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Leaf rust and net blotch are two important fungal diseases of barley. Leaf rust is the most important rust disease of barley, whereas net blotch can result in significant yield losses and cause the deterioration of crop quality. The best and the most environmentally friendly method to control diseases is to cultivate resistant varieties. The aim of the current study was to identify barley varieties with an improved resistance to leaf rust and net blotch in Polish organic post-registration trials conducted in the years 2020–2022. For this purpose, the cumulative link mixed model with several variance components was applied to model resistance to leaf rust and net blotch. It was found that the reference variety Radek was the most resistant to leaf rust, whereas variety Avatar outperformed the reference variety in terms of resistance to net blotch, although the difference between the two varieties was non-significant. In the present study, the use of the cumulative link mixed model framework made it possible to calculate cumulative probabilities or the probability of a given score for each variety and disease, which might be useful for plant breeders and crop experts. Both, the method of analysis and resistant varieties may be used in the breeding process to derive new resistant varieties suitable for the organic farming system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the genetic diversity and population structure of wheat germplasm is crucial for understanding the underlying variability essential for breeding programs and germplasm preservation. This research aims to contribute novel insights with respect to the genetic makeup and relationships among these wheat genotypes, shedding light on the diversity present within the Turkish wheat germplasm. In this study, iPBS-retrotransposon markers were employed to analyze 58 wheat genotypes, encompassing 54 landraces and 4 cultivars sourced from Türkiye. These markers serve as genetic indicators that can be used to evaluate genetic variation, build genealogical trees, and comprehend evolutionary connections. The PCR products were visualized on agarose gel, and bands were scored as present/absent. The ten iPBS primers collectively yielded an average of 16.3 alleles, generating a total of 163 polymorphic bands. The number of alleles produced by individual markers ranged from 4 (iPBS-2386) to 29 (iPBS-2219). The genetic parameters were calculated using the popgen and powermarker programs. The genetic relationships and population structures were assessed using the ntsys and structure programs. Polymorphism information content (PIC) per marker varied from 0.13 (iPBS-2390) to 0.29 (iPBS-2386), with an average value of 0.22. Shannon's information index (I) was calculated as 1.48, while the number of effective alleles (Ne) and Nei's genetic diversity (H) were determined to be 0.26 and 0.31, respectively. Genotype numbers 3 (Triticum dicoccum) and 10 (Triticum monococcum) exhibited the maximum genetic distance of 0.1292, signifying the highest genetic disparity. Population structure analysis revealed the segregation of genotypes into three distinct subpopulations. Notably, a substantial portion of genotypes clustered within populations correlated with the wheat species. This population structure result was consistent with the categorization of genotypes based on wheat species. The comprehensive assessment revealed noteworthy insights with respect to allele distribution, polymorphism content, and population differentiation, offering valuable implications for wheat breeding strategies and germplasm conservation efforts. In addition, the iPBS markers and wheat genotypes employed in this study hold significant potential for applications in wheat breeding research and germplasm preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of 1000-kernel weight holds significant importance in determining maize grain yield, and elucidating its underlying genetic mechanisms is imperative for enhancing its overall performance. The material for the study consisted of 26 doubled-haploid (DH) maize lines obtained from crossing two cultivars with flint kernels. Lines were planted in the northern part of the Lower Silesia voivodship in Poland over ten years (2013–2022). The 1000-kernel weight was assessed. The purposes of the research were as follows: (1) to assess genotype by environment interaction (GEI by the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model; (2) the selection of stable DH lines and environment-specific lines; and (3) the estimation of parameters related to additive and additive–additive gene interaction (epistasis). The results indicate the significant effects of genotype and environment, as well as the GEI, on the 1000-kernel weight. Estimates of additive gene action effects were statistically significant in every year of the study, except 2022. Estimates of epistasis (total additive-by-additive interaction) effects for 1000-kernel weight were statistically significant in 2013, 2015, and 2017 (positive effects), as well as in 2018 and 2020 (negative effects). The lines KN07 and KN10 are recommended for further inclusion in the breeding program due to their stability and highest average of 1000-kernel weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous factors can impact the efficiency of callus formation and in vitro regeneration in wheat cultures through the introduction of exogenous polyamines (PAs). The present study