Phenotypic Diversity and Genetic Parameters of Coffea canephora Clones.

The simultaneous analysis of the maximum number of chemical elements present in plant tissues provides more comprehensive information about their chemical constitution and increases the number of characteristics for the selection process in various plant breeding programs. The objective of this study was to analyze productivity, grain yield, and concentration of chemical elements in tissues of Coffea canephora clones to study phenotypic diversity and estimate genetic parameters for use in breeding. This experiment was carried out in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, in randomized blocks with four replications. The concentrations of elements in various organs were quantified using total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF). Genetic parameters and genetic divergence were estimated, and genotypes were clustered using the UPGMA hierarchical method and non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis. The study allowed us to differentiate the performance of the clones in terms of the absorption of essential and non-essential chemical elements for plant development and to analyze the correlation of the characteristics in the selection process. TXRF efficiently characterizes the presence and concentration of multiple elements, aiding genotype discrimination for C. canephora improvement.

Complete chloroplast genomes of six neotropical palm species, structural comparison, and evolutionary dynamic patterns.

The Arecaceae family has a worldwide distribution, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. We sequenced the chloroplast genomes of Acrocomia intumescens and A. totai, widely used in the food and energy industries; Bactris gasipaes, important for palm heart; Copernicia alba and C. prunifera, worldwide known for wax utilization; and Syagrus romanzoffiana, of great ornamental potential. Copernicia spp. showed the largest chloroplast genomes (C. prunifera: 157,323 bp and C. alba: 157,192 bp), while S. romanzoffiana and B. gasipaes var. gasipaes presented the smallest (155,078 bp and 155,604 bp). Structurally, great synteny was detected among palms. Conservation was also observed in the distribution of single sequence repeats (SSR). Copernicia spp. presented less dispersed repeats, without occurrence in the small single copy (SSC). All RNA editing sites were C (cytidine) to U (uridine) conversions. Overall, closely phylogenetically related species shared more sites. Almost all nodes of the phylogenetic analysis showed a posterior probability (PP) of 1.0, reaffirming the close relationship between Acrocomia species. These results elucidate the conservation among palm chloroplast genomes, but point to subtle structural changes, providing support for the evolutionary dynamics of the Arecaceae family.

The Effects of Gluconacin on Bacterial Tomato Pathogens and Protection against Xanthomonas perforans, the Causal Agent of Bacterial Spot Disease.

As agricultural practices become more sustainable, adopting more sustainable practices will become even more relevant. Searching for alternatives to chemical compounds has been the focus of numerous studies, and bacteriocins are tools with intrinsic biotechnological potential for controlling plant diseases. We continued to explore the biotechnological activity of the bacteriocin Gluconacin from Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus, PAL5 strain, by investigating this protein's antagonism against important tomato phytopathogens and demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing bacterial spots caused by Xanthomonas perforans. In addition to this pathogen, the bacteriocin Gluconacin demonstrated bactericidal activity in vitro against Ralstonia solanacearum and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato, agents that cause bacterial wilt and bacterial spots, respectively. Bacterial spot control tests showed that Gluconacin reduced disease severity by more than 66%, highlighting the biotechnological value of this peptide in ecologically correct formulations.

Tropical forest loss and geographic location drive the functional genomic diversity of an endangered palm tree.

Human activity has diminished forests in different terrestrial ecosystems. This is well illustrated in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, which still hosts high levels of species richness and endemism, even with only 28% of its original extent remaining. The consequences of such forest loss in remaining populations can be investigated with several approaches, including the genomic perspective, which allows a broader understanding of how human disturbance influences the genetic variability in natural populations. In this context, our study investigated the genomic responses of Euterpe edulis Martius, an endangered palm tree, in forest remnants located in landscapes presenting different forest cover amount and composed by distinct bird assemblage that disperse its seeds. We sampled 22 areas of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest in four regions using SNP markers inserted into transcribed regions of the genome of E. edulis, distinguishing neutral loci from those putatively under natural selection (outlier). We demonstrate that populations show patterns of structure and genetic variability that differ between regions, as a possible reflection of deforestation and biogeographic histories. Deforested landscapes still maintain high neutral genetic diversity due to gene flow over short distances. Overall, we not only support previous evidence with microsatellite markers, but also show that deforestation can influence the genetic variability outlier, in the scenario of selective pressures imposed by these stressful environments. Based on our findings, we suggest that, to protect genetic diversity in the long term, it is necessary to reforest and enrich deforested areas, using seeds from populations in the same management target region.

