Development of a Core Subset of Chilean Maize (Zea mays L.) Populations by Near Infrared Transmittance Spectroscopy

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Jessica Talbert.
Dr. Mark Campbell, Faculty Mentor.

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Plant-genetic resources, currently maintained by the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System, are an important source of genes for improving yield, pest resistance and grain quality. Since collections are often large, core subsets are used when screening for traits in order to minimize redundancy. Core subsets have previously been developed by multivariate analysis using morphological data. Our objective has been to develop a core subset of maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm based on near infrared spectra of grain so that the subset will display a maximum amount of diversity with regard to grain composition. Using near-infrared spectra of 309 Chilean maize accessions, we have attempted to identify several distinct groupings. These groupings were compared to racial classifications, region and grain texture category. A procedure for developing a core subset using this data will be discussed.