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Abstract The objective of this work was to estimate the repeatability coefficients of variables related to fruit and nut production, the minimum number of crops required for genotype selection, and the permanent phenotypic correlation coefficients between variables in a cultivated population of Amazon nut. A total of 40 genotypes from seeds, belonging to an agroforestry system implemented in 1995, in the state of Roraima, Brazil, were evaluated during ten years for six variables related to fruit and nut production. The genetic-statistical analyses were performed using the maximum restricted likelihood and best linear unbiased prediction (REML/BLUP) method, based on the basic model of repeatability, without an experimental design, of the Selegen-REML/BLUP software. Genetic variability between genotypes and a moderate regularity in the repetition of the studied variables between different harvests were detected. The number of harvests required to reach a coefficient of determination of 80% ranged from seven, for the variables average nut weight per fruit and number of fruits per plant, to nine, for average nut weight. The correlation results indicate the possibility of indirect selection for nut production through the evaluation of the number and weight of fruits per plant.

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ABSTRACT Cowpea is a species used for various purposes, including green grain production. New cowpea cultivars should be developed to answer the growing market demands for green gains, which can be achieved via breeding programs. In this scenario, diallel cross is a breeding method that allows researchers to select the most suitable parents for hybridization. From this perspective, this study aimed to identify cowpea parents and hybrids with good combining abilities to initiate a breeding program aimed at green grain production. The experiment was developed at the Plant Science Department of the Federal University of Ceará. Fifteen treatments (five parents and ten hybrids) were set up in a randomized block design with ten replications. The variables of green pod length, green pod mass, number of grains, grain mass per green pod, and green grain length were studied in this experiment. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, test of means, and diallel analysis. The parents and hybrids showed variations for the evaluated traits. Both additive and non-additive effects influence the behavior of inherited traits. The parent CE0002 and hybrid combinations BRS Juruá x CE1002 and CE0957 x CE0002 are recommended for selection, showing desirable aspects for green grain production.

The correlation estimation and its partition into cause and effect is seen as a valuable tool in obtaining gains from selection in plant breeding. This allows the anticipation of choosing the best genotypes. Thus, the objective of this study was to consider indirect selection for simultaneous improvement of root and aboveground traits in segregating common bean populations. The experiment was carried out in the 2021/22 season, considering six common bean genotypes, two parents and four segregating generations (F2, F3, F4 and F5), under a lattice design. Root system traits were measured by two phenotyping methods, called Shovelomics and WinRHIZO. The aerial part traits evaluated were chlorophyll content, plant height, stem diameter, first pod height insertion and yield components (number of pods, number of grains and weight of grains per plant). Correlation analysis and cause and effect analysis (path analysis) were performed. Significant correlation estimates (t) were found between root and aerial traits, with emphasis on chlorophyll B content with left horizontal length (t = -0.22) and chlorophyll A content with total root length (t = 0.24). The unfolding of these estimates by path analysis indicated that the chlorophyll A content has a correlation and a high direct effect on the total length of roots and that the total chlorophyll content indirectly influences the left and right horizontal root lengths. This fact makes it possible to obtain gains with the selection of improved common bean plants for root system based on the direct and indirect evaluation of chlorophyll contents, easily measured in the aerial part of the plants. This allows the optimization of time and resources in breeding programs, aiming at obtaining agronomically superior plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Due to the economic importance of maize, it is essential to evaluate the performance of genotypes under environmental variations (years, locations, and seasons). Consequently, researchers have scrutinized genotype-environment (G×E) interactions to ensure reliability in genotype recommendations. Furthermore, when a G×E interaction exists, adaptability and stability analysis can be performed. This analysis enables one to identify genotypes with predictable responses and adaptability to environmental variability. Hence, this study sought to determine if there is a G×E interaction and evaluate the response of 16 maize genotypes across seven environments through adaptability and stability analyses. Seven experiments were conducted with 16 maize genotypes using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Tassel length (TL), tassel branch number (TBN), tassel dry matter (TDM), and grain yield (GY) were evaluated. Individual and joint variance analyses were performed, along with the F-test at a 5% significance level. The complex parts of the interaction between genotypes and pairs of environments were estimated, followed by adaptability and stability analyses using the Eberhart and Russell method. A genotype-environment interaction was found for TL, TBN, TDM, and GY, indicating that genotypes respond differently in various environments. However, considering all four traits, there is no indication of the ideal genotype.

ABSTRACT Watermelon has great importance due to its nutritional properties. The aim of this work was to study accessions classified as resistant to fusariosis. Twelve accessions and two cultivars, Sugar Baby and Charleston Gray (controls), were characterized for watermelon fruit quality descriptors. The experiment was conducted in Petrolina-PE, over two production cycles in a randomized complete block design, with three repetitions and five plants per plot. Two fruits per plot were sampled for characterization. Ten quantitative and seven qualitative descriptors were evaluated. For the qualitative traits, dissimilarity measures were determined by a matrix of Euclidean distance. At the second harvest, most accessions had higher organic acid and vitamin C content in the pulp and higher soluble solids (°Brix) content. The accessions were divided into four groups according to the Tocher method. There is variability among the evaluated accessions, and the accessions BGH-Univasf 40, BGH-Univasf 169, and BGH-Univasf 177 are potential sources for use in watermelon breeding programs. Accessions BGH-UNIVASF 76, BGH-UNIVASF 128, and BGH-UNIVASF 185 (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) performed well in terms of total production, fruit mass, and vitamin C content.

ABSTRACT: This study carried out early selection of soybean progenies that are productive and resilient to environmental conditions. The experiment took place at the Genetic Breeding Program of UNIJUI (University of the Northwest of the State of Rio Grande do Sul), located in Ijuí - RS, Brazil. The experiment used augmented blocks design with interim checks. The regular treatments correspond to 24 soybean F2 populations and the common treatments were 18 commercial checks, arranged in four replications. At full physiological maturity, in each experimental unit, five plants were randomly collected to obtain seed weight per plant (SWP, g). The Jinks and Pooni methodology was used to calculate the probability of extracting superior lineages from the evaluated populations. The best control and promising cultivars to compose the parent bank are BMX FORÇA RR, FUNDACEP 66 RR and TMG 7062 IPRO. Jinks and Pooni’s methodology identified populations IRC001, IRC002, IRC017, IRC019, IRC028, IRC030, IRC032, IRC033, IRC035, IRC036, IRC039 and IRC040 as having high potential for extraction of superior lineages.

