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Title: Scab Resistance QTLs Have an Effect on Agronomic and Quality Traits of Soft Red Winter Wheat

Author
item CARDWELL, LYDIA - University Of Maryland
item Souza, Edward
item COSTA, JOSE - University Of Maryland

Submitted to: Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/4/2009
Publication Date: 12/7/2009
Citation: Cardwell, L., Souza, E.J., Costa, J. 2009. Scab Resistance QTLs Have an Effect on Agronomic and Quality Traits of Soft Red Winter Wheat. Proceedings of US Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative, Dec 7-9, 2009, Orlando, Florida. Poster #41.

Interpretive Summary: Using genetic mapping methodology we identified regions of the wheat genome associated with suppression of Fusarium head blight. Two regions conferred resistance (one on Chromosome 3BS and one on 5A). The softness of the grain decreased (became harder) and flour recovered in the break roll decreased with the presence of the resistance allele at the 5A chromosome. It is not clear if it is the same gene causing both effects or linked genes that can be separated through cycles of breeding.

Technical Abstract: Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a disease that affects wheat world-wide. However, most of the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in wheat which are responsible for resistance to FHB are derived from exotic spring wheat cultivars originating in Asia. The purpose of this research was to determine whether the introduction of exotic FHB resistance QTLs has an effect on the quality and agronomic traits of soft red winter wheat. Eighty-six F2 derived recombinant inbred lines were developed by crossing Ning 7840, a Chinese spring wheat with FHB resistance QTLs, with Pioneer 2643, an FHB susceptible soft red winter wheat. Using a complete block design, the recombinant inbred lines were evaluated for the presence of FHB resistance QTLs, agronomic performance and grain quality in 2009. Height was reduced by the 3BS QTL, lodging was increased by the 5A QTL, and seed weight was reduced by the 2DL QTL. The softness equivalent score was lowered by the presence of the 5A QTL. These results suggest that the introduction of FHB resistance QTLs into soft red winter wheat can have consequences on agronomic and quality traits.