Proceedings on applied botany, genetics and breeding
N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources
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Genetic variation and field evaluation of buckwheat plants (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) obtained in vitro with the use of mutagenic media
Background. Obtaining starting material for buckwheat breeding is an important task of the breeding process. Heavy metals used in vitro as mutagenic factors induce genetic variation in buckwheat germplasm sources and expand the pool of promising genotypes with important agronomic traits. Materials and methods. Regenerated buckwheat plants were grown in vitro on MS mutagenic media with zinc ions (184–299 mg/L) and under mineral starvation in the Laboratory of Breeding and Genetic Research on Field Crops at the Federal Scientific Center of Agricultural Biotechnology of the Far East named after A.K. Chaika. Genetic variation of the accessions was studied with four ISSR-markers (M1, M2, M7, and M11). Cv. ʽIzumrudʼ served as the control. Field evaluation of buckwheat plants was performed to assess their main agronomic characters. Results. Regenerated buckwheat accessions R 1069, R 1070 and R 1071 possessed valuable agronomic traits and were genetically different from the original form. Under extreme meteorological conditions, associated with waterlogging of the soil, they showed a statistically significant and valid increase in productivity per plant (1.8–2.2 times) and higher values of morphological indicators compared to the control. Accession R 1069 combined high protein content (11.98%) with high productivity. Conclusion. Mutagenic media with zinc ions and mineral starvation in vitro induced genetic variation in the source cultivar of buckwheat, leading to the emergence of genotypes with improved morphological and agronomic traits. Genetic differences from the original form were confirmed with ISSR markers M1, M2, M7, and M11. The regenerated buckwheat accessions (R 1069, R 1070, and R 1071) may be recommended as promising starting material for breeding.
The effect of bacterial seed inoculation on agronomic characteristics of chickpea
Background. The use of biofertilizers can be an eco-friendly method and, in addition to reducing chemical inputs, can be considered a climate-smart agricultural option in semiarid regions. Materials and methods. A field trial was aimed to investigate the effect of biofertilizers (F1: control, F2: Nitroxin, F3: Mesorhizobium, and F4: PhosphoBARVAR) on the growth of chickpea genotypes (G1: ILC-482, G2: ‘Pirouz’, and G3: ‘Jam’) in the Meshginshahr area, Iran. Results. The highest longitudinal growth was recorded with the use of different biofertilizers (F) in G1. The lateral growth and number of secondary branches were higher in G2 + F2 than in the others. The highest aboveground biomass was obtained in G1 + F1 and G1 + F4. Inoculation with Mesorhizobium resulted in the highest number of root nodules in G2 and G3. The application of Mesorhizobium also increased the number of pods. The highest grain yield was obtained in G1+F3 (1.43 t ha–1), and G1 + F2 (1.35 t ha–1). Conclusion. The response of genotypes to bacterial inoculations was different. The weakest growth performance and grain yield production was recorded in G1 without bacterial inoculation. The results showed that the ILC-482 line along with inoculation with Mesorhizobium produced economically acceptable grain yield.
Water regime and photosynthetic pigments in leaves of grapevines in Krasnodar Territory
Background. Due to climatic changes in the Anapo-Taman zone of Krasnodar Territory, grapevine suffers from a lack of precipitation and elevated temperatures during the active growth of berries, which leads to a deterioration in the quality of grape harvests and wine products. Materials and methods. Six grapevine cultivars of various ecogeographic origin were studied with conventional physiological and biochemical methods. Results. The study of the water regulation in leaves showed that cvs. ‘Krasnostop AZOS’ and ‘Aligote’ manifested lower moisture losses during their growing season in summer: 12.34–15.54%. For cvs. ‘Kristall’, ‘Dostoyny’, ‘Vostorg’ and ‘Zarif’, this indicator varied within 16.32–23.82%. As for the photosynthetic pigment content, ‘Krasnostop AZOS’ and ‘Aligote’ had the largest share of carotenoids in their leaf pigment composition in all phenophases, which determined resistance to drought. By the end of the summer, the chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio in those two cultivars reached minimal values: 2.93 and 3.15, respectively. In the leaves of ‘Kristall’, ‘Dostoyny’, ‘Vostorg’ and ‘Zarif’, this ratio was within 3.25–3.58. Conclusion. Cvs. ‘Krasnostop AZOS’ and ‘Aligote’ can be recommended for breeding practice to develop new cultivars that might inherit physiological features inducing drought resistance.
