Genetics and Associations of Wheat Kernel Characteristics.

Wheat kernel characteristics including size, shape, consistency, hardness, density, volume, and weight are essential characteristics that influence flour yield, a fundamental trait for the milling and baking industry. These important quality traits are genetically controlled but are substantially influenced by the environment factors. Therefore, understanding the genetics of these traits is crucial for the selection and development of new cultivars with enhanced kernel characteristics. The objective of this study is to study the genetics of the wheat kernels characteristics traits and their associations with major agronomic and quality traits. To achieve this goal, a population of 160 F₉ recombinant inbreed lines (RILs) was developed using single seed descent method. The RILs population was generated from a cross between two diverse wheat genotypes (ND705 and WCB 462 (PI 414566)).  The study was conducted in summer of 2009 at two locations, Prosper and Carrington, ND. Each experiment included the 160 F₉ RIL, their parents, and seven checks and was laid out in a 13 x 13 lattice design, with two replicates. Data was collected on agronomic traits including yield heading dates, and plant height; kernel traits such as kernel length and width, and flour extraction. Initial examination of data suggests significant difference in grain yield, flour extraction, and kernel characteristics including kernel length and width. Other data are still being analyzed and will be presented in our poster.

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