Progress 06/23/01 to 05/05/04
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? Program Component 301: Domestic watermelon cultivars have a narrow genetic base. Because of this lack of diversity they are vulnerable to pathogens and insects. Wild relatives of domesticated watermelon, although not suitable for agricultural production, often contain the genetic survival traits that are lacking in their domestic counterparts. Introduction of wild watermelon species genetic diversity into common watermelon cultivars could increase this crop's resistance to diseases. However, it is necessary to know which wild watermelon species contains desirable traits before breeding these genes into commercially grown watermelon cultivars. To this end, Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus and Citrullus lanatus var. citroides, wild type watermelons from the Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit,
Griffin, GA, are being evaluated for the presence of superior agronomic characteristics, including resistance to powdery mildew (a serious disease affecting cucurbits worldwide). Once resistance is found, the sources of this resistance can be bred with common cultivars to increase the genetic diversity and disease resistance of cultivated watermelon. In addition, plant defense and carotenoid biosynthesis genes are being sequenced for use in producing a molecular genetic map for watermelon. The defense genes will be analyzed for potential gene transfer experiments to strengthen watermelon's ability to resist the powdery mildew causing fungus. A narrow genetic base leaves a plant species susceptible to insect attack and new and/or more virulent pathogens. The watermelon industry needs a continuous source of new genetic resources to successfully confront emerging strains of disease-causing organisms and harmful insects, as well as to develop new fruit types to stay competitive in a
changing marketplace. A genetically diverse crop, which is often the opposite result of traditional breeding techniques, will often exhibit more natural resistance than a genetically narrow crop. Scientists can also use this diverse genetic foundation to improve the marketability of watermelon cultivars; to meet consumer demands for nutritionally enhanced, seedless, cut and packaged fruits; and to meet long-distance shipping durability standards. Without a diverse genetic foundation to draw from, the watermelon industry will remain static, unable to meet new demands, and may eventually lose its competitive edge. That is why it is imperative to search the wild watermelon relatives for these desirable traits. The project is relevant to NP301 component Plant, Microbial, and Insect Genetic Resources, Genomics and Genetic Improvement. Specifically, Component I, Genetic Resource Management and Component II, Genomic Characterization and Genetic Improvement. This project will use established
and new methods to characterize and classify genetic material, and apply new biotechnology to support the development of improved germplasm that will lead to genetic resource conservation. Collaborative efforts with a project at Charleston, SC, under NP301 and projects at Lane, OK, related to NP306 (Quality and Utilization of Agricultural Products) will strengthen all three programs without overlapping goals. Program Component 305. Agriculture in the South Central States is undergoing change due to alterations in the national farm support systems, biotic and abiotic stresses affecting crop yields, and shifts in consumer preferences. These factors will likely require that traditional agricultural practices be diversified and include the production of specialized crops. This would cause land to be taken from the currently practiced agriculture and put in production of other crops. Modifying, or changing, existing production systems can present new physical, logistical, and sociological
problems to producers. Production methods are not always easily transferable between systems, and will require the re-education of producers. Land previously in grass or other row crops may not immediately be successfully used for high-value vegetable crops. To facilitate this conversion current production systems will need to be improved, and new production systems developed that will provide additional knowledge to producers, especially if diversification is a desired result. Research is being conducted to develop production systems, examine factors that affect crop development or yield, and examine factors that affect the physiology of vegetable crops. Rural, farm-based America is undergoing changes that can drastically transform the complexion of the agricultural production sector. A healthy farming sector must be adaptable to change. An enthusiastic acceptance of the changing production environment will strengthen the development of diversified, sustainable agriculture,
especially for family farms, and contribute to the stability of the rural community. To profit from these changes producers will have to diversify their crops with new and improved varieties and employ new, or modified, sustainable production systems. A resilient, and adaptable, agricultural base will assure the delivery of safe, reasonably priced, nutritious food to the citizens of the United States. In addition, diversification will allow producers to enter new markets, including overseas markets. The project is relevant to NP305, Crop Management and Production Efficiency, and specifically addresses the components dealing with: Integrated Production Systems - Sustainable Cropping Systems, Cost- Effective Agricultural Production Systems, New and Alternative Crops, and Integrated Agricultural Production Systems. The project is linked to NP301 at this location. This project supports those programs by providing new information on crop production methods designed to improve production
efficiency in the development of sustainable cropping systems, and determining how cultural methods affect quality and quantity of vegetables. Results of these studies will increase the knowledge base, improve the delivery of technology, and promote the use of these systems. New, or adapted, production systems can be used to maintain sustainable agriculture, especially on small family farms. The project will support immediate and long-range strategies for efficient crop production through collaboration with producers, especially those that operate small- and medium-sized farms. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. This project was a bridging project, established to carry through the peer review process, and no objectives were established. Because of location restructure of research, this project was terminated in FY04 and combined with 6222-21220-001-00D, 6222-22430-002-00D, and 6222-21430-001- 00D. 3. Milestones: A. List the milestones that were
scheduled to be addressed in FY 2004. How many milestones did you fully or substantially meet in FY 2004 and indicate which ones were not fully or substantially met, briefly explain why not, and your plans to do so. This is a bridging project with no established milestones. However, during FY04, progress was made under the following objectives. Component 301: Screened the entire Citrullus lanatus Plant Introduction collection for race 1 powdery mildew resistance. This work was completed on schedule and results are being analyzed. A manuscript will be prepared and submitted with the resultant data. Completed a lycopene inheritance study in C. lanatus. This work was completed on schedule and results are being analyzed. A manuscript will be prepared and submitted with the resultant data. Component 305 Develop integrated, sustainable production systems for vegetables. Completed experiments dealing with effects of kaolin particle film on peppers, effects of transplant type on onion