Assessment of frost resistance in new cultivars and breeding forms of apricot developed at the Nikita Botanical Gardens
Background. The apricot crop has a very short period of winter dormancy, and in terms of the speed of springtime development of generative buds, it is the leader among stone fruit crops. In the southern fruit-growing zones, warming is often observed in January – February, which helps the plant to emerge from deep dormancy and start vegetating. Apricot flower buds and flowers perish in the winter-spring period with minor subsequent cold snaps, which is often the main limiting factor in industrial cultivation. Materials and methods. The material consisted of 53 apricot genotypes developed by breeders at the Nikita Botanical Gardens, growing on the southern coast of Crimea (Yalta). The control was the zoned and widespread cultivar ‘Krymsky Amur’. Artificial freezing of branches was performed in a Memmert CTC-256 climate chamber (Germany) under different temperature conditions. Each freezing was considered one variant of the experiment. Then, the percentage of dead buds was calculated. Results. The effect of winter frosts and recurrent spring frosts on 53 promising cultivars and breeding forms of apricot was assessed. The degree of their frost resistance was established under various temperature conditions and taking into account their morphogenesis. The analysis of the statistical processing of the freezing results showed that seven of the studied 53 apricot genotypes significantly exceeded the control cultivar ‘Krymsky Amur’ in terms of frost resistance. Conclusion. Two cultivars with increased frost resistance and slow development rates of their generative system were selected. Taking into account their other characteristics (yield, fruit quality, resistance to diseases, drought, etc.), these genotypes can be used in breeding for frost resistance, and may be introduced into commercial production.
Variability dynamics of morphological characters in backcrosses of distant hybrids between maize (Zea mays L.) and teosinte (Zea mexicana (Schrad.) Kuntze)
Background. Maize breeding involving the crop’s wild relatives contributes to the broadening of its genetic polymorphism. However, in addition to useful agronomic traits, maize also receives from its wild relatives features unfavorable for breeding. The process of selection in a splitting progeny of distant maize hybrids requires thorough assessment of agronomic characters and removal of undesirable or harmful traits. Materials and methods. The studies were conducted in the steppe zone of the North Caucasus Federal District (town of Prokhladny) in 2020–2024. The work involved 150 samples of the BC1 and BC5 populations obtained by hybridizing the 633MV and P346zakM maize lines with Zea mexicana (Schrad.) Kuntze from the VIR collection. Stimulation of flowering and hybridization of teosinte with maize were conducted with a short 10-hour day, using photoinsulators for 35–40 days, followed by a transition to a longer day (16 hours). Results. The dynamics of variability was monitored for 9 important agronomic characters of the maize plant and ear in the segregating populations BC1 and BC5. An increase in the share of the maize genome in backcrosses was found to induce improvement in the ear structure more than in the structure and architectonics of the plant. Samples were identified in the BC1 progeny that had pronounced bushiness and branching, high leafiness and stem pubescence, a long ear stalk, and abundant formation of primitive ears with 2–4 rows of grains and 6–8 grains in a row with asynchronous flowering. Plants in the BC5 progeny exhibited less bushiness and leafiness, an ear stalk shorter than in BC1, and a tendency to form 2 to 3 ears with synchronous flowering. Their ears consisted of 14–16 rows of grains, having 28–35 grains in a row. Conclusion. The results of the studies confirm the transfer of valuable agronomic traits from teosinte, such as prolificacy, stem pubescence (trichomes), increased stem lignification, and resistance to dense sowing.
Seasonal development rhythm of Pozdnyakov’s rowan-cotoneaster (Sorbocotoneaster × pozdnjakovii Pojark.) in the forest-steppe of the Ob River basin
Relevance. Pozdnyakov’s rowan-cotoneaster (Sorbocotoneaster × pozdnjakovii Pojark.) is a narrowly local endemic of Yakutia, an intergeneric hybridogenic species of Pleistocene origin. It is included in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (status 3 a), and the Red Data Book of Sakha (Yakutia) (status 1). This fruit-bearing shrub contains bioactive compounds and is recommended for landscaping, particularly in settlements with harsh climatic conditions. Given this, the study aimed to investigate the effects of weather conditions on the seasonal development rhythm of S. × pozdnjakovii in the forest-steppe of the Ob River basin during its introduction process. Materials and methods. The study examined two introduced specimens of Pozdnyakov’s rowan-cotoneaster that had reached the generative phase under the forest-steppe conditions of the Ob River basin. Phenological observations were conducted following the guidelines by I. D. Yurkevich et al. To assess the relationship between the duration of phenological phases and climatic factors, a statistical analysis was performed using the StatSoft STATISTICA software package. Results and conclusion. The findings of the studies ascertained that Pozdnyakov’s rowan-cotoneaster plants, grown in the arboretum of the Siberian Research Institute of Plant Production and Breeding, passed through all developmental stages and should be characterized as a highly adaptable species, demonstrating significant acclimatization to the local climate. Variations in the timing of phenological phases were observed, with the earliest onset of plant growth in the dry year of 2022, and the latest in 2018, when the long and cold spring delayed the onset of phenophases. Correlation analysis identified the key climatic factors affecting the duration of different phenological phases. The most significant effect was exerted by the maximum and mean daily air temperatures, while the impact of precipitation was negligible for all phases.