Natural Populations of Astrocaryum aculeatum Meyer in Amazonia: Genetic Diversity and Conservation.

Astrocaryum aculeatum, a palm tree incipiently domesticated from upland ecosystems in the Brazilian Amazon, is especially adapted to anthropized areas. The pulp of the fruit, obtained by extractivism, is consumed fresh by the Amazonian population. The objective of the study is to evaluate the diversity and genetic structure of the natural populations of A. aculeatum, exploited by extractive farmers in Amazonas, Brazil, seeking to suggest conservation and management strategies for this species. A total of 218 plants were sampled in 15 populations in 14 municipalities in the state of Amazonas, evaluated by 12 microsatellite loci. A total of 101 alleles were observed. The means of the observed heterozygosities (HO = 0.6390) were higher than expected (HE = 0.557), with high levels of heterozygotes in the populations. The fixation index in the loci and populations was negative. The FST (0.07) and AMOVA showed moderate population structure. Bayesian analysis indicated the grouping k = 4 as the most adequate. There is a high genetic diversity in populations, with a moderate genetic structure due to possible historical events, which could be related to the process of subpopulation formation, possibly presenting three historical moments: before and after the beginning of deforestation and today. The conservation and management policies of this species must be carried out at a watershed level.

In vitro establishment and multiplication of Echynochloa polystachya

The objective of this work was to carry out the in vitro establishment of Echynochloa polystachya aiming at obtaining a micropropagation protocol for works involving the selection of superior genotypes and the cultivation of the species. E. polystachya stems were collected in the municipality of Manaus-AM. Explants were inoculated in test tubes containing Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Thirty days after in vitro establishment, the rate of sprouting and contamination were evaluated. Experiments were also carried out to assess the effects of sucrose and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) concentrations on the tillering rate of explants. It was found that during the successive subcultures there was a decrease in internodes and the consequent loss of vigor. There were responses in the multiplication rate at concentrations starting from 45 g L-1 sucrose. In addition, BAP and sucrose interfered the development and in vitro multiplication. Sucrose in conjunction with BAP was harmful and shortened internodes. The physiological state of the explants for the species under study was intrinsically linked to the concentrations of sucrose used for the culture medium and the concentrations of BAP. However, the sucrose and BAP concentrations suggested for in vitro cultivation of E. Polystachya must be adjusted during successive subcultures. Absence of contamination in the in vitro establishment occurred at concentrations 15, 30 and 60 g L-1 sucrose. The combination of 1.5 mg L-1 BAP and 30 g L-1 sucrose promoted greater induction of sprouts. In addition, the in vitro rooting of E. polystachya was 45%.

Morphological and stomatal characterization of Heliconia chartacea Var. sexy pink induced polyploidy / Caracterização morfológica e estomática de heliconia chartacea var. sexy pink induzidas a poliploidia

The growth of the tropical flower market has demanded a consistent search for new varieties, primarily those endowed with an exotic profile, but that are also beautiful and durable. The genusHeliconia, naturally found in the Amazon region, is among the most prominent of tropical flowers. Looking to augment the genetic variability available in Heliconia chartacea var. Sexy Pink, biotechnological research was conducted with the application of colchicine to induce polyploidy in plants from this species. With that in mind, this study was undertaken to evaluate the establishment of plants in the field drawn from in vitro polyploidy induction assay and to determine the morphological and physiological characteristics of 38 H. chartacea var. Sexy Pink clones. The characterization analyzes were performed through 49 morphological descriptors and a stomatal density evaluation using microscopy. The genotype 35 exhibited the greatest morphological variations, with alterations in the position and coloring of the inflorescence, in addition to having the edges of the entire limbus. Genotype 18 featured the lowest amounts for plant height and inflorescence size, showing promise for research geared towards use in reduced environments. Some genotypes did not have any flowering and arerecommended exclusively for landscape composition such as foliage, since their exotic characteristics allow for this. The genotypes that were evaluated displayed stomata with tetracytic morphology and guard cells that had no significant changes. However, genotypes with greater equatorial diameter and stomatal density were obtained in relation to the mother-plant. Overall, the induction of polyploidy allowed for clones to be obtained with a high variability for the characteristics of the leaf, pseudostem and inflorescence, with various attributes that confer a more efficient post-harvest management to some genotypes, in addition to favorable aspects for commercialized purposes as a cut flower.

