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• 1. [Article] Effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley and wheat

  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley (Hordeum vulgare L. ) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ). The effects of nitrogen application on chemical ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley and wheat Author: Lopez, Arturo The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley (Hordeum vulgare L. ) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ). The effects of nitrogen application on chemical and morphological characteristics of the seed were also studied. Seeds of 'Casbon' winter barley and 'Nugaines' winter wheat with different protein content were obtained by field applications of various amounts of nitrogen at seeding time (fall) and tillering time (spring). The increase in protein content from high nitrogen rates was accompanied by a decrease in seed size and yield. The protein increase occurred primarily in the endosperm. Neither protein content nor size of the embryo was affected by rates of nitrogen application. The effect of seed protein content on plant growth was evaluated in terms of inhibition and respiration, speed of germination and subsequent seedling growth, root and shoot elongation at 15, 20 and 25C, and dry matter production when grown in low and high nitrogen soils in the green house. A positive relationship was found between seed protein content and plant performance. The rates of water absorption and oxygen consumption of germinating barley and wheat seed increased as a result of high protein content. High protein seed had a faster speed of germination and developed into larger seedlings with a higher dry matter content when grown in nitrogen-deficient soil. In nitrogen-enriched soil, seed protein content had little effect on seedling growth. The beneficial effects of seed protein content are more clearly expressed under stress conditions and are more evident when plant growth depends on the nutrients available from the seed. During initiation of germination, temperature influences the expression of the protein effect. After the seedling has formed and is capable of photosynthesis, the nitrogen availability in the soil influences the effect of seed protein content on plant growth. The relationship between seed protein content and plant growth can be an important factor in crop production because the increase in protein can be controlled by field application of nitrogen. However, since the high rates of nitrogen necessary to produce high seed protein levels are not consistent with the optimum nitrogen rates for yield, growers would probably be reluctant to apply such high rates unless some type of incentive were given them to do so. For seed production, it could still be important to strive for high protein levels in spite of some loss in yield if improved performance from high protein seeds proves to be of economic value. The results of this study indicate that producing and planting seeds rich in protein may be an effective method of achieving faster stand establishment of cereal crops. Additional research will determine the effects of high protein on yield. Title: Effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley and wheat Author: Lopez, Arturo The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of seed protein content on plant growth of barley (Hordeum vulgare L. ) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ). The effects of nitrogen application on chemical and morphological characteristics of the seed were also studied. Seeds of 'Casbon' winter barley and 'Nugaines' winter wheat with different protein content were obtained by field applications of various amounts of nitrogen at seeding time (fall) and tillering time (spring). The increase in protein content from high nitrogen rates was accompanied by a decrease in seed size and yield. The protein increase occurred primarily in the endosperm. Neither protein content nor size of the embryo was affected by rates of nitrogen application. The effect of seed protein content on plant growth was evaluated in terms of inhibition and respiration, speed of germination and subsequent seedling growth, root and shoot elongation at 15, 20 and 25C, and dry matter production when grown in low and high nitrogen soils in the green house. A positive relationship was found between seed protein content and plant performance. The rates of water absorption and oxygen consumption of germinating barley and wheat seed increased as a result of high protein content. High protein seed had a faster speed of germination and developed into larger seedlings with a higher dry matter content when grown in nitrogen-deficient soil. In nitrogen-enriched soil, seed protein content had little effect on seedling growth. The beneficial effects of seed protein content are more clearly expressed under stress conditions and are more evident when plant growth depends on the nutrients available from the seed. During initiation of germination, temperature influences the expression of the protein effect. After the seedling has formed and is capable of photosynthesis, the nitrogen availability in the soil influences the effect of seed protein content on plant growth. The relationship between seed protein content and plant growth can be an important factor in crop production because the increase in protein can be controlled by field application of nitrogen. However, since the high rates of nitrogen necessary to produce high seed protein levels are not consistent with the optimum nitrogen rates for yield, growers would probably be reluctant to apply such high rates unless some type of incentive were given them to do so. For seed production, it could still be important to strive for high protein levels in spite of some loss in yield if improved performance from high protein seeds proves to be of economic value. The results of this study indicate that producing and planting seeds rich in protein may be an effective method of achieving faster stand establishment of cereal crops. Additional research will determine the effects of high protein on yield. Close

• 2. [Article] Influence of different nitrogen and moisture levels on the expression of grain yield and protein content in selected wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell) and barley (Hordeum vulagre, L. em Lam.) cultivars

  This investigation was conducted to provide information regarding 1) the relationship between the nitrogen percentage in the vegetative tissue of wheat and barley at various growth stages with grain protein and ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Influence of different nitrogen and moisture levels on the expression of grain yield and protein content in selected wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell) and barley (Hordeum vulagre, L. em Lam.) cultivars Author: Gomez-Pando, Luz This investigation was conducted to provide information regarding 1) the relationship between the nitrogen percentage in the vegetative tissue of wheat and barley at various growth stages with grain protein and 2) to evaluate the possible association between grain yield and grain protein as influenced by different cultivars, nitrogen levels and available moisture. Five wheat and four barley cultivars were selected based on their diverse genetic backgrounds and potential differences for the 12 attributes measured. These experimental materials were grown at low and high rainfall sites and under two different nitrogen levels. In wheat a decrease in the percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves was found as the plants developed. The highest values were observed at the boot stage. In contrast, the highest percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves of barley was observed at anthesis. Wheat cultivars which had the greatest genetic potential for grain protein usually had the highest percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves at the boot stage and the lowest percentage in the vegetative tissue at harvest. This was especially true under high rainfall conditions. A similar relationship was found for the barley cultivars. At both experimental sites higher grain yields were accompanied by negative associations with grain protein for wheat. However, for barley no association was found between these two traits at either site or fertility level. Higher grain protein values were found for both wheat and barley at the high rainfall site. Title: Influence of different nitrogen and moisture levels on the expression of grain yield and protein content in selected wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell) and barley (Hordeum vulagre, L. em Lam.) cultivars Author: Gomez-Pando, Luz This investigation was conducted to provide information regarding 1) the relationship between the nitrogen percentage in the vegetative tissue of wheat and barley at various growth stages with grain protein and 2) to evaluate the possible association between grain yield and grain protein as influenced by different cultivars, nitrogen levels and available moisture. Five wheat and four barley cultivars were selected based on their diverse genetic backgrounds and potential differences for the 12 attributes measured. These experimental materials were grown at low and high rainfall sites and under two different nitrogen levels. In wheat a decrease in the percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves was found as the plants developed. The highest values were observed at the boot stage. In contrast, the highest percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves of barley was observed at anthesis. Wheat cultivars which had the greatest genetic potential for grain protein usually had the highest percentage of nitrogen in the flag leaves at the boot stage and the lowest percentage in the vegetative tissue at harvest. This was especially true under high rainfall conditions. A similar relationship was found for the barley cultivars. At both experimental sites higher grain yields were accompanied by negative associations with grain protein for wheat. However, for barley no association was found between these two traits at either site or fertility level. Higher grain protein values were found for both wheat and barley at the high rainfall site. Close