The resistance of Cape gooseberry to Fusarium oxysporum was evaluated in 70 accessions of Physalis peruviana and related taxa (P. philadelphica, P. ixocarpa, P. floridana, P. pubescens, P. angulata, P. pruinosa, P. viscosa, P. mexicana, Nicandra physalodes, and Solanum auriculatum). These accessions were obtained from different national and international collections, including accessions from the Colombian productive sector. These represented wild materials, commercial cultivars, native and foreign weeds, and commercial ecotypes from the main producing countries: Colombia, South Africa, Kenya, and Peru. The evaluation of resistance to F. oxysporum was carried out under greenhouse conditions using the most aggressive strain supplied by the Fusarium collection maintained by the molecular microbiology laboratory of the Center for Biotechnology and Bioindustry (CBB), currently in charge of the Working Collection of Microorganisms of Agrosavia, which was isolated from infected fields. The symptoms were monitored using a severity scale, containing 10 degrees and five categories. Data information obtained from daily evaluations was analyzed through a severity evaluation and different statistical analyses. The results identified one accession belonging to Physalis peruviana and two related taxa (Physalis floridana and Solanum auriculatum) as resistant to this pathogen. These accessions could be directly used in breeding programs, either as improved cultivars or as race-specific resistance donors for other Physalis peruviana genotypes.

ABSTRACT Large amounts of nitrogen (N) fertilizers applied to maize cropping systems support high yields but cause adverse environmental impacts. The development of cultivars with higher N use efficiency is essential to maintain sustainable production. Thus, the present study aimed to select popcorn inbred lines efficient and responsive to N fertilization expressing high popping expansion. Fifty-one popcorn inbred lines from different origins were evaluated in the field under low and high N availability, arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The two main traits of economic interest in the crop were evaluated: grain yield (GY) and popping expansion (PE). A joint analysis of variance was performed and a scatter plot was generated to classify the inbred lines regarding the response to the N use, focusing on GY. For PE, a Scott-Knott grouping of means was conducted. Within the panel of evaluated popcorn inbred lines, it was possible to identify sources of favorable alleles for nitrogen use efficiency and popcorn expansion, highlighting the inbred lines L205, L206, L217, and L395. These genotypes emerge as potential parents to be included in mating blocks for the development of hybrids and/or breeding populations with high nitrogen use efficiency and popping expansion.

Abstract The objective of this work was to investigate the causes of sterility in a new set of triploid banana (Musa spp.) cultivars and to assess the chances of obtaining some progenies by manual cross-pollination. The developmental stages of female gametophyte were histologically recorded in ovules of four distinct triploid banana cultivars. Samples were taken on the day of flower opening and pollination and three days later. Morphologically mature embryo sacs were very rare in the two clones of the 'Cavendish' subgroup and in 'Prata Anã'. In 'Mysore', it occurred at a variable and low frequency. In 'Terrinha', it was extremely common. In the last two cases, the embryo sac maturation process was clearly continuing between the sampling days of flower opening and three days later. No pollen tube was positively identified in pollinated flowers within the integuments of any ovule of the older explants. Different proportions of mature embryo sacs are observed among the studied triploid genotypes of banana. The presence of mature embryo sacs is not an indication of functional capacity. Other causes of infertility in cultivated bananas can be due to some event immediately before or after fertilization, for instance, pollination tube growth failure or seed abortion.

Wild palms constitute a group of plants of particular economic importance in the tropics, being a valuable source for obtaining construction materials, fabrics, fuel, food, ornamental and medicinal plants. Despite their economic, social, and environmental importance, the genetic variability existing in wild palms, mainly of the genus Mauritia and Euterpe, is unknown, which limits their potential use and the identification of promising genotypes to be included in recombination programs. The genetic variability of three wild palm species (Euterpe oleracea, Euterpe precatoria, and Mauritia flexuosa) was evaluated using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 51 genotypes were analyzed with seven ISSR primers, which generated a total of 153 bands, with a percentage of polymorphic loci of 90.24%. The cluster analysis revealed the formation of six groups at a similarity level of 37%, grouping the palm genotypes by species and geographical origin. Molecular variance analysis revealed that within group variations contributed more to genetic diversity (89%) than between group variations (11%). The average value of Fstwas 0.20, demonstrating moderate genetic differentiation. The high genetic variability found in this study indicates the valuable genetic potential present in palm germplasm, which could be used for future improvement programs of the species.

To increase productivity, new types of beans that present different characteristics, such as higher grain yieldare necessary. The cultivar RS Centenário is the result of a selection carried out in 2007 using the “Iraí” cultivar, in a plot of genetic seed production. In the 2008 crop season, the seeds of the selected plants originated a segregant population. In 2009, the mass selection was carried out again. After two advancing generations, the phenotypic uniformity of the population was reached and the seeds were harvested in bulk. After several tests, the “SM 0112” lineage was denominated cultivar “RS Centenário” and the results of the assessed at a value for cultivation and use (VCU) trials were used to register the new cultivar. “RS Centenário” was registered as a new cultivar to be commercially grown in the Rio Grande do Sul state (RS), in southern Brazil. “RS Centenário” is a common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivar with a brindle seed coat, average weight of 1,000 seeds of 343 g, erect plants, indeterminate growth habit II/III, cycle of 88 days, high added value and average yield of 1,685 kg ha-1.

