Relevance. The creation of a fund of linear material for hybrid breeding of canteen beets based on CMS with a complex of economically significant features, including resistance to highly pathogenic Fusarium species, is an urgent task today. Goal. Identification of the current composition of economically significant causative agents of fusarium rot in beetroot and a phenotypic assessment of the resistance of a promising linear material to highly aggressive Fusarium isolates.Materials and Methods. Objects of research: 71 isolates of Fusarium fungi isolated over the period 2018-2024 from affected seeds (29 isolates), leaves (10 isolates) and root crops (32 isolates) of table beet; 20 breeding lines and five hybrid combinations of beetroot. Phytopathological and molecular genetic methods were used in the work. Artificial infection of root crops was carried out with mycelial blocks of ten-day cultures of identified Fusarium species. Results. According to the results of the pathogenicity test for beet roots, it was shown that 45% of the isolates isolated into the pure culture were characterized by moderate aggressiveness. Highly aggressive isolates (23% of the number studied) were isolated from the affected head of the root crop, from the leaf vein, root and cotyledon leaves of seedlings. Molecular phylogeny using the TEF-1a and RPB2 genes, combined with morphological characteristics, showed that six Fusarium species participated in the pathogenesis of fusarium rot in beetroot during the years of research in the Moscow region: F. acuminatum, F. avenaceum, F. campestre (FTSC); F. solani (FSSC), F. flagelliforme (FIESC) and F. sporotrichioides (FSAMSC). Among them, the dominant species were F. acuminatum (with the largest proportion of highly aggressive strains) and F. avenaceum. As a result of an immunological assessment of the resistance of linear beetroot material to the highly aggressive F. acuminatum strain (F-cb-38) in vitro , three maternal lines "A" 413, 363 and 404 (Va=82, 85 and 93 mm[3] , respectively) were characterized by the smallest volume of the disc lesion zone; two paternal lines "C" 427 and 426 (Va=20 and 33 mm[3] , respectively). The lines selected for resistance to fusarium in case of artificial infection were characterized by high preservation and during storage on a natural background for five years, and were also distinguished by other economically valuable characteristics, which is important for hybrid beet breeding.
Relevance. Improving the efficiency of the pepper breeding process for resistance to fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium verticillioides , requires studying the biological characteristics of the pathogen and the conditions for pathogenesis development according to the concept of the classical disease triangle. Taking these relationships into account is essential for developing reproducible and informative methods for evaluating breeding material. Purpose. To study the effect of temperature regime and nutrient medium composition on the vegetative growth of F. verticillioides , as well as to optimize key elements of the artificial inoculation protocol for accelerated evaluation of resistance in pepper breeding lines. Materials and methods. The study examined three F. verticillioides isolates with contrasting aggressiveness. The radial growth rate was assessed in vitro on PDA, OA, Czapek, and SNA media in the temperature range of 10-40 °C. Pathogenicity was tested in vivo on seedlings of five pepper lines at 25, 28, and 30°C. Additionally, two inoculation methods were compared: with mechanical stirring (orbital shaker, 100 rpm) and under static conditions. Results. Within the F. verticillioide s population, contrasting classes of pathogenicity were identified: highly aggressive (HA, 46%), moderately aggressive (MA, 27%), and weakly aggressive (WA, 27%). A direct correlation was established between the radial growth rate (VR) and aggressiveness: HA isolates grew 1,7-1,9 times faster than WA isolates (VR 13,0 vs. 7,6 mm/day). The temperature optimum for the growth of the highly aggressive isolate in vitro (VR 12,8 mm/day) and pathogenesis in vivo (I=3,4 points) coincided and was 28 °C. However, at 30°C, despite maintaining high growth in vitro (VR 10,3-11,8 mm/day), pathogenesis in vivo significantly decreased to 1,9 points. Two-way ANOVA showed that on day 7, the inoculation method (with shaker) accounted for 31,6% of the variance, while by day 14, the genotype dominated (40,6%). The use of an orbital shaker allowed accelerating pathogenesis and symptom manifestation, reducing the period of reliable evaluation from 14 to 7 days, which provided the opportunity for accelerated screening.Conclusion. Integration of knowledge about the biological characteristics of the pathogen into the experimental methodology allowed improving the elements of the artificial infection protocol. The use of these elements made it possible to significantly reduce screening time and increase the reliability of evaluating pepper resistance to fusarium wilt, which is important for accelerating the breeding process.
