Abstract
A major challenge facing those involved inthe testing of new plant varieties fordistinctness, uniformity and stability isthe need to compare new varieties againstall those `of common knowledge', and thecorresponding increasing size of varietyreference collections (and hence work-load)that this could entail. One possibleapproach would be to group new (candidate)varieties and reference varieties usingdescriptions stored in databases, prior tomore formal testing. We have evaluated themorphological grouping characteristicscurrently used for DUS testing of wheat forthis purpose. We have also investigated theuse of characteristics derived by gelelectrophoresis of the seed storageproteins (both high molecular weightglutenin sub-units and gliadins) of wheatfor their suitability for groupingvarieties prior to field testing. Both ofthe biochemical characteristics offerconsiderable potential advantages incomparison to the existing morphologicalgrouping characteristics in wheat. Theiruse could have benefits in terms ofcost-effectiveness of testing and instrengthening the quality and scope of protection offered by Plant Breeders'Rights.
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Jones, H., Jarman, R.J., Austin, L. et al. The management of variety reference collections in distinctness, uniformity and stability testing of wheat. Euphytica 132, 175–184 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1024642828705
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1024642828705