development and yield, and effect of rotation of ryegrass and pumpkins. Completed third year of a multi-year experiment comparing organic and conventional vegetable production systems. Identify components of vegetable production systems that influence phytonutrients, and related quality factors in vegetables. Completed experiments dealing with spacing and fertilization of spring-sown dry beans. B. List the milestones that you expect to address over the next 3 years (FY 2005, 2006, & 2007). What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years under each milestone? This is the final report of progress for this project Because of location restructure of research, this project was terminated in FY04 and combined with 6222-21220-001-00D, 6222-22430-002-00D, and 6222-21430-001- 00D. Expected accomplishments for the next three FYS are shown in the replacement projects. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single most significant
accomplishment during FY 2004. A method that facilitates the rapid isolation of RNA from fruit tissues that are high in water and sugar was developed. By eliminating much of the carbohydrates that can contaminate the final purified nucleotides and eliminating the excess water that dilutes the sample, this new method offers the advantages of simplicity and sensitivity over currently accepted techniques. We further demonstrated that this new method can be successfully applied to ripe flesh of watermelon, tomato, and cantaloupe fruit. This technique will allow molecular biologists to extract more concentrated and higher quality RNA for cloning and other molecular procedures. B. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any. A system for production of vegetable transplants using only organic materials was developed. Experiments were conducted to determine the best combination of organic potting media and types and rates of organic fertilizers for vegetable seedling production in a
greenhouse. An abbreviated account of the information appeared in the popular press publication 'GMPro' magazine [24(7):14, 2004]. This information will allow growers to produce vegetable transplants that comply with federal regulations for organic vegetable production, are comparable to those produced with conventional media and fertilizers, and allow organically certified vegetable growers to assure consumers that only organic methods were used from sowing of seeds to harvesting the crop. C. Significant activities that support special target populations. Technology and vegetable transplants were transferred to limited-resource producers. These materials were augmented with personal contacts so producers could incorporate the knowledge, and/or technology, into their production plans. Scientists in the project provided technical information on new pest management strategies through on-farm visits, grower meetings, field days, e-mail, phone, or by conducting on-farm research with small
farmers with limited resources or that are socially disadvantaged. A substantial number of the clientele are minority, primarily Native American. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Program Component 301. Accomplishments over the five-year life of this project include: screening wild watermelon lines for resistance to powdery mildew, finding resistant germplasm and making crosses to study the inheritance of this resistance. The relationship between total soluble solid and color development in watermelon was studied, and a breeding line to produce a low-sugar watermelon for people concerned with dietary intake of sugar is in progress. A rapid lycopene and beta- carotene detection method was produced for watermelon, tomato, and cantaloupe that greatly simplified the previous method. A rapid mRNA isolation method from fruit tissue was developed. A method to store cucurbit powdery mildew spores was determined. Our
studies will lead to an understanding of molecular processes of watermelon development and defense, and to the development of tools by which new varieties can be easily produced, with the goal of delivering better, more genetically diverse watermelon varieties to growers. Program Component 305. Over the life of this project research was directed at improving or developing production systems, and at examination of the physiological consequences to plants caused by stressors or by factors affecting development. These experiments resulted in recommendations for fertilizer application and harvesting strategies that can increase yield, and improve return to the producer by reducing travel through the field. For several crops, spring and fall planting windows have been determined. This will allow producers to establish and harvest multiple crops in a growing season. Because land and equipment usage will be used efficiently the additional yield will increase farm income. In addition,
planting date was found to be important in improving plant vigor by delaying the onset and rate of spread of senescence in sweet corn stalk internodes. This will reduce the amount of lodging and disease incidence in stalk tissue and increase yield quality and quantity. Rotational sequences that use sweet corn and bell pepper in place of peanut were found to increase yields of all crops over repeated cropping of peanut alone. Rotations will provide peanut producers with options, and allow diversity in production, if they are in the process of deciding on whether to replace peanut with other crops. Factors of planting date, fertilizer rate, irrigation, and plant density have been evaluated to produce a production system for peppers. This information has led to increasing yields by more than 25% for specialty peppers used in value- added products. Information developed from this research program has been transferred to producers in the form of farm visits, information distribution in
cooperation with the Oklahoma State University Extension Service, on-farm demonstration projects, and a Vegetable Production Systems web-site. Producers will be able to use the information generated from this research to develop sustainable production systems to increase yields, and income on family farms. 6. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? A cooperative effort was begun with the newly formed organization dedicated to organic production of food and fiber. This effort will be carried over in to the activities associated with project 6222-21220-001- 00D. Demonstrated our lycopene detection method to seed industry personnel and university scientists who work on lycopene. Shared our rapid RNA isolation technique to university scientists so
they could successfully isolate RNA from watermelon and apple. Seed for a rare cucurbit were propagated and submitted to two seed repositories. 7. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. Smith, Ron. 2004. Oklahoma geneticist seeking' Resistance to powdery mildew in watermelons. Farm Press. Feb. 5, p.7. Russo, V.M. 2004. Transplant type as they affect onion production. Proceedings Oklahoma-Arkansas Horticultural Industries Show. 23:185-187.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Russo, V.M. 2003. Soil depth and tillage effects on dry bean production. HortTechnology. 13(4):653-656.
