Variation for infection response to Bipolaris sorokiniana and identification of trait specific sources in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) germplasm

Abstract

The aim of present study was to evaluate un-adapted, exotic and indigenous germplasm of barley to identify useful genetic diversity for spot blotch resistance and other related traits to barley breeders. A total 124 genotypes were evaluated for spot blotch resistance and yield components, for three consecutive years at Varanasi, India. Based on Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) score of spot blotch, three germplasm accessions (BCU422, BCU1204 and BCU5092) were found resistant to virulent isolate of spot blotch disease. Trait specific accessions were also identified for yield components traits. To meet breeders' requirements, genetically diverse pairs for specific trait were identified, that can be utilized as parents in breeding programs. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for AUDPC score and yield components showed that , the first three principal components explained 60.30% (27.22, 18.22 and 14.86% by PC1, PC2 and PC3 respectively) of genetic variation. Identified accessions for spot blotch resistance and yield contributing traits appear to be useful for resistance against Bipolaris sorokiniana and improvement in genetic potential of grain yield by providing desirable gene(s)/QTL(s) in barley genetic improvement programme.