Volume 9 Issue 1 | January 2015
Table of Contents
9(1) 2015
9(1) 2015
Southern Cross Publishing Group©2015
AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA
Australian Journal of Crop Science | January 2015
Volume 9 Number 1 Year 2015
Volume 9 Number 1 Year 2015
Involvement of ethylene in causation of creasing in sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] fruit
Zahoor Hussain, Zora Singh*
Curtin Horticulture Research Laboratory, Department of Environment and Agriculture, School of Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, GPO Box U 1987, Perth 6845, Western Australia, Australia
Abstract
Creasing is a physiological disorder in the rind of sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] fruit and causes serious economic losses. The involvement of ethylene in creasing of sweet orange fruit was investigated by monitoring the comparative changes in endogenous levels of ethylene in the creased and normal fruit. Endogenous levels of ethylene were significantly higher in the creased fruit than the normal ones in different cultivars of sweet orange including Navelina, Washington Navel, Lane Late and Valencia Late. Exogenous spray application of ethrel at the rate of 250 -750 mg L-1 on mature fruit elevated the endogenous levels of ethylene in the fruit 30 to120 DAS and increased CI as compared to the control in Washington Navel and Lane Late. Whilst, the spray application of ethylene inhibitor AVG (20-60 mg L-1) or cobalt sulphate (CoSO4) (125-500 mg L-1) at the golf ball stage was more effective in reducing CI compared to the control in all cultivars during 2011 and 2012.
Pages 1-8 | Full Text PDF
Heterosis for yield and its components in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) hybrids in dry lands and sub-humid environments of East Africa
Justin Ringo*, Agustino Onkware, Mary Mgonja, Santosh Deshpande, Abhishek Rathore, Emmarold Mneney, Samuel Gudu
School of Science, University of Eldoret, P. O. Box 1125, Kenya
International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), P.O. Box 39063,
Nairobi, Kenya
International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), P. O. Box 502 324, Patancheru, India
Mikocheni Agricultural Research Institute, P. O. Box 6226, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Rongo University College, P.O. Box 103-40404, Rongo, Kenya
Abstract
A study was conducted in 2011 and 2012 growing seasons to determine levels of heterosis and identify parents for use in sorghum hybrid production in East Africa. A total of 36 pairs of male sterile lines and 42 restorers were obtained from ICRISAT-Nairobi and used for generating 121 experimental hybrids in a line Χ tester mating design. The hybrids were then evaluated at Kiboko, Ukiriguru and Miwaleni locations in an alpha lattice design with three replications. Each genotype was grown in a 4 m long row at spacing of 60 cm Χ50 cm. Phenotypic data were collected as per IPGRI, (1993) descriptors for sorghum on five randomly selected plants. There were significant differences among locations, crosses and male parents for all the characters studied. Female lines were highly significant for all traits except days to 50% flowering (DAF).
Pages 9-13 | Full Text PDF | Supplementary Data PDF
Comparative analysis of genetic diversity in Greek Genebank collection of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) landraces using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism and ISSR markers
Xanthopoulou Aliki, Ganopoulos Ioannis, Kalivas Apostolos, Nianiou-Obeidat Irini, Ralli Parthenopi, Moysiadis Theodoros, Tsaftaris Athanasios, Madesis Panagiotis*
Institute of Applied Biosciences, CERTH, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 570 01, Greece
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54 124, Greece
Cotton and Industrial Plants Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 57001 Greece
Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Greek Gene Bank, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 57001Greece
Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
Abstract
The conservation and characterization of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) genetic resources in germplasm banks has been the basis of their use in breeding projects, which resulted in the development of new cultivars. The genetic diversity of thirty six summer squash landraces from Greece was investigated here using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. In this study, we compared the informativeness and efficiency of the SCoT and ISSR molecular markers. ISSR markers were found to be more polymorphic with an average PIC value of 0.237, while SCoT markers showed the highest marker index (1.503). Cluster analysis on combined set of SCoT and ISSR genotyping data classi?ed summer squash landraces in six distinct groups. The obtained PCoA (Principal Coordinate Analysis) scatter plots further supported the dendrogram results in a robust way. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed comparison of performance among the targeted DNA region molecular markers (SCoT) and the ISSR technique on a set of samples of C. pepo.
