An integrated platform for rapid genetic gain in pulse crops

Pulse genetic improvement has been constrained by the long lifecycle of the plant; a feature that results in slow rates of genetic gain in breeding programs. The objectives of this project are to further develop an Accelerated Single Seed Descent system for pulses (developed in earlier GRDC-supported projects) to help address disease and other losses in pulse crops. This will be done by developing biotic screening methodologies for: 1. two of the major pulse pathogens -- Ascochyta and Botrytis; and 2. for selection of herbicide tolerance traits. Both of these target capabilities will be integrated into a comprehensive Accelerated Single Seed Descent system. The resultant breeding platform with its capacity for abiotic/ biotic and herbicide screening will be delivered to the Pulse Breeding Australia (PBA) pulse improvement program.