• 3. [Article] Two Studies Addressing Practical Needs of Wheat Farmers, Processors, and Breeders : Changes in Falling Number and Alpha-amylase During Grain Storage, and Improved Predictions of Wheat-flour Dough Properties

  Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a globally traded staple food crop. The diverse and pleasing nature of wheat-derived products is a result of the complex interactions of the polymeric components from the wheat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Two Studies Addressing Practical Needs of Wheat Farmers, Processors, and Breeders : Changes in Falling Number and Alpha-amylase During Grain Storage, and Improved Predictions of Wheat-flour Dough Properties Author: Adams, Mike R. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a globally traded staple food crop. The diverse and pleasing nature of wheat-derived products is a result of the complex interactions of the polymeric components from the wheat endosperm. Changes in the functionality of these polymeric components, as a result of changes in growing conditions or different genetics, impacts market price and end-product quality and directly affects farmers and processors. Wheat is of particular economic importance to the U.S. Pacific Northwest and, specifically, to the state of Oregon. Providing quality wheat for export is paramount to the survival of the Oregon wheat industry. This dissertation focuses on wheat quality from the perspective of serving the practical needs of farmers, processors, and wheat breeders. The first study, split into two portions, concerns pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) and grain storage. PHS increases alpha amylase (αA) activity in wheat, which, in excess, reduces wheat end-product quality. Falling Number (FN) is the primary test used by industry to gauge PHS damage in wheats. Direct measurement of αA activity is the fundamental frame of reference. The objective of these studies was to determine if FN and αA activity of wheat samples changed during storage and if changes were a function of storage time, storage temperature, and degree of PHS damage. Samples from three Idaho locations were used. These captured a wide range of PHS degree, and therefore, wide ranges of FN values and αA activities. Samples were subdivided and stored at -20°C, +20°C, and +40°C. Low FN values and high αA activities were observed in soft wheats from locations that had rain events prior to harvest. Overall, FN and αA activity had the curvilinear relationship expected from the literature, indicating the validity of the sample set with regard to the FN/αA relationship. Changes in FN and αA activity were observed over a 90 day period of grain storage. FN differed between growing environments, wheat varieties, and storage temperatures. αA activity also differed between growing environments and wheat varieties, but not between storage temperatures. Highest rates of increase in FN were observed in hard wheats with high initial (day 0) FN values. Lowest rates of increase in FN were observed in soft wheats with low day 0 FN values. This contrasted with the changes that occurred in αA activity. Decreases in αA activity over storage time were most prevalent in soft wheats, particularly sprouted soft wheats (i.e. those with day 0 αA activities > 0.1 Ceralpha Units: CU). There were small decreases in αA activity in hard wheats but the distinction between high and low αA activity samples was not as evident as in the soft wheats because the vast majority of hard wheat samples tested had αA activities < 0.1 CU. Decreases in αA activity were in general not associated with corresponding increases in FN values over grain storage time. Increases in FN values occurred at a higher rates as storage temperature increased, particularly in hard wheats with high day 0 FN. Grain storage was successful as a way to raise FN values to > 300 s in very few cases. Storage was not effective in decreasing αA activity from > 0.1 CU to < 0.1 CU. Increases in FN over storage time for the hard wheats significantly differed between locations. However, decreases in αA activities over storage time for the hard wheats were not significantly different between locations. This again highlights a lack of correspondence between increased FN and decreased αA activity, suggesting that these two factors are somewhat decoupled when looking at changes in stored grain. Temperature-induced gluten crosslinking was explored as possible explanation for drastic increases in unsprouted hard wheat FN observed in samples from one location. Total polymeric protein (TPP) content was assessed at the end of the study for unsprouted hard wheats stored at +40°C and -20°C as well as sprouted hard wheats from stored at -20°C. TPP content was assessed as % large unextractable polymeric proteins (%LUPP) and % total unextractable polymeric proteins (%TUPP) using size exclusion high performance liquid chromatography (HPSEC). TPP content was not significantly different between storage temperatures for wheat varieties from the same location. %TUPP, but not % LUPP, was significantly lower in wheat varieties affected by PHS. Changes in FN at high storage temperature were not likely due to increased protein crosslinking. The second study aimed to validate the use of a rapid method for predicting dough strength at early generations in hard wheat breeding programs. Early generation quality screening improves breeding program efficiency. Hard wheats are used to make leavened bread products. The gluten proteins, particularly high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GS), form large, ramifying networks called the glutenin macropolymer (GMP). High GMP content is associated with increased dough strength and bread quality. Genetic differences in HMW-GS, and by inference, GMP, are responsible for differing dough properties between varieties. The Mixograph is used to measure dough mixing properties and predict end-product quality in breeding programs. GMP can also be measured as total polymeric protein (TPP) via HPSEC. The Solvent Retention Capacity (SRC) test has been proposed to predict hard wheat quality, specifically lactic acid SRC (LASRC). The objectives of this research were to provide preliminary information on the usefulness of using LASRC, on its own, to predict dough mixing properties, specifically as applied to early generation screening in a wheat breeding program, and to assess the relationship between LASRC and TPP. Wheat samples were categorized by flour protein concentration (FPC). Mixograph analysis was used as the baseline for dough properties and was analyzed both by eye and by the proprietary Mixsmart software. TPP content was assessed as %LUPP and %%TUPP. As a result of redundancy between the two TPP measures, only %LUPP was used for statistical analysis. Dough mixing parameters were slightly better correlated with LASRC than %LUPP. Correlations between LASRC, %LUPP, and dough mixing parameters were different between FPC categories, particularly in low FPC samples. A strict cutoff of 115% LASRC effectively screened out the bottom 10% of low quality hard wheats but retained a nearly equal amount of low quality hard wheats that would have been screened out by mixograph analysis. LASRC and %LUPP are not likely to be effective predictors of dough properties, but may have some value to screen for hard wheat quality in the early generations of a wheat breeding cycle. Title: Two Studies Addressing Practical Needs of Wheat Farmers, Processors, and Breeders : Changes in Falling Number and Alpha-amylase During Grain Storage, and Improved Predictions of Wheat-flour Dough Properties Author: Adams, Mike R. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a globally traded staple food crop. The diverse and pleasing nature of wheat-derived products is a result of the complex interactions of the polymeric components from the wheat endosperm. Changes in the functionality of these polymeric components, as a result of changes in growing conditions or different genetics, impacts market price and end-product quality and directly affects farmers and processors. Wheat is of particular economic importance to the U.S. Pacific Northwest and, specifically, to the state of Oregon. Providing quality wheat for export is paramount to the survival of the Oregon wheat industry. This dissertation focuses on wheat quality from the perspective of serving the practical needs of farmers, processors, and wheat breeders. The first study, split into two portions, concerns pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) and grain storage. PHS increases alpha amylase (αA) activity in wheat, which, in excess, reduces wheat end-product quality. Falling Number (FN) is the primary test used by industry to gauge PHS damage in wheats. Direct measurement of αA activity is the fundamental frame of reference. The objective of these studies was to determine if FN and αA activity of wheat samples changed during storage and if changes were a function of storage time, storage temperature, and degree of PHS damage. Samples from three Idaho locations were used. These captured a wide range of PHS degree, and therefore, wide ranges of FN values and αA activities. Samples were subdivided and stored at -20°C, +20°C, and +40°C. Low FN values and high αA activities were observed in soft wheats from locations that had rain events prior to harvest. Overall, FN and αA activity had the curvilinear relationship expected from the literature, indicating the validity of the sample set with regard to the FN/αA relationship. Changes in FN and αA activity were observed over a 90 day period of grain storage. FN differed between growing environments, wheat varieties, and storage temperatures. αA activity also differed between growing environments and wheat varieties, but not between storage temperatures. Highest rates of increase in FN were observed in hard wheats with high initial (day 0) FN values. Lowest rates of increase in FN were observed in soft wheats with low day 0 FN values. This contrasted with the changes that occurred in αA activity. Decreases in αA activity over storage time were most prevalent in soft wheats, particularly sprouted soft wheats (i.e. those with day 0 αA activities > 0.1 Ceralpha Units: CU). There were small decreases in αA activity in hard wheats but the distinction between high and low αA activity samples was not as evident as in the soft wheats because the vast majority of hard wheat samples tested had αA activities < 0.1 CU. Decreases in αA activity were in general not associated with corresponding increases in FN values over grain storage time. Increases in FN values occurred at a higher rates as storage temperature increased, particularly in hard wheats with high day 0 FN. Grain storage was successful as a way to raise FN values to > 300 s in very few cases. Storage was not effective in decreasing αA activity from > 0.1 CU to < 0.1 CU. Increases in FN over storage time for the hard wheats significantly differed between locations. However, decreases in αA activities over storage time for the hard wheats were not significantly different between locations. This again highlights a lack of correspondence between increased FN and decreased αA activity, suggesting that these two factors are somewhat decoupled when looking at changes in stored grain. Temperature-induced gluten crosslinking was explored as possible explanation for drastic increases in unsprouted hard wheat FN observed in samples from one location. Total polymeric protein (TPP) content was assessed at the end of the study for unsprouted hard wheats stored at +40°C and -20°C as well as sprouted hard wheats from stored at -20°C. TPP content was assessed as % large unextractable polymeric proteins (%LUPP) and % total unextractable polymeric proteins (%TUPP) using size exclusion high performance liquid chromatography (HPSEC). TPP content was not significantly different between storage temperatures for wheat varieties from the same location. %TUPP, but not % LUPP, was significantly lower in wheat varieties affected by PHS. Changes in FN at high storage temperature were not likely due to increased protein crosslinking. The second study aimed to validate the use of a rapid method for predicting dough strength at early generations in hard wheat breeding programs. Early generation quality screening improves breeding program efficiency. Hard wheats are used to make leavened bread products. The gluten proteins, particularly high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GS), form large, ramifying networks called the glutenin macropolymer (GMP). High GMP content is associated with increased dough strength and bread quality. Genetic differences in HMW-GS, and by inference, GMP, are responsible for differing dough properties between varieties. The Mixograph is used to measure dough mixing properties and predict end-product quality in breeding programs. GMP can also be measured as total polymeric protein (TPP) via HPSEC. The Solvent Retention Capacity (SRC) test has been proposed to predict hard wheat quality, specifically lactic acid SRC (LASRC). The objectives of this research were to provide preliminary information on the usefulness of using LASRC, on its own, to predict dough mixing properties, specifically as applied to early generation screening in a wheat breeding program, and to assess the relationship between LASRC and TPP. Wheat samples were categorized by flour protein concentration (FPC). Mixograph analysis was used as the baseline for dough properties and was analyzed both by eye and by the proprietary Mixsmart software. TPP content was assessed as %LUPP and %%TUPP. As a result of redundancy between the two TPP measures, only %LUPP was used for statistical analysis. Dough mixing parameters were slightly better correlated with LASRC than %LUPP. Correlations between LASRC, %LUPP, and dough mixing parameters were different between FPC categories, particularly in low FPC samples. A strict cutoff of 115% LASRC effectively screened out the bottom 10% of low quality hard wheats but retained a nearly equal amount of low quality hard wheats that would have been screened out by mixograph analysis. LASRC and %LUPP are not likely to be effective predictors of dough properties, but may have some value to screen for hard wheat quality in the early generations of a wheat breeding cycle. Close

