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Genomic selection for complex traits in barley and wheat breeding

  • Funded by: GUDP

  • AU Head of project: Professor Just Jensen, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, AU
  • In collaboration with: NordicSeed
  • Project period: 01.10.2013-30.09.2017
  • Grant: 9.156.000 DKK

Project description:

The purpose of the project is to examine, develop and implement genomic selection (GS) as a tool in breeding improvement programs for barley and wheat. GS consists of advanced genomic methods based on genotyping of relevant lines in the breeding development programme by means of a dense set of genetic markers, in combination with the use of advanced and computer intensive, biometric methods. In the breeding improvement programme, GS can increase the ratio of genetic improvement over time, as well as reduce the costs of the breeding improvement programme through reductions in the amount of necessary test plots. The introduction of GS in barley and wheat breeding improvement will double the speed of genetic improvements, and thus have a significant, positive effect on yield, disease resistance, nutrient yield and product quality, and by that, the project contributes significantly to the compliance of the goals in Grøn Vækst [Green Growth].