Progress 04/24/13 to 03/06/18
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. This is the final report, project terminated March 6, 2018. Objective 1. To develop new techniques that promote use and maintenance of germplasm. The primary mission of the project was to provide the service of potato germplasm to the nation�s potato researchers and breeders (see Objective 2 below). In order to do that effectively, we conducted many different types of research projects to determine the best techniques for handling germplasm and data. In the past year, we confirmed that large field tuber lines of jamesii and similar wild species can be uniquely obtained in hybrids with big- tuber mutants of the related species cardiophyllum. We made color scans of 225 populations of Species boliviense, and obtained preliminary data for separating subgroups within this species based on appearance, tuber glycoalkaloids, and crossability. We developed a method of rescuing embryos of interspecific hybrids with weak seeds. We developed use of pipe cleaners to efficiently color code multiple pollinations on a single plant. Digital scans of representative plants and tubers of germplasm accessions were made. A new technique for making difficult hybrids was developed and validated. A computerized scheduling scheme was developed for seed increase pollinations that greatly improved seed yields and efficiency. We used deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers to assess relationships and heterozygosity of pops. We conducted an experiment that found that extra fertilization of mother plants results in more seeds, but not better germination after 25 years of storage. Objective 2. To acquire, maintain, classify, preserve, multiply, and distribute genebank germplasm. This project is the only one in the USA responsible for providing germplasm services to potato scientists and breeders. Each year of the project we assessed the status and need for new items in the genebank and initiated requests, and collected new germplasm from the wild. Each year we revitalized about 200 seed populations and 3,000 clonal stocks in vitro. The germination, vigor, and disease status of stocks need constant monitoring, so each year we did hundreds of lab, greenhouse, and field tests. For classification, many experiments were done leading to a complete modernization of the taxonomy of potato, a new rapid method to logically subdivide species was developed, and core collections were selected with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers for species with many populations. Most importantly, these supporting activities made it possible to identify the most appropriate germplasm, then rapidly send it in high quality, disease-free form to clients, usually in over 30 states and 20 foreign countries each year. Usual distributions had been about 10,000 units per year, but that has significantly increased this last year. These germplasm service activities have a parallel in data management, since virtually all these activities and data are reported on the genebank website we maintain, which is also a platform for ordering stocks. The website also promotes use of project resources by presenting media coverage and technical advice. Objective 3. To evaluate the collection. The genebank is not a germplasm museum or vault, but the national working collection with a mission to characterize and deploy the stocks so as to return the most pay-off to farmers and consumers. Each year, four large screen houses were used in summer to grow research stocks, and over two acres of field studies were planted at Hancock, Wisconsin. We also grew many field plots at the New Mexico State University at Farmington, and with cooperators at Puno, Cusco, and Huancayo, Peru. We joined resources with the Potato Crop Germplasm Committee and other cooperators to genotype about 700 cultivars and breeding stocks and an additional 100 wild species populations. Tubers were produced for screening for the serious emerging tuber rot, Dickeya. Novel sources of resistance were characterized for Zebra chip disease. The cultivar collection was characterized for tuber flesh and skin color as well as dry matter. With collaborators in Peru, thousands of cultivated accessions were assessed for response to calcium fertilization. With collaborators in Oregon, we identified germplasm with very high levels of folate. With collaborators in Washington, we identified very high antioxidant germplasm and germplasm that resists tuber greening from light exposure. We screened Colombian germplasm and selected for dark orange flesh forms adapted to northern growing conditions. We screened Mexican wild germplasm and selected rare forms with very large tubers, introgressing that trait into related species. Accomplishments 01 Providing potato germplasm and related services. Potato is the nation and world�s most important vegetable, but has many needs for crop improvement. It has more wild relatives that have been used in breeding than any other major crop, so germplasm services are needed to support the U.S. agricultural economy and nutrition. The U.S. Potato Genebank (USPG), managed by ARS scientists in Madison, Wisconsin and their university partners, acquired, classified, preserved, evaluated, and distributed over 50,000 units of germplasm for research and breeding to U.S. and foreign scientists. Collaborators used U.S. Potato Genebank germplasm to breed for resistance to greening (responsible for 10-15% of waste); develop breeding stocks resistant to verticillium and scab; identify germplasm with high folate and resistance to nematodes; and produce custom hybrids and propagules to help industry partners breed lines with much greater levels of an anti- appetite compound aimed at reducing obesity. All these advances which have a positive impact on the U.S. farm economy and health of U.S. citizens would not have been possible using germplasm in the common breeding pool. They needed to be accessed from exotic germplasm, and that exotic germplasm is only available in the USA from USPG.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Del Rio, A.H., Obregon, C., Bamberg, J.B., Petrick, J., Bula, R., De La Calle, F. 2017. Validation of high-quality potato seed production protocol under controlled conditions (CETS System) in cultivated potato species (Solanum tuberosum L.). Latin American Potato Magazine. 21(2):71-78.