A expansão do mercado de flores tropicais tem demandado uma constante procura por novas variedades, principalmente aquelas dotadas de perfil exótico, mas ainda apresentando beleza e durabilidade. Dentre as flores tropicais de maior destaque, se encontram as do gênero Helicônia, sendo estas naturalmente encontradas na região Amazônica. Visando aumentar a variabilidade genética disponível em Heliconia chartacea var. Sexy Pink, pesquisas biotecnológicas foram realizadas com a aplicação de colchicina para indução a poliploidia em plantas da espécie. Deste modo, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar as plantas estabelecidas em campo, provenientes dos ensaios de indução à poliploidia in vitro para determinar as características morfológicas e fisiológicas de 38 clones de H. chartacea var. Sexy Pink. As análises de caracterização foram realizadas por meio de 49 descritores morfológicos e avaliação da densidade estomática por microscopia. O genótipo 35 foi o que apresentou as maiores variações morfológicas, com alterações na posição e coloração da inflorescência, além de possuir as bordas do limbo foliar inteiras. O genótipo 18 apresentou os menores valores para altura da planta e tamanho das inflorescências, mostrando-se promissor para pesquisas voltadas ao uso em ambientes reduzidos. Alguns genótipos não tiveram floração, sendo recomendada a sua utilização exclusivamente para composição paisagística como folhagens, já que sua exoticidade permite esta finalidade. Os genótipos avaliados apresentaram estômatos com morfologia tetracítica e células-guarda sem alterações significativas, porém, foram obtidos genótipos com maior diâmetro equatorial e densidade estomática em relação a planta matriz. De modo geral, a indução a poliploidia permitiu a obtenção de clones com alta variabilidade para características da folha, pseudocaule e inflorescência, sendo vários os atributos que conferiram a alguns genótipos um manejo pós-colheita mais eficiente, além de aspectos favoráveis para comercialização como flor de corte.

Paternity analysis, pollen flow, and spatial genetic structure of a natural population of Euterpe precatoria in the Brazilian Amazon.

Euterpe precatoria, known as açaí do Amazonas, is a regionally important palm of the Amazon rainforest for the fruit production through extractive agriculture. Little information is available with regard to genetic diversity, gene flow, and spatial genetic structure (SGS) of açaí populations, which are essential for the use, management, and conservation of genetic resources of the species. This research aimed to assess the genetic diversity, inbreeding level, SGS, and gene flow in four ontogenetic stages of a natural E. precatoria population in the Brazilian Amazon, based on 18 microsatellite loci. The study was carried out in a natural population dispersed in an area of about 10 ha. Leaf tissues of 248 plants were mapped and sampled and classified into four ontogenetic stages: reproductive (59), immature (70), young (60), and seedling (59). Genetic diversity indices were high for all ontogenetic stages. The fixation index (F) for all ontogenetic stages was not significantly different from zero, indicating the absence of inbreeding. A significant SGS was found for all ontogenetic stages (68-110 m), indicating seed dispersal over short distances. Paternity analysis detected pollen immigration of 39.1%, a selfing rate of 4.2%, and a mean pollen dispersal distance within the population of 531 m. The results indicate substantial allele input in the population via pollen immigration, contributing to the maintenance of the genetic diversity of the population. However, within a population, the renewal with new progenies selected from seed plants spaced at least 110 m apart is important to avoid collecting seeds from related plants.