Changes in the metabolomic profiles of Triticum aestivum L. under the influence of aluminum ions
Background. Al3+ causes disruption of plant growth and development, which leads to a decrease in the yield of staple crops. Identification of aluminum tolerance markers in wheat is an urgent and promising task for prebreeding, including the development of cultivars with complex resistance to stressors. Materials and methods. Twenty winter bread wheat accessions from the VIR collection served as the research material. From 2007 through 2019, they underwent field testing for resistance to biotic and abiotic factors of overwintering under the conditions of Northwest Russia (Pushkin). Aluminum resistance of Triticum aestivum L. accessions was studied at the early stages of plant development according to the technique modified by I. N. Kosareva. Metabolic profiles in the control and experimental groups of T. aestivum root samples were studied using nontargeted metabolomic profiling with gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (Agilent 6850A, USA). Results. The analysis showed that Al+3 stimulated the accumulation of individual free amino acids and reduced the intensity of metabolism for carbohydrates, most fatty acids, and simple phenolic compounds of the phenylpyranoid pathway. Heteroaromatic phenols, terpenes, phytosterols, oligosaccharides, monoacylglycerol, and derivatives of organic and phosphoric acids prevailed in the experimental samples of T. aestivum seedling roots, compared to the control group. Conclusion. The results of this study will facilitate the identification of T. aestivum accessions with the most explicit protective mechanisms against Al3+ for further use in breeding programs aimed at obtaining aluminum-tolerant high-yielding cultivars of T. aestivum.
New spring rapeseed accessions in the VIR collection
Background. Rapeseed (Brassica napus L. subsp. oleifera Metzg.) is a popular oilseed crop, widespread in the temperate climate zone. Its biological potential makes it possible to procure high seed yields under a wide range of weather conditions. Responses of new spring rapeseed cultivars and hybrids to temperatures and rainfall during the growing season are of interest. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted in 2021–2023 in VIR’s experimental fields (Pushkin, St. Petersburg). The studied material included 6 cultivars developed in Russia, 3 cultivars from Sweden, and F1 hybrids from France, Germany and Austria. The duration of plant development periods, seed yield per area unit, and plant productivity were assessed, and indicators associated with the yield were measured. Results. The lowest seed yield was obtained in the unfavorable 2021. Statistically significant correlations linked only the following characters: duration of the flowering-to-harvesting and germination-to-harvesting periods; pod length and seed number per pod; seed number per pod and plant height. The highest seed yield was shown by cv. ‘Erebus’ released by Lipetsk Rapeseed Research Institute. In 2022, there were ten significant correlations. The group with the lowest seed yields included only cultivars, and the group with the highest ones incorporated only hybrids. The highest seed yield was recorded in 2023. The greatest contribution to seed yield was made by branched plants with a short stem, such as NXH2024 CL (Dow AgroSciences), and ‘Katinka’ (Sweden). The largest seeds in all years of observations were those of CL 6665383H (Pioneer), ‘Oredezh 6’ (Leningrad Research Institute of Agriculture), ‘Kalla’ (Sweden), and Caramino CL (Lembke KG). The earliest ripening was demonstrated by all hybrids from Lembke KG, and the cultivars ‘Oredezh 6’, ‘Larets’ (All-Russian Fodder Research Institute), and ‘Katinka’ (Sweden).
Development of protocols for introducing mature seeds of rice (Oryza sativa L. subsp. indica and subsp. japonica) into aseptic conditions and obtaining callus culture
Background. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is considered a model monocotyledonous plant, which makes it one of the most studied crops. Despite this, geneticists, breeders, and biotechnologists face difficulties such as early necrosis and poor callus formation in subsp. indica cultivars and lines. While high callus formation ability (40%) was observed in subsp. japonica cultivars, the response to callus induction was 0% in cultivars and lines of subsp. indica. Materials and methods. The studied material included 40 rice accessions from the VIR collection (11 accessions of subsp. indica, and 29 of subsp. japonica). Chu (N6), Gamborg B5 and MS nutrient media were used for seed germination and callus mass production. For callus formation, mature rice seeds cleaned of the seed coat were selected and then cultured on nutrient media with different compositions. The plant material was maintained on light installations in a 16/8 h daylight mode at a temperature of 23–24°C and 25,000 lux illumination. Results. A protocol for sterilization of seeds for subsequent introduction into aseptic in vitro conditions was developed. Plants of all 40 rice accessions germinated in aseptic culture. Callus culture was obtained from plants of subsp. indica (41% of callus formation) and subsp. japonica (38%). Protocols for nutrient media were obtained to maintain and proliferate callus mass cells, and to produce regenerated plants. Conclusion. Protocols for obtaining callus culture from two rice subspecies were developed and modified. The Chu (N6) nutrient medium supplemented with 2 mg/L of 2,4D and 0.5 g/L of casein was selected for subsp. indica accessions. The most suitable medium for inducing callus formation in subsp. japonica accessions was the ½MS medium supplemented with 0.2 g/L of proline, 0.4 mg/L of kinetin, and 0.8 mg/L of 2,4D. Addition of proline (0.5 g/L) and casein hydrolysate (0.3 g/L) to the MS nutrient medium helped to initiate the starting stage of shoot and root regeneration.