• 4. [Article] Detection and Quantification of Pratylenchus thornei in DNA Extracted from Soil Using Real-Time PCR

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American Phytopathological Society and can be found at: www.apsnet.org/.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Detection and Quantification of Pratylenchus thornei in DNA Extracted from Soil Using Real-Time PCR Author: Smiley, Richard W., Okubara, Patricia A., Yan, Guiping This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American Phytopathological Society and can be found at: www.apsnet.org/. Title: Detection and Quantification of Pratylenchus thornei in DNA Extracted from Soil Using Real-Time PCR Author: Smiley, Richard W., Okubara, Patricia A., Yan, Guiping This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American Phytopathological Society and can be found at: www.apsnet.org/. Close

• 5. [Article] Evaluation of parental performance for grain yield in two populations of wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host)

  Six winter wheat cultivars were evaluated for their breeding value in transmitting superior genetic factors for grain yield to subsequent progeny. The cultivars were selected on the basis of their potential ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Evaluation of parental performance for grain yield in two populations of wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host) Author: Alcala de Stefano, Maximino Six winter wheat cultivars were evaluated for their breeding value in transmitting superior genetic factors for grain yield to subsequent progeny. The cultivars were selected on the basis of their potential grain yield and divided into two populations. Population I was comprised of three cultivars which have been in commercial production for several years and are regarded as intermediate for grain yield. Population II was represented by three recently developed cultivars which have superior grain yielding potential. Each of the three parents within each population were crossed in a diallel manner Hence, the parents and subsequent F₁, F₂, and BC progeny made up the experimental populations. These populations were grown at two environmentally diverse sites within the state of Oregon. Morphological characters measured were: (1) tillers per plant; (2) kernels per spike; (3) plant height; (4) weight of 300 kernels; and (5) grain yield. To detect which parental combination had the greatest potential for transmitting superior performance to the subsequent progeny for the components of yield and grain yield, the following parameters were determined for both populations: (1) the amount and nature of the genetic variance associated with each population; (2) average combining ability of each parent within the populations; (3) estimates of heterosis and heterobeltiosis in the F₁ and (4) the possible influence of the genotype-environmental interactions on the parameters measured. Also information concerning the desirability of using top crosses and double crosses rather than single crosses was obtained. In an effort to compare the relative performance between the populations, Pullman Selection 101, which is a good general combining winter wheat cultivar, was used as a tester for both populations. The values obtained in this investigation reflect the properties of the populations studied and should not be interpreted as applying to all wheat populations. Considerable genetic variability was found within both populations for the characters studied. This variability was largely due to genetic factors which were additive. Tillers per plant and grain yield were influenced by both additive and nonadditive genetic variance. The higher yielding parents in Population II were found to be higher in their average combining ability for kernels per spike and grain yield per plant whereas the lower yielding parents in Population I were higher for tiller number, weight of 300 kernels and plant height. Parental combinations identified as being promising, for grain yield in a conventional program, where nearly homozygous lines are desired, were also the same parental combinations which resulted in a maximum expression of heterobeltiosis and would be of most interest in a hybrid program. The desirability of using multiple crosses to maximize the number of favorable factors need further study inctuding additional parents and different combinations plus an evaluation of the performance of such crosses in later generations. In this investigation, the single crosses appeared to be the most promising; however, inbreeding depression due to segregation within top and double crosses influenced the values obtained. Also, the population sizes should be increased to measure the total potential of such crosses. Significant genotype-environmental interactions were observed between locations for plant height and weight of 300 kernels. The estimates obtained for average combining ability, heterosis and heterobeltiosis for the other characters measured also suggested that it will be necessary to identify the most promising hybrid combinations based on the performance of the parents at the specific location. To make the most rapid progress in developing high yielding cultivars in either conventional or hybrid programs, the wheat breeder needs to emphasize crosses between unrelated high yielding cultivars. However, the need to provide superior parental lines which include such factors as disease resistance, should be evaluated. The development of elite germ plasm by geneticists will be mandatory if plant breeders are to continue to improve grain yield. Title: Evaluation of parental performance for grain yield in two populations of wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host) Author: Alcala de Stefano, Maximino Six winter wheat cultivars were evaluated for their breeding value in transmitting superior genetic factors for grain yield to subsequent progeny. The cultivars were selected on the basis of their potential grain yield and divided into two populations. Population I was comprised of three cultivars which have been in commercial production for several years and are regarded as intermediate for grain yield. Population II was represented by three recently developed cultivars which have superior grain yielding potential. Each of the three parents within each population were crossed in a diallel manner Hence, the parents and subsequent F₁, F₂, and BC progeny made up the experimental populations. These populations were grown at two environmentally diverse sites within the state of Oregon. Morphological characters measured were: (1) tillers per plant; (2) kernels per spike; (3) plant height; (4) weight of 300 kernels; and (5) grain yield. To detect which parental combination had the greatest potential for transmitting superior performance to the subsequent progeny for the components of yield and grain yield, the following parameters were determined for both populations: (1) the amount and nature of the genetic variance associated with each population; (2) average combining ability of each parent within the populations; (3) estimates of heterosis and heterobeltiosis in the F₁ and (4) the possible influence of the genotype-environmental interactions on the parameters measured. Also information concerning the desirability of using top crosses and double crosses rather than single crosses was obtained. In an effort to compare the relative performance between the populations, Pullman Selection 101, which is a good general combining winter wheat cultivar, was used as a tester for both populations. The values obtained in this investigation reflect the properties of the populations studied and should not be interpreted as applying to all wheat populations. Considerable genetic variability was found within both populations for the characters studied. This variability was largely due to genetic factors which were additive. Tillers per plant and grain yield were influenced by both additive and nonadditive genetic variance. The higher yielding parents in Population II were found to be higher in their average combining ability for kernels per spike and grain yield per plant whereas the lower yielding parents in Population I were higher for tiller number, weight of 300 kernels and plant height. Parental combinations identified as being promising, for grain yield in a conventional program, where nearly homozygous lines are desired, were also the same parental combinations which resulted in a maximum expression of heterobeltiosis and would be of most interest in a hybrid program. The desirability of using multiple crosses to maximize the number of favorable factors need further study inctuding additional parents and different combinations plus an evaluation of the performance of such crosses in later generations. In this investigation, the single crosses appeared to be the most promising; however, inbreeding depression due to segregation within top and double crosses influenced the values obtained. Also, the population sizes should be increased to measure the total potential of such crosses. Significant genotype-environmental interactions were observed between locations for plant height and weight of 300 kernels. The estimates obtained for average combining ability, heterosis and heterobeltiosis for the other characters measured also suggested that it will be necessary to identify the most promising hybrid combinations based on the performance of the parents at the specific location. To make the most rapid progress in developing high yielding cultivars in either conventional or hybrid programs, the wheat breeder needs to emphasize crosses between unrelated high yielding cultivars. However, the need to provide superior parental lines which include such factors as disease resistance, should be evaluated. The development of elite germ plasm by geneticists will be mandatory if plant breeders are to continue to improve grain yield. Close

• 6. [Article] Yield and other agronomic characters of winter wheat cultivars as affected by five seeding rates and three different environmental conditions

