Field Evaluation of a Soybean Recombinant Inbred Line Population, MD 96-5722 x ‘Spencer' Against Fusarium Virguliforme.

Sudden death syndrome (SDS) caused by Fusarium virguliforme is one of the most devastating diseases in the Midwest. Yield losses typically range between 10 to 15%, but a reduction up to 80% has been previously reported. Although resistance to SDS is controlled by complex genetics and influenced by environmental conditions, it is considered the most effective and economic method utilized to control disease. Therefore characterization of the disease in multiple environments and years is important for soybean breeding programs. Ninety-four F_5:8 lines generated by crossing a resistant line, MD 96-5722, with a susceptible line, ‘Spencer’, were evaluated for two years (2010 and 2011) at two locations (Carbondale and Valmeyer IL) in southern Illinois. The major objectives of this study were to: i) Phenotype lines for their reaction to SDS; ii) Study genotype by environment interaction; and, iii) Select lines for further use in the breeding program.