Genetic diversity among accessions of sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) by phenotypic characteristics analysis / Diversidade genética entre acessos de sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) por análise de características fenotípicas

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) is native to the Amazon region and has a high seed content of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids, making it interesting for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. The purpose of this study was to analyze sacha inchi genetic diversity and describe accessions based on phenotypic characteristics. Fruits and seeds of 25 accessions from the sacha inchi genebank of Embrapa Amazônia Ocidental in Manaus, Amazonas state, were sampled and biometrically measured. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, Mahalanobis distance, canonical correlation, and genetic diversity among and within accessions by analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA). There were significant differences among the means of the analyzed traits, but no significant canonical correlation for the groups of traits. According to AMOVA, approximately 60% of the observed variation was within accessions. The results showed variability among accessions, and that the variation within accessions should be explored to obtain best results in breeding programs.

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) é nativa da região amazônica e suas sementes tem um alto teor de ácidos graxos mono e poliinsaturados, tornando-a interessante para a indústria farmacêutica e cosmética. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a diversidade genética de sacha inchi e caracterizar os acessos com base em características fenotípicas. Foi realizada coleta e biometria de frutos e sementes de 25 acessos do banco de germoplasma de sacha inchi da Embrapa Amazônia Ocidental em Manaus-AM. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância, distância de Mahalanobis, correlação canônica e diversidade genética por análise de variância molecular (AMOVA). Houve diferenças significativas entre as médias das variáveis analisadas, contudo, não houve correlação canônica significativa para os grupos de variáveis. De acordo com AMOVA, aproximadamente 60% da variação observada esteve dentro de acessos. Os resultados mostram variabilidade entre acessos, sendo importante explorar a variação intra-acessos para obter melhores resultados em programas de melhoramento.

Genetic variability of Corynespora cassiicola isolates from Amazonas, Brazil / Variabilidade genética de Corynespora cassiicola isolados do Amazonas, Brasil

Corynespora cassiicola is a cosmopolitan ascomycete widely known as phytopathogen in several crops, and more recently as an emerging pathogen in humans. In this study the genetic variability of 60 isolates of Corynespora cassiicola from different hosts and cities of Amazonas was evaluated, using AFLP molecular markers. Seven genetic groups were identified according to a dendrogram obtained by the Unweighted Pair Group Method using Arithmetical Averages, indicating significant variability among the isolates. Three isolates of different hosts (28, obtained from papaya; 55, obtained from cucumber; and 58, from tomato) remained as single individuals in distinct groups, suggesting marked genetic variation in comparison to the other isolates and possible specificity by the host.(AU)

Corynespora cassiicola é um ascomiceto cosmopolita amplamente conhecido como fitopatógeno em diversas culturas e, mais recentemente, como patógeno emergente em humanos. Na região Norte do Brasil é responsável por perdas significativas em cultivos tanto em casa de vegetação como em campo aberto. Neste estudo foi avaliada a variabilidade genética de 60 isolados de Corynespora cassiicola procedentes de diferentes hospedeiras e municípios do Amazonas, usando marcadores moleculares AFLP. Foram identificados sete grupos genéticos de acordo com dendrograma obtido pelo método de agrupamento UPGMA, indicando significativa variabilidade entre os isolados. Três isolados de diferentes hospedeiras (isolado 28, obtido de mamoeiro; isolado 55, obtido de pepineiro; e isolado 58, proveniente de tomateiro) permaneceram como indivíduos únicos em grupos distintos, sugerindo variação genética marcante em comparação com os demais e possível especificidade pela hospedeira de origem.(AU)

Repeatability of biometric and fruit and seed yield traits of sacha inchi / Repetibilidade de caracteres biométricos e de produção em frutos e sementes de sacha inchi

ABSTRACT Repeatability allows an estimation of the number of evaluations needed to optimize the selection of superior genotypes, with consequent effects on the research costs in terms of financial and human resources. The objective of this study was to estimate the coefficient of repeatability of biometric and yield traits, related to fruits and seeds of sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis), and to define the number of evaluations required for an efficient selection and evaluation of genotypes of the species. A total of 37 non-domesticated accessions were evaluated for 19 months in a randomized block design with 5 replications and 2 plants per plot. The total number of fruits, total number of seeds, total fruit weight, mean fruit weight, and number of seeds per fruit of the accessions were evaluated by monthly sampling. Additionally, seed biometry was assessed in a sample of 30 seeds per accession. Repeatability coefficients were estimated by analysis of variance, principal components and structural analysis. The principal component method based on the covariance matrix was the most appropriate for establishing repeatability estimates of sacha inchi, due to the cyclical nature of the crop. Superior genotypes of the species can be selected for yield-related traits with about 90% accuracy, from 5 harvests (months) onwards. To ensure this accuracy level, it would be necessary to evaluate a minimum of 5 and 25 fruits to determine mean fruit weight and number of seeds per fruit, respectively, and 39 seeds would be required to evaluate the biometric traits.

RESUMO A repetibilidade permite estimar o número de avaliações para selecionar genótipos superiores com maior eficiência, o que tem reflexo direto sobre os gastos com recursos humanos e financeiros da pesquisa. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar o coeficiente de repetibilidade de características biométricas e de produção relacionadas aos frutos e sementes de sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) e definir o número de avaliações necessárias para um eficiente processo de seleção e avaliação de genótipos da espécie. Um total de 37 acessos não domesticados foram avaliados em blocos casualizados com 5 repetições e 2 plantas por parcela durante 19 meses. Colheitas mensais avaliaram o número total de frutos, número total de sementes, peso total de frutos, peso médio de frutos e número de sementes por fruto dos acessos. Adicionalmente, foi realizada a biometria das sementes através de uma amostra de 30 sementes de cada acesso. Os coeficientes de repetibilidade foram estimados por meio dos métodos da análise de variância, componentes principais e análise estrutural. O método de componentes principais com uso da matriz de covariância se mostrou o mais indicado para obtenção de estimativas de repetibilidade em sacha inchi devido ao comportamento cíclico da cultura. Genótipos superiores da espécie podem ser selecionados, com acurácia de 90%, a partir de 5 colheitas (meses) para os caracteres de produtividade. Para mesma acurácia, seria necessária a avaliação de no mínimo 5 e 25 frutos para determinação do peso médio de frutos e número de sementes por fruto, respectivamente, e de 39 sementes para avaliação dos caracteres biométricos.

Spatial genetic structure, genetic diversity and pollen dispersal in a harvested population of Astrocaryum aculeatum in the Brazilian Amazon.

BACKGROUND: Astrocaryum aculeatum is a palm tree species native to the tropical regions of South America, exploited commercially by local farmers for the pulp extracted from its fruits. The objective of this research was to compare the genetic diversity between adult plants and seedlings from open-pollinated seeds, quantify the pollen flow and dispersal, the spatial genetic structure, and the effective size of a population that has been continuously harvested for its fruits. The study was carried out in a natural population of A. aculeatum distributed over approximately 8 ha in the State of Amazonas (Brazil), separated by 400 m from the closest neighboring population. In total, 112 potential pollen donors, 12 mother plants and 120 offspring were mapped and genotyped. RESULTS: Genetic diversity was high for parents and the offspring. The fixation indexes for adults (F = -0.035) and offspring (F = -0.060) were negative and not significant. A significant spatial genetic structure was detected for the adult plants (up to the distance of 45 m) indicating short-distance seed dispersal. Paternity analysis detected 9.2 % of pollen immigration and the average distance of pollination within the population was 81 m. The average effective pollination neighborhood area between plants was 1.51 ha. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that substantial introduction of new alleles has occurred in the population through pollen immigration, contributing to the maintenance of genetic diversity. Conservation efforts aimed at maintaining the gene pool of the current population or establishing new populations should utilize offspring from mother plants selected to be spaced by at least 50 m to prevent collecting seeds from relatives.

Germinação de sementes de eucalipto sob estresse hídrico e salino / Germination of eucalyptus seeds under water and salt stress