Relevance. The study is devoted to developing a scheme for the detection and identification of the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum the causal agent of potato brown rot, which belongs to the Ralstonia solanacearum species complex ( R. solanacearum , R. pseudosolanacearum , R. syzygii ). This pathogen affects over 200 plant species, including economically important crops (potato, tomato, pepper, eggplant), and is listed as a quarantine organism absent from the territory of the Russian Federation. Objective: to create and test a laboratory diagnostic scheme for R. solanacearum for phytosanitary control of regulated products. Material and ". Methods used in the study: sample preparation method (extraction in phosphate-buffered saline with centrifugation), PCR analysis (real-time PCR using primers RS-IF/RS-II-R/RS-P and a commercial kit; PCR with electrophoretic detection using primers RS-1F/RS-1-R (RS-3-R)). Results. An optimized scheme for the identification and detection of the brown rot pathogen was developed. The scheme was tested on 242 samples of regulated products (potato, roses, peonies, bananas) submitted to the diagnostic laboratory in 2025. The results showed the absence of R. solanacearum complex bacteria in samples from the Russian Federation and revealed 14 cases of potato tuber infection in imported batches. Identification of positive samples using species-specific primers RS-1-F/RS-1-R confirmed the presence of R. solanacearum (sensu stricto).Conclusion. No false-positive or false-negative reactions were recorded during the testing of all used assays within the framework of the developed scheme, indicating their 100% specificity within the study. The outcome of the work is the creation of a reliable laboratory testing algorithm that ensures rapid and accurate diagnosis of the quarantine phytopathogen, thereby guaranteeing phytosanitary safety and compliance of products with importer requirements. plant quarantine, phytopathogenic bacteria, molecular genetic identification methods, detection, identification
Relevance. The technological qualities of the root crops in the sugar beet parent components affect the hybrids properties obtained from them. In this regard, a comprehensive analysis of the technological indicators of the parent forms and hybrid combinations in breeding studies is necessary. In addition to the sugar content, which determines the raw materials quality during processing at sugar beet factories, the content of alkaline sodium, potassium, and alphaamine nitrogen ions is traditionally studied. These ions collectively reflect the total content of molasses-forming non-sugars in sugar beets, as the concentration of these elements affects the loss of sugar in molasses and the yield of sugar during the processing of root crops.Material and methods. The work was carried out at the All-Russian Research Institute of Sugar Beet and Sugar named after A.L. Mazlumov in 2022-2023. The object of research was the roots of 25 breeding samples of sugar beet (selected by the All-Russian Research Institute of Sugar Beet and Sugar named after A.L. Mazlumov, in four repetitions – 100 samples) in comparison with the foreign hybrid Mitika (Lion Seeds LTD). The study included field experiments and laboratory analysis. To assess the technological indicators of the root crops of the studied breeding material, an express method was used in the laboratory of analytical assessment of the technological quality of sugar beet. This method involves the production of digests using the automated Venema line and the determination of sugar content, potassium, sodium, and α-amine nitrogen using the automated Betalyser sugar beet analysis line.Results. From the total number of the studied breeding samples, the best ones were selected in terms of technological qualities, which have low sugar losses in molasses (1.40-1.67%), high values of sugar yield (12.76-13.85%), its extraction coefficient during processing (82.6985.11%), and sugar content (15.43-16.32%). The content of non-sugars in the studied samples was at the standard level or below it.Conclusion. The obtained results allow to use the selected numbers in further breeding work. It is recommended to check the cross-fertile pollinators for their combinational ability.
