Plant breeding Book

Introduction. Genetic systems and population structure. Genetic systems, recombination and variability. Population structure and variability. Sources variation. Plant genetic resources. Induced mutations. Interspecific hybridization by sexual means. Chromosome manipulation and polyploidy. Somatic hybridization. Gene cloning and identification. Gene transfer to plants: approaches and available techniques. The role of gene technology in plant breeding. Assessment of variation. Biometrical genetics in breeding. Biochemical characterization of populations. Manipulation of genetic systems. Self- and cross-incompatibility systems. Male sterility. Apomixis. Micropropagation and somatic embryogenesis. Andro- and parthenogenesis. Selection methods. Selection strategies and choice of breeding methods. Marker-assisted selection. Gametophytic and sporophytic selection. In vitro selection. Adaptation. Genotype x environment interaction and adaptation. Augmenting yield-based selection. Resistance to abiotic stresses. Resistance to parasites. Specific trait breeding. Breeding for improved symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Photosynthetic and respiratory efficiency. Breeding for efficient root systems. On the utilization of renewable plant resources. Epilogue. The need for comprehensive plant breeding strategy.