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Progress 10/01/16 to 09/30/17
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. Objective 1. To develop new techniques that promote use and maintenance of germplasm. We confirmed that large field tuber lines of jamesii and similar wild species can be uniquely obtained in hybrids with big-tuber mutants of the related species cardiophyllum. We made color scans of 225 populations of Species boliviense, and obtained preliminary data for separating subgroups within this species based on appearance, tuber glycoalkaloids, and crossability. Objective 2. To acquire, maintain, classify, preserve, multiply, and distribute genebank germplasm. During the past year, the genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, in cooperation with worldwide collaborators, continued distributing (free of charge) viable and disease-free stocks to all those who requested them. This year, 143 accessions were increased as botanical seed populations and 3090 clonally. Nearly 700 potato virus tests were performed on seed increase parents, seedlots, and research materials. Germination tests were performed on 1509 accessions, ploidy determinations were made on 34 accessions, and tetrazolium seed viability tests were done on 31 seedlots. Taxonomic status was assessed on all stocks grown. Over 4,000 individual field plots, greenhouse, and screenhouse growouts were done locally. Objective 3. To evaluate the collection, four large screen houses were used to grow research stocks, and over two acres of field studies were planted at the research farm at Hancock, Wisconsin, at the New Mexico State University farm at Farmington, and with cooperators at Puno, Peru. We received data from genotyping of ~700 cultivars and breeding stocks and began analysis. Tubers were produced for screening for the severe emerging tuber rot, Dickeya. Accomplishments 01 Emasculation technique in potato breeding. With increased interest in breeding with self-fertile potato stocks comes the requirement to emasculate flowers of the intended mother plant when attempting to make desired outcross hybrids. At the U. S. Potato Genebank, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, we showed that seedset in difficult crosses is reduced by anthers-only emasculation, and reduced even more with removal of anthers, sepals and corolla. This indicates anthers-only emasculation is superior. It also indicates that techniques for natural or induced male sterility of intended mother plants should be sought, since avoiding any mutilation of the flowers for emasculation would save time and increase hybridization success. 02 Diurnal temperature fluctuation improves germination of recalcitrant potato botanical seedlots. Some seedlots have germination that is problematic because they start germinating slowly, then only a few seeds germinate each day, and a poor final maximum germination is eventually reached. Scientists at the U. S. Potato Genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin found that in some cases these parameters can be remarkably improved by exposing the germinating seeds to fluctuating temperatures - simply putting them in the refrigerator overnight. This technique will allow genebank staff to better assess seedlot viability for germplasm maintenance, and allow potato germplasm users to more efficiently sprout the full number of seedlings they need for research and breeding projects.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Bamberg, J., del Rio, A., Kinder, D., Louderback, L., Pavlik, B., Fernandez, C. 2016. Core collections of potato (Solanum) species native to the USA. American Journal of Potato Research. 93(6):564-571. doi: 10.1007/ s12230-016-9536-2.
- Bamberg, J., del Rio, A. 2016. Accumulation of genetic diversity in the US Potato Genebank. American Journal of Potato Research. 93(5):430-435. doi: 10.1007/s12230-016-9519-3.
