Identification of the improved genotypes with 2NS/2AS translocation through molecular markers for imparting resistance to multiple biotic stresses in wheat

Abstract

Alien introgression is one of the techniques to impart stress tolerance if a broad spectrum resistance source is not available in cultivars. Several introgressions have been utilized in wheat improvement, which has provided multiple stress tolerance in high-yielding varieties. The 2NS/2AS translocation introgressed from Aegilops ventricosa providing resistance to multiple biotic stresses has gained attention after being found to carry resistance to wheat blast. The introgression was already known to carry resistance to leaf rust (Lr37), Stem rust (Sr38), and yellow rust (Yr17), along with resistance to several other biotic stresses. The presence of several resistance genes in an introgression size of 32–33 mb makes it a preferred choice to utilize in the breeding program. Therefore, the present study was conducted to identify the superior genotypes carrying 2NS/2AS translocation. The twelve superior genotypes viz., HD2967, HD3043, HD3059, HD3171, HD3249, HD3293, HD3334, HD3349, HD3368, HI1605, HI1653 and HI1654 have been identified to carry this introgression with superior agronomic traits. The lines are already released or in the advanced stage of testing and hence can be utilized in hybridization programs to transfer resistance to multiple stresses in new varieties.