High Yielding Soybean Germplasm with Resistance to Multiple Populations of Cyst Nematode.

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) Heterodera glycines Ichinohe is the most serious pest of cultivated soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr]. In the USA, the crop losses due to SCN amount to nearly 1 billion dollars. Genetic resistance has been the most effective and environmentally friendly means of controlling this pest. Resistant cultivars are available to the growers. Nematode populations, however, are genetically variable and have adapted to reproduce on resistant cultivars. Recently, HG Type 1.2.5.7.(Race 2) is a newly emerging nematode population with a potential to cause severe losses in Tennessee. We have developed a high yielding soybean germplasm with resistance to multiple nematode populations. Soybean germplasm JTN-5203 was selected by crossing cultivars Anand x Caviness. Populations were advanced by using a combination of mass selection and pedigree methods. Progenies for SCN resistance were selected in greenhouse bioassays and resistance was confirmed by using known SSR markers mapped to SCN loci. JTN-5203 was evaluated in USDA Uniform Tests for the  southern region in 2006. In group V tests, JTN-5203 ranked 2 and yielded nearly 3360Kg/ha.  It is highly resistant to SCN HG Types 1.2.5.7; 0; and 1.3.5.7, Races 2, 3 and, 14, respectively. Flower color is white, pubescence is grey and hilum is clear. It is resistant to stem canker, frogeye leaf spot and sudden death syndrome. This germplasm is being released based on its high yield and broad resistance to nematode populations.