Background. A new mid-early potato cultivar, ‘Nika’, is presented. It was developed at the Siberian Research Institute of Plant Production and Breeding. The cultivar was included in the State Register of Varieties and Hybrids of Agricultural Plants Admitted for Usage in Russia in 2025. ‘Nika’ addresses the critical need for potato cultivars adapted to Siberia’s harsh climate to enhance the region’s food security. Materials and methods. The study involved cv. ‘Nika’, its parent forms (‘Nikulinsky’ and ‘Picasso’), and the mid-early reference cv. ‘Nevsky’. Hybridization was performed in 2002 following conventional potato breeding guidelines. Biochemical analysis of tubers was made in winter at the Institute’s analytical laboratory using A. I. Ermakov’s methodology. The planting scheme was standard (0.70 × 0.35 m), with three replications, using two-row plots, and 25 plants per row. The data were processed with the analysis of variance, employing the SNEDECOR software. Results. ‘Nika’, obtained by inter-cultivar hybridization, outperforms ‘Nevsky’ across the key agronomic traits. Its average yield is 34.9 t/ha versus 30.0 t/ha for ‘Nevsky’, and its marketability is 92.7% versus 78.7%. Tuber weight, starch content (14.6% vs. 12.7%), and taste (8.5 vs. 7.3 points) are also superior. Its resistance to diseases and pests, including late blight, canker, and nematodes, matches or exceeds the reference, making ‘Nika’ highly promising for cultivation in Western and Eastern Siberia. Conclusion. ‘Nika’ significantly surpasses its parent forms and the’ Nevsky’ reference in yield, quality, and resistance. Its inclusion in the State Register validates the success of the Siberian Institute’s long-term breeding efforts. This cultivar is recommended for widespread utilization in Russia’s agricultural sector, particularly in the challenging Siberian environments, due to its high productivity and adaptability.
Retrotransposon-based ISAP markers in the analysis of Rosa L. in the Sirius Federal Territory and adjacent areas
Background. Rosaceae is among the top five most significant families in the Caucasus, where the genus Rosa L. is represented by nine species. This genus is polytypic, which complicates species identification; roses easily run wild under cultivation and readily produce hybrid forms. Therefore, it is quite problematic to study visually similar populations solely on the basis of their morphological characters, so the use of molecular markers seems highly relevant. Additionally, molecular markers can be used to monitor biodiversity in anthropogenically modified areas, such as the Sirius Federal Territory. Materials and methods. This study employed new ISAP markers (ROSE-CL0, ROSE-CL3, ROSE-CL6, and ROSE-CL7) based on the analysis of polymorphisms in the genomic localization of SINE retrotransposons. A total of 132 rose samples from 16 different locations within the Sirius Federal Territory and adjacent areas were studied. Results. The ISAP analysis revealed high levels of polymorphism across all calculated parameters. In total, 127 different amplicons were identified in the samples, with a mean of 31.8 per marker. The average number of effective Ne alleles for all primers was 11.9, with the polymorphism index P% = 100% for the studied subset, MI = 1.41, and Dj = 0.96. Comparing subpopulations from locations #2, #3, #4, #7, #8, #9 and #13 showed that they differed in their unique characteristics both in terms of calculated polymorphism indices and allelic composition. Samples from location #8 proved to be almost homogeneous, suggesting that their reproduction at this site may have occurred vegetatively. Ward’s clustering made it possible to divide the samples into three clusters, with some geographic affinity. Conclusion. The ISAP analysis of polymorphism in roses confirmed high effectiveness of this new type of retrotransposon-based markers. The method can be recommended for use in population genetics and for assessing the biodiversity of wild roses and rose cultivars.
