Project Number: 6635-21000-048-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: May 19, 2008
End Date: May 18, 2013

Objective:
Utilization of untapped genetic diversity through the conversion of germplasm and the incorporation of key traits into common bean improvement programs for abiotic stress tolerance and disease resistance. Application of genetic analysis and TILLING (targeting induced local lesions in genomes) for identification and mapping of important traits in common bean. Development and release of improved germplasm for specific agriculturally important biotic and abiotic stress tolerance traits and identification of associated molecular markers.

Approach:
Increase genetic diversity in common bean germplasm through conversion of specific abiotic and biotic traits from tropical germplasm. Elucidate the genetics of drought and heat tolerance, and other agriculturally important traits, using molecular markers, TILLING, and classical genetic approaches. Develop germplasm with improved disease resistance and abiotic stress tolerance through phenotypic selection and marker assisted selection.