Pages 14-21 | Full Text PDF
Genetic diversity of Moroccan pomegranate (Punica Granatum L.) cultivars using AFLP markers
El Amine Ajal, Rania Jbir, Pilar Legua, Juan Josι Martνnez, Rafael Martinez, Amel Salhi Hannachi, Abdelmajid Haddioui*
Team of Genetic and Plant Biotechnology, Laboratory of Management and Valorization of Natural Resources, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Morocco
University of Sultan Moulay Slimane, Beni Mellal, Morocco
Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Immunology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
Plant Science and Microbiology Department, EPSO, University Miguel Hernαndez, Ctra, Beniel, km. 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Alicante, Spain
Abstract
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the most important fruit crop cultivated in Morocco. However, little data is available on its genetic diversity. The genetic relationships among pomegranate cultivars were investigated using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers. Six pairs of primers were used to analyse 24 pomegranate cultivars obtained from the central regions of Morocco. A total of 519 scorable fragments were amplified, of which, 368 (71%) were polymorphic. Resolving power ranged from 13.16 to 28.75, and the average of polymorphism information content (PIC) per primer pair was 0.95. Coefficient of genetic differentiation between groups (GST) was 0.091, indicating that 9.10% of total genetic variability was among groups and 90.90% was within groups. The gene flow (Nm) was 4.992 among all of the groups. The UPGMA dendrogram and PCA analysis exhibited a genetic diversity structured independently from the geographical origin of cultivars and their denomination.
Pages 22-29 | Full Text PDF
Seed vigour better to be assessed by physiological markers rather than expression of antioxidant enzymes in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).
Leonardo Massaharu Moriya, Nelson Barbosa Machado Neto, Timothy Rex Marks, Ceci Castilho Custσdio*
UNOESTE, Faculdade de Agronomia, Bloco B2, Sala 201, Campus II, Rodovia Raposo Tavares, km 572, Presidente Prudente SP, 190167175, Brazil
Seed Conservation Department, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TN, UK
Abstract
Seed vigour assessment based upon seedling development and physiology is time consuming, whilst estimations based upon enzyme activity measurements alone can be performed quickly but may be misleading. The aim of this work was to compare the relationship between the physiological markers of germination and initial seedling growth in common bean with the activities of the reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes: peroxidase (PRX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in embryonic axes and cotyledons maintained under both low and high stress storage conditions. Changes in seed physiology were measured by germination after five and eight days, seedling vigour, potassium leakage, root and shoot length and dry weight. The potassium leakage test, vigour classification and 5th day germination were reliable predictors of seed vigour when there were differences among highly stressed lots. Tests based on the length and dry weight of the roots and shoots were efficient for all conditions. SOD and CAT determinations showed a high level of correlation with vigour tests for all three cultivars, but only under high levels of stress, indicating the reliability of those enzymes as markers of stress in poorly stored seeds. SDS-PAGE of soluble protein fractions exhibited degradation of banding patterns in highly stressed seeds from 48h of ageing, whilst no degradation was observed in controls and low stress conditions.
Pages 30-40 | Full Text PDF
Genetic progresses from over three decades of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) breeding in Ethiopia
Tamene Temesgen Tolessa*, Gemechu Keneni, Hussein Mohammad
Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center, P.O.Box, 489, Asella, Ethiopia
Holetta Agricultural Research Center, P.O.Box, 2003, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia
Hawassa University, College of Agriculture, P.O.Box, 5, Awassa, Ethiopia
Abstract
Eleven faba bean (Vicia faba L.) varieties released between 1977 and 2007, and two promising genotypes, were evaluated to estimate the genetic progresses made in 33 years of faba bean breeding in Ethiopia. The study was conducted at eight environments during 2007 and 2009 cropping seasons in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Records taken on grain yield, seed size and chocolate spot (Botrytis fabae) severity were subjected to statistical analysis. Combined analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes and the test environments for all traits, the G Χ E interaction effects being significant for grain yield and seed size. Regression of mean performance at all environments on year of varietal release showed positive relationship for grain yield (r = 0.48) and seed size (r = 0.80**) but negative for chocolate spot (r = -0.60*). The annual rates of genetic progresses were 8.74 kg ha-1, 8.07 g 1000 seeds-1 and -0.27% for grain yield, seed size and chocolate spot, respectively.
