Evaluation and Utilization of Collection Materials to Solve Idaho Wheat Production Concerns.

Many Idaho growers have received lower prices for their wheat due to low falling number scores caused by late maturity alpha amylase (LMA). Idaho growers have also seen increasing occurrence of Fusarium head blight (FHB) due to cropping system and climate changes. Both of these problems are a threat to the profitability of the state’s wheat industry. . To address these production concerns, the University of Idaho Spring Wheat Breeding and Genetics Program evaluated one hundred and twenty-three hard white spring wheat lines from National Small Grain Collection (NSGC) and conducted a genome-wide association analysis for resistance to LMA and FHB. SNP markers associated with QTL for LMA and FHB resistance were identified. Also, apparently novel sources of resistance to LMA and FHB from the NSGC were discovered. These resources will be used in the breeding program to develop varieties resistant to LMA and FHB.