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Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. Objective 1. To develop new techniques that promote use and maintenance of germplasm. An in vitro protocol for rescuing poor germinating seedlots was developed. Improved methods were discovered for preserving live shoots from the wild until they can be secured at the genebank. A more efficient method of marking controlled pollinations with colored pipe cleaners was refined. A technique for producing digital images of scanned plants that can be attached to computerized germplasm records was established. Objective 2. To acquire, maintain, classify, preserve, multiply, and distribute genebank germplasm. During the past year, the genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, in cooperation with worldwide collaborators, continued distributing (free of charge) viable and disease-free stocks to all those who requested them. This year, 231 accessions were increased as botanical seed populations and 2,928 clonally. Over 750 potato virus tests were performed on seed increase parents, seedlots, and research materials. Germination tests were performed on 1532 accessions, ploidy determinations were made on 26 accessions, and tetrazolium seed viability tests were done on 33 seedlots. Taxonomic status was assessed on all stocks grown. Over 4,000 individual field plots, greenhouse, and screenhouse growouts were done locally. Objective 3. To evaluate the collection, four large screen houses were used to grow research stocks, and over two acres of field studies were planted at the research farm at Hancock, Wisconsin, at the USDA/ARS germplasm test site at Parlier, California, and with cooperators at Puno, Peru. The cultivar collection was grown to gather data on tuber yield, shape, and color. Colombian �criolla� potatoes were rated for taste and adaptation to local growing conditions. Tubers and leaf samples of two wild species were produced for genetic characterization and tuber quality analysis. Hybrid seed families were produced to combine sources of frost and drought tolerance, Zebra chip and Wart disease resistance, and high folate. Accomplishments 01 Discovery of tuber freeze tolerance. Potato was not previously known to have significant tuber freezing tolerance, but when 25 potato species were screened, ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin found one with remarkable ability to regularly survive to colder than -5C. Frost and cold damage is a major worldwide challenge to the potato crop that may increase with climate change. Study of this new tuber freezing resistance is expected to provide insight into the physiology and genetics of cold tolerance that will eventually allow breeders to produce a crop with more robust resistance to frost. 02 Core collections of southwest USA wild potato species. The US Potato Genebank collects, preserves, and distributes stocks that breeders use to improve the potato crop, but because genebank capacity is limited, it is important to identify and prioritize the stocks that contain the most genetic diversity, i.e., compose �core collections.� ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin conducted a comprehensive genetic assessment of genebank samples of wild potatoes native to the USA, finding that certain sites in the wild in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado have populations that are particularly rich sources of genetics. These sites will be targeted for additional sampling with the expectation that they will provide a particular abundance of useful traits that breeders can use to improve the potato crop.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Bamberg, J.B., Martin, M.W., Abad, J., Jenderek, M.M., Tanner, J., Donnelly, D.J., Nassar, AM.K., Veilleux, R.E., Novy, R.G. 2016. In vitro technology at the US Potato Genebank. In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology - Plants. 52(3):213-225. doi: 10.1007/s11627-016-9753-x.
- Bamberg, J., del Rio, A., Navarre, D.A. 2016. Intuitive visual impressions (cogs) for identifying clusters of diversity within potato species. American Journal of Potato Research. 93(4):350-359. doi: 10.1007/s12230- 016-9508-6.
- Jansky, S.H., Charkowski, A.O., Douches, D.S., Gusmini, G., Richael, C., Bethke, P.C., Spooner, D.M., Novy, R.G., De Jong, H., De Jong, W.S., Bamberg, J.B., Thompson, A.L., Bizimungu, B., Holm, D.G, Brown, C.R., Haynes, K.G., Sathuvalli, V.R., et al. 2016. Reinventing potato as a diploid inbred line-based crop. Crop Science. 56(4):1412-1422. doi: 10. 2135/cropsci2015.12.0740.
- Chung, Y.S., Palta, J., Bamberg, J., Jansky, S. 2016. Potential molecular markers associated with tuber calcium content in wild potato germplasm. Crop Science. 56(2):576-584. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2015.06.0370.
- Bamberg, J., del Rio, A. 2016. Accumulation of genetic diversity in the US Potato Genebank. American Journal of Potato Research. 93(5):430-435. doi: 10.1007/s12230-016-9519-3.
- Robinson, B.R., Sathuvalli, V., Bamberg, J., Goyer, A. 2015. Exploring folate diversity in wild and primitive potatoes for modern crop improvement. Genes. 6(4):1300-1314. doi:10.3390/genes6041300.