aimed to investigate in vitro plant regeneration and DNA methylation patterns utilizing the inter-primer binding site (iPBS) retrotransposon and coupled restriction enzyme digestion–iPBS (CRED–iPBS) methods in wheat. This investigation involved the application of distinct types of PAs (Put: putrescine, Spd: spermidine, and Spm: spermine) at varying concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mM). The subsequent outcomes were subjected to predictive modeling using diverse machine learning (ML) algorithms. Based on the specific polyamine type and concentration utilized, the results indicated that 1 mM Put and Spd were the most favorable PAs for supporting endosperm-associated mature embryos. Employing an epigenetic approach, Put at concentrations of 0.5 and 1.5 mM exhibited the highest levels of genomic template stability (GTS) (73.9%). Elevated Spd levels correlated with DNA hypermethylation while reduced Spm levels were linked to DNA hypomethylation. The in vitro and epigenetic characteristics were predicted using ML techniques such as the support vector machine (SVM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and random forest (RF) models. These models were employed to establish relationships between input variables (PAs, concentration, GTS rates, Msp I polymorphism, and Hpa II polymorphism) and output parameters (in vitro measurements). This comparative analysis aimed to evaluate the performance of the models and interpret the generated data. The outcomes demonstrated that the XGBoost method exhibited the highest performance scores for callus induction (CI%), regeneration efficiency (RE), and the number of plantlets (NP), with R2 scores explaining 38.3%, 73.8%, and 85.3% of the variances, respectively. Additionally, the RF algorithm explained 41.5% of the total variance and showcased superior efficacy in terms of embryogenic callus induction (ECI%). Furthermore, the SVM model, which provided the most robust statistics for responding embryogenic calluses (RECs%), yielded an R2 value of 84.1%, signifying its ability to account for a substantial portion of the total variance present in the data. In summary, this study exemplifies the application of diverse ML models to the cultivation of mature wheat embryos in the presence of various exogenous PAs and concentrations. Additionally, it explores the impact of polymorphic variations in the CRED–iPBS profile and DNA methylation on epigenetic changes, thereby contributing to a comprehensive understanding of these regulatory mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: Information on the genetic potential of parental forms can shorten the breeding process. Knowledge of the variation of parental forms at the phenotypic and genetic levels can have a very significant impact on the heterosis effect of hybrids. An important stage in any breeding activity is selection of suitable individuals for further breeding. Thus, the main goal of breeders becomes such a selection of parental forms that leads to the consolidation and maximization of the value of traits of significant utility and economic importance. Heterosis and specific combining ability are very important parameters in plant and animal breeding. The ability to predict their value and relevance could significantly shorten the breeding process. One way to predict the effects of heterosis and specific combining ability is to select parental forms for crosses. This selection can be made on the basis of variation in parental forms. An analysis was made of publicly available data that contain information about the effects of heterosis, the effects of specific combining ability, and phenotypic and genetic diversity of parental forms. Preliminary studies show that the best approach for obtaining favorable hybrids would be selection of parental forms that are very genetically diverse while being phenotypically equal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild common wheat species represent a significant pool of resistance genes to various environmental stresses. In this study, we examined several physiological traits and the activity of three antioxidant enzymes—namely, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX)—as well as the expression patterns of their encoding genes in three neglected Aegilops species with alien genomes (including Ae. triuncialis (UUCC-genome), Ae. neglecta (UUMM-genome) and Ae. umbellulata (UU-genome)) under two control (0 mM NaCl) and salinity (250 mM NaCl) conditions. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed highly significant effects of salinity stress, accessions, and their interaction on most physio-biochemical traits, root and shoot dry biomasses, and antioxidant-related gene expression level. As a result of comparison between Aegilops species and a bread wheat cultivar (cv. Narin as a salt-tolerant reference variety), Ae. triuncialis responded well to salinity stress, maintaining both ionic homeostasis capability and biochemical ability. Moreover, transcriptional data revealed the prominence of Ae. triuncialis over other Aegilops species and salt-tolerant bread wheat [cv. Narin] in terms of the level of expression of antioxidant genes (APX, SOD, and CAT). This result was further supported by a biplot rendered based on principal component analysis (PCA), where this wild relative showed a positive association with most measured traits under salinity stress. Moreover, we speculate that this accession can be subjected to physiological and molecular studies, and that it can provide new insights into the use of the alien genomes in future wheat breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic information obtained from ancestral species of wheat and other registered wheat has brought about critical research, especially in wheat breeding, and shown great potential for the development of advanced breeding techniques. The purpose of this study was to determine correlations between some morphological traits of various wheat (Triticum spp.) species and to demonstrate the application of MARS and CHAID algorithms to wheat-derived data sets. Relationships among several morphological traits of wheat were investigated using a total of 26 different wheat genotypes. MARS and CHAID data mining methods were compared for grain yield prediction from different traits using cross-validation. In addition, an optimal CHAID tree structure with minimum RMSE was obtained and cross-validated with nine terminal nodes. Based on the smallest RMSE of the cross-validation, the eight-element MARS model was found to be the best model for grain yield prediction. The MARS algorithm proved superior to CHAID in grain yield prediction and accounted for 95.7% of the variation in grain yield among wheats. CHAID and MARS analyses on wheat grain yield were performed for the first time in this research. In this context, we showed how MARS and CHAID algorithms can help wheat breeders describe complex interaction effects more precisely. With the data mining methodology demonstrated in this study, breeders can predict which wheat traits are beneficial for increasing grain yield. The adaption of MARS and CHAID algorithms should benefit breeding research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the study was to evaluate and select the superior barley genotypes based on grain yield and some pheno-morphological traits using a new proposed selection index (SIIG). For this purpose, one-hundred-eight pure and four local cultivars (Norouz, Auxin, Nobahar, and WB-97-11) were evaluated as reference genotypes in four warm regions of Iran, including Ahvaz, Darab, Zabol, and Gonbad, during the 2020–2021 cropping seasons. The results of REML analysis showed that the heritability of all traits (except plant height) was higher in Gonbad than in other environments, while the lowest values were estimated in Ahvaz and Zabol environments. In addition, among the measured traits, the thousand kernel weight and grain filling period showed the highest and lowest values of heritability (0.83 and 0.01, respectively). The results showed that the seed yield of genotypes 1, 108, 3, 86, 5, 87, 19, 16, 15, 56, and 18 was higher than the four reference genotypes, and, on the other hand, the SIIG index of these genotypes was greater than or equal to 0.60. Based on the SIIG discriminator index, 4, 8, 31, and 28 genotypes with values greater than or equal to 0.60 were identified as superior for Darab, Ahvaz, Zabol, and Gonbad environments, respectively. As a conclusion, our results revealed that the SIIG index has ideal potential to identify genotypes with high yield and desirable traits. Therefore, the use of this index can be beneficial in screening better genotypes in the early stages of any breeding program for any crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timothy‐grass (Phleum pratense L.) is one of the most valuable pasture grasses in Poland, and the productivity of its genotypes (in the case of outcrossing grass species, the term accession instead of genotype was used in this study) varies depending on environmental conditions. In this study, we aimed to examine the accession‐by‐environment interaction for seven traits in timothy accessions grown in Southern Poland using the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The plant materials used in the study included a total of 11 timothy accessions—six Polish synthetic cultivars (Skald, Egida, Emma, Skala, Skaut and Karta) and five strains (POB‐TT1, POB‐TT2, POB‐TT3, POB‐T‐100 and POB‐T‐107). All these accessions were examined in field trials at three locations, Polanowice, Nieznanice and Palikije, in two growing seasons. The field trials were conducted according to a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The AMMI analyses revealed significant effects of accession and environment as well as the accession‐by‐environment interaction for all the seven analysed traits. The cultivar Skald and the strain POB‐TT3 are recommended for inclusion in future breeding programmes as they exhibit high stability and show good average values for the majority of the examined traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological diversity within a mixture field allows for better use of habitat and agro-technical conditions by the mixtures, which can be seen by higher and more stable yields than varieties sown separately. Our studies were conducted in the growing seasons 2011/2012-2014/2015 as field experiments with four winter barley varieties (Bombaj, Gil, Gregor, Bażant) and three, two- and three-component mixtures (Bombaj/Gil, Bombaj/Gregor, Gil/Gregor/Bażant). Seven different chemical treatments with fungicides were applied. The aim of this study was to compare the different varieties of winter barley with their mixtures for resistance to powdery mildew infection. To achieve this aim the logistic model for the analysis of data was used. Of the varieties under consideration, the best and the most resistant variety was Gregor, while the weakest and the