Abstract The genus Passiflora is the largest of the Passifloraceae family with many species and great phenotypic variability. There are nineteen species of Passiflora native to Argentina, distributed in four taxonomic subgenera: Passiflora, Decaloba, Dysosmia and Tacsonioides. Unlike most species of the genus, Argentinean species could tolerate colder climates. For most Argentinean species, genome size information is unavailable. The objective of this work has been to estimate the genomic size of 36 genotypes of thirteen Passiflora taxa by flow cytometry and to make a contrast with phenotypic ornamental characteristics. The genomic sizes of P. tucumanensis, P. elegans and P. mooreana are being introduced for the first time. The DNA amount per basic genome varied between 0.54 and 2.52 picograms in P. capsularis and P. alata, respectively. In the species P. caerulea, P. elegans and P. edulis f. flavicarpa, intraspecific variation in genomic size has been registered. The high correlation of genome size with flower diameter, and of leaf area with flower diameter can contribute to the selection of parents for the ornamental plant improvement plan. Also, the data collected in this work will be very useful in the study of inter-specific hybrids.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate root phenotyping methods and the ideal phenological stage to quantify the root system of fixed and segregating common bean populations, in order to select superior genotypes. The experiment was carried out in two municipalities in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, and the treatments consisted of six genotypes, the Shovelomics and WinRHIZO root phenotyping methods, and the V4-4, R6, and R8 phenological stages. The simple lattice experimental design was used to evaluate the following variables: basal root angle, vertical root length, left and right horizontal root length, total root length, projected area, and root average volume and diameter. For all variables, there was a significant interaction between phenotyping methods and phenological stages, showing their influence on root system evaluation. The Shovelomics and WinRHIZO phenotyping methods are efficient in quantifying the root system of common bean plants and show specificity for phenological stages, regardless of the genotype. The quantification of the root system of fixed and segregating genotypes is analogous in both methods. The Shovelomics method is more efficient in evaluating the root system of common bean at the R8 stage, and the WinRHIZO method, at the R6 stage.

Abstract The objective of this work was to verify the correlations between carbon isotopic composition and traits of superior rice genotypes. Twenty genotypes were analyzed for morphology, micromorphology, anatomy, physiological performance, and carbon fingerprint. The plots consisted of 500 L plastic boxes sowed with rice, to allow of a plant density of 300 plants per square meter. Plant anatomy and physiological performance were evaluated using a microscope and an infrared gas analyzer, respectively. There is a correlation between rice water use efficiency (r = 0.45) and carboxylation efficiency (r = 0.39).

Routine evaluations of cooking time trait in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) can be performed in different ways resulting in different variables. At the same time, the univariate statistical analysis does not consider the interdependencies between the variables, and may omit important information regarding the genotypes. With this, the objective of this work was to present an alternative proposal for analysis of the cooking time in common bean, allowing the discrimination between genotypes. The experiment used for this approach was conducted under field conditions in the 2017/18 agricultural season in Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The treatments consisted of twelve genotypes, (four parents, structured in two crossings BAF50 x BAF07 and BAF09 x IPR 88 Uirapuru, with their generations F2, F3, F8 and F9). The design used was randomized blocks, with two blocks and two observations in each experimental unit. After the harvest, the response variable cooking time of the grains was measured with a Mattson cooker, considering the cooking time of the 13 initial stems. In the multivariate analysis, the variables cooking time of the second (TCH2), twelfth (TCH12) and thirteenth stem (TCH13) were used based on their significance by the stepwise variable selection method. Multivariate analysis of variance showed differences between genotypes (P<0.05). From the dissimilarity matrix with the Mahalanobis distances and the clustering dendrogram, it was possible to verify the distances of the genotypes derived from crosses BAF50 x BAF07 and BAF09 x IPR 88 Uirapuru. With that, the multivariate analysis enabled the genotypes, additionally the crossing BAF50 x BAF07 showed higher estimates of dissimilarity in the progenies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caesalpinia ebano is a tropical tree from Colombia; its conservation status is in the endangered category since the remaining populations are suffering genetic erosion. The objective of this study was to estimate the phenotypic (rF) and genetic (rG) correlations among biometric fruit and seeds traits, and the path analysis for the fruit weight. Ten trees (treatments) were evaluated under the random effects model, with 10 fruits/tree as replications. There was significant variability between trees for seven quantitative traits. The fruit weight showed genetic correlations with six traits (0.56* > rG < 1.00**). The number and weight of the seeds per fruit showed high genetic correlations with five traits (rG ≥ 0.85**). The weight of the seeds per fruit exerted direct and indirect effects of greater importance in determining the fruit weight. It is possible to improve the production and physiological quality of the seed by directly selecting trees with fruits of greater seed weight.

ABSTRACT Witches' broom, caused by Moniliophthora perniciosa, is the most important cacao disease in Brazil, and the final objective of this study is increasing the level and durability of resistance to this fungus, through the association of different alleles or genes favorable to the character, for the generation of new cocoa varieties. It was conducted, for 10 years, the evaluation of the number of vegetative brooms and cushions brooms per plant, of progenies from a cross breeding scheme in North Carolina II design, with the clones: Be 4, Cepec 89, CSul 7, EEG 29, ICS 98, Oc 67, RB 39 and Scavina 6, as group 1 of progenitors, and CCN 10, CCN 51, Cepec 86, ICS 9, IMC 76, Na 33, P4b, and SGu 54, as group 2. For both groups there were differences in terms of the general combining ability and specific combining ability. Differences among progenitors and among progenies were also found for the tendencies in the evolution of the number of brooms over the evaluation period. And it was possible to increase the level and durability of resistance through the association of alleles or genes favorable to this character, all the three results confirming the original hypothesis.

One of the challenges of the energy sector is the identification of renewable resources with less impact on the environment and that are economically viable. This study aimed to estimate the genetic diversity of eleven full-sib families of elephant grass, using quantitative traits associated with bioenergy production. The trial followed a randomized blocks design, with four replications and each plot (family) consisting of five plants, totaling 220 genotypes. Five quantitative traits were measured: dry matter yield, dry matter percentage, plant height, stem diameter and number of tillers. The genetic diversity was estimated using multivariate methods (principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering). The analysis revealed a significant genetic diversity among the full-sib of elephant grass, with a greater variability observed for dry matter yield and number of tillers. The families 1, 2, 5, 7 and 8 exhibited superior genotypes for bioenergy production-related traits. The grouping analysis generated twenty clusters, enabling the differentiation of genotypes. Eight clusters comprised genotypes with a high dry matter yield and plant height, simultaneously, surpassing the overall mean for number of tillers.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to identify grape parent varieties that lead to greater frequency of seedless genotypes in the progenies and to understand the relationships between the seedless trait and other fruit traits. A group of 200 hybrids (F1) originating from 38 crosses among cultivars of Vitis vinifera L. and interspecific hybrids were evaluated in Juazeiro, Bahia, Brazil, over six consecutive crop seasons (2018 to 2021). The progenies were placed in three classes based on seedlessness: completely seedless (class 1), seed traces or soft seeds (class 2), and with seeds (class 3). The mean dry matter of the seeds in each class was 0 mg, 2.3 mg, and 25.7 mg respectively, which corresponded to 40 genotypes (20%) in class 1, 52 genotypes (26%) in class 2, and 108 (54%) in class 3. The interspecific cross ‘BRS Isis’ and ‘Marroo Seedless’ stood out through favoring high frequency of seedless individuals in the progeny (47.5%). The traits associated with berry size (length, diameter, and weight) had high positive correlations with each other. The results obtained make an important contribution for table grape breeding aiming at the development of new table grape cultivars.