Relevance. The red raspberry ( Rubus idaeus L.) is currently one of the most popular berry crops grown on an industrial scale. Therefore, it is necessary to continually improve techniques for its accelerated vegetative propagation. In this regard, clonal micropropagation technology has become widely used, as it enables the production of genetically uniform planting material for establishing high-quality mother stock plantations. However, the low survival of plants during the adaptation phase to non-sterile conditions remains a limiting factor in the accelerated production of planting material.Methods. The experiments were carried in 2024-2025 at the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution the All-Russian Research Scientific Institute of Phytopathology (ARRIP), in the Laboratory for Recovery and Research on the Adaptive Potential of Cultures and Plants, and at the Russian State Agrarian University, Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, in the Department of Biotechnology and Berry Crops of the Edelstein Educational Scientific and Production Center for Horticulture and Vegetable Growing. The study was focused on ex vitro red raspberry ( Rubus idaeus L.) microplants of the Gusar and Poklon Kazakovu varieties. After 40 days of subculture during the rhizogenesis stage, the microplants were transplanted to the adaptation stage under non-sterile conditions. High-moor peat of the ‘Seliger-Agro’ brand was used as the substrate, mixed with agroperlite in a 3:1 ratio. Planting was carried out in plastic trays (49 cells, 4×4 cm, size 40×40×7 cm). The following vermiculture products were studied in the experiments: Vermiwash Vermiaktiv by ‘NPO Zhivaya Vselennaya’ LLC, Vermitea under the Iz Kopanevki brand, and Biohumus Bio-Kompleks by ‘Bio-Kompleks’ LLC; the control was water. Results. To adaptation floricane-bearing red raspberry microplants of the Gusar variety, it is effective to prepare the microplants using a combination of Biohumus (soak in a 1:20 solution, then drench the substrate in a 1:15 solution); water the substrate with Vermitea (1:50); soak the microplants in Vermiwash (1:20). For primocane-bearing red raspberry microplants of the Poklon Kazakovu variety, soak the microplants in Vermitea (1:50) or water the substrate with Vermitea (1:50) or Biohumus (1:15) vermicompost products. By the 3 ~~0~~ [th] day of adaptation, the survival is 100%, as is the proportion of plants that meet the standards set out in GOST R 540512025 90-100%, and the morphometric indicators of development of the experimental ex vitro plants are 1.3-2.9 times higher than those of the control. Conclusion. This information could help to develop methods of accelerating the production of red raspberry planting materials. As there are currently no guidelines for using vermicompost products on different crops, more research in this area is needed.
Relevance. The adzuki bean ( Vigna angularis ) is a good source of protein, essential fatty acids, fiber, minerals (especially calcium and iron), and phytochemical compounds such as polyphenols and phytates. The adzuki bean shows great promise as a functional food for health promotion and disease prevention, owing to its rich nutritional and functional properties. However, despite the popularity of this crop in Primorsky kray, the data on plant disease incidence and the composition of pathogens in the region are lacking. This determined the goal of our study. Materials and Methods. The research was conducted under the soil and climatic conditions of Vozdvizhenka v., Primorsky kray in 2023-2025. Adzuki bean seeds were sown at a depth of 4-5 cm in the middle of May. The sowing plan was 10×30-40 cm. The mycological examination of leaves and roots collars was carried out employing the following techniques: the moist chamber method, culturing on Sabouraud agar (with 4-6 replicates), and microscopy. The mycological examination of rhizosphere was conducted on Sabouraud agar with 6 replicates. The underground parts were washed, dried, and cut into 1 cm long segments. The segments were sterilized in a 0.5% solution of potassium permanganate for 10 minutes, rinsed under running water, and placed onto the nutrient medium at 10 segments per Petri dish. After a 7-day incubation period at 24°C, the composition of root rot pathogens was assessed using an Axiolab 5.0 microscope. The pathogens were identified based on morphological characteristics using the Mycobank database.Results. Our research established that the pathogenic mycobiota in Primorsky kray includes the following genera: Fusarium , Aspergillus , Alternaria , Phytophthora , Septoria , Cercospora , and Botrytis . The most prevalent genera in the adzuki bean rhizosphere mycobiota were Fusarium and Botrytis , along with representatives of the genus Phytophthora . The diversity of the pathogenic mycobiota on the adzuki bean leaves and the infection rate changed throughout the growing season. Analysis of the adzuki bean seeds obtained in this study revealed that the most prevalent fungi were Septoria , Cercospora , and Fusarium , along with oomycetes of the genus Phytophthora . Thus, the predominant micromycetes on Vigna angularis in Primorsky kray are the fungi Fusarium , Septoria , and Cercospora , along with the oomycete Phytophthora . To prevent the development of epiphytotics and yield loss, further research is needed to develop control measures against adzuki bean pathogens and to breed varieties with high resistance to the aforementioned pathogens.