Pages 41-48 | Full Text PDF
Short-term effects of crop rotations on soil chemical properties under no-tillage condition
Doglas Bassegio*, Reginaldo Ferreira Santos, Deonir Secco, Luiz Antτnio Zanγo Junior, Ivan Werncke, Marcos Vinνcius Mansano Sarto
Sγo Paulo State University (UNESP), Department of Crop Science, CEP 18610-307, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
Western Paranα State University (UNIOESTE), Department of Energy in Agriculture, CEP 85819-130, Cascavel, PR, Brazil
Abstract
The use of crop rotation can provide sustainability for an agricultural production system by improving soil fertility and increasing nutrient use efficiency. Short-term changes in soil chemical properties were studied for different crop rotations and management of crop residues under no-till in Santa Helena, Paranα, Brazil. The investigated crops for the crop rotation were as follows: Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), grass brachiaria (Brachiaria brizantha), forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea), cropped in autumn-winter as well as an additional treatment in fallow ground (spontaneous weed). The crambe (Crambe abyssinica) was cropped in the winter on all plots. The subplots were divided into either absence or presence of straw mulch mechanical management on the soil surface (Triton©). Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-10, 10-20, and 20-40 cm after crambe harvest. Crop rotation with forage sorghum significantly increased (p = 0.05) the K+ exchange (0.14 cmolc dm-3) and organic matter (21.8 g dm-3) contents in the 0-10 and 20-40 cm soil layers, respectively; however, crop rotations had no effect on other soil chemical properties under no-tillage condition. Mechanical management of crop residues had no significant effect on soil chemical properties.
Pages 49-54 | Full Text PDF
Impact of pruning severity and training systems on red and white seedless table grape (Vitis vinifera) qualitative indices
Majid Rahmani, Davood Bakhshi*, Mohammad Qolov
Department of Pomology, Tajik Agrarian University, Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Department of Horticultural Science, University of Guilan, Iran
Abstract
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of bud pruning severity and training systems on some of the pomological traits of red and white seedless table grapes cvs white seedless and red seedless. The 12-year-old vines were trained in conventional and trellis systems each pruned to 2, 6 and 8 buds in canes. Results revealed that soluble solid content was significantly affected (24.2 °Brix) by the training system and bud pruning, whereas bud pruning had no significant effect on titratable acidity. Fruits from the trellis training system had a higher total phenolic content, total flavonoids and flavonoid compounds content as compared with conventional system. In white seedless cultivar, the highest antioxidant capacity was found in 4 buds pruning of trellis system (77.3%), while in the red cultivar 8 buds pruning of trellis system had the highest antioxidant capacity (78.7%). Overall, trellis training system with moderate bud pruning can be considered for increasing table grape nutritional quality.
Pages 55-61 | Full Text PDF
Assessment of genetic diversity in grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf) cultivars using physico-chemical parameters and microsatellite markers
Nimisha Sharma*, Anil Kumar Dubey, Manish Srivastav, Bikram Pratap Singh, Anand Kumar Singh, Nagendra Kumar Singh
Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India
National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110012, India
Abstract
Microsatellite markers and physico-chemical parameters were used to investigate whether variants of grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf) were originated genetically or they showed different behaviour due to the environmental factors. Twelve plantlets (6 varieties, 2 replicates and 4 variants) were chosen from grapefruit evaluation block of Fruits and Horticultural Technology Division, IARI, New Delhi. Important parameters like, maximum fruit weight (530.77g), fruit length (95.11mm), seeds/fruit (48.33), peel thickness (7.11mm) and acidity (1.10%) were observed in the Star Ruby. Whereas variables like, minimum fruit weight (304.10g), fruit diameter (83.11mm) and seeds/fruit (1) were observed in the Redblush. Out of 25 screened primers (ISSR and SSR), 23 primers exhibited clear, reproducible bands. A total of 50 out of 334 distinct bands were found polymorphic with an average of 23.85 bands per primer. The mean polymorphism information content (PIC) was found to be 0.248. Genetic similarity value among the grapefruit cultivars was 0.97 and among the variants it was 0.95.
Pages 62-68 | Full Text PDF | Supplementary Data PDF
Genetic variability of Passiflora spp. against collar rot disease
Sandra da Costa Preisigke*, Felipe Vian Martini, Ana Aparecida Bandini Rossi, Milson Evaldo Serafim, Marco Antonio Aparecido Barelli, Petterson Baptista da Luz, Kelly Lana Araϊjo, Leonarda Grillo Neves
University of Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Brazil
University of the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, Department of Agronomy, Brazil
University of the State of Mato Grosso, Department of Biological Sciences, Brazil
Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Abstract
Collar rot caused by the fungus Fusarium solani, is one of the main diseases in passion fruit orchards. Some disease resistance sources were previously identified in wild species of Passiflora; however, information is limited and contradictory concerning disease resistance within Passiflora species. The objective of this study was to evaluate intra and interspecific variability of ten Passiflora species regarding to their resistance characters against Fusarium solani. Cuttings (clones) form four different genotypes from the ten species studied were prepared, with a total of 40 genotypes. Resistance or susceptibility was evaluated by the plant survival period and by a disease assessment scale. Data was analyzed using variance analysis, test of means, graphical dispersion and the hierarchical clustering method UPGMA. Intra and interspecific variability of resistance against F. solani was confirmed, being P. quadrangularis, P. nνtida and P. foetida evaluated as highly resistant. The most suitable species for plant breeding programs is P. nitida, since it showed a high resistance level without genetic variability within the characters studied.