most susceptible to diseases (powdery mildew) was Gil. This variety was also significantly weaker than any of the other mixtures taken into account. Moreover, it was so weak that when it was included in mixtures with other varieties, it weakened these mixtures as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variance components must be obtained to estimate genetic parameters and predict breeding values. In studies which take many traits into account, it is reasonable to use the Bayesian approach for the estimation of genetic parameters. The main goal of the present research was not only to consider the genetic correlations of the examined traits, but above all to estimate unknown genetic parameters and to gain profits from the selection. Bayesian inference was also useful for the selection of the best maize varieties. It was applied to predict genetic values in the multi-traits linear model. Thirteen maize cultivars representing the traits of our interest were studied by means of Bayesian inference. The traits are the number of plants before harvest, the grain yield, the length of the ears, the mass of leaves and the number of ears. The experiment involved a randomised block design with four replications and ten plants per plot. The highest correlation estimates were found between the number of plants before harvest and the number of ears, jointly with the grain yield and the number of ears. Lower correlation estimates were found between the length of the ears and the number of ears as well as the grain yield and the length of the ears. The research confirms that the best varieties to be grown are: Clarica, NK Cooler, Drim and PR 39K13. The Bayesian approach proved to be useful in selection studies, which can further be used to improve the studied genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by many filamentous fungi, such as Fusarium, and are widespread in nature and can adversely affect almost all organisms. Mycotoxins can be formed in very different conditions such as when plants are growing or in crops that are stored in improper conditions. One of the methods to prevent the formation of mycotoxins in powdered feed is using varieties of appropriate quality and proper mineral fertilization, primarily nitrogen. In this study, the concentration of ergosterol and mycotoxins in the kernels of two maize cultivars from different maturity groups in Poland during the harvest of 2011 and 2012 was investigated using HPLC methods. We aimed to analyse the concentration of ergosterol as a fungal biomass indicator and mycotoxins from two maize cultivars under six different forms of nitrogen fertilizers. The "stay‐green" hybrid ES Paroli was characterized by a significantly lower ergosterol and the ability to accumulate the mycotoxins, compared to the classic cultivar ES Palazzo. The varieties of maize that remain green for a longer time period, the so‐called stay‐green type, are characterized by a different coefficient of nitrogen remobilization compared to the classic hybrids. Their dynamics of growth and accumulation of nutrients indicates a nitrogen fertilization system, indicating that slow‐release fertilizers are potentially more adapted to the cycles of maize vegetation. Hence, compared to the classic variant, the "stay‐green" variety uses nitrogen more effectively from mineral fertilizers. Such hybrids are healthier and remain in good condition for a longer time; therefore, they are characterized by a lower pathogen pressure. Thus, the cultivation of such varieties can be considered as one of the elements of integrated maize production. We observed identical reactions of the studied experimental factors for both vegetation seasons, which indicates the lack of environmental impact on the functioning and interaction of experimental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was the model fitting of data deriving from a three-year experiment with barley malt. Two linear models were considered: a fixed linear model with fixed effects of years and other factors, and a mixed linear model with random effects of years and fixed effects of other factors. Two cultivars of brewing barley, Sebastian and Mauritia, six methods of nitrogen fertilization and four germination times were analyzed. Three quantitative traits were observed: practical extractivity of the malt, malting productivity, and a quality coefficient Q. The starting point for the statistical analyses was the available experimental material, which consisted of barley grain samples destined for malting. The analyses were performed over a series of years with respect to fixed or random effects of years. Due to the strong differentiation of the years of the study and some significant interactions of factors with years, annual analyses were also carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of molecular markers makes the selection process much more effective. Marker assisted selection is an important tool for plant breeders to increase the efficiency of a breeding process, especially for multigenic traits, highly influenced by the environment. Epistasis is the interaction between alleles from two or more loci determining the complex traits, and thus plays an important role in the development of quantitative traits of crops. In this paper, the relationships between RAPD marker-by-marker interactions and 22 quantitative traits of caraway (Carum carvi L.) were analyzed. Significant associations of 116 epistatic markers with at least one trait in 2004 as