Project Number: 5358-21000-039-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Apr 10, 2008
End Date: Apr 09, 2013

Objective:
Provide the seed industry with improved grass germplasm and management practices that reduce the impact of salinity, weeds, and diseases on seed quality and profitability. Identify bioactive compounds and genes that mediate the response of Lolium and Festuca to salinity related stress. Develop approaches to characterize, select and utilize components of host genetic resistance to pathotypes of the stem rust pathogen in Lolium. Determine whether a small molecular weight bioherbicide, produced by selected naturally occurring soil rhizobacteria (Pseudomonas sp.), that inhibits the germination of Poa annua can reduce the impact of this weed on seed production and turf quality. Develop molecular methods and tools that facilitate germplasm improvement for diverse uses. Develop a means to improve gene stability and minimize escape of transgenes in forage and turf grasses (Lolium sp.). Characterize genetics of host resistance to stem rust, and develop molecular markers for stem rust resistance in Lolium. Identify candidate genes that can be exploited to increase biomass of cool-season grass plants (Lolium sp.) to improve forage quality and source material for bioenergy production.

Approach:
Conduct complex basic and applied research to improve the production and utilization of seed and grain from forage and turf seed cropping systems which include wheat. Traditional breeding and molecular genetics will be used to identify the genetic basis for stem rust resistance, factors that impact seed quality, flowering, and abiotic stress tolerance. Develop molecular and traditional approaches useful for altering plant developmental pathways and plant structures, and enhancing forage quality in end-use environments that differ from the seed-producing region. Bioherbicides that reduce weed presence in seed production and turf environments will be identified and characterized to enable commercialization of new products. Formerly 5358-21000-012-00D and 5358-21000-018-00D(2/01), 5358-21000-028-00D. FY03 Program Increase $100,592. FY04 Program Increase $120,784. Add 1 SY. Formerly 5358-21000-032-00D (5/08).