ISSN:
1439-0523
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
The use of high nitrogen (N) inputs is becoming restricted in many countries due to environmental and economic considerations and reliable information is needed about parameters pertinent for breeding N-use efficient triticales (x Triticosecale Wittmack). This study reports estimates of variances, heritabilities, correlations, and regression for 36 triticales, grown at three locations for 2 years with two N regimes (zero and normal N supply). Eleven traits were assessed. A 45% mean reduction in grain yield by low N input was mainly the result of a 25% lower number of tiller-bearing spikes per m2 and 17% fewer kernels per spike, whereas 1000-kernel weight was little affected. Genotype-nitrogen interaction was of importance only in some environments and for certain traits. Heritability estimates at both N levels were similar and moderate to high. Correlations between N levels were high for nearly all traits. Regression analysis for grain yield revealed only few N-efficient triticales with lower than unity slope together with a high grain yield. Based on the genetic parameters, it is concluded that a special low input breeding programme does not appear to be necessary in triticale. The breeder can select at either of the N levels with similar response. But he should include tests in low productivity environments at some early stages in the breeding process to avoid loss of genetic variation for N-use efficiency.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0523.1996.tb00954.x