Pages 69-74 | Full Text PDF
Spectral reflectance for growth and yield assessment of irrigated cotton
Ziany N. Brandγo*, Valdinei Sofiatti, Josι R. C. Bezerra, Gilvan B. Ferreira, Josι C. Medeiros
Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Cotton, 1143, Oswaldo Cruz, 58428-095. Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Abstract
The canopy reflectance using ground-based sensors has the potential to provide information on crop nitrogen content. The objective of this study was to determine relationships between canopy spectral reflectance and leaf N content, leaf area index (LAI), aboveground biomass (Biom) and yield of irrigated cotton under four nitrogen rates (0, 90, 180 and 270kg ha-1). Measurements of canopy reflectance were made throughout the growing seasons (2009-2010) using a hand-held spectroradiometer. Samples for LAI and Biom were obtained three times from squaring until fruiting. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), soil adjusted vegetation index (SAVI), modified soil adjusted vegetation index (MSAVI) and the modified transformed vegetation index (MTVI2) were calculated from the hyperspectral reflectance data. All vegetation indexes (VIs) and also SPAD-502 readings allowed to figure out mathematical models for N content prediction in cotton leaves with great precision (r > 0.74). It also showed good correlations (r from 0.55 to 0.96) with the LAI since the first flowering.
Pages 75-84 | Full Text PDF
Effects of salts and sucrose concentrations on in vitro propagation of Billbergia zebrina (Herbert) Lindley (Bromeliaceae)
Joγo Paulo Rodrigues Martins*, Moacir Pasqual, Adalvan Daniel Martins, Suelen Francisca Ribeira
Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture at Lavras Federal University, 37200-000, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Plant Ecophysiology Laboratory at Lavras Federal University, 37200-000, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Abstract
Tissue culture can contribute to the multiplication of several species with commercial interest, such as bromeliads. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MS-salts (Murashige and Skoog) and sucrose concentrations on the in vitro multiplication and rooting of Billbergia zebrina, respectively. The in vitro-established B. zebrina plants were inoculated on MS-salts at concentrations of 0%, 50%, 100%, 150% or 200% of the original salt concentration of the medium. The media were prepared in two different consistencies, stationary liquid and 6 g L-1 agar. For in vitro rooting studies, the shoots grew in a medium supplemented with 0, 15, 30, 45 or 60 g L-1 sucrose. Soluble carbohydrates and photosynthetic pigment contents were assessed after the rooting. Significant differences were verified observed in the evaluated characteristics due to the treatments. The use of liquid medium and the 200% concentration of MS-salts induced the highest shoot number per explant (23.94 shoots) and 100% budding.
Pages 85-91 | Full Text PDF
Microsatellite markers linked to powdery mildew resistance locus in watermelon
Renata Natαlia Cβndido de Souza Gama*, Carlos Antτnio Fernandes Santos, Rita de Cαssia Souza Dias, Rejanildo Robson Cβndido de Souza, Manoel Abνlio de Queirσz
Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana (UEFS), Programa de Pσs-graduaηγo em Recursos Genιticos Vegetais. Avenida Transnordestina, SN, Novo Horizonte, 44.036-900, Feira de Santana-BA, Brazil
Embrapa Semiαrido. BR 428, KM 152, Zona Rural, Caixa Postal 23, CEP: 56.302-970, Petrolina-PE, Brazil
Universidade de Pernambuco, BR 203, KM 2, s/n, Petrolina-PE, CEP: 56328- 903, Brazil
UNEB, Departamento de Tecnologia e Ciκncias Sociais, C. Postal 171, 48905-680, Juazeiro-BA, Brazil
Abstract
Powdery mildew (Podosphaera xanthii) is one of the main foliar diseases that attack the watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and other cucurbits species. The objective of this study was to identify microsatellite markers linked to the resistance locus to powdery mildew in a F2 population of BRS Opara (resistant) Χ Pιrola (susceptible). The parental plants, F1 and F2, were phenotyped for resistance or susceptibility to powdery mildew and 116 microsatellite markers were analyzed. Segregation data in the F2 population demonstrated that resistance powdery mildew is controlled by a single dominant gene. The microsatellites MCPI_11, CYSTSIN and BVWS02441 showed linkage to the powdery mildew resistance gene at 2.6 cM distance. They were located on chromosome two of the watermelon genome. These markers can be used in the marker assisted selection in watermelon improvement programs and the identification of the chromosome region, in which these markers will facilitate future studies to identify the gene that confers resistance to powdery mildew in watermelon.