  Five newly released and two Eastern European winter wheat cultivars were grown under five different seeding rates (80, 160, 240, 320, 400 seeds per m²). Four of these newly released cultivars were grown ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Yield and other agronomic characters of winter wheat cultivars as affected by five seeding rates and three different environmental conditions Author: Güler, Mengü Five newly released and two Eastern European winter wheat cultivars were grown under five different seeding rates (80, 160, 240, 320, 400 seeds per m²). Four of these newly released cultivars were grown at three different locations which have different environmental conditions. Data were obtained on grain yield, tiller number per plant, 1000 kernel weight, seed number per spike, plant and spike number per unit area, plant height, heading and maturity dates. At the lowest rate of seeding the grain yield was significantly lower at all three locations. Although there were no significant differences for grain yield for all the other seeding rates, maximum yields were obtained from lower seeding rates at Ryan while at Hyslop and Madras, which had better moisture conditions, maximum yields were obtained at higher seeding rates. This situation was not observed for the Yamhill cultivar in which maximum yields were obtained at 160 seeds per m² seeding rate at all three locations. Tillers per plant value decreased as the seeding rate increased. Hyslop and McDermid produced significantly higher number of tillers per plant from the other cultivars. Significantly highest 1000 kernel weight values were obtained at the lowest seeding rate. Yamhill produced the highest significant 1000 kernel weight while Paha produced the lowest. Seeds per spike value followed the same order as tillers per plant and 1000 kernel weight showing a continuous decrease with the increased rates of seeding. The number of plants per m² was a direct linear function of seeding rate. The number of spikes per m² increased curvilinearly with the increased seeding rate. Hyslop and McDermid produced the highest significant number of spikes per m² because of their higher tillering ability. Plant height increased with increased rates of seeding because of the increased competition for light. Yamhill and Paha were significantly the tallest cultivars. The tallest plants were observed at Hyslop. There was a decrease in the number of days in heading and maturity as the rates of seeding increased. The cultivars ranked in the order Paha > Yamhill > Hyslop > McDermid for heading and maturity dates. Heading first occurred at Hyslop followed by Ryan and Madras while maturity occurred first at Ryan followed by Hyslop and Madras. Highly positive correlations were observed among plants per m², spikes per m and seeding rate while these factors correlated negatively with tillers per plant, 1000 kernel weight and seeds per spike. The regression equations showed that maturity date, heading date and spikes per m² values were the most important factors for predicting yield. Title: Yield and other agronomic characters of winter wheat cultivars as affected by five seeding rates and three different environmental conditions Author: Güler, Mengü Five newly released and two Eastern European winter wheat cultivars were grown under five different seeding rates (80, 160, 240, 320, 400 seeds per m²). Four of these newly released cultivars were grown at three different locations which have different environmental conditions. Data were obtained on grain yield, tiller number per plant, 1000 kernel weight, seed number per spike, plant and spike number per unit area, plant height, heading and maturity dates. At the lowest rate of seeding the grain yield was significantly lower at all three locations. Although there were no significant differences for grain yield for all the other seeding rates, maximum yields were obtained from lower seeding rates at Ryan while at Hyslop and Madras, which had better moisture conditions, maximum yields were obtained at higher seeding rates. This situation was not observed for the Yamhill cultivar in which maximum yields were obtained at 160 seeds per m² seeding rate at all three locations. Tillers per plant value decreased as the seeding rate increased. Hyslop and McDermid produced significantly higher number of tillers per plant from the other cultivars. Significantly highest 1000 kernel weight values were obtained at the lowest seeding rate. Yamhill produced the highest significant 1000 kernel weight while Paha produced the lowest. Seeds per spike value followed the same order as tillers per plant and 1000 kernel weight showing a continuous decrease with the increased rates of seeding. The number of plants per m² was a direct linear function of seeding rate. The number of spikes per m² increased curvilinearly with the increased seeding rate. Hyslop and McDermid produced the highest significant number of spikes per m² because of their higher tillering ability. Plant height increased with increased rates of seeding because of the increased competition for light. Yamhill and Paha were significantly the tallest cultivars. The tallest plants were observed at Hyslop. There was a decrease in the number of days in heading and maturity as the rates of seeding increased. The cultivars ranked in the order Paha > Yamhill > Hyslop > McDermid for heading and maturity dates. Heading first occurred at Hyslop followed by Ryan and Madras while maturity occurred first at Ryan followed by Hyslop and Madras. Highly positive correlations were observed among plants per m², spikes per m and seeding rate while these factors correlated negatively with tillers per plant, 1000 kernel weight and seeds per spike. The regression equations showed that maturity date, heading date and spikes per m² values were the most important factors for predicting yield. Close

• 7. [Article] Evaluation of three methods of selection in relation to yield and yield stability in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host)

  The effectiveness of early generation selection for yield and yield stability and the possible identification of superior parental combinations were studied in winter wheat populations representing different ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Evaluation of three methods of selection in relation to yield and yield stability in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host) Author: Charoenwatana, Terd, 1937- The effectiveness of early generation selection for yield and yield stability and the possible identification of superior parental combinations were studied in winter wheat populations representing different levels of genetic diversity. Experimental material for evaluating yield stability consisted of nine bulk and seven modified bulk populations derived from nine parental combinations which represented the F₈, F₉, and F₁₀ generations. The F₉ and F₁₀ generations of nine bulk, nine modified bulk and two modified pedigree populations along with the respective parental populations were studied to determine the relationship of yield to genetic diversity. Linear regression of the mean yield of individual entries on the mean yield of all entries for each year was used to describe yield stability. Grain yield differences among populations and crosses were analyzed by a functional analysis of variance. The modified bulk populations were found to be superior to their respective parents in yield and to the bulk populations in yield and yield stability. The modified pedigree populations had the highest yield of all populations measured. It was concluded that populations with high genetic diversity not only do not produce the highest yield but may not provide the greatest stability of yield. Selection for grain yield in the F₄ generation was effective in identifying superior segregates. It was also possible to develop populations which had more yield stability. The highest yielding progeny were obtained from crosses between the medium yielding parents rather than between the highest yielding parents. This suggested that parental performance was of limited value in predicting the yielding ability of their resulting progeny. Therefore, selection for suitable parental combinations could not be based on their individual performance in the present study. It appeared that genetic factors for adaptability are as important as the level of genetic diversity in determining yield stability. A breeding system that allows the breeder to identify and incorporate genetic factors for adaptability and still maintain some genetic diversity in a new variety is suggested. Such a breeding system would prolong the length of time a variety could remain in commercial production and would allow such a variety to be grown over a more extensive range of environments. Title: Evaluation of three methods of selection in relation to yield and yield stability in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum Vill., Host) Author: Charoenwatana, Terd, 1937- The effectiveness of early generation selection for yield and yield stability and the possible identification of superior parental combinations were studied in winter wheat populations representing different levels of genetic diversity. Experimental material for evaluating yield stability consisted of nine bulk and seven modified bulk populations derived from nine parental combinations which represented the F₈, F₉, and F₁₀ generations. The F₉ and F₁₀ generations of nine bulk, nine modified bulk and two modified pedigree populations along with the respective parental populations were studied to determine the relationship of yield to genetic diversity. Linear regression of the mean yield of individual entries on the mean yield of all entries for each year was used to describe yield stability. Grain yield differences among populations and crosses were analyzed by a functional analysis of variance. The modified bulk populations were found to be superior to their respective parents in yield and to the bulk populations in yield and yield stability. The modified pedigree populations had the highest yield of all populations measured. It was concluded that populations with high genetic diversity not only do not produce the highest yield but may not provide the greatest stability of yield. Selection for grain yield in the F₄ generation was effective in identifying superior segregates. It was also possible to develop populations which had more yield stability. The highest yielding progeny were obtained from crosses between the medium yielding parents rather than between the highest yielding parents. This suggested that parental performance was of limited value in predicting the yielding ability of their resulting progeny. Therefore, selection for suitable parental combinations could not be based on their individual performance in the present study. It appeared that genetic factors for adaptability are as important as the level of genetic diversity in determining yield stability. A breeding system that allows the breeder to identify and incorporate genetic factors for adaptability and still maintain some genetic diversity in a new variety is suggested. Such a breeding system would prolong the length of time a variety could remain in commercial production and would allow such a variety to be grown over a more extensive range of environments. Close

• 8. [Article] Influence of Soft Wheat Characteristics on Quality of Batter-based Products