Identification of fertility restorer genes Rf3 and Rf4 in diverse rice genotypes using SSR molecular markers
Background. Enhancing rice yields through hybridization and the identification of fertility restorer genes is crucial for improving self-sufficiency and addressing nutritional needs. This study aims to explore the presence of these fertility restorer genes in selected rice genotypes using SSR markers. Materials and methods. To identify the fertility restorer gene(s) in diverse rice genotypes, including local and breeding rice varieties, foreign fertility restorers, advanced mutant rice lines, and two cytoplasmic male sterile lines (JelodarA and NematA) were screened using molecular markers. Six SSR markers were employed to identify the allelic status of the major fertility restorer genes Rf3 and Rf4. Results and conclusion. Results of molecular testing indicated that the genotypes IR68061R, IR50, IR 68061-27-3-2-2-3R, IR 73014-59-2-2-2R, M9-P10-2-2-2-2-1, M9-P18-6-1-1-2-1, MILYANG 54, SUWEON 294, IR 9761-19-1, and IR46R possessed the Rf4 gene through three markers: RM171, RM6100, and RM228. Additionally, the presence of both fertility restorer genes Rf3 and Rf4 in the IR67924R, IR 57301-158-1R, M9-P12-5-3-2-2, M9-P15-6-2-1, and NSIC RC 352 genotypes was confirmed with all markers. These genotypes were identified as the best fertility restorers for hybrid rice breeding. Overall, the identification and evaluation of these genotypes can facilitate improved rice production and enhance food security in developing countries.
Development of highly informative microsatellite markers for the genetic analysis of sunflower
Background. The existing microsatellite loci markers, used for studying and identifying sunflower genetic diversity, have certain limitations. There is a need for new markers that will meet the following criteria: three or more nucleotides in the microsatellite motif, specificity to the target locus, and high discriminatory power. Materials and methods. Microsatellite loci were mined using the GMATA software based on the reference genome assembly of sunflower HanXRQr2.0-SUNRISE. Loci with flanking regions were screened for the presence of copies on other chromosomes using Nucleotide BLAST, and primer pairs were designed using Primer-BLAST (NCBI). The expected polymorphism of each microsatellite locus was evaluated by aligning the predicted PCR product to other sunflower genome assemblies from the GenBank database using Nucleotide BLAST. The performance of the developed markers was tested by PCR and separation of amplification products by capillary electrophoresis under denaturing conditions. Results. A total of 186 markers were developed. Of these, 16 were characterized by nonspecific amplification, 31 showed complete absence of amplification, 26 revealed SSR-specific artifacts, and 19 were monomorphic. The remaining 94 markers were informative and detected from 2 to 6 alleles. Among the selected sequences, simple microsatellites with trinucleotide motifs were the most prevalent. The number of markers per chromosome ranged from 2 to 19. The size range of the amplified DNA fragments was from 125 to 469 bp. A statistically significant correlation was found between the number of repeats in the microsatellite locus and the number of detected alleles. Conclusion. The obtained data make it possible to select the most informative markers for the development of multiplex SSR assays and the establishment of an effective genotyping system for sunflower.
Polymorphism of the Rychc gene in domestic potato cultivars and hybrid clones
Background. Potato virus Y (PVY) can cause up to 80% of harvest losses. Development of PVY-resistant cultivars is based on the introgression of the Ryadg, Rysto, Ry-fsto, and Rychc genes. Their sources are Solanum andigenum Juz. et Buk., S. stoloniferum Schltdl., and S. chacoense Bitt., respectively. Two alleles of the Rychc gene have been identified: Rychc-1 in Japanese potato cultivars and Rychc-2 in genotype 40-3 of the S. chacoense PI320285 from the U.S. genebank. Several Russian potato cultivars resistant to PVY were developed on the basis of S. chacoense f. garciae 55d and f. commersonii 58d. The objective of the research was to evaluate domestic potato cultivars, hybrid clones, and accessions of S. chacoense from VIR collection for the presence of the Rychc gene, and to develop an effective CAPS marker distinguishing alleles of the Rychc gene. Materials and methods. Immunological tests of 10 domestic cultivars and 25 clones of interspecific potato hybrids were performed. To identify the Rychc gene in potato breeding material and in 31 genotypes of S. chacoense, SCAR markers MG64-17 and MG64-17-1 were employed. Alleles Rychc-1 and Rychc-2 were identified using the CAPSRychc marker developed in this study. The amplified MG64-17-1 fragments were cloned and sequenced by the Sanger method. Results. The Rychc gene marker, MG64-17-1, was found in nine potato cultivars developed on the basis of S. chacoense, and in six F1 hybrid clones (99-10-1 × ‘Russky Suvenir’). The relationship between the presence of the MG64-17-1 marker and PVY resistance was significant: chi-square = 4.01 (p = 0.046). All resistant accessions were protected by the Rychc-2 allele. Marker fragments of two allelic variants of the Rychc gene were identified in cvs. ‘Belosnezhka’ and ‘Bashkirsky’. ‘Belosnezhka’ contained additional polymorphic sites compared to the reference sequences of Rychc-1 and Rychc-2. The sequences detected in this research were deposited to the NCBI as PX309300–PX309303.
