Proceedings on applied botany, genetics and breeding
N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources
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Study and in vitro preservation of the rare endangered species Prunus armeniaca L. in Kazakhstan
Background. The decline of plants in natural populations leads to biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruption. Comprehensive study and restoration of degrading populations, particularly of rare species, is highly relevant. Plant tissue culture biotechnology is an important tool for conserving genetic diversity. Materials and methods. A total of 115 accessions of Prunus armeniaca L. from two populations in Almaty Region were collected and studied employing geobotanical and tissue culture techniques. Results. Descriptor-based evaluation (46 parameters) was conducted, herbarium specimens were prepared, remote sensing was performed, a digital elevation model (DEM) and orthophotomap were created, and NDVI values (0.3–0.7) were calculated. For in vitro initiation of embryonic axes, Knop’s medium proved optimal, with 94.5% viability. Medium 523 showed a low contamination rate (1.1%). The highest multiplication rate (MR) of 2.9 was achieved on the MS5 medium supplemented with 1 mg L–1 of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 0.3 mg L–1 of gibberellic acid (GA). Conclusion. The actual condition of the populations was determined: high incidence of damage (up to 52.6%) and absence of fruiting in certain areas. Cartographic maps of the territory were made. The effectiveness of Knop’s medium for in vitro germination of embryonic axes was confirmed, and testing of in vitro shoots on medium 523 showed a low contamination level (1.1%). The highest MR (2.9) was obtained on the MS5 medium with elevated concentrations of BAP and GA.
Enrichment of the VIR herbarium collection with materials from France and its subordinate territories in the 1920–1930s
Since its establishment, the Herbarium of Cultivated Plants of the World, Their Wild Relatives, and Weeds (the VIR Herbarium, WIR) has fully embodied the Institute’s primary mission: to build a comprehensive collection representing the global diversity of cultivated plants. One of the most active periods of collection growth occurred in the 1920s and 1930s, while N. I. Vavilov was at the head of the Institute. It was the time when VIR organized numerous collecting missions worldwide and enthusiastically fostered international collaboration. This article examines the herbarium specimens that arrived between the 1920s and 1930s from France and its dependent territories (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and the French Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon) and their sources. More than half of the specimens (2,765) represent various species and varieties of wheat, barley, goatgrass, vetch, peavine, and flax, with grapevines also well represented (100–400 specimens). The most valuable part of the collection consists of herbarium specimens collected directly from their natural habitats (originals), totaling 246 items. The remaining 3,948 specimens were collected from the experimental fields of VIR’s departments where they had been grown from seeds originally obtained in those countries. Vavilov’s collecting mission to the Mediterranean region (June 1926 – August 1927) supplied nearly 90% of the specimens to the VIR Herbarium. In addition to the collected samples, specimens were acquired from various scientific institutions, including botanical gardens, seed companies, and research centers, as well as from personal plant holdings of French scientists, such as Louis Blaringhem, Louis Charles Trabut, Léon Octave Ducellier, Émile Miège, and Félicien Boeuf.
Studying and setting up in vitro collections of rare endangered plants of the Rosaceae family
Background. The relevance is based on the need to preserve the genetic diversity of rare and endangered Rosaceae plants that play an important role in ecosystems and are of value for agriculture, medicine, and ornamental gardening. Materials and methods. Nine plant species from the Rosaceae family listed in the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan served as the material for this study. Results. Accessions of 9 Rosaceae species were collected by plant collecting missions. The in vitro initiation and micropropagation techniques employing the Murashige and Skoog medium with added growth regulators was optimized for 6 species. Conclusion. The established in vitro collection of rare and endangered plants from the Rosaceae family is an effective tool for their conservation and reproduction. The applied techniques ensure long-term conservation of biodiversity and create opportunities for further use of genetic material for scientific and practical purposes.