  Wheat is a globally traded staple crop. Wheat is important in human diets because of its agronomic adaptability, physical characteristics, functionality for the production of leavened products and nutritional ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Influence of Soft Wheat Characteristics on Quality of Batter-based Products Author: Fajardo Centeno, Carlos A. Wheat is a globally traded staple crop. Wheat is important in human diets because of its agronomic adaptability, physical characteristics, functionality for the production of leavened products and nutritional value. Two significant characteristics make wheat an important staple food-crop. First, the proteins present in wheat endosperm have attributes that enable gas retention after the proteins are hydrated and mechanically worked during dough production. Second, a wider variety of products can be made out of wheat compared to other cereals. Wheat quality is defined in terms of suitability for specific end-uses. This is important for breeders, farmers, flour millers, and food producers and consumers. In the U.S. Pacific Northwest (PNW) climatic conditions favor production of soft wheat. Three soft wheat types are planted in the PNW, soft white winter (SWW), soft white spring (SWS), and club (CLUB). Batter-based products are important applications for soft wheats and include a wide range of products such as pancakes and waffles, cakes, and coatings. Pancakes are produced from fluid batters using a single step mixing process and contain sugar concentrations < 30% in their formulations. Cakes are complex food systems where their classification is based on mixing process to produce the batters and the sugar-flour ratio concentrations in their formulations. This dissertation is focused on the functionality, analysis, and selection of soft wheat quality traits that affect end-product performance and also developing a methodology to rapidly predict cake quality. The first study (Chapter 3) was concerned with the functionality of SWW wheats in pancake making. The aim of this study was to observe the differences in genotype and protein concentration on batter flow and pancake making performance of a collection of SWW wheats. Two formulations were used in the study: one based on Finnie et al (2006) called "old" and another based on the AACC-I Approved Method 10-80.01 called "new". The "new" lean formulation had an improved ability to distinguish the performance of different flours compared with the “old” as a result of wider range of pancake diameters. This study showed that pancake making performance would not be optimized by conventional superior high-quality soft wheat flours with soft kernel texture, high break flour yield, and low water-, carbonate-, and sucrose SRCs. From our results it appears that for unchlorinated flours, at least for thicker pancakes, the most appropriate flour would have higher water and sucrose SRCs and be grown under management conditions conductive to higher protein. The second study (Chapter 4) was a meta-analysis of data collected by the USDA Western Wheat Quality Laboratory (Pullman, WA). This study was done to advance understanding soft wheat quality traits that differentially affect sugar-snap cookie diameter (CODI) and Japanese sponge cake (SC) volume (CAVOL). Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square (PLS) regression models were used to obtain useful actionable information from the data. The overall data showed that break flour yield (BKFY) was the single most important trait positively associated with both CAVOL and CODI. SWW wheats showed CVs > 10% for kernel hardness (SKHRD), grain and flour protein concentrations, ash, sucrose-, and lactic acid SRCs. These observations suggested that hardness, protein, ash, and the two SRCs were more sensitive to G&E effects than were the end-product traits that had CVs < 10%. The third study (Chapter 5) was built on the second study by adding two additional quality tests, oxidative gelation capacity (PeakOXI) and median particle size, to the potential prediction of CODI and CAVOL. Similar to the second study, BKFY was the single most important trait positively associated with both CAVOL and CODI. Virtual selection of SWWs based on either BKFY or SKHRD alone showed (in both the second and third studies) that using these enabled a gain of 134 mL for CAVOL and 0.6 cm for CODI using SKHRD and 122 mL for CAVOL and 0.58 cm for CODI using BKFY (Chapter 5). PeakOXI was significantly correlated with CODI but not with CAVOL. This contrasted with our hypothesis that PeakOXI would affect both products similarly. Notably 13 SWW samples had PeakOXI values higher than 800 cP. PeakOXI values this high have never been observed in soft wheats prior to this study. This is a valuable genetic resource for further studies that may lead to ways to better exploit oxidative gelation. The fourth study (Chapter 6) expanded the concepts in previous studies and included the use of a test to measure cake-batter viscosity in an attempt to predict cake quality. This study investigated the relationships between wheat quality traits, cake batters, and cake making quality in three cake types: SC, layer cake (LC), and pound cake (PoC). This study differed from the studies in Chapters 4 and 5 and was similar to Chapter 3 as the samples were fewer but specifically chosen to span the entire range of typical SWW quality. In this study we also developed a viscosity-based method to predict SC and LC quality that takes only eight minutes. This could be useful for screening or selection for cake quality in soft wheat breeding programs. In SC, there were no significant differences in cake quality traits between varieties. However, SC volume had a strong negative association with PeakOXI. For LC, the variety Tubbs, with harder kernel and higher absorption characteristics, had the largest LC volume. In contrast to SC, LC volume was significantly and positively associated with PeakOXI. In PoC, Kaseburg, with the highest protein content, had the largest cake volume. PoC was significantly and positively associated with flour protein concentration suggesting that flour proteins were important for larger volumes and confirming other observations in the literature. In contrast to LC and SC, PoC was not significantly associated with PeakOXI. The overall impact of the studies reported is: - For pancakes, the most important soft wheat trait is flour protein concentration. Water-, and sucrose SRCs were potentially useful parameters for predicting pancake quality. - For SC and sugar-snap cookies, break flour yield was the most important single trait in predicting higher SC volumes and larger cookie diameters. Therefore, selection in soft wheat breeding should be focused on kernel hardness and break flour yields as primary factors. Title: Influence of Soft Wheat Characteristics on Quality of Batter-based Products Author: Fajardo Centeno, Carlos A. Wheat is a globally traded staple crop. Wheat is important in human diets because of its agronomic adaptability, physical characteristics, functionality for the production of leavened products and nutritional value. Two significant characteristics make wheat an important staple food-crop. First, the proteins present in wheat endosperm have attributes that enable gas retention after the proteins are hydrated and mechanically worked during dough production. Second, a wider variety of products can be made out of wheat compared to other cereals. Wheat quality is defined in terms of suitability for specific end-uses. This is important for breeders, farmers, flour millers, and food producers and consumers. In the U.S. Pacific Northwest (PNW) climatic conditions favor production of soft wheat. Three soft wheat types are planted in the PNW, soft white winter (SWW), soft white spring (SWS), and club (CLUB). Batter-based products are important applications for soft wheats and include a wide range of products such as pancakes and waffles, cakes, and coatings. Pancakes are produced from fluid batters using a single step mixing process and contain sugar concentrations < 30% in their formulations. Cakes are complex food systems where their classification is based on mixing process to produce the batters and the sugar-flour ratio concentrations in their formulations. This dissertation is focused on the functionality, analysis, and selection of soft wheat quality traits that affect end-product performance and also developing a methodology to rapidly predict cake quality. The first study (Chapter 3) was concerned with the functionality of SWW wheats in pancake making. The aim of this study was to observe the differences in genotype and protein concentration on batter flow and pancake making performance of a collection of SWW wheats. Two formulations were used in the study: one based on Finnie et al (2006) called "old" and another based on the AACC-I Approved Method 10-80.01 called "new". The "new" lean formulation had an improved ability to distinguish the performance of different flours compared with the “old” as a result of wider range of pancake diameters. This study showed that pancake making performance would not be optimized by conventional superior high-quality soft wheat flours with soft kernel texture, high break flour yield, and low water-, carbonate-, and sucrose SRCs. From our results it appears that for unchlorinated flours, at least for thicker pancakes, the most appropriate flour would have higher water and sucrose SRCs and be grown under management conditions conductive to higher protein. The second study (Chapter 4) was a meta-analysis of data collected by the USDA Western Wheat Quality Laboratory (Pullman, WA). This study was done to advance understanding soft wheat quality traits that differentially affect sugar-snap cookie diameter (CODI) and Japanese sponge cake (SC) volume (CAVOL). Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square (PLS) regression models were used to obtain useful actionable information from the data. The overall data showed that break flour yield (BKFY) was the single most important trait positively associated with both CAVOL and CODI. SWW wheats showed CVs > 10% for kernel hardness (SKHRD), grain and flour protein concentrations, ash, sucrose-, and lactic acid SRCs. These observations suggested that hardness, protein, ash, and the two SRCs were more sensitive to G&E effects than were the end-product traits that had CVs < 10%. The third study (Chapter 5) was built on the second study by adding two additional quality tests, oxidative gelation capacity (PeakOXI) and median particle size, to the potential prediction of CODI and CAVOL. Similar to the second study, BKFY was the single most important trait positively associated with both CAVOL and CODI. Virtual selection of SWWs based on either BKFY or SKHRD alone showed (in both the second and third studies) that using these enabled a gain of 134 mL for CAVOL and 0.6 cm for CODI using SKHRD and 122 mL for CAVOL and 0.58 cm for CODI using BKFY (Chapter 5). PeakOXI was significantly correlated with CODI but not with CAVOL. This contrasted with our hypothesis that PeakOXI would affect both products similarly. Notably 13 SWW samples had PeakOXI values higher than 800 cP. PeakOXI values this high have never been observed in soft wheats prior to this study. This is a valuable genetic resource for further studies that may lead to ways to better exploit oxidative gelation. The fourth study (Chapter 6) expanded the concepts in previous studies and included the use of a test to measure cake-batter viscosity in an attempt to predict cake quality. This study investigated the relationships between wheat quality traits, cake batters, and cake making quality in three cake types: SC, layer cake (LC), and pound cake (PoC). This study differed from the studies in Chapters 4 and 5 and was similar to Chapter 3 as the samples were fewer but specifically chosen to span the entire range of typical SWW quality. In this study we also developed a viscosity-based method to predict SC and LC quality that takes only eight minutes. This could be useful for screening or selection for cake quality in soft wheat breeding programs. In SC, there were no significant differences in cake quality traits between varieties. However, SC volume had a strong negative association with PeakOXI. For LC, the variety Tubbs, with harder kernel and higher absorption characteristics, had the largest LC volume. In contrast to SC, LC volume was significantly and positively associated with PeakOXI. In PoC, Kaseburg, with the highest protein content, had the largest cake volume. PoC was significantly and positively associated with flour protein concentration suggesting that flour proteins were important for larger volumes and confirming other observations in the literature. In contrast to LC and SC, PoC was not significantly associated with PeakOXI. The overall impact of the studies reported is: - For pancakes, the most important soft wheat trait is flour protein concentration. Water-, and sucrose SRCs were potentially useful parameters for predicting pancake quality. - For SC and sugar-snap cookies, break flour yield was the most important single trait in predicting higher SC volumes and larger cookie diameters. Therefore, selection in soft wheat breeding should be focused on kernel hardness and break flour yields as primary factors. Close