ABSTRACT Due to its high nutritional value, broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck) is one of the most popular vegetables worldwide. This study assessed 36 phenotypic characteristics of 111 broccoli varieties to understand the phenotypic diversity of new broccoli varieties and improve their breeding speed with advantages and characteristics in China, including 108 new varieties and three varieties of common knowledge. The genetic diversity, the principal component, and the cluster of phenotypic characteristics of broccoli varieties were further investigated. The results showed that the coefficients of variation of 36 characteristics ranged between 11.18 % and 94.99 %, with their diversity index between 0.26 and 1.82. The 111 broccoli varieties were further classified into eight groups, primarily attributed to the differences in phenotypic characteristics, including curd weight, main stem thickness, plant development degree, plant height, and anthocyanin coloration. The cumulative contribution rate of the first five principal components reached 81.186 %, corresponding to 12 representative phenotypic traits. The analysis indicated that the phenotypic characteristics of broccoli were rich in diversity, especially for several characteristics appreciated by the market, such as weight, curd firmness, and anthocyanin coloration. This study revealed the basic information on the genetic diversity of new broccoli varieties in China from 2017 to 2019 and provided potential breeding strategies for broccoli to meet diverse market demands.

ABSTRACT This work aims at evaluating and discriminating crambe genotypes regarding tolerance to water deficit by means of morpho-agronomic and physiological traits. The trial was carried out in a greenhouse under a randomized complete block design with four blocks, in a 2 x 8 factorial scheme, being two environments (with and without stress) and eight genotypes (FMS CR 1101, FMS CR 1106, FMS CR 1203, FMS CR 1305, FMS CR 1307, FMS CR 1312 and FMS CR 1326 and cultivar FMS Brilhante). The genotypes were evaluated according to physiological and morpho-agronomic traits. The significance of the mean squares was tested by the F test (P < 0.05) and the genetic parameters were estimated as ratio b between the genetic (CVg) and experimental (CVe) coefficients of variation, broad-sense heritability at genotypic mean level ( h ^ m 2), intraclass correlation (r) and selective accuracy (Ac). In general, water deficit did not cause severe physiological limitations to the plants. Plant height (PH), total dry mass (TDM) and grain yield (GY) were the traits that stood out for presenting the highest estimates of ratio b, h ^ m 2), CVg and r, revealing the possibility of genetic gains with the selection. Nevertheless, after evaluating the performance of genotypes in terms of physiological and morpho-agronomic traits, it was concluded that cultivar FMS Brilhante and inbred lines FMS CR 1326 and FMS CR 1106 had the most favorable traits for the selection, therefore, presenting potential for water deficit tolerance.

ABSTRACT Amazon chicory is still a little-known vegetable despite its great agronomic potential. The characterization of chicory genotypes concerning genetic divergence is a key step for breeding programs, as it allows the selection of superior individuals and to explore the variability and complementarity of characteristics via interbreeding between newly generated genotypes. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the genetic divergence among Amazon chicory creole genotypes from the northern Brazilian states of Pará and Rondônia based on morpho-agronomic traits. We conducted an experiment in a randomized block design with eight chicory genotypes (treatments) and four replications. Both quantitative and qualitative characteristics were evaluated. Genetic divergence was estimated via squared generalized Mahalanobis distance (D2), considering only quantitative characters, and the genotypes were subsequently clustered via the UPGMA method. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes for all studied characteristics, except shoot fresh weight. The UPGMA grouped the genotypes into three clusters, which demonstrated that the genotypes from Colares and Santarém Novo (Pará) (Chic-02 and Chic-04) were the most divergent as compared to the genotypes from Castanhal and Santa Isabel do Pará (Pará). Qualitative characteristics showed a monomorphic behavior and, therefore, were not used to assess genetic divergences. To obtain segregating populations with complementary characteristics, crossbreeding between the two most divergent clusters is recommended.

Abstract The objective of this work was to characterize the genetic diversity, using ISSR markers, of 70 genotypes of five species of Passiflora spp. in Boyacá, Colombia. For molecular characterization, samples of young leaves were collected from 11 municipalities of the Boyacá department. Genetic similarity was used to cluster the genotypes by the UPGMA method, and genetic structure was evaluated by the Bayesian model. Eight ISSR primers produced 138 loci. The formed cluster consists of two populations, with most individuals of the same species but from different geographic origins. The percentage of polymorphic loci is higher than 80%. The average value of heterozygosity is between 0.29 and 0.36 for population I and II, respectively, and the values of polymorphic information content are low. A moderate genetic differentiation (0.16) and high gene flow (3.35) are observed.

Abstract The objective of this work was to select wheat genotypes aiming to increase the essential amino acids in their grains. The study was carried out in the 2019 crop year, in a randomized complete block design, organized in a 5x5 factorial arrangement – five environments in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (Cachoeira do Sul, Cruz Alta, Santo Augusto, São Gabriel, and Vacaria), and five wheat genotypes ('BRS Parrudo', 'Marfim', 'Quartzo', 'TBIO Mestre', and 'TBIO Sinuelo') –, with two replicates. Polar metabolites were extracted from the flour of the ground wheat grains, derivatized, and evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Both variance components and genetic parameters were estimated for the metabolites. To select the genotypes for the traits of interest, the multi-trait index based on factor analysis and ideotype design, the multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index, and the multi-trait stability index were applied. The wheat genotypes express a high genetic variability and selection possibility for gentiobiose, butyric acid, galactopyranosyl, phenylalanine, tryptophan, leucine, and isoleucine. The 'Marfim' genotype remains stable for essential amino acid levels in the studied environments. The 'Quartzo' genotype stands out in the expression of leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan in its grains.