The effect of the starting nitrogen dose under different irrigation regimes on the yield of Kabuli chickpeas
Background. The aggravation of the water shortage problem caused by climate change in drought-prone areas emphasizes the use of climate-smart plants and climate-smart agriculture practices. Thus, the management of nitrogen fertilizers and controlling the amount of water consumed by crops seem very important issues. Materials and methods. A field trial was aimed to evaluate chickpea phenology, morphology, and yield under different doses of nitrogen (0, 20, and 40 kg ha–1) and irrigation regimes (I1: well-watered, I2: rainfed, I3: supplemental irrigation during the flowering, I4: supplemental irrigation during the flowering and seed setting) in chickpea drylands of Kermanshah, Western Iran. Results. Although N application slightly delayed the phenological stages, soil moisture deficiency significantly accelerated flowering and maturity. The highest rooting depth was recorded for I2 + N40, and the lack of soil moisture increased the longitudinal root growth. However, the number of root nodules (created by symbiotic relationship) under rainfed (I2) and one-time supplemental irrigation (I3) showed the lowest values of 7.30 and 6.70, respectively. Supplemental irrigation (SI) improved the grain yield components compared to the rainfed condition, but the difference in grain yield between SI and I1 was still evident. The highest amounts of vegetative growth and yield were recorded under I1 + N20 and I1 + N40. The highest values of water-use efficiency for grain yield (WUEG) resulted under I2 + N40. Conclusion. WUEG under rainfed conditions was 41%, 17% and 24% higher than I1, I3, and I4, respectively. The highest biomass-based water use efficiency (WUEB) was obtained under I1 + N40 and I2 + N0 or N20. Although I4 produced a lower grain yield than well-watered conditions (ca. 400 kg ha–1), due to the water scarcity in the semi-arid regions, I4 with the N application of 20 or 40 kg ha–1 is still recommended for small-scale farmers as an efficient smart-agriculture practice.
Status and global trends in the cultivation of varieties and breeding forms of various Actinidia spp.
The objective of the research was to study the diversity of cultivated species and varieties of Actinidia Lindl., assess the status and analyze the trends pertaining to the cultivation of various Actinidia spp. in order to find out whether it is possible to cultivate them in the Crimea. The fruits of Actinidia chinensis var. deliciosa (A. Chev.) A. Chev. (kiwi) are among the most valuable subtropical fruit plants. The leader among the main kiwifruit-producing regions is Asia (54.5%), and significant amounts are produced in Europe (24.1%) and Oceania (14.4%). The largest producer of kiwi is China; in 2023, this country harvested 54.0% of the global production. Besides, significant harvests are collected in Italy and New Zealand, and somewhat less in Chile, Iran, and Greece. Until 1999, the world production of kiwi was about one million tons. A steady production growth and the expansion of cultivation areas have been observed since 2000. In 2023, the production increased 4.9 times compared to 1994, and the area 4.8 times. FAO reported a significant increase in the production of A. chinensis var. deliciosa fruits, and new trends towards the cultivation of A. kolomikta (Maxim. et Rupr.) Maxim., A. arguta (Siebold еt Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq., and some other Actinidia spp. The breeding work in the Nikita Botanical Gardens has been aimed at the development of cultivars of A. chinensis var. deliciosa that are most adapted to the conditions of the Crimea, and a new cultivar, ‘Nikitskaya Yubileynaya’, has been released. Producing new Actinidia cultivars acclimated to the most favorable areas for their cultivation will expand the range and increase the production of fruits in Russia.
The effect of in vitro inoculation of strawberry microplants with rhizobacteria strains on their stress response during ex vitro cultivation under hydroponic conditions
Background. Preliminary inoculation of microplants in vitro with growth-promoting rhizobacteria can positively affect their adaptation to ex vitro conditions. The aim of the work was to study the effect of inoculation of strawberry microclones in in vitro culture with Azospirillum baldaniorum Sp245 and Kocuria rosea T1Ks19 on the stress response during ex vitro cultivation under hydroponic conditions. Materials and methods. Strawberry microplants of cvs. ‘Asia’ and ‘Vima Kimberly’ were used as macrosymbionts. The rhizobacteria from the collection of rhizosphere microorganisms of the Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms (Saratov) served as microsymbionts. Co-inoculation with bacteria was carried out in vitro (106 CFU/mL), then 45-day-old plants were planted in a hydroponic setup (ex vitro). The morphometric and biochemical parameters of plants and the number of bacteria on the root surface were analyzed dynamically. Results. In vitro inoculation of strawberry microplants with rhizobacteria strains did not lead to contamination of the nutrient medium. Both strains were detected on the roots throughout the adaptation period. Bacterization of microplants resulted in a decrease in the root length in both cultivars and the number of leaves in ‘Vima Kimberly’ after 20 days of adaptation, but without changing the shoot biomass. During the adaptation process, the bacterized plants, unlike the controls, maintained a stable level of photosynthetic pigments better. By the 20th day, the amount of pigments in bacterized plants was significantly higher than in the control variants. A cultivar-specific reaction of the activity of antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase) and malondialdehyde was noted. Conclusion. It was found that in vitro inoculation of strawberry microplants with rhizobacteria resulted in a decrease in the stress response in plants of cvs. ‘Asia’ and ‘Vima Kimberly’ at the ex vitro cultivation stage.
