Reproductive Systems in Paspalum: Relevance for Germplasm Collection and Conservation, Breeding Techniques, and Adoption of Released Cultivars

ACUÑA, CARLOS A.; MARTÍNEZ, ERIC J.; ZILLI, ALEX L.; BRUGNOLI, ELSA A.; ESPINOZA, FRANCISCO; MARCON, FLORENCIA; URBANI, MARIO H.; QUARIN, CAMILO L.

Frontiers in Plant Science

Frontiers Media SA

Lugar: Lausana; Año: 2019 vol. 10 p. 1 - 17

The objective of this review is to analyze and describe the impact that mode ofreproduction in Paspalum has on germplasm conservation, genetic improvement, andcommercialization of cultivars. Germplasm collection and conservation can now berethought considering the newly available information related to how diversity is allocated in nature and how it can be transferred between the sexual and apomictic germplasm using novel breeding approaches. An inventory of species and accessions conserved around the world is analyzed in relation to the main germplasm banks. Because of the importance of apomixis in Paspalum species different breeding approaches have been used and tested. Knowledge related to the inheritance of apomixis, variable expressivity of the trait and techniques for early identification of apomicts has helped to improve the efficiency of the breeding methods. Novel breeding techniques are also being developed and are described regarding its advantages and limitations. Finally, the impactof reproductive mode on the adoption of the released cultivars is discussed.