1st Edition

Genetics and Breeding of Sugar Beet

    The book comes during a time of rapid expansion in molecular technology-based selection approaches that are destined to modify or supplement conventional breeding methodology. The new technologies will allow genetic and physiological factors influencing sugar yield and quality to be assessed in great detail and manipulated. These novel techniques will also reduce the dependence of the sugar beet crop on chemical pesticides and fertilizers by using unique and improved resistance mechanisms against the various abiotic stresses and diseases and by producing varieties that use soil resources more efficiently. A whole chapter deals with the current information on the development of these new techniques and their integration into sugar beet breeding.

    History and Basic Biology: Brief History of Sugar and Sugar-producing Plants
    Brief History of Sugar Beet Cultivation
    Anatomy and Physiology
    Cytology and Cytogenetics
    Sources of Genetic Variation, Genus Beta
    Plant Introduction and Genetic Diversity
    History of Sugar Beet Breeding
    Objectives of Sugar Beet Breeding: Introduction
    Polyploidy
    Monogerm Seed
    Male Sterility
    Annual and Biennial Growth Habit, Bolting Resistance
    Self-fertility and Self-incompatibility
    Seed Quality
    Root, Hypocotyl, and Leaf Color
    Morphological and Physiological Traits
    Resistance to Parasites
    Resistance to Abiotic Stresses
    Sugar Content, Root Weight, and Sugar Yield
    Ethanol Production
    Postharvest Storage Traits
    Processing Quality
    Conventional Breeding Methods
    Selection Methods
    Production of Producing Commercial Varieties
    Field Evaluation and Registration of Varieties
    Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
    Genomics in Genetic Improvement
    Molecular Breeding
    In-vitro Culture Technique
    Genetic Engineering
    Final Considerations
    Seed Production: Agronomic Practices
    Pollen Isolation
    Seed Quality and Conservation
    Prospects in Sugar Beet Breeding: Breeding Targets
    Breeding Methods
    Challenges

    Biography

    Biancardi, Enrico ; Biaggi, Marco De; Campbell, Larry