- Kindiger, B.K., Russo, V.M., Nakagawa, H. 2004. Performance and persistence of Japanese cool-season grass forages in the central great plains of Oklahoma, USA. Grassland Science. 49(6):577-580.
- Davis, A.R., Fish, W.W., Perkins Veazie, P.M. 2003. A rapid hexane-free method for analyzing lycopene content in watermelon. Journal of Food Science. 68:328-332.
- Davis, A.R., Fish, W.W., Perkins Veazie, P.M. 2003. A rapid spectrophotometric method for analyzing lycopene content in tomato and tomato products. Postharvest Biology and Technology. 28:425-430.
- Davis, A.R. 2003. Christmas in October? The story of one Ibervillea lindheimeri plant. Cucurbit Network News. 10:2-3.
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Program Component 301: Domestic watermelon cultivars have a narrow genetic base. Because of this lack of diversity they are vulnerable to pathogens and insects. Wild relatives of domesticated watermelon, although not suitable for agricultural production, often contain the genetic survival traits that are lacking in their domestic counterparts. Introduction of wild watermelon species genetic diversity into common watermelon cultivars could increase this crop's resistance to diseases. However, it is necessary to know which wild watermelon species contains desirable traits before breeding these genes into commercially grown watermelon cultivars. To this end, Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus and Citrullus lanatus var. citroides, wild type watermelons from the Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit, Griffin, GA, are being evaluated for the presence of superior agronomic characteristics,
including resistance to powdery mildew (a serious disease affecting cucurbits worldwide). Once resistance is found, the sources of this resistance can be bred with common cultivars to increase the genetic diversity and disease resistance of cultivated watermelon. In addition, plant defense genes are being sequenced for use in producing a molecular genetic map for watermelon. These genes will be analyzed for potential gene transfer experiments to strengthen watermelon's ability to resist the powdery mildew causing fungus. Program Component 305: Agriculture in the South Central States is undergoing change due to alterations in the national farm support systems, biotic and abiotic stresses affecting crop yields, and shifts in consumers preferences. These factors will likely require that traditional agricultural practices be diversified and include the production of specialized crops. This would cause land to be taken from the currently practiced agriculture and put in production of other
crops. Modifying, or changing, existing production systems can present new physical, logistical, and sociological problems to producers. Production methods are not always easily transferable between systems, and will require the re-education of producers. Land previously in grass or other row crops may not immediately be successfully used for high-value vegetable crops. To facilitate this conversion current production systems will need to be improved, and new production systems developed that will provide additional knowledge to producers, especially if diversification is a desired result. Research is being conducted to develop production systems, examine factors that affect crop development or yield, and examine factors that affect the physiology of vegetable crops. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Program Component 301: A narrow genetic base leaves a plant species susceptible to insect attack and new and/or more virulent pathogens. The watermelon industry needs a
continuous source of new genetic resources to successfully confront emerging strains of disease-causing organisms and harmful insects, as well as to develop new fruit types to stay competitive in a changing marketplace. A genetically diverse crop, which is often the opposite result of traditional breeding techniques, will often exhibit more natural resistance than a genetically narrow crop. Scientists can also use this diverse genetic foundation to improve the marketability of watermelon cultivars; to meet consumer demands for nutritionally enhanced, seedless, cut and packaged fruits, and to meet long-distance shipping durability standards. Without a diverse genetic foundation to draw from, the watermelon industry will remain static, unable to meet new demands, and may eventually lose its competitive edge. That is why it is imperative to search the wild watermelon relatives for these desirable traits. Program Component 305: Rural, farm-based America is undergoing changes that can
drastically transform the complexion of the agricultural production sector. A healthy farming sector must be adaptable to change. An enthusiastic acceptance of the changing production environment will strengthen the development of diversified, sustainable agriculture, especially for family farms, and contribute to the stability of the rural community. To profit from these changes producers will have to diversify their crops with new and improved varieties and employ new, or modified, sustainable production systems. A resilient, and adaptable, agricultural base will assure the delivery of safe, reasonably priced, nutritious food to the citizens of the United States. In addition, diversification will allow producers to enter new markets, including overseas markets. 3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? The project is relevant to NP301 component Plant, Microbial, and Insect Genetic Resources, Genomics and Genetic
Improvement. Specifically, Component I, Genetic Resource Management and Component II, Genomic Characterization and Genetic Improvement. This project will use established and new methods to characterize and classify genetic material, and apply new biotechnology to support the development of improved germplasm that will lead to genetic resource conservation. Collaborative efforts with a project at Charleston, SC, under NP301 and projects at Lane, OK, related to NP306 (Quality and Utilization of Agricultural Products) will strengthen all three programs without overlapping goals. The project is relevant to NP305, Crop Management and Production Efficiency. This project is relevant to the Crop Management and Production Efficiency project (NP 305) and specifically addresses the components dealing with: Integrated Production Systems - Sustainable Cropping Systems, Cost-Effective Agricultural Production Systems, New and Alternative Crops, and Integrated Agricultural Production Systems. The
