Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Canada Prairie Spring Red (CPSR) wheat class was established in the mid-1980s as a lower protein alternative to Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat. Modern CPSR cultivars have hard kernel texture and strong dough properties along with very good milling performance. Good agronomics combined with 10-15% yield advantage over CWRS and growing demand in the international market makes CPSR one of the most desirable classes in western Canada.
CPSR breeding should be accelerated in order to keep pace with growing global demand and to maintain yield advantage. Genomic Selection (GS) is a molecular breeding tool that facilitates the selection of lines with genotypic information available only through prediction models constructed based on a training population. This streamlined method accelerates cultivar development through shorter breeding cycles.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
GS comes with lower cost and feasibility-related benefits, along with higher genetic gain over time. Integration of GS in routine CPSR breeding for traits such as grain yield, resistance to diseases, early maturity, etc., will not only help in achieving comprehensive and reliable selection, but will also help more rapidly develop high-yielding competitive CPSR cultivars.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Findings will be made available to the scientific community in standard procedures such as distribution and registration of germplasm, publications, conferences, and work transfers.
Results will be transferred to producers and ag industry personnel through new cultivar releases, newsletters, factsheets, seminars, field tours, and demonstration plots.