Variability of grain color parameters among local maize cultivars in Azerbaijan
Background. Aleurone and pericarp pigments in maize grain are regulated by the content of anthocyanins, carotenoids, tocopherols, and their various combinations, which determines their nutraceutical and coloring properties. Searching for sources of natural dyes to replace synthetic ones becomes increasingly popular and contributes to the development of hybrid maize breeding for food and dye production. Materials and methods. A comprehensive study of Azerbaijani germplasm was used to select 112 diverse maize accessions and evaluate them for grain color. There were 5 blocks of study, conducted in two agroclimatic zones (Zaqatala in 2013, and Baku in 2014). The grain color gamut parameters were analyzed in the CIELAB system using the luminance coordinates (L* = 0 for dark, and L* = 100 for bright). The a* coordinate denoted red/green, with +a* for red, and –a* for green, and the b* coordinate denoted yellow/blue, with +b* for yellow, and –b* for blue. The hue angle and color in the a*b* plane were also measured. Results. Five clusters with a wide grain color diversity were identified during the study of local maize accessions. The color intensity variation in the studied set was within the range of 42.36–66.49, the red/green values within 5.32–15.93, the blue/yellow values within 18.07–44.40, the color values in the a*b* plane within 18.98–46.12, and the hue angle values within 62.50–80.14. The ranking of colors into 5 clusters showed that 96 were concentrated in the 1st cluster, with the color brightness value of 58.16, the red/green value (a*) of 10.45, and the blue/yellow value (b*) of 32.82. Besides, the color value in the a*b* plane was 34.48, and the hue in the a*b* plane was 72.41. Some correlations were found between grain color and morphometric characters, and grain biochemistry. Conclusion. The Azerbaijani local maize collection exhibits a wide diversity for the inbreeding of lines with various grain colors, promising for hybrid maize breeding.
Negative effect of an introgression into chromosome 5Al of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) from tetraploid wheat (Triticum timopheevii (Zhuk.) Zhuk. subsp. timopheevii) on drought tolerance and productivity
Background. Introgressive hybridization is used to increase genetic diversity and improve disease resistance in bread wheat Triticum aestivum L. Introgressions from tetraploid wheat Triticum timopheevii (Zhuk.) Zhuk. subsp. timopheevii into bread wheat ‘Saratovskaya 29’ (S29) helped to increase its resistance to fungal diseases. There is a need for thorough studies into the effect of introgressive hybridization on tolerance to abiotic stressors in wheat. Materials and methods. Gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, chlorophyll a and b content, carotenoids, free proline, ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzyme activity, catalase and lipoxygenase in leaves, and shoot biomass were analyzed in wheat cultivar S29 and line S29 (821 5A) carrying a T. timopheevii subsp. timopheevii introgression segment in the distal region of chromosome 5AL, under controlled conditions with two water-supply regimes. Productivity components were assessed in a hydroponic greenhouse, also under two water-supply regimes. Results. Compared with cv. S29, line S29 (821 5A) had a reduced amount of absorbed and transferred energy per reaction center of photosystem II under optimal watering. The line also had a 30% reduction in the activity of ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes and a significantly increased proline content in leaves. Line S29 (821 5A) showed weakened defense reactions to drought stress. It was inferior to cv. S29 in the main spike productivity, regardless of watering conditions. Conclusion. Introgression from T. timopheevii subsp. timopheevii into the distal region of chromosome 5AL negatively affected the drought tolerance and productivity of bread wheat. Physiological and biochemical studies are required to make a comprehensive assessment of interspecific hybrids for their resistance to unfavorable factors.
Flax fiber quality estimation technique for small samples using the Instron 5943 universal breaking device
Background. Fiber flax breeding was for a long time targeted at increasing the fiber yield that entailed deterioration in its quality. A significant amount of fiber is required for the analyses of its quality characteristics, which slows down the breeding process. A reliable assessment technique is needed to select valuable genotypes by analyzing small amounts of material. Materials and methods. Fifty-three fiber samples representing the breaking load range (from 11 to 39 daN) were analyzed with two tools: the conventional method (standard) and the proposed (new) one. The technique we have developed is as close as possible to the standard one. The differences are in the replacement of the outdated DVK60 device with modern equipment, Instron 5943, which reduced the weight of a single sample 6.5 times. This substitution also affected the fiber selection procedure for assessing its fineness. Results. The new technique slightly overestimated the indicators: by 9% in breaking and rated relative breaking loads, 12% in flexibility, and 13% in fineness. Correlation analysis revealed high similarity between the results obtained with the standard and new methods (r = 0.88 for the breaking load, r = 0.83 for the rated relative breaking load, r = 0.67 for flexibility, and r = 0.68 for fineness). Analysis of variance showed a high significant effect of the genotype on the assessment results for the breaking load (92%), flexibility (75%), fineness (78%), and the rated relative breaking load (83%). Conclusion. The results obtained with the new technique are comparable with the evaluation data quantified according to standard procedure. It will provide reliable assessment of fiber quality in breeding material as early as in the 1st or 2nd year of seed reproduction from a single plant, which will reduce labor costs and accelerate selection of valuable genotypes.
Interrelationships among morphological traits and seed yield in garden cress under two environmental circumstances
Background. This study aimed to explore the morphological traits associated with seed yield in garden cress and to recognize the direct and indirect effects of agronomic characteristics. Analyzing the relationships between traits and seed yield with understanding their causal effects helps breeders choose the best combination of yield components to improve economic performance. Materials and methods. A total of 64 accessions, including 60 international and 4 local Iranian genotypes, were evaluated across two locations (Ardabil and Eyvanki) using a randomized block scheme. Results. Biomass consistently emerged as the most influential trait across both environments, followed by leafand pod-related characters. Categorizing traits into primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary orders helped reduce multicollinearity and clarified the structure of trait interrelationships. Path analysis indicated several optimal selection pathways, such as LB → PP → PB → BIO → SY in Ardabil, and FLO → LW → LL → SY in Eyvanki. The bootstrapped estimates confirmed the stability and reliability of the identified trait effects. Conclusion. Finally, indirect selection based on biomass, leaf traits, and yield components can improve seed yield in garden cress. Also, simultaneous improvement of seed and leaf yield is feasible and should be considered in future breeding programs.
Evaluation of Olea europaea L. hybrids for breeding
Background. Breeding of new high-yielding cultivars is one of the most effective strategies to increase yields of Olea europaea L. According to the International Olive Council (IOC), the world’s olive cultivation is estimated at 10.9 million hectares and tends to increase. Rising demand for canned fruits and olive oil stimulates producers to increase production. Thus, introduction of new high-yielding cultivars with high oil content in fruits is an urgent task. Materials and methods. Studies were conducted on 60-year-old trees planted at a distance of 5 × 5 m from each other, with a planting density of 400 trees per ha–1 and southern exposure of the slope. The experiment was conducted in 2022–2024 on the leaves of 60 olive hybrids developed at the Nikita Botanical Gardens. Two commercial Italian cultivars, ‘Ascolano’ and ‘Corregiolo’, were used as a control. Results. Main agronomic and biological traits of 60 promising hybrids were studied (yield, fruit weight, oil content, pulp/stone ratio, timing of the main phenophases, etc.). Significant variations of useful agronomic characters, such as fruit weight (from 2.2 to 9.5 g), fruit oil content (from 16 to 33%), pulp to stone ratio (from 68 to 92%), and yield (from 1.6 to 12.8 t/ha), were revealed in the studied genotypes of European olives. Based on a set of important agronomic characteristics, hybrid forms most interesting for production testing were identified: 35-6/15, 35-5/31, 35-9/5, and 35-16/13. They can be used to produce a domestic assortment of O. europaea. Conclusion. O. europaea hybrid genotypes were selected that surpassed cvs. ‘Ascolano’ and ‘Corregiolo’ in a set of important agronomic traits. Good yields, large fruits, and high oil content make these hybrids promising for use in breeding and production trials in the south of Russia.
The effect of additional UV-A irradiation on some biochemical and morphometric indicators in potato under greenhouse conditions
Background. Ultraviolet (UV-А) radiation is an important environmental factor with a significant impact on plants. Plants in greenhouses often experience a deficiency in UV-А radiation that can negatively affect their physiological processes. Materials and methods. An experimental study was conducted to analyze the effect of UV-A irradiation on meristem plants of potato cvs. ‘Shakh’ and ‘Nevsky’ after their transplantation to a summer greenhouse. One sector of the greenhouse was equipped with lamps emitting light at a wavelength of 380 nm. Regenerated potato plants of both cultivars were exposed to radiation for 10, 20, and 30 days (experiment variants: UV1, UV2, and UV3) for one hour in the evening. Results. The analysis revealed the effect of UV-A irradiation on the biochemical parameters in potato, including concentration of photosynthetic pigments in the leaves, as well as the content of dry matter, starch, and total sugars in the tubers. Additionally, morphometric characteristics were studied, such as the number and weight of minitubers. The obtained results showed that UV-A irradiation induced an increase in the number of minitubers and reduced their weight. For cv. ‘Nevsky’, the total number of minitubers increased by 30% in the UV1 variant, while their average weight decreased by 10%. For cv. ‘Shakh’, an increase in the number of minitubers by 10% was observed in all variants of exposure to UV-A. The maximum content of dry matter in minitubers of both cultivars was registered under the 10-day exposure, exceeding the control by 9.5%. The starch content in the two cultivars was high, with a maximum observed under UV3 treatment. Conclusion. UV irradiation stimulates photosynthetic processes, increasing the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids, and also affects carbohydrate metabolism, which leads to an increase in the content of sugars and starch in potato tubers and an increased number of minitubers developed on regenerated plants.
Breeding potential of guar accessions from the VIR collection evaluated under the conditions of the Russian Federation
Background. Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) is a leguminous crop plant of tropical origin that has gained unprecedented popularity in recent years due to the presence of gum in its seeds. The use of guar gum in the oil and gas industry gives the crop strategic importance. This was the reason for its introduction to the Russian Federation (RF) at the beginning of the 21st century and for the active breeding of domestic cultivars. The demand for the guar collection has increased dramatically, serving as an impetus for its active study. Materials and methods. The materials of the study were guar accessions from the VIR collection: 50 accessions in 2023, and 30 most productive of them in 2024. The accessions were phenotyped for 13 traits important for breeding at Volgograd Experiment Station of VIR. The indicator of early maturity was assessed by indirect methods. Statistical processing of the research results was performed using the Statistica 13.3 software package. Results. Seed productivity of guar accessions was analyzed, its structure and interrelations among its defining characteristics. Differentiation of the guar gene pool for the studied traits was revealed. The most productive accessions were identified. Previously obtained data on the relationship of guar collection accessions to the photoperiod served as a basis for proposing a modified algorithm for determining the photoperiod sensitivity of accessions as an indirect indicator of their earliness. Conclusion. The data obtained for guar accessions from the VIR collection under the conditions of the Russian Federation will make it possible to use this germplasm effectively as source material for breeding domestic cultivars.
Bioactive compounds in Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L. ) tubers from the VIR collection
Background. Diverse nature and climate conditions in the North Caucasus invoke the importance of studying cultivar-specific responses of Jerusalem artichoke to cultivation in certain ecogeographic areas. Evaluation of Jerusalem artichoke accessions preserved at VIR is relevant for disclosing the crop’s variability in productivity and biochemical composition of its tubers and choosing cultivars promising for cultivation. The objective was to examine the biochemical composition of Jerusalem artichoke tubers maintained in the field gene bank at Maikop Experiment Station of VIR (Adygea, Russia). Materials and methods. Nineteen Jerusalem artichoke accessions from Maikop Experiment Station served as the material for the study. They were grown as an annual crop: the tubers overwintered in the field, and were transplanted to new plots in the following spring. Tuber productivity was assessed in the plants harvested in 2021 and 2022. Biochemical composition was analyzed in the reproductions of the 2021–2023 harvests at the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department of VIR using conventional techniques. Results. High productivity over two years was recorded for ‘Sakhalinskiy Krasny’ (2.2 kg/plant). Accessions with high content of bioactive compounds were identified: for inulin, ‘Australian’ (14.10 ± 1.41%), ‘Lola’ (13.73 ± 1.28%), ‘Topianka’ (13.43 ± 2.06%), ‘Waldspiendel’ (13.32 ± 1.60%) and ‘Zori Kavkaza’ (13.22 ± 0.93 %); for dry matter, ‘Tambovskiy Krasny’ (27.66 ± 0.60%); for total sugars, ‘Lola’ (19.02 ± 3.48%); for protein, ‘Avstraliyskiy’ (3.65 ± 0.67%). Cv. ‘Nakhodka’ maintained its potential for high productivity (2.68 kg/plant) under favorable growing season conditions. Conclusion. Screening of VIR’s Jerusalem artichoke collection resulted in identifying accessions with high and stable tuber productivity, valuable biochemical composition, and high content of bioactive compounds (inulin, and ascorbic acid) and nutrients (protein).
