found for number of nodules per plant and nodule moisture on the bush bean varieties studied, and for days to emergence, days to flowering, end of flowering, shoot length, root dry weight and shoot nitrogen on the bean lines evaluated. Nodulation parameters were correlated positively with the yield components, shoot and root parts and duration of flowering, and correlated negatively with seed crude protein, pod and seed dimensions and seed dry weight. These observations indicate that it may be possible to increase both the symbiotic N₂-fixation and seed yield through plant breeding. This revised version was published online in August 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

Doubled haploids of Coffea canephora: development,fertility and agronomic characteristics

Summary Doubled haploids (DH) of Coffea canephora Pierre were developed using haploid embryos which occur spontaneously in association with polyembryony. The frequencies of polyembryonic seeds and haploid embryos varied according to the parental genotypes. However, production of a large number of DH seemed possible from all genotypes. More than 750 DHs produced from various genotypes were grown under field conditions and evaluated for different characters of agronomic importance. Approximately half of DH genotypes did not survive, suggesting a strong, negative effect of homozygosity. Inbreeding depression is particularly severe on general vigor and reproductive aspects. For several characters studied such as leaf shape, leaf rust resistance and hundred bean weight, considerable genetic variations were observed within and between groups of DHs constituted by the DHs produced from the same clone. Despite their low vigor and reduced fertility, the DHs of C. canephora offer new possibilities in genetic research and coffee breeding.     

Evaluation and utilisation of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) germplasm at the International Cocoa Genebank, Trinidad

The aim of this study was to identify promising genotypes in the International Cocoa Gene bank, Trinidad (ICG,T) for use in cacao breeding. Subsets of the germ plasm collection were evaluated for bean number, bean weight, pod index (581 genotypes) and resistance to Phytophthora pod rot(500 genotypes). Among three groups of cacao assessed (For astero, Refractario and Trinitario), Trinitario had the highest percentage of genotypes (36.9%) with large bean weight (> 1.2 g), while For astero possessed the highest proportion of genotypes (22.6%) with a large number of beans (> 45). The ICS population had the highest percentage (44.1%) of genotypes with heavy beans, and IMC the highest percentage of genotypes with large bean number (68.6%). A low, but significant negative correlation (r = –0.19, p≤ 0.001) between bean number and bean weight suggests that an increase in bean number may repress an increase in bean weight and vice versa. However, inten genotypes good values of bean weight and number were combined demonstrating that selection for both large bean number and bean weight is possible. The highest percentage (28.1%) of genotypes with low pod index (< 20.1) was observed in the Trinitario group (mainly ICS). The Forastero group had the highest percentage of Phytophthora resistant accessions(18.0%). The PA population had the highest proportion of resistant (24.0%) and moderately resistant (38.0%)genotypes. Sixty-five and 99 genotypes were categorised with large bean weight and high bean number, respectively, and 60 genotypes were found with a low pod index. Seventy-eight genotypes were identified with resistance to Phytophthora podrot. A significant relationship was observed between resistance to Phytophthora pod rot (measured as the frequency of localised lesions) and bean number (r = –0.45, p ≤ 0.001)showing that the two traits may complement each other. The combination of low to intermediate pod index with moderate to high resistance to Phytophthora podrot was found in 87 genotypes, 12 of which were also reported to have resistance to witches’ broom disease. These genotypes are of high potential value in cacao breeding and their inclusion in working and corecollections would be justified. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.