284-3 Taking Lentil Higher.
See more from this Division: Special Sessions
See more from this Session: Symposium--Pulse Crops: Partners in Resilience
Abstract:
In Saskatchewan, much of the breeding emphasis was originally placed on developing varieties that were adapted to a northern temperate climate. In S. Asia, a similar emphasis was placed on adaptation to the sub-tropical savannah ecosystem. Over time, use of a narrow range of locally adapted germplasm reduces genetic diversity and genetic gain. Using un-adapted germplasm in breeding can be both risky and onerous as it involves multiple backcrosses and intensive phenotyping to retain adaptation characteristics in the progeny. We have recently experienced a dramatic increase in genomic resources for lentil. It should now be possible for the breeders to use molecular tools to identify both adapted and genetically diverse breeding materials for efficient varietal development.
Building upon successful sequencing of the lentil genome, we recently embarked on AGILE (Application of Genomics to Innovation in the Lentil Economy). We are phenotypically and genotypically characterizing genetic variability within cultivated and wild lentil germplasm to determine the genetic basis of domestication and adaptation. We will use the information to develop genomic tools to allow breeders to efficiently use exotic germplasm and wild relatives. We expect that the results of our work will contribute to global lentil genetic improvement, conservation of biodiversity, and global food security.
See more from this Division: Special Sessions
See more from this Session: Symposium--Pulse Crops: Partners in Resilience