O conhecimento da fisiologia da germinação de sementes de Eucalyptus spp. pode contribuir significativamente para o desenvolvimento do manejo e da escolha e adequação das áreas de plantio. O objetivo foi avaliar os efeitos dos estresses hídrico e salino na germinação de sementes de Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. citriodora, E. grandis, E. robusta e E. urophylla. A semeadura foi realizada com quatro repetições de 0,05 g de sementes em papel umedecido com soluções nos potenciais osmóticos de 0,0; -0,2; -0,4; e -0,8 MPa, induzidos com polietilenoglicol (PEG 6000) e NaCl. O teste de germinação foi conduzido a 25 oC na presença de luz. A germinação foi avaliada dos sete até os 28 dias, semanalmente. Foi calculado o índice de velocidade de germinação. Conclui-se que o estresse hídrico acarreta maior redução na velocidade de germinação e na germinação acumulada de sementes de E. camaldulensis e E. citriodora do que o estresse salino. As sementes de E. robusta apresentam maior adaptação para germinar sob estresse salino moderado, entre -0,2 e -0,4 MPa. Independentemente da substância utilizada para indução do estresse, o limite para germinação é -0,8MPa. O E. camaldulensis é a espécie mais sensível ao estresse hídrico e o E. urophylla a mais sensível ao estresse salino.

The knowledge of the physiology of Eucalyptus spp. germination may contribute significantly to the development of management and choice of suitability of the deployment areas. The aim was to evaluate the effects of water and salt stress on seed germination of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. citriodora, E. grandis, E. robusta and E. urophylla. The seeding was done with four replicates of 0.05 g of seeds in paper moistened with solutions at potentials of 0.0, -0.2, -0.4, and -0.8 MPa, induced with polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) and NaCl. The germination test was in 25 ° C in the presence of light. Were evaluated the first test score seven days after sowing, and weekly germination (normal seedlings) until 28 days. Were also calculated the germination speed index. Water stress causes a greater reduction in the rate of germination and accumulated germination of E. camaldulensis and E. citriodora seeds than salt stress, and the seeds of E. robusta are more adapted to germinate under salt stress moderate, between -0.2 and -0.4 MPa. Regardless of the substance used to induce stress, the threshold for germination was -0.8 MPa. The E. camaldulensis is the most sensitive specie to water stress and E. urophylla most sensitive to salt stress.

Quantificação da área foliar e efeito da desfolha em componentes de produção de milho / Quantification of leaf area and defoliation effect in corn crop components

A redução da área foliar em plantas de milho altera a atividade fisiológica e consequentemente o rendimento de grãos. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram quantificar a área foliar em milho e avaliar as consequências de diferentes níveis de desfolha nos componentes de produção. O experimento foi realizado em Uberlândia, Minas Gerais (MG), durante o ano agrícola de 2007/2008. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. Os tratamentos foram testemunha sem desfolha, remoção de duas folhas apicais, remoção de quatro folhas apicais, remoção de todas as folhas acima da espiga, remoção de quatro folhas intermediárias, remoção de todas as folhas abaixo da espiga e remoção de todas as folhas da planta. O genótipo utilizado foi o híbrido NB7376. A quantificação da área foliar foi realizada a partir da submissão de imagens de folhas de milho para leitura no programa QUANT 1.0. O resultado da área média foliar do híbrido foi de 5.687,72cm² por planta, e o Índice de Área Foliar é de 4,4. Quando foram retiradas todas as folhas acima da espiga, foi observada a perda de 20 por cento na produtividade e de 8 por cento no peso de 1.000 grãos; no entanto, não foram alterados a porcentagem de grãos ardidos, o número de grãos, o número de fileiras por espiga, o estande e a porcentagem de plantas acamadas. A porcentagem de grãos ardidos e de plantas acamadas só foi afetada em desfolhas totais. Toda a área foliar em milho tem a sua participação na produção de fotoassimilados; no entanto, a extensão foliar fisiologicamente ativa acima da espiga é caracterizada como a mais eficiente na produtividade de grãos.

Corn plant physiological activities and consequently grain yield are affected by reduction in leaf area. The aim of this study was to quantify leaf area in corn plants and evaluate the consequences of different levels of defoliation in crop components. The experiment was conducted in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais state, during the crop year of 2007/2008. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with five replications. The treatments were as follows: control without defoliation; two apical leaves removed; four apical leaves removed; all leaves above spike removed; four intermediate leaves removed; all leaves below spike removed; and all plant leaves removed. The genotype used was hybrid NB7376. To quantify leaf area, images of corn leaves were analyzed using the program QUANT 1.0. The average hybrid leaf area was 5,687.72cm² per plant, with a leaf area index of 4.4. When all leaves above the spike were removed, grain yields fell by 20 percent and the mass of 1000 grains decreased by 8 percent. However, the percentage of damaged grains, the number of grains, and the number of rows per spike, the stand and plant lodging were not altered. The percentage of damaged grains and plant lodging were only affected in total defoliation. All leaf areas in corn are involved in the production of photoassimilates. However, physiologically active leaf area above the spike is characterized as the most efficient in grain yield.