In silico analysis of the genomes within the Rosaceae Juss. family to develop ISAP markers
Background. The rose family (Rosaceae Juss.) is an economically important taxon that includes a number of cultivated species. Studying the genetic diversity of crop wild relatives within this family is important to include new genetic material into genetic collections and utilize it in breeding practice. Markers based on retrotransposon polymorphism, including ISAP markers that detect differences in the location of SINE transposons, can be a useful tool for rapid and informative analysis of natural Rosaceae populations. Since SINE elements are highly heterogeneous, ISAP markers developed for one species may be unsuitable for the others. Materials and methods. Genomes representing five species of the genera Rubus L., Rosa L. and Fragaria L. were analyzed in silico. An original bioinformatics program was developed to align and cluster the SINE sequences. The primers designed for raspberry and rose were tested on limited subsets (28 and 21 accessions, respectively). Results. From 857 to 3477 SINEs were identified in the haploid genomes of the studied genera; an uneven distribution of elements across chromosomes was observed in all genomes. Bioinformatics methods applied to analyze the obtained SINE sequences made it possible to develop specific primers for each crop. The designed ISAP marker system revealed a high degree of generated polymorphism in the samples (PIC > 0.90). The primers developed for the genus Rosa were also capable of generating PCR products in other crops from the Rosaceae family, including cherry, pear, and strawberry, although the observed polymorphism was significantly lower. Conclusion. The developed ISAP marker system can generate large amounts of polymorphic fragments. Therefore, it may be used for genotyping and molecular certification of cultivars as well as for studying the genetic diversity of wild populations.
Genome-wide association study for identification of SNP markers associated with barley spike productivity (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Background. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is an important cereal crop with a wide range of uses. Barley yield is a complex indicator consisting of some yield structure components. Identification of molecular markers linked to spike morphology is of great importance for barley breeding improvement. The objective of this study was to search for significant markers and identify loci associated with barley spike traits through a genome-wide association study (GWAS). Materials and methods. In 2021–2023, 199 accessions of spring barley of different breeding levels from the VIR collection were studied in the fields of Pushkin and Pavlovsk Laboratories of VIR. The set included 103 accessions of six-row and 96 accessions of two-row barley of various origin. Genotyping was conducted using the Barley 50K Illumina Infinium iSELECT chip. GWAS was performed in the R using the mixed linear model with a kinship matrix (MLM). Results. A wide diversity of yield structure characters: spike length (SL), spikelet number per spike (SN), grain number per spike (GN), grain weight per spike (GW), and thousand-grain weight (TGW), was shown depending on spike row number and environmental impacts. As a result of GWAS, 129 markers associated with yield indicators were identified: 12 for SL, 73 for SN, 19 for GN, 9 for GW, and 16 for TGW. Significant markers were matched with genomic regions on all barley chromosomes. Some of them are associated with already known Vrs genes on the first five chromosomes. A protein–protein interaction analysis with k-means identified three functional clusters, including 19 SNPs linked to orthologous genes for spike development. Conclusion. The identified markers, loci, and protein interactions are interesting for further studies of the spike architecture and quantitative traits contributing to barley yield.
Crop wild relatives as part of the adventive component in the flora of Amur Province, Jewish Autonomous Province, Primorsky Territory, and Khabarovsk Territory
Background. The аdventive component in the flora of the Russian Far East changes over time and has its own specific features connected with the region’s natural environments and priority trends of agricultural production. Crop wild relatives (CWR) with the ability to adapt to a new environment are of interest as sources of utilizable plant germplasm and genetic diversity. Amur Province, Jewish Autonomous Province, Primorsky Territory, and Khabarovsk Territory, situated in the southern part of the Russian Far East, were chosen for a comparative study of the composition of adventive CWR plants. Materials and methods. Information on alien species was taken from publications, herbarium materials, collecting missions, and personal observations. A dendrogram of floristic similarity (Jaccard index) was built using the PAST.1.71 software package. Results. As a result, an annotated list was compiled. It included 189 plant species, belonging to 87 genera and 22 families: 139 CWR species occurred in Amur Province, 82 in the Jewish Autonomous Province, 143 in Khabarovsk Territory, and 173 in Primorsky Territory. The taxonomic composition and the degree of naturalization were analyzed for the listed species, among which the most threatening and actively spreading ones were identified. A common core of 70 omnipresent adventive CWR was ascertained. A cluster analysis of the species composition in the studied areas showed that the highest level of similarity was in Khabarovsk and Primorsky Territories, while the lowest level of similarity characterized the Jewish Autonomy. The rates of naturalization for alien CWR species were variable across the surveyed areas. The share of species vigorously invading secondary and natural landscapes was higher in the Jewish Autonomy, with the highest absolute figures observed in Primorsky Territory. Active invasive or potentially dangerous species accounted for about 18% of the total number of CWR species in the studied region.