Vavilov’s law in the era of next-generation sequencing: answers, puzzles, hints
Since N. I. Vavilov’s report in Saratov on June 4, 1920, the Law of Homologous Series in Hereditary Variation has not only found practical application in the targeted search for new sources for breeding, but also played an important role in the development of the global plant genetic resources collection. Mechanisms underlying the series observed were progressively revealed with the development of approaches in fundamental science: first in research with cytogenetic methods, then in the course of molecular genetic mapping of genes, and finally with the help of comparative genomics in the era of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). The obvious explanation for the Law formulated by Vavilov seems to be the genetic similarity of organisms, their common origin. At the same time, in light of the currently well-documented synteny of genomes, Vavilov’s law is widely used both in special genetics and for creation of donors of traits valuable for breeding. The Law is also applied for improving plant genotypes using targeted mutagenesis. The article provides specific examples of such research, as well as examples confirming the connection between homologous series in hereditary variation and the synteny of genomes. The solved (or not yet solved) puzzles of “gaps” in homologous series or their unexpected “interruption” in a series of relatively close taxa are discussed. It became clear with the accumulation of results of these studies that convergence, not only synteny, often underlies homologous series. Natural selection often uses different genes and different mutations to “achieve” the same result in different species. Such a “quick solution” is especially valuable for species surviving in rapidly changing environmental conditions. Convergence is the result of adaptation to unfavorable conditions, when natural selection “uses” previously neutral mutations that become important for adaptation in a changed environment. Today, faced with the challenges of changing climate and unstable weather conditions, it is important to apply these Nature’s hints and adapt this mechanism for breeding. The possibilities of using targeted mutagenesis to make a diversity of mutant forms based on numerous inactive gene duplications in the crop genomes for further testing under various stress conditions are discussed. The editing-based targeted reprogramming of duplicated copies for future environmental conditions is also possible. However, this strategy requires preliminary analysis of big data accumulated on gene and metabolic networks, as well as phenotypic data under various environmental conditions. Some of such data have already been accumulated through long-term studies of the VIR collection under various ecogeographic conditions. Joint efforts of breeders, geneticists, bioinformaticians, genetic engineers, and plant genetic resources experts can ensure the implementation of a fundamentally new strategy for improving cultivated plants by modeling natural adaptation processes and targeted use of gene duplications.
Using donors of earliness in maize breeding in the steppe zone of the North Caucasus Federal District of Russia
Background. Cultivation of maize hybrids belonging to the FAO 100–300 maturity groups up to the 55th parallel north becomes an important area in providing feed for livestock. The range of maize hybrids of the ultra-early and early maturity groups is very narrow due to the lack of sufficient diversity in the initial breeding material. Development of new sources for breeding hybrid maize cultivars adapted to the agroclimatic conditions of 50–55°N is relevant. Materials and methods. The studies were conducted in the steppe zone of the North Caucasus Federal District (Prokhladny, Kabardino-Balkaria) in 2021–2024. The work involved 250 samples of the S1ВС1 population obtained by hybridizing ten maize lines – CMS maintainers developed by OTBOR Ltd. – with the ultra-early maize cultivar ‘Beloyaroye Psheno’ (k-5240) from the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR). The methods included inbreeding, test crosses with CMS lines (M and C types), phenological and morphometric analyses, and testing of seedlings for cold resistance under laboratory conditions. Results. As a result of saturating crosses and inbreeding, it was possible to isolate 7 ultra-early, 57 early and 3 mid-early lines from the splitting S1ВС1 population, 5 of which showed seedling resistance to low temperatures. Phenological observations showed that the recombinant lines shifted the flowering dates towards early maturity in the range from 4 to 16 days, which made it possible to shift the maturity groups of the inbred material from mid-late to ultra-early and early according to the FAO classification. Conclusion. The results confirm the possibility of creating early-maturing source material for breeding early and ultra-early hybrid maize using S1ВС1 of the ultra-early maize cv. ‘Beloyaroye Psheno’ as a donor of earliness.
Charyshskaya Krasavitsa’ is a new fodder cultivar of barnyard millet (Еchinochloa frumentacea Link) for western Siberia
Under the extreme continental conditions of Western Siberia, where hot and rather dry summers are preferable for the cultivation of crops atypical for the local flora, optimizing the development of animal husbandry by expanding a small range of sparsely distributed forage grasses and improving their composition with new cultivars is an urgent task. The objective of the study was to assess the productive and feeding potential of a new barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea Link) cultivar. Cv. ‘Gotika’ served as the reference. The experimental part of the work was carried out in 2022–2024 in the experimental fields of the Federal Altai Scientific Center of Agro-Biotechnologies located in the forest-steppe zone of the Ob region, Western Siberia. The studies were conducted in the framework of open-field and laboratory experiments. Competitive variety tests showed that cv. ‘Charyshskaya Krasavitsa’ had statistically significant advantages vs. the reference in a number of agronomic and biological aspects (+35% in dry matter yield, +27% in green biomass yield, –6% in maturation time, +13% in plant height, and +13% in foliage percentage), as well as in qualitative characteristics (+40% in feed unit, +11% in digestible protein content, +56% in carotene content, and +66% in starch content). In 2024, ‘Charyshskaya Krasavitsa’ was submitted to the State Variety Trials in the Northwestern (2) and West Siberian (10) Regions.
Triticum ispahanicum Heslot: a genetic resource for improving the species T. aestivum L.
Background. Studying Triticum ispahanicum Heslot (Ispahan emmer wheat) to improve Triticum aestivum L. is relevant and promising, since Ispahan emmer is rarely used in programs to increase the genetic diversity of the bread wheat gene pool. Materials and methods. As part of the study, the GEN2021-512 spring bread wheat line was studied. This line was obtained by crossing cv. ‘Dobrynya’ with an accession of T. ispahanicum var. ispahanorufum Udachin. Genetic, phenological, phytopathological and breadmaking analyses were performed using conventional methods. Results. The GEN2021-512 line is resistant to leaf rust due to a combination of the Lr19 gene and an unidentified Lr gene from T. ispahanicum and surpasses ‘Dobrynya’ and T. ispahanicum in ear productivity, ear length, and 1000-grain weight. The line’s duration of the period from germination to ear emergence is 3 days longer than that of ‘Dobrynya’. Its grain productivity is at the level of the recipient cultivar, but the line has higher protein and gluten content. Dough and bread quality is not lower than in the recipient cultivar. The study demonstrated that the genetic variability of bread wheat might be expanded through Ispahan emmer. Conclusion. Combining the genetic material of T. ispahanicum var. ispahanorufum with spring bread wheat cv. ‘Dobrynya’ resulted in the GEN2021-512 line. This line demonstrated a combination of resistance to the leaf rust pathogen and high breadmaking quality. It is promising for breeding and genetic research as a genetic resource to improve spring bread wheat cultivars.
Using a set of SSR markers chosen by the ECPGR to systematize the national pear collection
Background. According to international requirements, maintenance of a fruit crop collection involves the use of significant material resources. One of the most important tasks is to prevent duplicate samples from entering the collection. The genetic uniqueness and identity of pear accessions preserved at the Institute for Fruit Growing were studied with SSR markers recommended by the ECPGR. Materials and methods. The material of the study included 9 pear accessions obtained from expeditions in the Republic of Belarus and 5 control cultivars from breeding stations and research institutes. Their identification was carried out with the SSR analysis method, using 12 markers. Results. This analysis ascertained that a number of accessions received from other institutions and from amateurs, with different names, were in fact cvs. ‘Talgarskaya Krasavitsa’, ‘Clapp Favorite’, ‘Doyenné du Comice’, and ‘Vasarine Sviestine’. Besides, the uniqueness was proved for cvs. ‘Podarok Krasnokutsky’ and ‘Semenovskaya’. Priority markers (EMPc117, EMPc11, CH04e03, CH01f07a, CH01d08, CH01d09, GD147, CH05c06 and CH03d12) showed a high level of efficiency during the molecular genetic analysis. As a result, a total of 96 alleles were identified with the mean number of 8.0 alleles per marker; the mean number of informative alleles was 5.44. Based on the results obtained by mathematical calculations (He, EMR, and MI), the EMPc117 primer was found to be more effective. The He for the 12 SSR primers varied between 0,52−0,89, averaging 0,77 units. The calculated parameters for these markers in the studied cultivars were found to be consistent with the analysis results of other authors from Sweden, Germany, and England, which is extremely important when comparing plant collections from different databases.
Release of two hexaploid oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivars with high nutritive value of groat for human consumption: an innovation at the Moroccan national level
Moroccan oat breeding has traditionally targeted forage yield, yet the wild tetraploid oat species Avena murphyi Ladiz. possesses proteinand β-glucan-enhancing alleles largely absent from cultivated germplasm. The two decades of research, exploiting the wild tetraploid oat species A. murphyi through backcross introgression led to the release of the first Moroccan improved hexaploid oats cultivars, ‘Al Fawze’ and ‘Abtah’, developed for human consumption. Peer-reviewed papers, institutional reports and breeder datasets were screened for local Avena L. diversity and conservation, interspecific hybridization procedures, multi-environment performance under rainfed Mediterranean conditions, and nutritional and techno-functional traits relevant to food, feed and industrial use. Introgressed lines achieved 17% groat protein content, 5% groat β-glucan content and 38 g thousand-kernel weight while sustaining 34–43 q ha⁻¹ grain yield in addition to broad resistance to crown rust, powdery mildew, and BYDV. A 20% substitution of bread-wheat flour with ‘Al Fawze’ flour increased loaf protein by 14% without altering dough rheology, signaling immediate value for bakery and cereal products. Leveraging endemic wild germplasm fast-tracked the creation of climate-adapted, nutrient-dense oats for human consumption. Next steps include certified-seed scale-up, processor partnerships, and consumer-focused validation of sensory quality, sustainability, and health benefits.