• 9. [Article] Compensating effects and gene action estimates for the components of grain yield in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell)

  Five winter wheat cultivars and their diallel crosses were evaluated for plant height, harvest index, deading-maturity duration, the components of yield, (spikes per plant, spikelets per spike, kernel ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Compensating effects and gene action estimates for the components of grain yield in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell) Author: Abi-Antoun, Michel Five winter wheat cultivars and their diallel crosses were evaluated for plant height, harvest index, deading-maturity duration, the components of yield, (spikes per plant, spikelets per spike, kernel weight and kernels per spikelet)and total plant yield. Two diverse locations, Moro, a dryland site (250 mm annually) located in central Oregon and the Hyslop Agronomy Farm, a high rainfall site (over 1000 mm annually) located in the Willamette Valley, were utilized for one and two cropping seasons, respectively. Three rates of seeding were used as main plots in a split-plot design that was replicated four times. A modified blend method of seeding was used to simulate solid seeding conditions. Experimental seeds were planted 30.5 centimeters apart within the row over a filler cultivar in equally spaced (30.5 centimeters) rows. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance, Griffing's diallel analysis (Method 4, Model 1), correlation, path-coefficient analysis and by parent progeny regression. The correlation between grain yield, its components, harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height was dependent on the particula. r environment of the test. The re waspoorcorrelationbetween yield, tiller number and seed size under all the conditions of these studies. Negative associations between the components of yield indicated the sequential compensatory behavior of these characters under all environments. It would be very hard to select for large grain and short stature wheat because of the positive correlation between plant height and seed size within this population. The low correlations of yield with tiller number and seed size were mainly caused by indirect negative effects through one or more of the other yield components. Harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height had very small direct or indirect influences on grain yield. It was concluded that maximum yield would be obtained from a plant type which produces enough tillers to cover a particular unit of field area with large, fertile spikes, having medium to large kernels and semi-dwarf stature. No significant differences existed between parents and single crosses in the expression of the yield components. Nevertheless, hybrids outyielded their parents in grain yield and demonstrated that heterosis for complex traits was a consequence of multiplicative relationships among the components of these traits. Significant interactions between the genotypes and locations, seeding rates and years were observed in the expression of all characters studied. These interactions indicated that using data from non-competitive conditions to assess performance under competitive conditions could not be justified. Also, limiting the number of testing sites may lead to unsound generalizations and erroneous recommendations regarding gene action estimates of yield and the components of grain yield and three associated characters. Under non-competitive conditions, estimates of the additive type of gene action were more significant and contributed larger effects than the non-additive type for all traits. As competition increased at higher seeding rates, the effects of specific combining ability became more important in the expression of yield, number of spikes, spikelets per spike, and plant height. Heritability estimates confirmed these results except for yield. Of the agronomic characters, harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height, only harvest index showed some promise as a selection criterion under noncompetitive conditions. A breeding procedure utilizing the component approach consisted of selecting early generations under spaced planting with emphasis on avoiding extreme values in any of the components of yield. The balanced combinations of the components of yield should be tested under solid seeding conditions. Title: Compensating effects and gene action estimates for the components of grain yield in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum, L. em Thell) Author: Abi-Antoun, Michel Five winter wheat cultivars and their diallel crosses were evaluated for plant height, harvest index, deading-maturity duration, the components of yield, (spikes per plant, spikelets per spike, kernel weight and kernels per spikelet)and total plant yield. Two diverse locations, Moro, a dryland site (250 mm annually) located in central Oregon and the Hyslop Agronomy Farm, a high rainfall site (over 1000 mm annually) located in the Willamette Valley, were utilized for one and two cropping seasons, respectively. Three rates of seeding were used as main plots in a split-plot design that was replicated four times. A modified blend method of seeding was used to simulate solid seeding conditions. Experimental seeds were planted 30.5 centimeters apart within the row over a filler cultivar in equally spaced (30.5 centimeters) rows. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance, Griffing's diallel analysis (Method 4, Model 1), correlation, path-coefficient analysis and by parent progeny regression. The correlation between grain yield, its components, harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height was dependent on the particula. r environment of the test. The re waspoorcorrelationbetween yield, tiller number and seed size under all the conditions of these studies. Negative associations between the components of yield indicated the sequential compensatory behavior of these characters under all environments. It would be very hard to select for large grain and short stature wheat because of the positive correlation between plant height and seed size within this population. The low correlations of yield with tiller number and seed size were mainly caused by indirect negative effects through one or more of the other yield components. Harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height had very small direct or indirect influences on grain yield. It was concluded that maximum yield would be obtained from a plant type which produces enough tillers to cover a particular unit of field area with large, fertile spikes, having medium to large kernels and semi-dwarf stature. No significant differences existed between parents and single crosses in the expression of the yield components. Nevertheless, hybrids outyielded their parents in grain yield and demonstrated that heterosis for complex traits was a consequence of multiplicative relationships among the components of these traits. Significant interactions between the genotypes and locations, seeding rates and years were observed in the expression of all characters studied. These interactions indicated that using data from non-competitive conditions to assess performance under competitive conditions could not be justified. Also, limiting the number of testing sites may lead to unsound generalizations and erroneous recommendations regarding gene action estimates of yield and the components of grain yield and three associated characters. Under non-competitive conditions, estimates of the additive type of gene action were more significant and contributed larger effects than the non-additive type for all traits. As competition increased at higher seeding rates, the effects of specific combining ability became more important in the expression of yield, number of spikes, spikelets per spike, and plant height. Heritability estimates confirmed these results except for yield. Of the agronomic characters, harvest index, maturity-duration and plant height, only harvest index showed some promise as a selection criterion under noncompetitive conditions. A breeding procedure utilizing the component approach consisted of selecting early generations under spaced planting with emphasis on avoiding extreme values in any of the components of yield. The balanced combinations of the components of yield should be tested under solid seeding conditions. Close