Pages 92-97 | Full Text PDF
Zahoor Hussain, Zora Singh*
Curtin Horticulture Research Laboratory, Department of Environment and Agriculture, School of Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, GPO Box U 1987, Perth 6845, Western Australia, Australia
Abstract
Creasing is a physiological disorder in the rind of sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] fruit and causes serious economic losses. The involvement of ethylene in creasing of sweet orange fruit was investigated by monitoring the comparative changes in endogenous levels of ethylene in the creased and normal fruit. Endogenous levels of ethylene were significantly higher in the creased fruit than the normal ones in different cultivars of sweet orange including Navelina, Washington Navel, Lane Late and Valencia Late. Exogenous spray application of ethrel at the rate of 250 -750 mg L-1 on mature fruit elevated the endogenous levels of ethylene in the fruit 30 to120 DAS and increased CI as compared to the control in Washington Navel and Lane Late. Whilst, the spray application of ethylene inhibitor AVG (20-60 mg L-1) or cobalt sulphate (CoSO4) (125-500 mg L-1) at the golf ball stage was more effective in reducing CI compared to the control in all cultivars during 2011 and 2012.
Pages 1-8 | Full Text PDF
Heterosis for yield and its components in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) hybrids in dry lands and sub-humid environments of East Africa
Justin Ringo*, Agustino Onkware, Mary Mgonja, Santosh Deshpande, Abhishek Rathore, Emmarold Mneney, Samuel Gudu
School of Science, University of Eldoret, P. O. Box 1125, Kenya
International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), P.O. Box 39063,
Nairobi, Kenya
International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), P. O. Box 502 324, Patancheru, India
Mikocheni Agricultural Research Institute, P. O. Box 6226, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Rongo University College, P.O. Box 103-40404, Rongo, Kenya
Abstract
A study was conducted in 2011 and 2012 growing seasons to determine levels of heterosis and identify parents for use in sorghum hybrid production in East Africa. A total of 36 pairs of male sterile lines and 42 restorers were obtained from ICRISAT-Nairobi and used for generating 121 experimental hybrids in a line Χ tester mating design. The hybrids were then evaluated at Kiboko, Ukiriguru and Miwaleni locations in an alpha lattice design with three replications. Each genotype was grown in a 4 m long row at spacing of 60 cm Χ50 cm. Phenotypic data were collected as per IPGRI, (1993) descriptors for sorghum on five randomly selected plants. There were significant differences among locations, crosses and male parents for all the characters studied. Female lines were highly significant for all traits except days to 50% flowering (DAF).
Pages 9-13 | Full Text PDF | Supplementary Data PDF
Comparative analysis of genetic diversity in Greek Genebank collection of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) landraces using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism and ISSR markers
Xanthopoulou Aliki, Ganopoulos Ioannis, Kalivas Apostolos, Nianiou-Obeidat Irini, Ralli Parthenopi, Moysiadis Theodoros, Tsaftaris Athanasios, Madesis Panagiotis*
Institute of Applied Biosciences, CERTH, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 570 01, Greece
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54 124, Greece
Cotton and Industrial Plants Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 57001 Greece
Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Greek Gene Bank, Thermi, Thessaloniki, 57001Greece
Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
Abstract
The conservation and characterization of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) genetic resources in germplasm banks has been the basis of their use in breeding projects, which resulted in the development of new cultivars. The genetic diversity of thirty six summer squash landraces from Greece was investigated here using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. In this study, we compared the informativeness and efficiency of the SCoT and ISSR molecular markers. ISSR markers were found to be more polymorphic with an average PIC value of 0.237, while SCoT markers showed the highest marker index (1.503). Cluster analysis on combined set of SCoT and ISSR genotyping data classi?ed summer squash landraces in six distinct groups. The obtained PCoA (Principal Coordinate Analysis) scatter plots further supported the dendrogram results in a robust way. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed comparison of performance among the targeted DNA region molecular markers (SCoT) and the ISSR technique on a set of samples of C. pepo.