Resistance of barley accessions from the East Asian Center of crop diversity to the net and spot forms of the net blotch pathogen
Background. Barley is a major fodder crop and valuable raw material for the brewing industry. A harmful disease of barley is net blotch, caused by the hemibiotrophic fungus Pyrenophora teres Drechsler, which exists in two forms that differ in symptoms on barley: the net form, P. teres f. teres, and the spot form, P. teres f. maculata Smed.-Pet. Thus, one of the crucial tasks is to expand the collection of resistance sources and donors for breeding. Materials and methods. A set of 53 barley accessions from the East Asian Center of diversity, with various levels of resistance to P. teres, served as the material for the study. Different pathotypes of P. teres f. teres (Ptt) and P. teres f. maculata (Ptm) were employed. Barley seedlings were assessed for resistance under controlled laboratory conditions using the international 0–10 score scale. Results and conclusions. Race-specific resistance to a majority of the studied Ptt pathotypes was ascertained for 18 barley accessions (30.2%), while 14 accessions proved resistant to two Ptm isolates (26.4%). In most accessions, resistance to Ptt is controlled by a few minor genes. Accessions k-3945, k-11011 and k-20497 were identified as resistant to both Ptt and Ptm.
Resistance of bread wheat introgression accessions with genetic material from the Triticum and Aegilops genera to rust diseases in Western Siberia
Background. Protection of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars from rust diseases strongly requires expanding the genetic base of breeding with relative species. Materials and methods. The research material included 39 accessions of spring bread wheat with identified or unknown resistance genes (Lr and Sr) against leaf and stem rusts transferred from Triticum spp. or Aegilops spp. The leaf and stem rust development was estimated in 2020–2024 in the fields of Western Siberia (Omsk) and, at the seedling stage, under laboratory conditions. Under rust epidemics in 2024, the accessions’ resistance was characterized using the indicators “Area Under the Disease Progress Curve” (AUDPC) and “Resistance Index” (RI). Results and conclusion. Most of the accessions were highly resistant to leaf and stem rusts in 2020–2022. Under the 2024 epidemics, the following accessions manifested high resistance to both diseases: ‘Duet’ (Lr9), KS90WGRC10 (Lr39), the lines of cv. ‘Thatcher’ (Tc) with identified genes Lr18, Lr28, Lr35/Sr39, Lr37/Sr38, Lr50 and Lr51, as well as ‘Pavon’ (Lr47), TA5602 (Lr57), Allard 52-1-1-17-1 (k-45165), ‘Yektay 406’, and ANK-40. Resistance to stem rust was determined in TcLr21, TcLr22a, W2691 SR36TT1, ‘Virovka’, Allard 52-1-1-17-1, ‘Gouritz’, ‘Livanjka’, W2691 SR37TT2, ‘Gartus 598’, Wb. 58633, Lutescens 84981, L-592, and ‘Element 22’. The Sr36 gene was identified in Allard 52-1-1-17-1, ‘Gouritz’, and ‘Livanjka’ using a PCR analysis. The resistant accessions had low grain yields, which must be taken into account when using them in breeding programs.
Selective list of the Catalogues of the VIR Global Collection on maize published in 1961–2023
The Catalogue of the VIR Global Collection series is addressed to plant breeders and crop experts solving practical problems in plant breeding and seed production, plant scientists conducting fundamental and applied research, teachers and learners. The publications within this series help to disclose the potential of the VIR global collection of plant genetic resources and the VIR herbarium (WIR) as an important part of Russian bioresource collections (BRC). The editors of the journal Proceedings on Applied Botany, Genetics and Breeding decided to publish the Selective list of the Catalogues of the VIR Global Collection on maize published in 1961–2023 to throw light on VIR’s publishing activities, attract more attention to the Catalogue of the VIR Global Collection series, and specify the numbers and titles of the series’ issues for authors of scientific manuscripts. For the users’ convenience, the sources are arranged chronologically, following the order of issue numbers. The editors hope that this list will prove useful to our readers and authors.