project is linked to NP301 at this location. This project supports those programs by providing new information on crop production methods designed to improve production efficiency in the development of sustainable cropping systems, and determining how cultural methods affect quality and quantity of vegetables. Results of these studies will increase the knowledge base, improve the delivery of technology, and promote the use of these systems. New, or adapted, production systems can be used to maintain sustainable agriculture, especially on small family farms. The project will support immediate and long-range strategies for efficient crop production through collaboration with producers, especially those that operate small- and medium-sized farms. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2003: Program Component 301: A simple, inexpensive and rapid method to detect lycopene content in tomatoes was needed so
growers, breeders, and scientists interested in lycopene content could test for it. Drs. Davis, Fish and Perkins-Veazie, at South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, Lane, OK, produced a method that fulfilled these requirements, and the new method is improved over the currently accepted one since it is faster, less expensive and requires no hazardous chemicals. We determined that lycopene in tomato and tomato products can be quantitated using a high intensity light spectrophotometer. This technology gives the tomato industry a simple method that can be utilized in studies that can lead to consistently high lycopene in tomatoes and tomato products. B. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: Program Component 305: We wanted to determine if iso-lines of sweet corn that are different in their response (resistant or susceptible) to the disease rust, have different levels of certain chemicals in their tissues. Drs. V. Russo, P. Perkins-Veazie, J. Collins at the South Central
Agricultural Research Laboratory, Lane, OK, in cooperation with T. Smith (Southeastern Oklahoma State University), and N. Maness (Oklahoma State University), studied levels of sugars and proteins in these iso-lines. We determined that the susceptible iso-line had higher concentrations of sugars, lower levels of water-soluble polysaccharides and starch, and that protein levels were the same in both lines. These data indicate that sugar and starch levels may be associated with resistance to rust and may be utilized as a rust deterrent in the future. C. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations: Program Component 305: Vegetable transplants were transferred to limited- resource producers. These materials were augmented with personal contacts so producers could incorporate the knowledge, and/or technology, into their production plans. Almost 2500 lbs of produce from research plots was donated to area food banks through cooperation with The Gleaning Network. 5. Describe
the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Program Component 301: Accomplishments over the four year life of this project are many fold and include: screening wild watermelon lines for resistance to powdery mildew, finding resistant germplasm and making crosses to study the inheritance of this resistance. The relationship between total soluble solid and color development in watermelon was studied to see if a low-sugar watermelon would be feasible to produce for people concerned with dietary intake of sugar. A rapid lycopene detection method was produced for watermelon and tomato that greatly simplified the previous method. Our studies will lead to an understanding of molecular processes of watermelon development and defense, and to the development of tools by which new varieties can be easily produced, with the goal of delivering better, more genetically diverse watermelon varieties to growers. Program Component 305: Over the
life of this project research has been directed at improving or developing production systems, and at examination of the physiological consequences to plants caused by stressors or by factors affecting development. These experiments have resulted in recommendations for fertilizer application and harvesting strategies that can increase yield, and improve return to the producer by reducing travel through the field. For several crops, spring and fall planting windows have been determined. This will allow producers to establish and harvest multiple crops in a growing season. Because land and equipment usage will be used efficiently the additional yield will increase farm income. In addition, planting date has been found to be important in improving plant vigor by delaying the onset and rate of spread of senescence in sweet corn stalk internodes. This will reduce the amount of lodging and disease incidence in stalk tissue and increase yield quality and quantity. Rotational sequences that
use sweet corn and bell pepper in place of peanut increased yields of all crops over repeated cropping of peanut alone. Rotations will provide peanut producers with options, and allow diversity in production, if they are in the process of deciding on whether to replace peanut with other crops. Factors of planting date, fertilizer rate, irrigation, and plant density have been evaluated to produce a production system for peppers. This information has led to increasing yields by more than 25% for specialty peppers used in value-added products. Information developed from this research program has been transferred to producers in the form of farm visits, information distribution in cooperation with the Oklahoma State University Extension Service, on-farm demonstration projects, and a Vegetable Production Systems web-site. Producers will be able to use the information generated from this research to develop sustainable production systems to increase yields, and income on family farms. 6.