Repetibilidade da produção de cachos de híbridos interespecíficos entre o caiaué e o dendezeiro / Repeatability for bunch production in interspecific hybrids between caiaué and african oil palm

A hibridação interespecífica entre o caiaué (Elaeis oleífera (Kunth) Cortés) e o dendezeiro (E. guineensis Jacq.) tem sido explorada com o objetivo de desenvolver cultivares tão produtivas quanto as de dendezeiro, aliada à resistência a pragas e doenças, principalmente o amarelecimento fatal, elevada taxa de ácidos graxos insaturados e redução de porte características do caiaué. Por ser uma cultura perene com longo ciclo de produção, além dos altos custos para manutenção e avaliação dos experimentos de melhoramento genético, é necessário definir o período mínimo de avaliação para que a seleção dos híbridos seja realizada com eficiência e mínimo dispêndio de tempo e recursos. Este estudo teve como objetivo estimar os coeficientes de repetibilidade dos caracteres número de cachos, peso total de cachos e peso médio de cachos de híbridos interespecíficos e definir o número de anos consecutivos de avaliação necessário para seleção eficiente dos melhores cruzamentos e indivíduos. Os coeficientes de repetibilidade foram estimados pelos métodos da análise de variância, componentes principais com base na matriz de covariância (CPCV) e de correlações, e análise estrutural com base na matriz de correlações. O método dos CPCV demonstrou ser o mais adequado para o estudo da repetibilidade da produção de cachos, indicando quatro anos consecutivos de avaliação para selecionar progênies, representadas por dez plantas, com coeficientes de determinação (R²) superiores a 85 por cento, e que para seleção individual de plantas são necessários pelo menos seis anos consecutivos de avaliação para atingir R² superior a 80 por cento.

Interspecific hybridization between the caiaué (Elaeis oleífera (Kunth) Cortés) and the african oil palm (E. guineensis Jacq.) has been exploited with the objective of developing varieties as productive as African oil palm and with the pest and disease resistance, reduced height and high levels of insaturated oils characteristic of the caiaué. Perennial crops with long production cycles and high costs for maintenance and evaluation of improvement experiments require definition of minimum evaluation periods for efficient and low cost selection of hybrids. This study estimated the repeatability coefficients of the characters bunch number, total weight of bunches and average bunch weight of interspecific hybrids and determined the number of consecutive years of evaluation required for efficient selection of the best crosses and individuals. The repeatability coefficients were estimated by four methods: analysis of variance, principal components based on the covariance (CPCV) and correlation matrix, and structural analysis based on the correlation matrix. The CPCV method was the most appropriate for the study of the repeatability of bunch production. Four consecutive years of evaluation are required to select progenies, represented by ten plants, with determination coefficients (R²) up to 85 percent, and at least six consecutive years of evaluation are necessary to select individuals, with R² up to 80 percent.

Polinização e fixação de frutos em Capsicum chinense Jacq / Pollinization and fruit fixation in Capsicum chinense Jacq

A Amazônia é um importante centro de diversidade de Capsicum spp., em especial de C. chinense. Informações relativas à biologia reprodutiva são importantes para o melhoramento e conservação da espécie. O objetivo desse trabalho foi estudar o sistema de reprodução de C. chinense. Foram avaliados cinco genótipos e quatro tratamentos: polinização natural, proteção dos botões florais, autopolinização manual e polinização cruzada manual. Os genótipos avaliados demonstraram auto-compatibilidade e reprodução como plantas autógamas.

The Amazon is an important diversity center of Capsicum spp. especially C. chinense. Information about their reproductive biology is important to species breeding and conservation. The objective of this work was to study the C. chinense reproductive system. We evaluated five genotypes and four treatments: natural pollination, protection of floral bottoms, manual self pollination and manual cross pollination. The results showed that the genotypes evaluated are self-compatible and autogamous.