ABSTRACT Green cowpea is an important alternative for generating employment and income for family farmers and helps broaden production and consumption of the grain. However, biotic factors such as insects, fungi, bacteria, nematodes and viruses have hampered production, especially the Cowpea Severe Mosaic Virus (CPSMV) and Cowpea Aphid-Borne Mosaic Virus (CABMV). The most efficient control of these viruses is via the use of resistant varieties, but few varieties intended for green-grain production are resistant. As such, the aim of this study was to develop and identify superior strains of cowpea in terms of joint resistance to the CPSM and CABM viruses that show characteristics associated with green-grain production. Crosses were carried out in a greenhouse at the Agronomic Institute of Pernambuco (AIP) between the following genotypes: Sempre Verde Salgueiro (susceptible), CNC-0434 (immune to CPSMV) and TVu-966 (resistant to CABMV). From these crosses, fifty F2:5 strains with the Sempre Verde type of grain colouring were selected, their resistance to the viruses assessed in a greenhouse, and their agronomic characteristics for green-grain production evaluated in an experiment at the Experimental Station of the AIP in Belém do São Francisco, Pernambuco. The experimental design was of completely randomised blocks, with three replications. The L300.026, L300.039, L300.040 and L300.049 strains proved to be resistant to both viruses, with a high potential for green-grain production. The Mulamba-Mock selection index facilitated the selection of superior strains that are promising for the future launch of new resistant varieties destined for the production of green grains.

ABSTRACT: Genetic variability is the basis for coffee genetic breeding. This study evaluated the potential of leaf anatomy and morpho-agronomic traits in studies of genetic variability in C. canephoracultivars. Ten genotypes were distributed in randomized block designs with three replicates. Significant differences among genotypes were detected by F-test (P < 0.05) for 13 of 15 evaluated traits. These results evidenced the heterogeneity of the studied cultivars, which is essential in composition of genetic basis in breeding programs. The Scott-Knott test detected variability among genotypes, grouped into up to four mean groups. Leaf anatomy traits presented the largest variations. Five out of seven leaf anatomy traits presented heritability higher than 80%, with emphasis on stomatal density (95.69%) and stomatal pore length (92.72%). Positive correlations were observed among morpho-agronomic and anatomic traits. Cluster analysis used the Mahalanobis general distance (D2) as a measure of genetic dissimilarity and divided the genotypes into two distinct groups. The inclusion of leaf anatomic traits to characterize C. canephoragenotypes may assist plant breeders with better genetic discrimination and with greater security in plant selection when composing cultivars.

Abstract The objective of this work was to estimate the genetic parameters and to evaluate the genotypic diversity of 12 'Tahiti' acid lime (Citrus latifolia) genotypes grafted onto two rootstocks. The experiment was carried out from July 2017 to January 2019, in the municipality of São Mateus, in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. Vegetative (stem diameter, canopy projection diameter, and plant height), productive (yield and fruit number), and fruit quality (fruit diameter, soluble solids content, and juice yield) traits were determined. A mixed model was used to estimate heritability and repeatability coefficients, as well as to predict clonal values. Scion diversity was determined through the standardized mean difference of Euclidean distances, and genotypes were clustered by modified Tocher. Clustering quality and trait importance were evaluated using the principal component analysis (PCA). Genotypic variance was observed, which is indicative of the possibility of selection of superior genotypes. The Tocher method showed the presence of three clusters, which is in alignment with the PCA results. The multivariate analyses allows of the selection and the recommendation of superior 'Tahiti' acid lime genotypes.

Abstract The objective of this work was to estimate the optimal number of harvests for the reliable selection of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) hybrids through the repeatability coefficient. The experimental design was randomized complete blocks with 33 treatments (31 experimental hybrids and 2 commercial ones) and four replicates, with six plants per plot. Fifteen harvests were carried out. Seven morphoagronomic fruit characteristics were evaluated, and repeatability coefficients were estimated using four statistical methods. The repeatability coefficients ranged from low to moderate, regardless of the studied characteristic. For a high-precision selection (R2≥90%), a high number of evaluated harvests was required, especially for traits related to fruit yield, as follows: 30 to 54 harvests for selection based on total yield; and 43 to 83 harvests for commercial yield, which varied according to the statistical estimation method. The principal component analysis based on the covariance matrix required the least number of harvests for a satisfactory selection precision. Fifteen harvests are sufficient for a satisfactory selection of all evaluated characteristics, with a precision above 70%.

Abstract The objective of this work was to determine the inheritance of beta-carotene content in melon (Cucumis melo). The AC-16 accession (Cucumis melo subsp. melo var. acidulus) – with a low beta-carotene content and white mesocarp – was crossed with the Vedrantais cultivar (C. melo subsp. melo var. cantalupensis) – with a high beta-carotene content and salmon colored mesocarp –, to obtain the F1, F2, BC1, and BC2 generations. The AC-16 and 'Vedrantais' parents, the F1 and F2 generations, and the BC1 and BC2 backcrosses of each parent were evaluated. The quantification of beta-carotene was carried out in a high-performance liquid chromatography system. Mean components related to the additive and dominance effects, additive and dominance variances, and heritability were estimated. The beta-carotene content was high in 'Vedrantais' (17.78 µg g-1) and low in AC-16 (0.34 µg g-1). The following results were observed: additive and dominance effects on the genetic control of the character, incomplete character dominance, estimated number of loci close to two, greater variance for segregating populations (F2 and backcrosses), and heritability values in the broad (87.75%) and narrow (64.19%) senses. The beta-carotene content in melon is controlled by a major effect gene, with additive and dominance effects associated with polygenes with additive effects.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the viability of genipap (Genipa americana) pollen grain at room temperature in different culture media. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 3x11 factorial arrangement (culture media x incubation times) with four replicates. The number of germinated pollen grains was analyzed at 24-hour intervals up to 288 hours after incubation at room temperature. The culture medium with 100 mg L-1 H3BO3, 80 g L-1 sucrose, and 1.0 g L-1 agar results in a higher to intermediate germination percentage, being the most suitable for studies on the in vitro viability of genipap pollen grains.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate a procedure for the elicitation of informative prior distribution, compared with non-informative prior distribution, in a small sample size, using 14 traits of three linseed (Linum usitatissimum) genotypes in seven sowing seasons. The values of the hyperparameters regulate the informativeness of the prior distribution; therefore, for each season, the hyperparameters to be used in the next season were calculated. The two prior distributions, non-informative and informative, were compared by the length of the credible interval and variance of the posterior distribution. In general, when the informative prior distribution is adopted, the genetic parameters present a shorter length of the credible interval and more precise estimates. The mechanism for informative prior elicitation using previous information from breeding programs is efficient for the estimation of genetic parameters, including heritability and genetic variance, even when the sample size is small. In genetic evaluation, the use of informative prior distribution is better than that of non-informative distribution for a small sample size. In general, the results of the informative prior distributions are indicative that the genetic values of the first sowing season are greater for the following traits: cycle length, plant height, and number of non-grained capsules and of productive branches.

Abstract The objective of this work was to estimate genetic and phenotypic parameters of black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) lines for reaction to fusarium wilt (RFW), yield, and 100-seed weight (100SW) under conditions of a field naturally infested by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli, as well as to select lines that combine the desirable phenotypes for the three traits simultaneously. For this, 116 lines obtained from two segregating populations and five check cultivars were evaluated using an 11×11 triple lattice experimental design, in the winter crop seasons of 2015 and 2016, with sowing in May. The obtained heritability estimates were high: 91, 75, and 92% for RFW, yield, and 100SW, respectively. Significant genetic correlations of -0.93 were detected between RFW and yield and of -0.28 between RFW and 100SW, indicating that more resistant lines have a higher yield and a larger grain size. Direct selection for each trait led to increases of 34% in resistance to FW, 11% in yield, and 9.0% in 100SW. Simultaneous selection for the three traits led to high gains of 22.1% for RFW, 6.6% for yield, and 7.7% for 100SW. Therefore, there is genetic variability and a high possibility of success from selection. Five lines – CNFP 19237, CNFP 19346, CNFP 19320, CNFP 19291, and CNFP 19306 – show a higher genetic potential.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic dissimilarity between soybean cultivars and genotypes for the selection of parents, as well as to propose a new method for using Kohonen’s self-organizing maps (SOMs) and to test its efficiency through Anderson’s discriminant analysis. The morphoagronomic descriptors of soybean cultivars and genotypes were evaluated. For data analysis, SOM-type artificial neural networks were used. The proposed method allowed the determination of the best network architecture in a nonsubjective way. Furthermore, at the beginning of training, it was possible to mitigate the randomness effect of the synaptic weights on the formed clusters. Six dissimilar clusters were formed; therefore, there is genetic dissimilarity between soybean cultivars and genotypes. Cultivars C25, C8, and C13 can be combined with C36, C31, C32, and C33 because they show good yield-related attributes and high dissimilarity. The proposed methodology is advantageous in comparison with the use of traditional SOMs, besides being efficient due to clustering consistency according to Anderson’s discriminant analysis.

ABSTRACT Ear rot caused by fungi of genus Fusarium (FER) is one of the potentially harmful diseases to grain quality in maize. Given the capacity to produce mycotoxins, FER presents a risk to food safety. This study sought to identify parents and indicate hybrids of popcorn with a higher level of resistance to the incidence and severity of FER. Hybrids were produced from the crossing of 15 lines in S7 generation and 5 testers. The hybrids, together with the parents and five more genotypes used as control, were evaluated in a field trial. It was used a randomized block design arranged in 10 x 10 lattice. Data were submitted to analysis of variance by the F test (p < 0.05) and then by the mean grouping test of Scott Knott (p < 0.05). The results showed the possible to explore new sources of resistance to FER among germplasm evaluated. Both additive and non-additive gene effects are important in FER resistance. To obtain gains in FER resistance, the development of popcorn hybrids should consider the use of parental lines with low means of severity and good general combining ability.

Abstract The objective of this work was to estimate the genetic parameters and genetic divergence of two species of Physalis based on fruit traits, as well as the correlations between these traits. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block, with three treatments (P. philadelphica and the green and purple varieties of P. ixocarpa), and six replicates. The following traits were evaluated: average fruit mass (AFM), soluble solids (SS), longitudinal fruit diameter (LFD), transversal fruit diameter (TFD), total fruit mass (TFM), number of fruit per plant (NF), reducing sugars (RS), and total sugars (TS). Genetic divergence was estimated by Tocher’s and the UPGMA methods. There was genetic divergence between the Physalis species, with a higher contribution of AFM, LFD, and TFD, mainly by Tocher’s method. A positive correlation was observed between AFM x LFD, AFM x TFD, and LFD x TFD, and a negative correlations between LFD x TFM, TFD x TFM, and NF x RS. The species were discriminated by total sugars. The AFM, LFD, TFD, and TS traits show significant genetic variation and high values of heritability; therefore, they are suitable targets for the genetic breeding of the evaluated Physalis species.

Abstract The objective of this work was to investigate the genetic control of black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and to select parents and segregating populations with high resistance to Fusarium wilt, high yield, and greater 100-seed weight (100SW), using a partial diallel cross. Twenty-five populations were obtained from two groups of parents – the first with five parents resistant to and the second with five parents susceptible to Fusarium wilt. The segregating populations were evaluated in experiments in three years/generations for reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100SW in an area naturally infested with the pathogen. The diallel analysis showed additive and nonadditive effects in control of the three studied traits, with predominance of additive effects. CNFP 15194, CNFP 15207, and 'BRS Esplendor' are the genotypes with high and negative general combining ability estimates (gi = -0.59, -0.76, and -0.13, respectively), being recommended for use as parents for resistance to Fusarium wilt. Among them, CNFP 15194 also forms populations with a greater 100SW (gi = 0.69). The BRS FP403 cultivar is recommended as a parent to increase yield (gi = 218) and 100SW (gi = 1.46). Six populations were selected to obtain black bean lines that combine resistance to Fusarium wilt, high yield, and high 100SW.

Abstract The objective of this work was to carry out the morphological characterization of strawberry fruit of different genotypes, as well as to verify their postharvest conservation. Six commercial cultivars (Albion, Aromas, Dover, Festival, Pircinque, and San Andreas) and nine experimental clones (MDA01, MDA19, MDA22, MDA23, MCA89, MCA94, MFA443, MOGSC468, and MFA443PR) were evaluated. Fruit were produced on semi-hydroponic gutters in protected cultivation and classified according to size, shape, color, brightness, achene position, pulp color, “heart” color, fruit cavity, and sepal position. For the postharvest analysis of fruit, the loss of mass and the appearance of fruit during ten days of storage were determined. The evaluated genotypes show a high similarity to each other regarding morphological characterization. MCA89 and 'Pircinque' are the most divergent genotypes in relation to the others. There is an association between the characteristics large cavity, reniform shape, and medium cavity, which contributes to the indirect selection of desirable characters. On the tenth day of storage, the MDA01, MDA19, MCA89, MFA443, and 'Dover' genotypes still show acceptable conditions for commercialization.

The quality of the seed directly impacts the agronomic characteristics and the final yield of the soybean crop. Therefore, the objective of the study was to evaluate different phytotechnical parameters and the final productivity for different soybean cultivars obtained in a certified way and saved by the rural producer. The study was carried out in the Experimental Area of the University of Cruz Alta. During the 2017/2018 harvest, the plant breeding parameters were evaluated: plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, number of pods, lodging and final yield for cultivars NA5909RG, NS5959IPRO, NS5445IPRO and NS6909IPRO under different ways of obtaining, being these, "saved seeds" and "certified seeds". The phytotechnical parameters evaluated were influenced by the way of obtaining the seed for cultivars NS5445IPRO and NS6909IPRO. Among the evaluated cultivars, it was found that the yield of NS5445IPRO and NS6909IPRO were higher in plants from certified seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study aimed to select genotypes resistant to witches’ broom (WB) and black pod (BP), major cacao diseases in Brazil, as well as incorporate resistance genes to moniliasis supplemented by clones EET75 and UF273, forming populations of second-cycle recurrent selection. Moniliophthora perniciosa (2 × 105 basidiospores/mL) was inoculated on 30-day-old seedlings from 72 different progenies, being assessed 60 days later, and a mixture of four isolates of Phytophthora palmivora (3 × 105 zoospores/mL) was inoculated on leaf discs from 58 progenies, observing lesions after seven days. Significant effects of progeny were observed in the tests of resistance to both diseases (p < 0.05). Scavina-6 expressed resistance to both pathogens, 26 crosses did not differ from free-pollinated progenies of Scavina-6 for WB, and ten crosses were higher and 27 similar for BP. Eight crosses were largely resistant to both diseases.

ABSTRACT: The principal component regression (PCR) and the independent component regression (ICR) are dimensionality reduction methods and extremely important in genomic prediction. These methods require the choice of the number of components to be inserted into the model. For PCR, there are formal criteria; however, for ICR, the adopted criterion chooses the number of independent components (ICs) associated to greater accuracy and requires high computational time. In this study, seven criteria based on the number of principal components (PCs) and methods of variable selection to guide this choice in ICR are proposed and evaluated in simulated and real data. For both datasets, the most efficient criterion and that drastically reduced computational time determined that the number of ICs should be equal to the number of PCs to reach a higher accuracy value. In addition, the criteria did not recover the simulated heritability and generated biased genomic values.

ABSTRACT: The Fisher’s infinitesimal model is traditionally used in quantitative genetics and genomic selection, and it attributes most genetic variance to additive variance. Recently, the dominance maximization model was proposed and it prioritizes the dominance variance based on alternative parameterizations. In this model, the additive effects at the locus level are introduced into the model after the dominance variance is maximized. In this study, the new parameterizations of additive and dominance effects on quantitative genetics and genomic selection were evaluated and compared with the parameterizations traditionally applied using the genomic best linear unbiased prediction method. As the parametric relative magnitude of the additive and dominance effects vary with allelic frequencies of populations, we considered different minor allele frequencies to compare the relative magnitudes. We also proposed and evaluated two indices that combine the additive and dominance variances estimated by both models. The dominance maximization model, along with the two indices, offers alternatives to improve the estimates of additive and dominance variances and their respective proportions and can be successfully used in genetic evaluation.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate 94 Paspalum notatum genotypes over two growing seasons to estimate genetic dissimilarity through agronomic traits and the distance between genotypes. This information is used to create an ideotype from the best averages obtained for the set of characteristics evaluated. Seven apomitic, three sexual, and 81 hybrid genotypes were compared with native genotypes “André da Rocha”, “Bagual”, and cultivar “Pensacola” as controls. There is genetic variability in P. notatum for the studied characteristics, and distinct genotypes with superior characteristics can be used in new combinations between apomictic and sexual plants to obtain hybrids. The characters with the greatest relative contribution to the dissimilarity between the genotypes were tiller density, stem dry mass, and leaf dry mass yield. Thus, these characteristics are suitable criteria to infer genetic distance studies in P. notatum . The selection index based on the ideotype is an auxiliary tool in the breeding process. The ideotype must be based on characteristics of interest according to the objective of the breeding program, as well as on the breeder’s prior knowledge in relation to culture.