well as 112 in 2005 were found on the basis of multivariate regression analysis. The proportion of total phenotypic variances of individual trait explained by the marker-by-marker interactions ranged from 25.3% to 96.0%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess soil tillage methods by years interaction for harvest index (HI) of maize (Zea mays L.) grown in West Poland by the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The study comprised four soil tillage methods, analysed in 12 years through field trials arranged in a randomised complete block design, with four replicates. HI of the tested soil tillage methods varied from 0.354 to 0.692 throughout the 12 years, with an average of 0.530. In the variance analysis, 57.06% of the total harvest index variation was explained by years, 2.39% by differences between soil tillage methods, and 8.71% by soil tillage methods by years interaction. HI is highly influenced by year factors. The method of reduced conventional tillage [autumn shallow ploughing (15 cm), cultivator with string roller in spring] was the most stable (additive main effects and multiplicative interaction stability value, ASV=0.410) for the HI values among studied soil tillage methods. This result confirms the opinion on the possibility of shallowing autumn ploughing in the cultivation of maize for grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt was made to assess the reaction of seeds to mechanical loads, taking into account their geometry expressed as seed thickness and 100 seed weight. The research material comprised the collection material of chickpeas representing various geographical regions in the world. Generally, the small-seeded accessions expressed by 100 seed weight were characteristic of the Desi type, with the lowest values of 12.3 and 14.6 g, respectively, concerning the seeds originating in Ethiopia and India, and the highest value (26.6 g) for the accession derived from Turkey. The large-seeded accessions were typical of the Kabuli type, with the highest value of 100 seed weight above 50 g obtained for the accession derived from Czech Republic. The obtained results allowed for selecting the chickpea accessions displaying a high resistance of seeds to static loading, from among both the Kabuli and Desi plant types. The average protein contents for the Kabuli and Desi seed types were on the same level (14.6%), ranging for all the accessions under analysis from 11.8% to 18.4%. The fat values ranged from 6.4% for Desi type No. 44 originating in Ethiopia, to 13.7% for Kabuli type No. 26 of Turkish origin, and the average content was slightly higher in the Kabuli seed type (8.73%) than in the Desi seed type (7.89%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess genotype-by-environment interaction for seed glucosinolate content in winter rapeseed cultivars grown in western Poland using the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The study concerned 25 winter rapeseed genotypes (15 F1 CMS ogura hybrids, parental lines and two European cultivars: open pollinated Californium and F1 hybrid Hercules), evaluated at five locations in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The seed glucosinolate content of the tested genotypes ranged from 5.53 to 16.80 µmol·g-1 of seeds, with an average of 10.26 µmol·g-1. In the AMMI analyses, 48.67% of the seed glucosinolate content variation was explained by environment, 13.07% by differences between genotypes, and 17.56% by genotype-by-environment interaction. The hybrid PN66×PN07 is recommended for further inclusion in the breeding program due to its low average seed glucosinolate content; the restorer line PN18, CMS ogura line PN66 and hybrids PN66×PN18 and PN66×PN21 are recommended because of their stability and low seed glucosinolate content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments showed the occurrence of such agrophages as the frit fly (Oscinella frit L.) and the European maize borer (Pyrausta nubilalis Hbn.). Identified diseases included fusariosis (Fusarium ssp.) and maize smut (Ustilago maydis Corda). The incidence of the frit fly was influenced by weather conditions, mainly temperature, in the period from sowing to the BBCH 15-16 phase. Moderate temperature conditions contributed to the occurrence of the pest. The significantly highest percentage of plants damaged by larvae of this pest was recorded on maize fertilised only with potassium (K) and phosphorus with potassium (PK). In turn, the lowest percentage of plants damaged by frit fly larvae was recorded for maize fertilised with nitrogen and potassium (NK). The percentage of plants damaged by the European maize borer was influenced by temperature and humidity conditions in individual years of the study. The highest percentage of plants damaged by larvae of the pest was found in the vegetation season characterised by the highest amount of rainfall with the lowest mean daily air temperature. The presence of potassium in a given fertiliser combination, the application of manure or combined application of manure and mineral fertilisation resulted in an enhanced resistance of maize plants to Fusarium ssp. fungi. The significantly greatest infestation of maize plants by the fungus Ustilago maydis Corda was recorded in the treatment in which only nitrogen was applied. In turn, the lowest percentage of plants with symptoms of this disease was recorded in the treatment with the application of potassium alone and in the application of potassium