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Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. Objective 1. To develop new techniques that promote use and maintenance of germplasm: tests of hydrated pollen fertilization. An improved technique for hydrating and growing pollen was developed. In addition, the optimal technique for double pollination for difficult interspecific hybrids was determined. Finally, a computerized management tool for pollination timing was developed that resulted in a remarkable improvement for certain species very difficult to reproduce as seeds. Objective 2. To acquire, maintain, classify, preserve, multiply, and distribute genebank germplasm during the past year. The genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, in cooperation with worldwide collaborators, continued distributing (free of charge) viable and disease-free stocks to all those who requested them. This year, 218 accessions were increased as botanical seed populations and 2,700 clonally. Over 700 potato virus tests were performed on seed increase parents, seedlots and research materials. Germination tests were performed on 1523 accessions, ploidy determinations were made on 23 accessions, and tetrazolium seed viability tests were done on 63 seedlots. Over 2400 seedlots were tested for various treatments to improve germination. Taxonomic status was assessed on all stocks grown. Nearly 4,000 individual field plots, greenhouse, and screenhouse growouts were done locally, at the research farm at Hancock, Wisconsin, or with cooperators at the University of California - Davis. We initiated a new test of winter field growouts for tuber evaluation with cooperators at Hastings, Florida and Yuma, Arizona. Objective 3. To evaluate the collection, four large screen houses with research stocks for various traits were planted, as well as over 1200 plots for tuber trait evaluation. An experiment to test response of plants and seedlings to acidified medium was repeated a second year and expanded. A third replicate of the standard set of 75 populations was produced for testing various tuber tissue traits, including allergenicity. All populations of three species (350 total) were sampled for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for development of core collections. Improved germplasm for specialty Criolla "egg yolk" potatoes were produced and selected. More advanced hybrids with high tomatine wild species and high calcium wild species were made. The entire clonal collection was grown for testing tuber potassium (and other traits), genotyping, and characterization for tuber qualities. Germplasm was identified with two mechanisms of Zebra chip resistance, and crosses made to combine them. With cooperators in Peru, stocks we helped breed were trialed again in two places in the highlands confirming a favorable response to fertilizer calcium and exceptional frost tolerance, and more hybrids were produced with other species pursuant to addressing climate change challenges. Accomplishments 01 Overcoming crossability barriers between species facilitates bringing useful traits into the breeding pool. ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin discovered that seeds produced by certain interspecific crossing do not fully develop and so do not sprout. A protocol was developed to extract the immature embryos from these seeds and culture them on artificial medium in sterile culture, allowing recovery of hybrids that would not otherwise be possible. These hybrids will now be able to be used in developing populations segregating for useful traits and for breeding. 02 Characterization of the status of genetic diversity in the wild is critical for genebank management. ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin have collected and studied potato germplasm native to the United States for over two decades to better understand the genetics of plants in the wild compared to that of plants in the genebank. One exceptionally large population in Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado contains millions of plants of Solanum jamesii. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers showed that this single population has over 83% of the genetic diversity, more than in all of the other 128 populations of this species combined. The large amount of genetic diversity may be due in part to natural selection in a large geographic area. In addition, native inhabitants of this region may have used potato as a food staple, selecting for an array of traits important to humans. Discovery of the great diversity in this mega population provides guidance for the genebank. By focusing on this population, the genebank will assemble most of the known genetic diversity in this species. In addition, it is especially important to protect the habitat in this region because it is so rich in genetic diversity for one of the few wild potato species found in the United States.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Hardigan, M.A., Bamberg, J., Buell, C.R., Douches, D.S. 2015. Taxonomy and genetic differentiation among wild and cultivated germplasm of Solanum sect. Petota. The Plant Genome. 8(1). doi: 10.3835/plantgenome2014.06.0025.
- Bamberg, J., Moehninsi, M., Navarre, R., Suriano, J. 2015. Variation for tuber greening in the diploid wild potato Solanum microdontum. American Journal of Potato Research. 92(3):435-443.
- Bamberg, J., del Rio, A., Coombs, J., Douches, D. 2015. Assessing SNPs versus RAPDs for predicting heterogeneity and screening efficiency in wild potato (Solanum) species. American Journal of Potato Research. 92(2):276- 283.