ABSTRACT Several traits must be simultaneously considered in selection of tobacco cultivars for meeting the requirements of farmers, manufacturers and consumers. Breeders should have an understanding of associations between economically-important traits in order to devise the best strategy to have response to selection for all them. Utilization of selection indices has been shown to be one of the most efficient strategy for selecting for correlated characters. In tobacco, no reports can be found within the academic literature for multiple trait selection. In this study we demonstrate the efficiency of the Sum of the Standardized Variables Index (SSV) for multi-trait selection in tobacco. The method was evaluated using a collection of thirteen inbred lines and hybrids derived using a diallel scheme. The hybrids, parental lines, and checks were evaluated in two field locations. The traits assessed were yield (YLD), general quality index (GQI), leaf stem to lamina ratio, percent total alkaloids, and percent total sugars. We considered weights according to the economic importance of each trait: 0.4 for YLD, 0.3 for GQI and 0.1 for the remaining characters. The SSV index proved to be efficient and easy to interpret, and could be used to generate genetic gain for almost all characters in the desired direction. General combining ability (GCA) explained the larger part of the variation of the index in the diallel analysis. The mean heterosis estimate was 2.02%. Some hybrid combinations exhibited heterosis levels greater than 10%, indicating that increased attention might need to be given to commercialization of F1 hybrids.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the divergence among genotypes of Desmanthus sp. regarding morphological, productive, and qualitative characteristics, as well as to estimate the number of observations necessary to predict the real value of these characteristics. The experiment was conducted in the semiarid of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, using 26 genotypes of Desmanthus sp. from different locations in the region. Seven evaluations were carried out from July 2013 to July 2014. Tocher’s grouping method and standardized average Euclidean distance were used. The coefficients of repeatability (r) and determination (R2) were estimated using two models of the analysis of variance, principal components based on the correlation or covariance matrix, and structural analysis based on the correlation matrix. The variables with the greatest weights were stem diameter, leaf area index, and forage yield, with frequencies of 22.05, 17.57, and 14.58%, respectively. Morphological, productive, and qualitative variability was observed among the genotypes of Desmanthus sp. All characteristics presented r and R2 of high magnitude in the methods of analysis. Up to four evaluation cycles are required to predict (R2=95%) the real value of stem diameter, peduncle length, plant height, leaf length and width, number of leaves, and pod length.

ABSTRACT: White Mold (WM) is a yield–limiting disease found in soybean. However, up to now no cultivars have been genetically resistant to this disease. Given this context, the present study aimed to develop superior soybean lines with resistance to WM, while maintaining other desirable agronomic traits. Two early maturing soybean cultivars (i.e., EMGOPA 316 and MG/BR 46–Conquista), moderately resistant to WM were used for biparental crosses from which the analyzed population was derived. Therefore, we assessed the resistance to WM in early generation testing of this population. Additionally, we determined the agronomic traits, genetic parameters and selection gains. From 348 F2 genotypes, 35 transgressive genotypes moderately resistant to WM were identified, amongst which 22 genotypes showed desirable agronomic traits for early cycle and grain yield. Moreover, 69 lines were selected as the most promising genotypes for each agronomic trait (i.e. based on the number of days to flowering and maturity, plant height at flowering and maturity, number of nodes on main stem at flowering and maturity, number of pods, grain yield, etc.). Among these selected lines, ten progenies emerged as the superior genotypes for grain yield and early cycle. All together, these results demonstrated that the cross between EMGOPA 316 × MG/BR 46 (Conquista) revealed promising progenies with moderate resistance to WM and/or desirable agronomic traits. Thus, these lines could be used as future resources for breeding efforts aimed at improving resistance to WM.

Climate change and population size records threaten food security. Therefore, the call for a more sustainable and efficient crop production has never been more urgent. Traditional plant breeding was one of the first successful approaches to expand cultivation areas and crop yield. Later, biotechnological tools, such as genetically modified organisms containing exogenous DNA, further broadened the limits of agricultural results, yet bringing huge financial, bureaucratic, and public rejection hurdles. In the 90s, scientific advances brought the opportunity to drive mutations using engineered nucleases and since 2013, CRISPR-Cas has emerged as the most practical toolkit to edit genomes. One of the most striking possibilities is to generate edited and non-transgenic plants. In this review, we present the working mechanism of CRISPR-induced mutations, pinpoint the latest techniques developed, as well as its myriad of applications in agriculture. The enhancing scope of CRISPR ranges from introducing traits of agronomic interest – such as herbicide resistance, resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and quality and durability of products – to accelerating plant breeding processes, including haploid induction, generating male-sterile lines, fixating hybrid vigor, and overcoming self-incompatibility. We also discuss regulatory issues surrounding edited plants and derived products around the world, challenges that must be overcome, and future prospects to harness all the potential of this amazing tool to guarantee the new crop production revolution.

The conventional soybean production has been re-establishing itself every year, due to the fact that the international market has demanded products with high agronomic performance and nutritional quality, free of genetically modified organisms. This study aimed to evaluate the adaptability of conventional soybean genotypes in the southwestern Goiás state (Rio Verde, Montividiu and Santa Helena de Goiás), Brazil, during the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 crop seasons. A randomized blocks design was used, being tested eight genotypes (the cultivars BRS284, BRS283, BRS232, BRS317, NT11-1277, INT3459 and M6101 and the line NT1478SP). The grain and oil yields, as well as the oil and protein contents, were evaluated. Multi-environment analyses were performed using a heterogeneous residual variance model, and the GGE biplot analysis was used to describe the interrelationships between genotypes and environments. The most adapted and stable genotypes were BRS 317 for grain yield and BRS 283 for oil yield. They also corresponded more closely to the ideotype for the specific region, thus proving to be promising. NT1478SP showed the highest protein content. In the 2018/2019 crop season, Montividiu was more discriminating for the conventional soybean production, regarding grain and oil yields.

Mixed models and multivariate analysis are powerful tools for selecting superior genotypes in plant breeding programs. The BLUP (best linear unbiased prediction) method has been used to predict genetic values without environmental effects. Furthermore, the FAI-BLUP (ideotype-design index) procedure is especially valuable for plant breeding because of multiple-trait selection. This study aimed to determine the genetic potential of advanced wheat generations using REML/BLUP in combination with multivariate techniques for the selection of superior genotypes. The experiment consisted of eleven wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with three replications. Plant height, spike insertion height, number of tillers, number of spikelets, kernel width, hectoliter weight and kernel weight per plant were determined. The genetic parameters were estimated using the REML/BLUP methodology, and the FAI-BLUP index was calculated using predicted genetic values. The genotypes UFSMFW 1-02, UFSMFW 1-05 and UFSMFW 1-04 show potential to increase the grain yield. The selection gains for number of tillers (14.63 %) and kernel weight per plant (22.35 %) indicate the potential to select superior genotypes.