Pages 14-21 | Full Text PDF
Genetic diversity of Moroccan pomegranate (Punica Granatum L.) cultivars using AFLP markers
El Amine Ajal, Rania Jbir, Pilar Legua, Juan Josι Martνnez, Rafael Martinez, Amel Salhi Hannachi, Abdelmajid Haddioui*
Team of Genetic and Plant Biotechnology, Laboratory of Management and Valorization of Natural Resources, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Morocco
University of Sultan Moulay Slimane, Beni Mellal, Morocco
Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Immunology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
Plant Science and Microbiology Department, EPSO, University Miguel Hernαndez, Ctra, Beniel, km. 3.2, 03312 Orihuela, Alicante, Spain
Abstract
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the most important fruit crop cultivated in Morocco. However, little data is available on its genetic diversity. The genetic relationships among pomegranate cultivars were investigated using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers. Six pairs of primers were used to analyse 24 pomegranate cultivars obtained from the central regions of Morocco. A total of 519 scorable fragments were amplified, of which, 368 (71%) were polymorphic. Resolving power ranged from 13.16 to 28.75, and the average of polymorphism information content (PIC) per primer pair was 0.95. Coefficient of genetic differentiation between groups (GST) was 0.091, indicating that 9.10% of total genetic variability was among groups and 90.90% was within groups. The gene flow (Nm) was 4.992 among all of the groups. The UPGMA dendrogram and PCA analysis exhibited a genetic diversity structured independently from the geographical origin of cultivars and their denomination.
Pages 22-29 | Full Text PDF
Seed vigour better to be assessed by physiological markers rather than expression of antioxidant enzymes in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).
Leonardo Massaharu Moriya, Nelson Barbosa Machado Neto, Timothy Rex Marks, Ceci Castilho Custσdio*
UNOESTE, Faculdade de Agronomia, Bloco B2, Sala 201, Campus II, Rodovia Raposo Tavares, km 572, Presidente Prudente SP, 190167175, Brazil
Seed Conservation Department, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TN, UK
Abstract
Seed vigour assessment based upon seedling development and physiology is time consuming, whilst estimations based upon enzyme activity measurements alone can be performed quickly but may be misleading. The aim of this work was to compare the relationship between the physiological markers of germination and initial seedling growth in common bean with the activities of the reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes: peroxidase (PRX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in embryonic axes and cotyledons maintained under both low and high stress storage conditions. Changes in seed physiology were measured by germination after five and eight days, seedling vigour, potassium leakage, root and shoot length and dry weight. The potassium leakage test, vigour classification and 5th day germination were reliable predictors of seed vigour when there were differences among highly stressed lots. Tests based on the length and dry weight of the roots and shoots were efficient for all conditions. SOD and CAT determinations showed a high level of correlation with vigour tests for all three cultivars, but only under high levels of stress, indicating the reliability of those enzymes as markers of stress in poorly stored seeds. SDS-PAGE of soluble protein fractions exhibited degradation of banding patterns in highly stressed seeds from 48h of ageing, whilst no degradation was observed in controls and low stress conditions.
Pages 30-40 | Full Text PDF
Genetic progresses from over three decades of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) breeding in Ethiopia
Tamene Temesgen Tolessa*, Gemechu Keneni, Hussein Mohammad
Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center, P.O.Box, 489, Asella, Ethiopia
Holetta Agricultural Research Center, P.O.Box, 2003, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia
Hawassa University, College of Agriculture, P.O.Box, 5, Awassa, Ethiopia
Abstract
Eleven faba bean (Vicia faba L.) varieties released between 1977 and 2007, and two promising genotypes, were evaluated to estimate the genetic progresses made in 33 years of faba bean breeding in Ethiopia. The study was conducted at eight environments during 2007 and 2009 cropping seasons in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Records taken on grain yield, seed size and chocolate spot (Botrytis fabae) severity were subjected to statistical analysis. Combined analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes and the test environments for all traits, the G Χ E interaction effects being significant for grain yield and seed size. Regression of mean performance at all environments on year of varietal release showed positive relationship for grain yield (r = 0.48) and seed size (r = 0.80**) but negative for chocolate spot (r = -0.60*). The annual rates of genetic progresses were 8.74 kg ha-1, 8.07 g 1000 seeds-1 and -0.27% for grain yield, seed size and chocolate spot, respectively.
Pages 41-48 | Full Text PDF
Short-term effects of crop rotations on soil chemical properties under no-tillage condition
Doglas Bassegio*, Reginaldo Ferreira Santos, Deonir Secco, Luiz Antτnio Zanγo Junior, Ivan Werncke, Marcos Vinνcius Mansano Sarto
Sγo Paulo State University (UNESP), Department of Crop Science, CEP 18610-307, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
Western Paranα State University (UNIOESTE), Department of Energy in Agriculture, CEP 85819-130, Cascavel, PR, Brazil
Abstract
The use of crop rotation can provide sustainability for an agricultural production system by improving soil fertility and increasing nutrient use efficiency. Short-term changes in soil chemical properties were studied for different crop rotations and management of crop residues under no-till in Santa Helena, Paranα, Brazil. The investigated crops for the crop rotation were as follows: Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), grass brachiaria (Brachiaria brizantha), forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea), cropped in autumn-winter as well as an additional treatment in fallow ground (spontaneous weed). The crambe (Crambe abyssinica) was cropped in the winter on all plots. The subplots were divided into either absence or presence of straw mulch mechanical management on the soil surface (Triton©). Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-10, 10-20, and 20-40 cm after crambe harvest. Crop rotation with forage sorghum significantly increased (p = 0.05) the K+ exchange (0.14 cmolc dm-3) and organic matter (21.8 g dm-3) contents in the 0-10 and 20-40 cm soil layers, respectively; however, crop rotations had no effect on other soil chemical properties under no-tillage condition. Mechanical management of crop residues had no significant effect on soil chemical properties.