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Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. Objective 1. To develop new techniques that promote use and maintenance of germplasm, tests of grafting and pruning were done to improve flowering and fruiting. New seed germination techniques were tried and double pollination to enable wide crosses was initiated. A new type of tissue culture medium was tested to improve the efficiency of putting clones in sterile culture. Three new technologies to enhance the efficiency of collecting were tested. We tested single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) for assessing genetic heterogeneity in model potato species populations. Objective 2. To acquire, maintain, classify, preserve, multiply, and distribute genebank germplasm during the past year, the genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, in cooperation with worldwide collaborators, continued distributing (free of charge) viable and disease-free stocks to all those who requested them. A total of 170 accessions were increased as botanical seed populations and 1900 clonally. Over 720 potato virus tests were performed on seed increase parents, seedlots, and research materials. Germination tests were performed on 1489 accessions, ploidy determinations were made on 60 accessions, and tetrazolium seed viability tests were done on 50 seedlots. Taxonomic status was assessed on all stocks grown. We acquired funds for, and conduced, a successful germplasm collecting expedition to the southwest United States, collecting over 120 new samples. A total of 7122 units of germplasm were distributed in 249 orders. Orders were filled within one week of receipt. Nearly 200 field plots were planted to verify that seed multiplication efforts last year resulted in offspring seedlots that matched their parents. Objective 3. To evaluate the collection, four large screen houses with research stocks for various traits were planted, as well as over 1400 plots for tuber trait evaluation. An experiment was initiated to test response of plants and seedlings to acidified medium. Hundreds of tuber lots were tested for greening after illumination and have been assessed for glycoalkaloids, pH, and folate. Hundreds of breeding stocks were evaluated for protein and percent of dry matter. Advanced adapted lines were selected and intermated for specialty Criolla "egg yolk" potatoes. Hybrids with high tomatine wild species were made and tubers sent to cooperators and tested. Field tuber tissue from previous years was tested for potassium. Germplasm was selected and propagated for Zebra chip resistance evaluation and breeding. With cooperators in Peru, stocks we helped breed were trialed again in two places in the highlands confirming a favorable response to fertilizer calcium and exceptional frost tolerance. Accomplishments 01 Floral mutants can be useful tools for understanding and controlling sexual reproduction. ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, WI discovered in the wild potato hybrid of Solanum boliviense, a new mutant we named "Coronita." It was found to have fully functional pistils that develop in place of anthers, thus is a male sterile variant. This mutant gives opportunity to understand and manipulate male fertility. That could have impact and value to the public because they benefit from improved potatoes, and improved potatoes will be promoted by efficient germplasm preservation and cultivar breeding which depend on making controlled hybrids. 02 New frost hardy elite line was selected in Puno on the Peruvian Altiplano, and (informally) named "Cola de Gato." Vines appear to be more frost hardy than standard hardy cultivars in the region, resulting in good yields of smooth, attractive-looking potatoes. This line was selected from a breeding family produced in Wisconsin by ARS scientists using Peruvian native cultivar germplasm and wild species. Since the United States has obtained most of its potato germplasm from Latin America, it builds trust with those donor countries when we develop germplasm in ways that benefit them, in this case, by providing potatoes that are tolerant to frost, a serious problem in Latin America. This benefits the United States public too, since frost is also a problem in the United States, and it also encourages ongoing international exchange of germplasm, information, and cooperation which we need to improve our potato crop.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Cooper, W.R., Bamberg, J.B. 2014. Variation in Bactericera cockerelli (Hemiptera: Triozidae) oviposition, survival, and development on Solanum bulbocastanum germplasm. American Journal of Potato Research. DOI 10.1007/ s12230-014-9384-x.
- Zorrilla, C., Navarro, F., Vega, S., Bamberg, J.B., Palta, J. 2014. Identification and selection for tuber calcium, internal quality and pitted scab in segregating �Atlantic� x �Superior� reciprocal tetraploid populations. American Journal of Potato Research. 91(6):673-687.
- Bamberg, J.B., Suriano, J., del Rio, A., Cooper, W.Rodney, Abad, J., Fernandez, C. 2014. Matryoshka: A new floral mutant in wild potato. American Journal of Potato Research. 91(5):500-503.
- Bamberg, J.B., del Rio, A. 2013. Selection and validation of an AFLP marker core collection for the wild potato Solanum microdontum. American Journal of Potato Research. 91(4):368-375.