Concerning the biology of black garlic (Allium nigrum L.) under cultivation in the South-Ural Botanical Garden
Background. A comprehensive study of crop wild relatives is necessary to disclose the useful plant genetic diversity for further utilization as food crops, vitamin-bearing or ornamental plants. The results of studying the introduction of a new species for the Republic of Bashkortostan – the black garlic (Allium nigrum L.) – are presented, with an assessment of the prospects of this species for cultivation. Materials and methods. In 2018–2024, the features of the development of A. nigrum plants from seeds, their phenology, morphometry, and reproductive capacity at a young generative age were evaluated using conventional methods, and the success of the species’ introduction was assessed using the methodology of the Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The data analysis employed variation statistics techniques with standard indicators. Results. A. nigrum plants reached the generative phase in the 5–6th year after sowing. They bloomed and bore fruit annually, their seasonal development was stable, and the development rhythm was ephemeroid. They started to vegetate in the 1st or 2nd ten-day period of April, and blossomed in late May / first half of June. Flowering lasted on average 13 days. Fruiting occured in the 2nd half of July / first half of August. The growing season lasted on average 117 days. Morphological characters showed the following mean values: stem height was 61.9 cm; leaf blade length, 27.1 cm; leaf blade width, 2.8 cm; inflorescence diameter, 4.9 cm; flower diameter, 1.8 cm: number of flowers, 39.5 pcs. Mean reproductive indicators were as follows: number of fruits was 29.1 pcs.; fruit formation, 73.6%; factual seed productivity, 107.9 pcs.; productivity ratio, 44.8%. Both seed and vegetative reproduction patterns were observed. Absolute seed weight was 4.0 g; plants also developed bulblets (3–5 pcs.). The assessment of plant introduction stability proved that A. nigrum is a promising plant for the southern Cis-Urals.
Concerning the study of the cenoflora of weed-field communities in Perm Territory and adjacent areas of the Republic of Bashkortostan
Background. An analysis of the structure of segetal communities is required to reveal the peculiarities of its formation, develop adaptive strategies for weed component management in fields, and assess and predict main trends in the changes of the species composition. Materials and methods. A geobotanical study of segetal communities within the forest zone of Perm Territory and adjacent areas of the Republic of Bashkortostan was conducted using standard methods. Results and conclusion. A syntaxonomic analysis helped to identify 4 phytocenons represented by communities of winter and spring cereals, tilled crops, and forage grasses. The cenoflora contains 106 species of vascular plants; 50 of them are included in the floristic core of plant communities. The richest in species within the cenoflora are winter and spring crops. Communities of tilled crops are leading in terms of species concentration, averaging 15.9 species per 100 m2. Differentiating groups and a common group of species of different syntaxa were identified. It is shown that the common group of species, occurring with high constancy and abundance, represents hard-to-eradicate weeds that deserve special attention while developing a system of weed control for crop fields. A dangerous invasive species, Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden., was found in spring crop communities. Its naturalization in the fields of the studied areas presents a serious threat and requires urgent measures to control its distribution and abundance.
Barley accessions resistant to a complex of leaf diseases from the VIR collection of plant genetic resources
Background. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a universal cereal crop with resistance to adverse conditions and broad adaptability. Its cultivars grown in Krasnodar Territory demonstrate high yields and good grain quality. The main factor causing a decrease in these indicators is the complex of leaf diseases dominating in the region: brown rust (Puccinia hordei G.H. Otth), net blotch (Pyrenophora teres Drechsler), and spot blotch (Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker). The objective of the study was to search for sources of resistance to the pathogens of the most relevant leaf diseases in the south of Russia among wild barley (H. vulgare subsp. spontaneum, and H. bulbosum L.) accessions from the collection of the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR). Materials and methods. The materials for the study were 73 wild barley accessions from the VIR collection. The study was conducted in 2020–2023 under artificial infection conditions in the field nursery of the Federal Research Center of Biological Plant Protection in accordance with VIR’s guidelines. Results and conclusions. Several years of studying resulted in identification of 11 accessions with resistance to dwarf rust, 58 to net blotch, and 20 to spot blotch. Fifteen accessions manifested resistance to two pathogens, and seven to all three pathogens. The identified sources of resistance are of practical interest for breeders involved in the development of resistant barley cultivars, including those with group resistance to several pathogens.
Resistance of local barley forms from Western Asia to frit fly and leaf pathogens
Background. Barley harvests suffer significant losses in Northwest Russia from frit fly, net and spot blotches, leaf rust, and powdery mildew. Materials and methods. A study of 377 local barley accessions from Western Asia started in 2013. Every three following years were dedicated for testing a group of accessions from various regions: Dagestan (225), Georgia and Azerbaijan (50), Turkey (22), Iran (27), and Afghanistan (53). Field studies were conducted at Pushkin and Pavlovsk Laboratories of VIR. A provocative background was introduced to ensure high numbers of frit fly on plants. The resistance of barley accessions to pathogens (leaf blotches, powdery mildew, and leaf rust) was assessed under natural infection pressure. Results and conclusions. The study of a set of local accessions from Western Asia showed a higher probability of identifying barley forms resistant to frit fly and leaf pathogens among the barleys from Dagestan and Turkey. Resistance to the studied diseases and pests was not found in local barley accessions from Afghanistan. However, two local Afghan accessions k-19756 and k-31119, despite severe leaf rust infestation in 2023, demonstrated moderate resistance to frit fly. During the 2023 epidemic, accessions k-20667, k-22421, and k-26822 were resistant to leaf rust. The long-term evaluation of local barley forms from Western Asia for pest and disease resistance under contrasting weather conditions resulted in identifying accessions with complex resistance from Dagestan, Turkey, Iran, and Georgia, as well as accessions resistant to frit fly from Azerbaijan and Afghanistan. The identified barley accessions are of interest as sources of resistance to individual pathogens and a complex of harmful organisms.