• 10. [Article] Nature of inheritance, genotype-environment interaction and association of selected agronomic characters in crosses of winter X spring wheats (triticum aestivum L. em Thell)

  This investigation was motivated by the apparent increase in genetic variability resulting from the systematic combining of gene pools represented by winter and spring types of wheats. It was the objective ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Nature of inheritance, genotype-environment interaction and association of selected agronomic characters in crosses of winter X spring wheats (triticum aestivum L. em Thell) Author: Brajcich, P. This investigation was motivated by the apparent increase in genetic variability resulting from the systematic combining of gene pools represented by winter and spring types of wheats. It was the objective of this study to provide information regarding the nature of this genetic variability for nine agronomic characters in populations resulting from winter x spring crosses. Evaluations were made for: 1) the amount of total genetic variability; 2) the nature of the gene action making up this genetic variability using parent-progeny regression and combining ability analysis and 3) possible direct and indirect associations for traits which influence grain yield. Experimental populations which involved parents, Fl, F2 and backcross generations were grown at two locations where a spring and a winter environment could be utilized. At the winter site, the research was evaluated over a two year period. When the two experimental sites were compared, greater genetic diversity was observed at the spring site for maturity date, plant height, tillers per plant, kernel weight and grain yield. At the winter site, heading date, grain filling period, harvest index and kernels per spike were found to have more total genetic variation. From the expected mean square values, it would appear that the winter parents contributed more to the total genetic variation for most traits measured at both locations. A large genotype-location interaction was also noted suggesting that estimates of gene action and selection for adapted plant types can be done only at the specific winter or spring site. A large portion of the total genetic variation controlling the traits measured was due to additive gene action. However, at the winter site there was also a large influence of non-additive gene action associated with heading date, plant height, harvest index, tillers per plant, kernel weight, kernels per spike and grain yield. Of special interest was that at the winter site the most promising parental combinations could be predicted based on the general combining ability effects of the individual cultivars for each trait studied. Such data were not available for the spring site. Consistent and high correlations were observed between tillers per plant, kernels per spike and, to a lesser extent, kernel weight and grain yield at the winter location. Some negative associations were observed at the spring location between these traits and grain yield suggesting that yield component compensations were involved in the final expression of grain yield. The other characters measured did not reflect significant correlations with yield. When the correlation values were considered in terms of direct and indirect effects for specific traits, a large direct effect was noted for the three components and grain yield. The other traits exhibited small or no direct effects on grain yield but did have a slight influence on grain yield through tillers per plant, kernels per spike or kernel weight. Title: Nature of inheritance, genotype-environment interaction and association of selected agronomic characters in crosses of winter X spring wheats (triticum aestivum L. em Thell) Author: Brajcich, P. This investigation was motivated by the apparent increase in genetic variability resulting from the systematic combining of gene pools represented by winter and spring types of wheats. It was the objective of this study to provide information regarding the nature of this genetic variability for nine agronomic characters in populations resulting from winter x spring crosses. Evaluations were made for: 1) the amount of total genetic variability; 2) the nature of the gene action making up this genetic variability using parent-progeny regression and combining ability analysis and 3) possible direct and indirect associations for traits which influence grain yield. Experimental populations which involved parents, Fl, F2 and backcross generations were grown at two locations where a spring and a winter environment could be utilized. At the winter site, the research was evaluated over a two year period. When the two experimental sites were compared, greater genetic diversity was observed at the spring site for maturity date, plant height, tillers per plant, kernel weight and grain yield. At the winter site, heading date, grain filling period, harvest index and kernels per spike were found to have more total genetic variation. From the expected mean square values, it would appear that the winter parents contributed more to the total genetic variation for most traits measured at both locations. A large genotype-location interaction was also noted suggesting that estimates of gene action and selection for adapted plant types can be done only at the specific winter or spring site. A large portion of the total genetic variation controlling the traits measured was due to additive gene action. However, at the winter site there was also a large influence of non-additive gene action associated with heading date, plant height, harvest index, tillers per plant, kernel weight, kernels per spike and grain yield. Of special interest was that at the winter site the most promising parental combinations could be predicted based on the general combining ability effects of the individual cultivars for each trait studied. Such data were not available for the spring site. Consistent and high correlations were observed between tillers per plant, kernels per spike and, to a lesser extent, kernel weight and grain yield at the winter location. Some negative associations were observed at the spring location between these traits and grain yield suggesting that yield component compensations were involved in the final expression of grain yield. The other characters measured did not reflect significant correlations with yield. When the correlation values were considered in terms of direct and indirect effects for specific traits, a large direct effect was noted for the three components and grain yield. The other traits exhibited small or no direct effects on grain yield but did have a slight influence on grain yield through tillers per plant, kernels per spike or kernel weight. Close