Pages 49-54 | Full Text PDF
Impact of pruning severity and training systems on red and white seedless table grape (Vitis vinifera) qualitative indices
Majid Rahmani, Davood Bakhshi*, Mohammad Qolov
Department of Pomology, Tajik Agrarian University, Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Department of Horticultural Science, University of Guilan, Iran
Abstract
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of bud pruning severity and training systems on some of the pomological traits of red and white seedless table grapes cvs white seedless and red seedless. The 12-year-old vines were trained in conventional and trellis systems each pruned to 2, 6 and 8 buds in canes. Results revealed that soluble solid content was significantly affected (24.2 °Brix) by the training system and bud pruning, whereas bud pruning had no significant effect on titratable acidity. Fruits from the trellis training system had a higher total phenolic content, total flavonoids and flavonoid compounds content as compared with conventional system. In white seedless cultivar, the highest antioxidant capacity was found in 4 buds pruning of trellis system (77.3%), while in the red cultivar 8 buds pruning of trellis system had the highest antioxidant capacity (78.7%). Overall, trellis training system with moderate bud pruning can be considered for increasing table grape nutritional quality.
Pages 55-61 | Full Text PDF
Assessment of genetic diversity in grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf) cultivars using physico-chemical parameters and microsatellite markers
Nimisha Sharma*, Anil Kumar Dubey, Manish Srivastav, Bikram Pratap Singh, Anand Kumar Singh, Nagendra Kumar Singh
Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India
National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110012, India
Abstract
Microsatellite markers and physico-chemical parameters were used to investigate whether variants of grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf) were originated genetically or they showed different behaviour due to the environmental factors. Twelve plantlets (6 varieties, 2 replicates and 4 variants) were chosen from grapefruit evaluation block of Fruits and Horticultural Technology Division, IARI, New Delhi. Important parameters like, maximum fruit weight (530.77g), fruit length (95.11mm), seeds/fruit (48.33), peel thickness (7.11mm) and acidity (1.10%) were observed in the Star Ruby. Whereas variables like, minimum fruit weight (304.10g), fruit diameter (83.11mm) and seeds/fruit (1) were observed in the Redblush. Out of 25 screened primers (ISSR and SSR), 23 primers exhibited clear, reproducible bands. A total of 50 out of 334 distinct bands were found polymorphic with an average of 23.85 bands per primer. The mean polymorphism information content (PIC) was found to be 0.248. Genetic similarity value among the grapefruit cultivars was 0.97 and among the variants it was 0.95.
Pages 62-68 | Full Text PDF | Supplementary Data PDF
Genetic variability of Passiflora spp. against collar rot disease
Sandra da Costa Preisigke*, Felipe Vian Martini, Ana Aparecida Bandini Rossi, Milson Evaldo Serafim, Marco Antonio Aparecido Barelli, Petterson Baptista da Luz, Kelly Lana Araϊjo, Leonarda Grillo Neves
University of Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Brazil
University of the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, Department of Agronomy, Brazil
University of the State of Mato Grosso, Department of Biological Sciences, Brazil
Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Abstract
Collar rot caused by the fungus Fusarium solani, is one of the main diseases in passion fruit orchards. Some disease resistance sources were previously identified in wild species of Passiflora; however, information is limited and contradictory concerning disease resistance within Passiflora species. The objective of this study was to evaluate intra and interspecific variability of ten Passiflora species regarding to their resistance characters against Fusarium solani. Cuttings (clones) form four different genotypes from the ten species studied were prepared, with a total of 40 genotypes. Resistance or susceptibility was evaluated by the plant survival period and by a disease assessment scale. Data was analyzed using variance analysis, test of means, graphical dispersion and the hierarchical clustering method UPGMA. Intra and interspecific variability of resistance against F. solani was confirmed, being P. quadrangularis, P. nνtida and P. foetida evaluated as highly resistant. The most suitable species for plant breeding programs is P. nitida, since it showed a high resistance level without genetic variability within the characters studied.
