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