What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? Program Component 301: FY 2004: Clone and sequence cucurbit mlo (a plant defense gene) genes involved in powdery mildew resistance. FY 2005: Clone and sequence other cucurbit powdery mildew resistance genes. FY 2006: Powdery mildew resistance genes cloned in FY 2002 and 2003 will be analyzed for potential transgenic incorporation into watermelon plants. Determine the genes involved in the biochemical pathway by which watermelon produces lycopene. Program Component 305: FY 2004: Effects of plant density and fertilizer rate on ion concentrations in beans will be determined. FY2005: Determine how bacterial and fungal inoculum affects vegetable yields. The effect of plant density on yield of jalapeno peppers will be established. FY 2006: Effects of rotation of vegetable crops following ryegrass in a low-till production system will be determined. Determine the effect cultural practices have on nutrient content of
peppers. Data from an on-going multi-year experiment will be compiled in a study comparing conventional and organic production systems for vegetables, which include humic acid and corn gluten meal. 7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Program Component 301 and 305: Information on the scientific method and agricultural sciences was presented to students from several elementary and senior high schools visiting the South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory. Undergraduate college students were introduced to the scientific method used in research through summer jobs and cooperation in special programs. High school teachers were exposed to the scientific method through a mentoring program. There was cooperation in field days that
demonstrated to producers, and potential producers, the cultural methods that will lead to improved yield and information about the importance of genetic diversity in crop plants. Program Component 301: Transferred information to a cucurbit breeder about grafting techniques used in watermelon. Presented information about powder mildew on watermelon, insect resistance in watermelon, and lycopene determination in watermelon to cucurbit industry personnel at an international meeting and a regional meeting through invited oral presentations. Contacted several times and distributed information through the Internet about watermelon genetics. Program Component 305: A web site (www.lane-ag.org/scarl/prodsys/prodsys. htm) provides recommendations for vegetable production based on data generated as a result of research. The site is maintained and updated, and to date has received more than 2800 inquiries. This information makes production system research from this location immediately available
to customers. In cooperation with Oklahoma State University, technology has been provided to local growers concerning production of onions from transplants. Cooperation with a producer is underway in a Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant that is examining the distribution of nutrients in cover crops and soils over time, and in another SARE grant to develop a production system for dry beans at the grower's location. Cooperative work is underway to develop a rotation system for ryegrass and vegetable crops. The results have been presented to farmers, scientists, extension personnel, seedsmen, and industry personnel attending various scientific meetings. 8. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: This does not replace your peer-reviewed publications listed below). Invited presentation on "Watermelon Resistance to Powdery Mildew Race 1." Davis, A.R., Thomas, C.E.,
Levi, A., Bruton, B.D., Pair, S.D. Cucurbitaceae '02, Naples, FL. Invited presentation on "Reflectance Colorimetry Does Not Effectively Estimate Lycopene Content in Watermelon." Davis, A.R., Fish, W.W., Perkins-Veazie, P. Cucurbitaceae '02, Naples, FL. Invited presentation on "Field Screening of Citrullus lanatus Germplasm Accessions for Resistance to Cucurbit Insect Pests." Davis, A.R., Pair, S. D., Forrest, M. Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Science, Mobile, AL. Russo, V.M. Cultural methods for non-pungent Jalapenos. Proceedings Oklahoma-Arkansas Horticultural Industries Show. 2002. v. 21. p. 182-183.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Levi A., Thomas C.T., Wehner T., Zhang X., Davis, A. Toward an integrated linkage map of watermelon. HortScience. 2002. Abstract p. 45.
- Levi, A., Thomas, C.E., Simmons, A.M., Thies, J.A., Davis, A.R. Construction of a reference genetic linkage map for watermelon. Cucurbitaceae Proceedings. 2002. p. 28-35.
- Levi, A., Thomas, C.E., Wehner, T., Zhang, X., Davis, A.R., Thies, J.A., Simmons, A.M. Progress in constructing linkage map of watermelon. HortScience. 2002. v. 37. p. 753.
