Identification of heterotic gene pools to accelerate hybrid breeding in Brassica napus (canola)

Heterosis is a natural phenomenon where offspring (hybrids) outperform their parents in many agronomic traits, although exploited in breeding the mechanisms controlling heterosis remain elusive. Genetic distance between parents has been positively correlated with heterosis, yet does not adequately explain the phenomenon. Dividing lines from any crop into heterotic groups that provide optimal combining ability upon crossing, is one of the most important goals of any hybrid breeding program. The main objective of this proposal is to define the heterotic pools of Brassica napus (canola). Comparative datasets, one from a diverse population of unrelated lines and the second from elite breeding lines, and their representative hybrids will be utilised. The level of genetic diversity and the uncovered heterosis will be assessed using phenotypic and genotypic measurements. TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Isobel Parkin

Student:

Sampath Perumal

Partner:

Cargill Global Edible Oils Solutions

Discipline:

Forestry

Sector:

Life sciences

University:

Program: