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Research Project:
GENETIC ENHANCEMENT OF WARM-SEASON PERENNIAL FORAGE AND RANGE GRASSES
Location:
Crop Germplasm Research
Project Number: 6202-21000-020-00
Project Type:
Appropriated
Start Date: Sep 25, 2002
End Date: Sep 24, 2007
Objective:
Determine the cytogenetics and reproductive biology of introduced and native warm-season pasture and range grasses to understand their basic biology and develop breeding methodologies that can be used to improve these complex grasses. Investigate the genetics of important agronomic traits, including apomixis, and characterize the genetic diversity within different agamic complexes. Using this fundamental information, develop improved germplasm and cultivars to provided more productive and improved pasture and range grasses for the southern USA.
Approach:
Basic cytogenetic information regarding chromosome number, ploidy level, and meiotic behavior will be determined by examining microsporogenesis in the pollen mother cells of selected germplasm. In hybrid populations, the ploidy level will be determined by measuring the DNA content of nuclei in leaf tissue using flow cytometry. The method of reproduction of native ecotypes, plant introductions, intra- and interspecific hybrids will be determined by cytologically observing megasporogenesis and development of the female gametophyte as well as by progeny testing. A framework buffelgrass linkage map will be used for QTL analyses of important agronomic traits, including apomixis. Molecular markers will be used to determine the genetic diversity among species and ecotypes of the genera Pennisetum and Paspalum. These findings will be coupled with cytological findings to better understand the evolutionary history of these grasses. Information accumulated from this research will be used to breed improved germplasm of selected Panicum, Paspalum, and Pennisetum species. New cultivars will benefit livestock producers in the southern USA.
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