Project Number: 5358-21000-037-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Mar 21, 2008
End Date: Mar 20, 2013

Objective:
Objective 1: Enhance genetic resources for small fruit crops via germplasm acquisition, evaluation, and breeding. Objective 2: Working with plant breeders of berry crops, develop plants free of known viruses for field evaluation and release of enhanced germplasm. Objective 3: Sequence viruses associated with blueberry necrotic ringblotch and blueberry mosaic diseases for use in the development of diagnostic tools. Objective 4: Determine the utility of the recently discovered aphid resistance in black raspberry for reducing virus spread in the field.

Approach:
Studies will be conducted to collect and evaluate germplasm from wild and domesticated small fruits and incorporate it into advanced breeding material for development of new cultivars with traits ideally adapted for commercial production. Key determinants of resistance, tolerance, and susceptibility to environmental constraints will also be ascertained and utilized for selection of new genotypes and for development of new cultural practices better suited to production of the crops. Anticipated products of the research will include: new cultivars of blackberry, blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry; new small fruit germplasm with improved and novel traits; knowledge of the availability and distribution of genetic variability in small fruit species; greater understanding of physiological mechanisms governing the response of small fruit crops to various abiotic and biotic stresses; and new cultural practices and management systems for small fruit crops that result in higher yield and fruit quality, efficient water and nutrient use, and lower environmental impact. Formerly 5358-21000-036-00D (3/08).