together with phosphorus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trap catch of Agriotes species and dynamics of the occurrence of adult click beetles using pheromone traps were determined, and the relationship between the dynamics of the caught wireworms and the placement of traps in selected agricultural crops was investigated. The study was conducted in 2011-2014 in the fields of different crops at five localities in two regions in Poland. The effectiveness of trapping the Elateridae beetles using pheromone traps varied in different localities. The results of the analysis of variance indicate statistically significant differences in the number of A. lineatus beetles only in individual years of research. On average, most individuals of this species were observed in the first year of observation (72.62), and the least - in 2012 (18.5). Statistically significant differences in the occurrence of beetles in each month were observed for all species except A. obscurus. No statistically significant differences between populations of the tested Agriotes species were observed in different localities. Their effectiveness was influenced largely by weather conditions. Pheromone traps work well and can be a part of an assessment system for the integrated pest management of Agriotes species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiments were conducted in the years 2009-2011. The paper presents an analysis of variation and interdependencies of components of grain yield structure with grain yield for two maize hybrids differing in their genetic profiles in view of varied soil resources of N and Mg. The simple correlation analysis and the path coefficient analysis were used to evaluate dependencies between grain yield and components of yield structure. Values of grain yield structure components were more advantageous in the stay-green hybrid than in the conventional cultivar. In cv. ES Palazzo the greatest direct effect, corresponding to the standardized partial regression coefficients, on the volume of grain yield was found for 1000 kernel weight (0.85), while for the hybrid ES Paroli stay-green it was the number of productive ears per unit area (0.67). The analysis of variance results indicated that effects of years, cultivars and year × nitrogen application rates interaction were significant for all the observed traits. Under conditions of the field trials the application of Mg as a macroelement determining grain yield structure components was inefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of genetic diversity or similarity between parents has been proposed as a predictor of F1 generation performance and heterosis for seed yield. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fluorescent-labeled primers to evaluate the genetic relationships between 101 oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) genotypes to maximize the selection of different parents in a breeding program. The collection of genotypes included 25 cytoplasmic male sterility ogura and 21 restorer lines (Rfo). The set of genotypes was completed with B. napus cultivars of Polish, European, and Asian origin and resynthesized lines. Ten primer-enzyme combinations (EcoRI and MseI) were used. Genetic similarities among genotypes were estimated in accordance with the Nei and Li coefficient of similarity, and then the unweighted pair group method using arithmetic averages method was applied for the creation of a dendrogram. A total of 344 reproducible, polymorphic markers were obtained. Unweighted pair group method using arithmetic averages clustering based on the Nei and Li coefficient of similarity separated the 101 genotypes into four distinct clusters. Analysis of molecular variance showed that 90% of the detected variation was found within the group, while the variation among groups contributed to only 10%. Our results indicate that the AFLP technique seemed to be a suitable molecular method for assessing genetic relationships between oilseed rape inbred lines with high levels of accuracy. Genetic similarity evaluated on the basis of AFLP molecular markers is a significant addition to classical methods of selection of parental components of winter oilseed rape hybrid varieties (e.g., 'Poznaniak'). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to present the comparison of three models applied to the analysis of a one-year study of protein yield for two types of hybrid maize cultivars under different forms of nitrogen fertilizer and doses of magnesium. The field trial was conducted in 2010 at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Swadzim (Poland). The results obtained were analyzed in terms of three randomization-derived models of observations. Consideration was given to three mixed systems, which are combinations of split-plot design, split-block design and randomized complete block design. The relative efficiency of the designs with respect to estimation of some comparisons among treatment combination effects was examined. Particular attention was paid to the interaction between cultivars and nitrogen fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chrysanthemums are undoubtedly one of the most popular flowering plants in the world. Their exceptional importance in Asian culture resulted in the global popularization of this species, which resulted in the high interest of breeders. Chrysanthemums can be divided into three groups: small-flowered, mid-flowered, and large-flowered. The exceptional economic importance