William T. Crow

Comparison of Water Displacement and WinRHIZO Software for Plant Root Parameter Assessment

Water-displacement and WinRHIZO root-scanning methods were compared for efficacy of root damage assessment. Results from both methods were similar and a highly significant relationship was found between the two methods in trial one (r2 = 0.9968, P < 0.0001) and trial two (r2 = 0.9988, P < 0.0001). Both protocols provide consistent root volume measurements; however, water displacement is preferred as an economical method if a quick evaluation of a large amount of roots is essential. For a more detailed root morphological and architectural analysis, WinRHIZO root scanning provides additional information about several root parameters that cannot be measured by simple water displacement.

Breeding forages in Florida for resistance to nematodes

Abstract. Forage legumes and grasses provide the basis for the worldwide ruminant animal livestock industry, and most of these forages come from perennial pasture plants. As animal agriculture has intensified, pest pressures on perennial forages often also become more prevalent. Among these pest plant parasitic nematodes, especially root-knot nematodes (RKN) (Meloidogyne spp.) have been shown to be major forage crop pests. In this paper, we summarise research from the University of Florida related to development of methods for screening germplasm for RKN responses, results from germplasm evaluations across a range of forage legume and grass species, and progress from breeding and selection research including studies of the genetic basis of resistance. We then present prospects for continued genetic improvement in RKN resistance using conventional and modern molecular methods.