Controle genético da resistência à mancha-de-Phaeosphaeria em milho / Genetic control of resistance to Phaeosphaeria leaf spot in maize

A mancha-de-Phaeosphaeria, de ampla ocorrência no Brasil, tem causado expressiva redução na produtividade da cultura do milho no país. Por isso, o desenvolvimento de híbridos resistentes à doença é um dos principais objetivos dos programas de melhoramento genético da cultura. Informações sobre o controle genético da resistência à doença são necessárias para que os programas de melhoramento sejam eficientes. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o controle genético da resistência à mancha-de-Phaeosphaeria em milho a partir da avaliação das médias de gerações oriundas de dois cruzamentos entre linhagens resistentes (DAS95 ou DAS72) com uma suscetível (DAS21), sob condições de infecção natural da doença. Os ensaios foram conduzidos em Indianópolis (MG), em duas épocas de semeadura, outubro e novembro de 2000. Foi utilizado o delineamento experimental blocos ao acaso com três repetições. A avaliação para resistência foi realizada 30 dias após o florescimento com auxílio de uma escala diagramática de porcentagem de tecido foliar total da planta afetado pela doença. As médias da severidade da doença dos genitores e das gerações F1, F2, RCP1 e RCP2 foram analisadas segundo o modelo de MATHER & JINKS (1971). A variação genética devida a efeitos aditivos foi de 73 a 84 por cento, enquanto, devido aos efeitos dominantes, foi de 13 a 23 por cento. Foi evidenciada a predominância dos efeitos gênicos aditivos sobre dominantes em ambas as populações estudadas. Os valores da herdabilidade foram altos, variando de 61 a 88 por cento. Os resultados indicaram condições favoráveis ao melhoramento genético visando àresistência à mancha-de-Phaeospheria nas populações estudadas.

The Phaeosphaeria leaf spot, of ample occurrence in Brazil, has been causing an expressive reduction in the corn yield in the country. Thus, the development of resistant hybrids to this disease is one of the main objectives of corn breeding programs. Information about the genetic control of resistance to the disease is necessary so that the programs can be efficient. The main goal of this study was to determine the genetic control of resistance to the Phaeosphaeria leaf spot in maize through the assessment of the generation means from two crossing between a resistant inbred line (DAS95 or DAS72) with a susceptible line (DAS21) under natural infection conditions of the disease. The experiment was carried out in Indianópolis (MG) in two sowen dates, October and November, 2000. The randomized blocks design with three repetitions was utilized. The evaluation to resistance was performed thirty days after the flowering using a diagrammatic scale of percentage of the total foliar tissue of the plant affected by the disease. Disease severity means of parental lines and generations F1, F2, RCP1 and RCP2 were analysed according to the model by MATHER & JINKS (1971). Genetic variation due to additive effects varied from 73 percent to 84 percent whilst dominant effects ranged from 13 percent to 23 percent. In both studied population, the predominance of gene additive over dominant effects was evidented. The inheritance values were high, varying from 61 percent to 88 percent. These results indicate favourable conditions to develop new resistance lines to Phaeosphaeria leaf spot with the studied populations.

Linkage and mapping of resistance genes to Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae in yellow passion fruit.

The cultivated passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) is a cross-pollinated species native to South America. In the current study, a segregating F1 population derived from a single cross between the clones IAPAR-06 and IAPAR-123 was used to construct AFLP-based linkage maps and to map resistance genes to bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae. Linkage analysis was performed by the 2-way pseudo-testcross mapping method using markers that segregated in a 1:1 ratio. The IAPAR-06 linkage map was constructed using 115 markers, 112 of which were allocated to 9 linkage groups (LG) covering 790.2 cM. The map of IAPAR-123 was constructed using 140 markers, 138 of which were allocated to 9 LG covering 488.9 cM. In both maps, clusters of markers were detected, indicating that the AFLP markers were not distributed at random. Bacterial resistance was assessed by measuring the diseased leaf area after wound-inoculating the leaves of F1 plants. Quantitative resistance loci (QRLs) mapping was carried out by composite interval mapping and 1 QRL was detected, which explained 15.8% of the total phenotypic variation. The possibility of considering these data for marker-assisted selection in passion fruit breeding programs is discussed.