and a large number of varieties make them problematic to identify, resulting in a less efficient breeding process. In the case of chrysanthemums, genotypes are almost impossible to distinguish by using phenotypic methods due to the high variation in morphological characteristics, even when they belong to the same group. The aim of the study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of 97 chrysanthemum cultivars using 14 selected SSR markers. Large-flowered varieties (Angali and Rosee D'une) were characterized by the smallest mutual distance, and the greatest distance was between large-flowered (Impact Rood) and small-flowered (Conaco Yellow) varieties. All methods of visualizing the results reveal a clear distinctiveness of small-flowered cultivars, except for the cultivars from the Moira series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were carried out at the Department of Agronomy of the Poznań University of Life Sciences to determine the effect of the depth of NP fertilization placement in maize cultivation on the number of plants after emergence. The adopted assumptions were verified based on a six-year field experiment involving four depths of NP fertilizer application (A1—0 cm (broadcast), A2—5 cm (in rows), A3—10 cm (in rows), A4—15 cm (in rows)). The objective of this study was to assess NP fertilizer placement depth, in conjunction with the year, on the number of maize (Zea mays L.) plants after emergence using the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The number of plants after emergence decreased with the depth of NP fertilization in the soil profile, confirming the high dependence of maize on phosphorus and nitrogen availability, as well as greater subsoil loosening during placement. The number of plants after emergence for the experimental NP fertilizer placement depths varied from 7.237 to 8.201 plant m−2 during six years, with an average of 7.687 plant m−2. The 61.51% of variation in the total number of plants after emergence was explained by years differences, 23.21% by differences between NP fertilizer placement depths and 4.68% by NP fertilizer placement depths by years interaction. NP fertilizer placement depth 10 cm (A3) was the most stable (ASV = 1.361) in terms of the number of plants after emergence among the studied NP fertilizer placement depths. Assuming that the maize kernels are placed in the soil at a depth of approx. 5 cm, the fertilizer during starter fertilization should be placed 5 cm to the side and below the kernel. Deeper NP fertilizer application in maize cultivation is not recommended. The condition for the use of agriculture progress, represented by localized fertilization, is the simultaneous recognition of the aspects of yielding physiology of new maize varieties and the assessment of their reaction to deeper seed placement during sowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents the results of two field studies (Experiment I, Experiment II), whose aim was to assess the impact of agriculture factors on maize green mass and leaf greenness index (Soil and Plant Analysis Development, SPAD) in critical growth stages, as well as to determine the relationship between the SPAD index and the yield of green maize for ensiling. It was shown that thermal and humidity conditions in maize growing seasons determined the value of the SPAD leaf greenness index and the yield of maize harvested for silage. Row application of mineral fertilizer (N, NP) and selection of "stay-green" varieties guarantee a higher yield of maize green mass. Growing maize in direct sowing reduces chlorophyll content expressed in SPAD units, thereby reducing plant nitrogen condition, which significantly decreases the yield of biomass intended for silage. The SPAD leaf greenness index determined in critical stages of maize growth can be considered as a yield predictor of green mass for ensiling. The examined maize cultivars were divided into two groups on the basis of hierarchically grouping using the unweighted pair group method of arithmetic means. The first group comprised cultivars SY Cooky and Drim "stay-green," while the second one included cultivars ES Paroli "stay-green" and ES Palazzo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsatellite or simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers have wide applicability for genetic analysis in crop plant improvement strategies. Marker-assisted selection is an important tool for plant breeders to increase the efficiency of a breeding process, especially for multigenic traits, highly influenced by the environment. In this paper, the relationships between SSR markers and 26 quantitative traits of hybrid maize varieties (Zea mays L.) were analyzed. Association analyses were performed based on 30 SSR primers in a set of thirteen hybrid maize varieties. A total of 112 SSR markers were detected in these genotypes. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 1 to 17, with the average number of alleles per locus equal to 3.7. The number of molecular markers associated with observed traits ranged from 1 (for the number of kernels in row, ears weight and fresh weight of one plant) to 14 (for damage of maize caused by P. nubilalis) in 2016 as well as from 1 (for soil plant analysis development—SPAD, the number of grains in ear and fresh weight of one plant) to 12 (for carotenoids content) in 2017. The sum of statistically significant associations between SSR markers and at least one trait was equal to one hundred sixty in 2016 as well as one hundred twenty-five in 2017. Marker trait associations (MTAs) were found on the basis of regression analysis. The proportion of the total phenotypic variances of individual traits explained by the marker ranged from 24.4% to 77.7% in the first year of study and from 24.3% to 77.9% in 2017. Twenty-two SSR markers performed a significant effect on at least one tested trait in both years of experiment. The three markers (phi021/4, phi036/3, and phi061/2) can be a good tool in marker-assisted selection because they allow simultaneous selection for multiple traits in both years of study, such as the number of kernels in row and the number of grains in ear (phi021/4), the number of plant after germination, the number of plants before harvest, and the number of ears (phi036/3), as well as moisture of grain and length of ears (phi061/2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica napus (L.), winter oilseed rape (WOSR) or canola, is one of the most important oilseed crop species of the moderate climate zone. Improving the seed quality and yield makes the main target in breeding programs worldwide. In this study, we examined the genotype-by-environment (G×E) interaction with respect to six seed traits among 25 WOSR genotypes. The plant material included the registered canola cultivars, our newly developed mutant breeding lines and the Ogura F1 hybrids and their parental components, in addition to our domestic breeding lines including two semi-resynthesized (semi-RS) lines. The 25 genotypes were examined in field trials at two locations, in three growing seasons. Seed oil and protein content, total glucosinolates (GLS) content in seed meal and C18 unsaturated fatty acid (oleic, linoleic and linolenic) composition in seed oil were examined. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analyses revealed significant effects of both, genotype (G) and environment (E) as well as the G×E interaction regarding the analyzed seed traits. In our study, two Ogura F1 hybrids, a CMS line and a new high oleic mutant breeding line revealed high stability and good average values for most of the analyzed seed traits, thus making a valuable source of starting materials for further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field trials were conducted in the years 2017–2019 at the Małopolska Plant Breeding in the Plant Breeding Stations in Polanowice, Nieznanice and Palikije. The trials were designed to determine the yield of some timothy genotypes in the context of chemical composition under different habitat conditions. The present evaluation of the strain quality shows a high potential for breeding. The analyzed genotypes produced high dry matter yields, which differed by as much as 53%. The experimental plots also differed in the crude protein content, which varied from 104.5 to 230.1 g kg−1 d.m., depending on the crop and year of harvest. For crude fiber, these values ranged from 173.9 to 274.8 g kg−1 d.m., depending on the crop and harvest year. The analysis of the mineral composition also revealed significant large variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of maize yield depends on many factors. Among them, plant health plays a significant role. Herbicide selectivity (of mesotrione, 2,4-D, and bromoxynil) for different maize varieties was assessed in greenhouse experiments. The effectiveness of herbicides (MCPA, 2,4-D + dicamba) and spraying mixture of the herbicide MCPA with mepiquat chloride was tested on Chenopodium album L. and self-seeding winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). The genetic distance between selected maize varieties and species composition of pathogens of the genus Fusarium isolated from the seeds of the discussed crop were examined. Research results indicated that individual herbicides differed in the selectivity in relation to maize, which depended on the crop variety. The selected herbicides showed high efficacy against the plants used in the experiment. The addition of mepiquat chloride to the composition of the spraying liquid did not affect the level of weed control. No relationship was found between the genetic distance of maize varieties and their sensitivity to selected herbicides. The presence of Fusarium subglutinans, Fusarium proliferatum, and Fusarium verticillioides was found in the samples of maize varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of uptaking macroelements by plants from sewage sludge is still actual and controversial question. Sewage sludge (the by-product of sewage purification) contains many precious macroelements like N or P, beside heavy metals. These nutrients are used for willow growth and development, and ultimately to obtain high yields of biomass. The paper presents results on the impact of municipal sewage sludge on the concentration of macroelements (N, P, Mg, Ca, Na and K) in the stem of several clones of willow. Field experiment was carried out at Experimental Station Pawlowice (Poland) during the years 2009–2010 on grey-brown soil. Trials were conducted according to two factors and the split-plot method. Following factors were investigated: I—various doses of sewage sludge: 75 t ha −1 fresh weight of sewage sludge (14.3 Mg ha −1 d.m.) and 150 Mg ha −1 fresh weight (28.5 Mg ha −1 d.m.) and II—clones (1001 Salix viminalis × dasycladis ssp. Baltica , 1047 Salix viminalis var gigantea , 1053 Orm Valne , 1054 Salix viminalis 082) of Salix viminalis L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]