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Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): Objective 1: Develop and apply new methods for managing potato genetic resources which improve genebank operating efficiency and effectiveness, and which enable pathogen-tested materials and associated information to be distributed worldwide. Objective 2: Maintain, regenerate, back-up, monitor, and distribute genetic resources and associated information for potato and related wild species. Objective 3: Evaluate and characterize potato genetic resources for priority genetic and horticultural traits. Apply knowledge of patterns of genetic divergence and diversity in potato to strategically expand the collection. Approach (from AD-416): We will systematically test potential improvements in germplasm preservation and handling techniques through various enhancers of seed germination, flowering and botanical seed yield, pollen viability, and improved methods of plant fertilization. We will acquire selected germplasm for the genebank from within the USA and abroad after consultation with state and federal advisory committees. We will classify germplasm with morphological and DNA marker assessments. We will preserve germplasm by performing seed increase of at least 200 accessions per year yielding >10,000 seeds on the populations with lowest seed numbers and germination, testing for disease, and backup in the national base collection at Ft. Collins, CO. We will distribute germplasm free of charge to federal, state, corporate and private clients in the US and abroad. We will evaluate genebank germplasm through partnerships with ARS, state, industry, and foreign scientists with expertise in various specialties of potato research. We also aim to continue to discover and describe simple physiological and genetic traits in-house. We will particularly seek evaluation projects studying nutritional potential in exotic germplasm. Evaluation of the patterns of genetic diversity in the genebank will be done using DNA markers. As in the past, the empirical evidence gained will be used to modify genebank techniques so the best practices are in place for maximizing the acquisition, preservation, and evaluation of genetic diversity in the genebank. Availability of potato germplasm is important to the progress of basic research and breeding. During May - June 2013, the genebank at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin in cooperation with worldwide collaborators, continued filling this need by distributing (free of charge), viable and disease free stocks to all those who requested them, which fulfills the project's Objective 2 to maintain and distribute germplasm. We also evaluated and documented valuable traits as mandated by Objective 3. Orders were filled within one week of receipt. Summer field plantings of nearly 2000 plots were completed, including plots to verify that seed multiplication efforts last year resulted in offspring seedlots that matched their parents. Four large screenhouses with research stocks for various traits were planted. A summer seed increase of genebank stocks with low germination or few seeds was initiated. A germination experiment was started to compare long-term viability of seeds that had been produced 25 years ago on parents without extra fertilizer versus seeds produced on the same parents with extra fertilizer. We acquired funds for, and planned a new germplasm collecting expedition to the southwest United States. A new program was initiated with a Canadian cooperator to look for even better somaclonal variants in genebank stocks high in antioxidants and folate. With cooperators in Peru, stocks with very favorable response to fertilizer calcium and exceptional frost tolerance were identified at their June harvest in Huancayo and Puno regions. The above are all specific steps in developing new methods that will forward the productive use of potato germplasm by developing new technologies (Objective 1) and evaluating and expanding the breadth of knowledge and physical germplasm available (Objective 3). Accomplishments 01 New potato anti-cancer information. Diverse stocks kept at the United States Potato Genebank, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, hold promise for improving anti-cancer components of potato. One such component, tomatine, exists in very high levels in certain exotic potato species. For the first time, ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, WI identified true hybrids with cultivated forms that could be used to bring tomatine into the potato crop. Transformation of the potato crop to contain an anti- cancer compound, could increase United States citizens' health and reduce their healthcare costs. 02 Floral mutants can be useful tools for understanding sexual reproduction. The new floral mutant ARS researchers at Sturgeon Bay, WI discovered in the wild potato Solanum stoloniferum form fendleri has been named "Matryoshka." It was found to have unique expressions of male and female sterility, as well as producing seedless berries. This could result in progress toward more complete understanding and control of flowering and fruiting. That would be very useful in potato, and such knowledge might transfer to the closely-related fruit-crops tomato, pepper, and eggplant. This is important to US consumers who eat a lot of these vegetables, since they stand to benefit from research tools that improve those crops. 03 Confirmed success in visual categorization within species. When the genebank has many populations of a given species, it would be useful to be able to group them very easily to guide prioritization for evaluation and preservation. New evidence gathered by ARS scientists at Sturgeon Bay, WI confirmed that quick visual classification is repeatable, and matches genetic relatedness according to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers. Documenting and characterizing these classes will help germplasm users understand and use the variation expressed within species. Since the whole point of having and studying genetic resources is to find ways to manage genetic variation pursuant to improvement of the crop, this work should eventually make improving the potato crop more efficient. That better potato crop will provide an improved food for the farmer and consumer.
Impacts
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Publications
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