- Russo, V.M. Protein content in tissues of near iso-genic shrunken2 sweet maize. Cereal Research Communications. 2002. v. 30. p. 209-216.
- Russo, V.M., Bruton, B.D., Popham, T.W. A quantitative model of melon (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis) plant development. Cucurbitacea. 2002. p. 393-403.
- Russo, V.M., Maness, N. Carbohydrates in near-isogenic shrunken2 sweet maize kernels. Cereal Research Communications. 2002. v. 30. p. 411-414.
- Russo, V.M., Howard, L. Carotenoids in pungent and non-pungent peppers at various developmental stages grown in the field and glasshouse. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 2002. v. 82. p. 615-624.
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Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Program Component 301: Domestic watermelon cultivars have a narrow genetic base. Because of this lack of diversity they are vulnerable to pathogens and insects. Wild relatives of domesticated watermelon, although not suitable for agricultural production, often contain the genetic survival traits that are lacking in their domestic counterparts. Introduction of wild watermelon species genetic diversity into common watermelon cultivars could increase this crop=s resistance to diseases and insects. However, it is necessary to know which wild watermelon species contains these desirable traits before breeding these genes into commercially grown watermelon cultivars. To this end, Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus and Citrullus lanatus var. citroides, wild type watermelons from the Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit, Griffin, GA, are being evaluated for the presence of superior agronomic
characteristics, including resistance to yellow-vine disease (a serious disease affecting cucurbit crops in the Southern Plains), fusarium wilts and powdery mildew (serious diseases affecting cucurbits worldwide). Once resistance is found the sources of this resistance will be bred with common cultivars to increase the genetic diversity and disease resistance of cultivated watermelon. In addition, plant defense genes are being sequenced for use in producing a molecular genetic map for watermelon. These genes will be analyzed for potential gene transfer experiments into watermelon to strengthen the plant=s ability to resist disease-causing organisms. Program Component 305: Agriculture in the South Central States is undergoing change due to alterations in the national farm support systems, biotic and abiotic stresses affecting crop yields, and shifts in consumers preferences. These factors will likely require that traditional agricultural practices be diversified and include the
production of specialized crops. This would cause land to be taken from the currently practiced agriculture and be put in production of other crops. Modifying, or changing, existing production systems can present new physical, logistical, and sociological problems to producers. Production methods are not always easily transferable between systems, and will require the re-education of producers. Land previously in grass or other row crops may not be able to be immediately used for high-value vegetable crops. To facilitate this conversion current production systems will need to be improved, and new production systems developed that will provide additional knowledge to producers especially if diversification is a desired result. Research is being conducted to develop production systems, and examine factors that affect crop development or yield, and also to examine factors which may affect the physiology of crops. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Program Component 301:
A narrow genetic base leaves a plant species susceptible to insect attack and new and/or more virulent pathogens. The watermelon industry needs a continuous source of new genetic resources to successfully confront emerging strains of disease-causing organisms and harmful insects, as well as to develop new fruit types to stay competitive in a changing marketplace. A genetically diverse crop, which is often the opposite result of traditional breeding techniques, will often exhibit more natural resistance than a genetically narrow crop. Scientists can also use this diverse genetic foundation to improve the marketability of watermelon cultivars; to meet consumer demands for nutritionally enhanced, seedless, cut and packaged fruits, and to meet long-distance shipping durability standards. Without a diverse genetic foundation to draw from, the watermelon industry will remain static, unable to meet new demands, and may eventually lose its competitive edge. Program Component 305: Rural,
farm-based America is undergoing changes that can drastically transform the complexion of the agricultural production sector. A healthy farming sector must be adaptable to change. An enthusiastic acceptance of the changing production environment will strengthen the development of diversified, sustainable agriculture, especially for family farms, and contribute to the stability of the rural community. To profit from these changes producers will have to diversify their crops with new and improved varieties and employ new, or modified, sustainable production systems. A resilient, and adaptable, agricultural base will assure the delivery of safe, reasonably priced, nutritious food to the citizens of the United States. In addition, diversification will allow producers to enter new markets, including overseas markets. 3. How does it relate to the national Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? The project is relevant to NP301 component Plant, Microbial,
and Insect Genetic Resources, Genomics and Genetic Improvement. Specifically, Component I, Genetic Resource Management and Component II, Genomic Characterization and Genetic Improvement. This project will use established and new methods to characterize and classify genetic material, and apply new biotechnology to support the development of improved germplasm that will lead to genetic resource conservation. Collaborative efforts with a project at Charleston, SC under NP301 and projects at Lane, OK, related to NP306 (Quality and Utilization of Agricultural Products) will strengthen all three programs without overlapping goals. The project is relevant to NP305, Crop Management and Production Efficiency. The project is specifically relevant to NP305 Component 1: Integrated Production Systems - Sustainable Cropping Systems. The project addresses the following objectives and strategies in NP305: Objective 1.1 - Strengthen Competitiveness, Strategy 1.1.1 - Cost-effective Agricultural