Pages 69-74 | Full Text PDF
Spectral reflectance for growth and yield assessment of irrigated cotton
Ziany N. Brandγo*, Valdinei Sofiatti, Josι R. C. Bezerra, Gilvan B. Ferreira, Josι C. Medeiros
Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Cotton, 1143, Oswaldo Cruz, 58428-095. Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Abstract
The canopy reflectance using ground-based sensors has the potential to provide information on crop nitrogen content. The objective of this study was to determine relationships between canopy spectral reflectance and leaf N content, leaf area index (LAI), aboveground biomass (Biom) and yield of irrigated cotton under four nitrogen rates (0, 90, 180 and 270kg ha-1). Measurements of canopy reflectance were made throughout the growing seasons (2009-2010) using a hand-held spectroradiometer. Samples for LAI and Biom were obtained three times from squaring until fruiting. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), soil adjusted vegetation index (SAVI), modified soil adjusted vegetation index (MSAVI) and the modified transformed vegetation index (MTVI2) were calculated from the hyperspectral reflectance data. All vegetation indexes (VIs) and also SPAD-502 readings allowed to figure out mathematical models for N content prediction in cotton leaves with great precision (r > 0.74). It also showed good correlations (r from 0.55 to 0.96) with the LAI since the first flowering.
Pages 75-84 | Full Text PDF
Effects of salts and sucrose concentrations on in vitro propagation of Billbergia zebrina (Herbert) Lindley (Bromeliaceae)
Joγo Paulo Rodrigues Martins*, Moacir Pasqual, Adalvan Daniel Martins, Suelen Francisca Ribeira
Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture at Lavras Federal University, 37200-000, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Plant Ecophysiology Laboratory at Lavras Federal University, 37200-000, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Abstract
Tissue culture can contribute to the multiplication of several species with commercial interest, such as bromeliads. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MS-salts (Murashige and Skoog) and sucrose concentrations on the in vitro multiplication and rooting of Billbergia zebrina, respectively. The in vitro-established B. zebrina plants were inoculated on MS-salts at concentrations of 0%, 50%, 100%, 150% or 200% of the original salt concentration of the medium. The media were prepared in two different consistencies, stationary liquid and 6 g L-1 agar. For in vitro rooting studies, the shoots grew in a medium supplemented with 0, 15, 30, 45 or 60 g L-1 sucrose. Soluble carbohydrates and photosynthetic pigment contents were assessed after the rooting. Significant differences were verified observed in the evaluated characteristics due to the treatments. The use of liquid medium and the 200% concentration of MS-salts induced the highest shoot number per explant (23.94 shoots) and 100% budding.
Pages 85-91 | Full Text PDF
Microsatellite markers linked to powdery mildew resistance locus in watermelon
Renata Natαlia Cβndido de Souza Gama*, Carlos Antτnio Fernandes Santos, Rita de Cαssia Souza Dias, Rejanildo Robson Cβndido de Souza, Manoel Abνlio de Queirσz
Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana (UEFS), Programa de Pσs-graduaηγo em Recursos Genιticos Vegetais. Avenida Transnordestina, SN, Novo Horizonte, 44.036-900, Feira de Santana-BA, Brazil
Embrapa Semiαrido. BR 428, KM 152, Zona Rural, Caixa Postal 23, CEP: 56.302-970, Petrolina-PE, Brazil
Universidade de Pernambuco, BR 203, KM 2, s/n, Petrolina-PE, CEP: 56328- 903, Brazil
UNEB, Departamento de Tecnologia e Ciκncias Sociais, C. Postal 171, 48905-680, Juazeiro-BA, Brazil
Abstract
Powdery mildew (Podosphaera xanthii) is one of the main foliar diseases that attack the watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and other cucurbits species. The objective of this study was to identify microsatellite markers linked to the resistance locus to powdery mildew in a F2 population of BRS Opara (resistant) Χ Pιrola (susceptible). The parental plants, F1 and F2, were phenotyped for resistance or susceptibility to powdery mildew and 116 microsatellite markers were analyzed. Segregation data in the F2 population demonstrated that resistance powdery mildew is controlled by a single dominant gene. The microsatellites MCPI_11, CYSTSIN and BVWS02441 showed linkage to the powdery mildew resistance gene at 2.6 cM distance. They were located on chromosome two of the watermelon genome. These markers can be used in the marker assisted selection in watermelon improvement programs and the identification of the chromosome region, in which these markers will facilitate future studies to identify the gene that confers resistance to powdery mildew in watermelon.
Pages 92-97 | Full Text PDF
