Preface

Characterization of plant genomes is essential for determining species relationships. My research team is using novel cytogenic (chromosome) and molecular (DNA) techniques for plant characterization. Such characterizations will enable localization and identification of desirable genes for use in developing more efficient ways to improve plants.

Project Description

My research projects fall under the broad objective of characterizing genome constitutions, chromosome relationships, and physical gene locations in rangeland, pasture, and turf plants.

• By using DNA markers and cytogenetic stocks of plant hybrid derivatives, we are assigning genes of interest to specific chromosomes of Thinopyrumand Elymusgenomes.
• Through the use of BAC libraries and cytogenetic techniques such as GISH and FISH, we are physically locating important traits of interest to chromosomes of perennial Triticeae grasses.
• We are mapping EST-SSR markers in bluebunch wheatgrass, Pseudoroegneria spicata, which has the pivotal St genome that constitutes the maternal donor for all polyploid Elymusspecies.
• We are identifying Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis)germplasm with the sexual reproduction trait in addition to salinity tolerance.