Celebrating the 90th anniversary of Sverdlovsk Breeding Station of Horticulture, its major research results in the field of plant breeding and variety studies were summarized and their retrospective analysis was conducted. Many years of breeding practice led to the development of fruit and berry cultivars valuable for northern horticulture and to the establishment and maintenance of a bioresource collection of fruit and berry crops in the Middle Urals, which serves as a platform for further attainments in genetics, breeding, and variety studies in the Volga-Vyatka region, the Urals, and Siberia. Close cooperation with leading scientific institutions in Russia made it possible to make nomenclatural standards for original apple, black currant, and raspberry cultivars released in the Urals, analyze the generative complexes in individual fruit crop hybrids, and resume the studies on the biological value of fruit and berry raw materials produced under harsh climatic conditions. A new promising trend in the work of Sverdlovsk Breeding Station of Horticulture is the introduction of molecular genetics approaches into the breeding trials (marker-assisted selection) and genetic identification tests (with SSR markers).
Plant genetic resources: the basis for technological solutions in various industries
Efficient science-intensive utilization of plant genetic resources can supply diverse industries with not just a raw bioresource base, but also high-tech products with desired properties, designed to reduce environmental impacts, minimize waste, and save energy and other resources. Examples of the uses of plant raw materials in various industrial sectors are discussed, as well as methods for laboratory evaluation of plant genetic resources to maximize the utilization of genetic diversity in the early stages of the research and production cycle “Collections – Breeding – Seed production – Plant production – Processing”. These technological approaches make it possible to increase the efficiency of plant breeding for the development of raw material properties. Promising methods for targeted in vivo modification of plant product properties through the use of genetic technologies are also discussed.
Common hop (Humulus lupulus L.): historical and contemporary utilization trends
An analytical review is presented to highlight the history and current utilization prospects for one of the most popular and widespread crop plants in many regions of the globe – the common hop (Humulus lupulus L.). It has been used and cultivated for thousands of years. A greater part of its worldwide area of distribution is cultigenic. Common hop was used in brewing and in breadmaking (as a leaven component), served as a nutritional, antimicrobial, sedative or hypnotic agent, and was cultivated for animal feed and medicine, for paper and paint production, and for traditional rituals. The possibilities offered by modern methods in the analysis of the crop’s chemical composition have revived the interest in common hop and significantly expanded its potential for the development of original beer varieties and functional foods, natural hygienic and cosmetic products, and especially pharmaceuticals. The analysis of an extensive bibliography dedicated to studying secondary metabolites in common hop (representing more than 20 classes of organic compounds) showed new prospects of its utilization in anti-inflammatory and hormone substitution therapies, treatment of metabolic syndrome and cancer, and natural insecticide production.
Development of apricot and cherry plum cultivars to improve their commercial assortment: commemorating the 125th birthday of Dr. Klavdia F. Kostina
The research activities of Dr. K. F. Kostina, a well-known expert in fruit plants in Russia, are also familiar to the international scientific community. A State Prize Laureate and Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, she developed a classification of common apricot varieties and forms, based on their botanical and geographic features, identifying the Central Asian, Iranian-Caucasian, European, and Dzungar-Trans-Ili groups, thus contributing to the progress of Southern Russia’s horticulture. The Chinese group was added somewhat later. Over 48 apricot and 32 cherry plum cultivars, developed with Dr. Kostina’s participation, enabled the cultivation of these fruit trees in various regions. Klavdia F. Kostina promoted N. I. Vavilov’s approaches to the study of wild fruit plant species, which helped to expand the cultivated assortment and use their habitats as a source for selecting and exploiting the most promising genotypes in breeding practice. She worked on the methods suited for the expansion of apricot and cherry plum commercial plantations, all but nonexistent in Russia prior to the 1950s. Her active involvement in the Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy (VDNKh) was recognized with numerous gold medal awards.
To the 75th birthday of Prof. Margarita A. Vishnyakova, Doctor of Biological Sciences
To the 75th birthday of Prof. M. A. Vishnyakova, Doctor of Biological Sciences.