Production Systems; Objective 1.2 - Develop New Uses and Products, Strategy 1.2. - New and Alternative Crops; Objective 2.1 - Secure Food and Fiber System, Strategy 2.1.1 - Plant and Animal Production Systems; Objective 4.1 - Balance Agriculture and the Environment, Strategy 4.1.3 - Cropland and Grazingland Sustainability; Objective 4.3 - Safe Production and Processing, Strategy 4.3.2 - Integrated Agricultural Production Systems; and Objective 5.1 - Economic Opportunity and Technology Transfer, Strategy 5.1.2 - Information Access and Delivery. By studying crop production methods to improve capacity and production efficiency, results are obtained which are related to other National Program units. Specifically in the development of sustainable cropping systems, and determining how cultural methods affect quality and quantity of vegetable crop yields. 4. What was your most significant accomplishment this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2001: There is an
increased interest in the nutrient levels in vegetables, and how they can be modified by cultural methods. A study at South Central Agriculturla Research Laboratory, Lane, OK was undertaken to determine if levels of carotenoids, compounds that appear to have benefit for human health, in fruit from pungent and non-pungent peppers grown in the greenhouse and field differ. Greenhouse culture of various pepper cultivars caused increases in levels of carotenoids. Understanding how carotenoid levels can be manipulated can lead to production methods that increase levels of these beneficial compounds in peppers. B. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: A simple, inexpensive and rapid method to detect lycopene content in watermelon was needed so growers, breeders and scientists interested in lycopene content could perform this method. Drs. Davis, Fish and Perkins- Veazie, at South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, Lane, OK, produced a method that fulfilled these requirements and
is improved over the currently accepted method since it is faster, less expensive and requires no hazardous chemicals. We determined that lycopene in watermelon and tomato purees can be quantitated using a high intensity light spectrophotometer. This technology gives the watermelon and tomato industry a simple method that can be utilized in studies which can lead to consistently high lycopene producing watermelon and tomatoes. Fungal pathogens ruin up to 25% of cantaloupe fruit harvested in the Untied States. Drs. Davis and Fish sequenced 80% of an antifungal gene (PGIP) in cantaloupe fruit at South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, Lane, OK. Comparison of our PGIP sequence to similar gene sequences from other plants showed several interesting areas of amino acid changes. Our work will give scientists information that can be utilized to determine how PGIPs interact with fungal pathogens to defend against disease. Various claims for commercial products have been made stating
that the development of onions can be affected by the exogenous application of hormones. A project in the greenhouse was undertaken to determine if hormones, and other growth regulators, applied at different times during the development of onions could affect size or weight of bulbs or weight of leaves at South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, Lane, OK. There was no beneficial effect on onion development, gibberellic acid caused almost universal splitting of bulbs, and those plants treated with maleic acid had the lightest bulbs. Use of the growth regulators did not appear to provide any benefit to onion bulb development. C. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations: Technology and vegetable transplants were transferred to small farm owners. These materials were augmented with personal contacts so that producers could incorporate the knowledge, and/or technology, into their production plans. Almost 1600 lbs of produce from research plots was donated to
area food banks through cooperation with The Gleaning Network. Worked with Highschool students for a Choctaw work program demonstrating scientific methods. 5. Describe your major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact? Program Component 301: Accomplishments include screening wild Citrullus lanatus PI lines for resistance to powdery mildew, finding resistant germplasm and making crosses to study the inheritance of this resistance. Also, the relationship between total soluble solid and color development in watermelon was studied to see if a low sugar watermelon would be feasible to produce for people concerned with dietary intake of sugar. Project 301 will lead to an understanding of molecular processes of watermelon development and defense, and to the development of tools by which new varieties can be easily produced, with the goal of delivering better, more genetically diverse watermelon varieties to growers. Program Component 305:
Over the life of this project research has been directed at improving or developing production systems, and at examination of the physiological consequences to plants caused by stressors or by factors affecting development. These experiments have resulted in recommendations for fertilizer application and harvesting strategies that can increase yield, and improve return to the producer by reducing travel through the field. For several crops, spring and fall planting windows have been determined. This will allow producers to establish and harvest multiple crops in a growing season. Because land and equipment usage will be maximized the additional yield will increase farm income. In addition, planting date has been found to be important in improving plant vigor by delaying the onset and rate of spread of senescence in sweet corn stalk internodes. This will reduce the amount of lodging and disease incidence in stalk tissue and increase yield quality and quantity. New rotational sequences
determined that use of sweet corn between peanut and bell pepper increased the yields of all crops over repeated cropping of peanut alone. Information developed from this research program has been transferred to producers in the form of farm visits, information distribution, cooperative with the Oklahoma State University Extension Service, on-farm cooperative demonstration projects, and a Vegetable Production Systems web-site. Producers will be able to use the information generated from this research to develop sustainable production systems to increase yields, and income on family farms. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? Program Component 301: FY 2003: Characterize watermelon germplasm that show resistance to cucurbit yellow vine disease to see if it is insect resistance or pathogen resistance. Clone and sequence cucurbit genes involved in the production of lycopene in watermelon. FY 2004: Establish populations that segregate for yellow vine.
FY 2005: pgip genes cloned in FY 2002 and 2003 will be analyzed for potential transgenic incorporation into watermelon plants. Discover the biochemical process by which watermelon produces lycopene Program Component 305: FY 2003: The efficacy of using bacterial and fungal inocula on peanuts, bell peppers, and dry beans in the greenhouse to increase biomass will be determined. The effect of fertilizer rate, and plant density on concentration of ions in developing mature bean pod and seed will be determined. FY 2004: It will be determined if ryegrass and pumpkin can be grown in rotation. Use of bacterial and fungal inocula for the improvement of vegetable yields in the field will be determined. The efficacy of application of a kaolin-based particle film to affect yield in peppers will be determined. FY2005: Data from on-going multi- year experiments will have been compiled in a study comparing conventional and organic production systems, which include humic acid and corn gluten meal, in
production systems for vegetables. The effect of plant density on concentration of ions in developing and mature pods and seed of beans planted in late summer into a minimum tillage system will be determined. 7. What technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer other scientist)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption durability of the technology? Program Component 301 and 305: Information on the scientific method and agricultural sciences was presented to students from several elementary and senior high schools visiting the South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory. Undergraduate college students were introduced to the scientific method used in research through summer jobs and cooperation in special programs. There was cooperation in field days on- and off-station that exposed producers, and potential producers, to cultural methods that will lead to improved yield and information
about the importance of genetic diversity in crop plants. Program Component 301: The following activities supported information transfer to the scientific community: moderated an afternoon section for a national meeting; informed a local herpetologist about proper techniques used in storage, isolation, and shipping of DNA samples; supplied information to a cucurbit breeder about watermelon color inheritance and mapping of color inheritance; and informed a Plant Physiologist from Australia about control measures for powdery mildew on watermelon. Presented information about powder mildew on watermelon to farmers and watermelon industry personnel at the Oklahoma Statewide Watermelon Meeting in Grady, OK, on December 2001. Contacted several times and distributed information through the Internet about watermelon. Oral presentation to farmers, scientists, extension personnel, seedsmen, and industry personnel attending the 30th Annual Horticulture Industries Show in Tulsa, OK, Jan. 11-12,
2002. Oral presentation to farmers, scientists, extension personnel, seedsmen, and industry personnel attending the Southern Region meeting of the American Society for Horticultural Science in Orlando, FL. Program Component 305: A web site (www.lane-ag.org/scarl/prodsys/ prodsys. htm) provides recommendations for vegetable production based on data generated as a result of research. The site is maintained and updated, and to date has received more than 2300 inquiries. This information makes production system research from this location immediately available to customers. In cooperative endeavors with Oklahoma State University technology has been provided to local growers concerning: a) production of pungent and non-pungent bell peppers; b) production of various types of dry beans on small acreage for value added products; and c) production of onions from transplants. Cooperation with a producer is underway in a Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant that is
examining the effect cover crops have on soil nutrition loads, and in another SARE grant to develop a production system for dry beans at his location. Cooperative work is underway to develop a rotation system for ryegrass and vegetable crops. The results have been presented to farmers, scientists, extension personnel, seedsmen, and industry personnel attending various scientific meetings. 8. List your most important publications and presentations, and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your review publications which are listed below) Invited presentation on "Powdery Mildew Resistance in Watermelon." Davis, A.R., Bruton, B.D., and Pair, S.D. Proceedings of the 21th Annual Horticulture Industries Show. 2002. v. 21. p. 178-181.
Impacts
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Publications
- Rush, L., King, R., Russo, V., Biles, C., Cluck, T. Vegetative compatibility among nitrate nonutilizing (NIT) mutants of Fusarium oxysporum. Proceedings of the Oklahoma Academy of Science. 2001. v. 81. Abstract p. 90.
- Russo, V.M., Russo, B.M., Cartwright, B. Culture conditions affect colonization of watermelon by Colletotrichum orbiculare. Biologia Plantarum. 2001. v. 44. p. 305-307.
- Russo, V.M. Bed orientation, and position in field inconsistently affect yields of strip-cropped vegetables. Journal of Vegetable Crop Production. 2001. v. 7. p. 13-20.
- Russo, V.M., Howard, L. Levels of carotenoids in fruit from pungent and non-pungent peppers grown in the greenhouse and field. HortScience. 2001. v. 36. Abstract. p. 843.
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