Relevance. Macrophotography has become a critical tool in seed science, providing deep integration of fundamental botany, digital archives and advanced imaging technologies. Modern scientific macrophotography of seeds has long gone beyond mere aesthetic documentation. It directly ensures the accuracy of research in areas such as ecology, evolutionary biology, archeology and agriculture. The color of Allium L. seeds studied is black or nearly black, while the shape and size vary. The types of seed shapes are classified as oval-flattened, oval-angular, oval-hemispherical, ovalspherical, elliptical-flattened, or elliptical-angular. Allium seeds show a high degree of variability, which may be of taxonomic value. color.Material and Methods. The macrophotography involved seed samples of 36 different species of the genus Allium L. from the biocollection of the All-Russian Research Institute of Vegetable Growing – a branch of the Federal Scientific Center for Vegetable Growing. The photographs were taken in the photo laboratory of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution FSVC by a professional photographer using professional equipment: Olympus OM 1 camera, Olympus macro 60 mm photographic lens. Graphic processing of images was carried out in Adobe Photoshop. Results. Based on the obtained images, the external characteristics of seeds were described. The shape of the seeds, the relief of their surface (ribs, edges), the color of the seed surface and the texture were determined. The location of the seed scar and its shape were indicated. As a result of the description, the seeds were grouped into seven groups according to the similar external features, and the general differences between the groups were demonstrated. The greatest differences among the seeds of various Allium L. species were noted in their shape, structure and surfaceConclusion. Macrophotography in seed science of Allium L. has proven to be a reliable tool for species identification and seed quality analysis. Visualization of the external parameters of Allium L. seeds such as shape, surface relief, color, etc., contributes to their better recognition. With the development of photographic technology and computer programming, the information content and accuracy of the macrophotography method will increase.
Relevance. Male sterility in garlic (Allium sativum L.) restricts sexual reproduction and slows breeding.One proposed molecular mechanism is impaired degradation of the callose wall surrounding microspores, associated with reduced activity of the AsaNRF1 gene. The study aimed to characterize polymorphism in the AsaNRF1 promoter region in garlic varieties and breeding accessions and to evaluate M281 and M671 markers for preliminary selection of genotypes with different reproductive potential.Material and methods. A collection of Allium sativum L. comprising 3 varieties and 57 breeding accessions was examined. Total DNA was isolated from young leaves of two-week-old plants using the Sorb-GMO-B kit. Insertions of 281 and 671 bp were detected by PCR with the published M281 marker and an M671 primer pair designed by the authors. Amplification included 35 cycles with annealing at 58 °C; products were separated in a 1% agarose gel. Each accession was analyzed in two analytical replicates.Results. M281 was detected in 26 accessions (43.3%), whereas M671 was detected in 23 (38.3%). Both insertions occurred in 17 genotypes (28.3%); M281 alone in 9 (15.0%), and M671 alone in 6 (10.0%). Neither insertion was detected in 28 accessions (46.7%). The variety Imperator had the M281-/M671+ genotype, confirming incomplete overlap between marker-defined groups.Combined use of M281 and M671 improves preliminary molecular screening; however, reliable identification of fertile garlic forms requires integration of marker data with morphological and cytological assessment of reproductive organs.
Relevance. In modern conditions, the problem of the effectiveness of the economic activity of enterprises in the vegetable breeding of protected soil is of particular significance because, along with increasing competitiveness in the seasonal vegetable product, the cost of its production is presented with a particularly significant and real factor in the effectiveness of economic activity. Methods. The study utilized general scientific, analytical, statistical, and economic research methods, as well as an analysis of literary sources.Results. The conducted research has shown that the use of modern achievements in the production cost management system at enterprises engaged in the production of protected ground vegetables is a significant task for effective market behavior.
Relevance. In the Central Non-Chernozem region, the cultivation of thermophilic vegetable crops is constrained by insufficient heat resources, a high probability of recurrent spring frosts, and considerable weather variability. To mitigate the impact of these adverse factors, temporary tunnel-type shelters are increasingly used. They enable transplanting seedlings 2–3 weeks earlier than conventional planting dates, protect plants from spring frosts, excessive moisture, and sharp temperature fluctuations, and extend the fruiting period in autumn.Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of temporary tunnel-type shelters on the temperature regime, duration of interphase developmental periods, and accumulation of active temperatures in eggplant under different irrigation regimes and mineral fertilizer application in the Central Non-Chernozem region.Materials and Methods. The study was based on experimental data obtained during 2022–2024 at the fields of LLC Sergievskoye (Kolomensky District, Moscow Region) during eggplant cultivation. The crop was grown under temporary tunnel shelters in combination with drip irrigation. The analysis included the temperature regime, accumulation of effective temperatures, and the duration of interphase developmental periods.Results. The study demonstrated that temporary tunnel-type shelters increased air temperature by 5–10°C and enhanced the accumulation of effective temperatures by 500–600°C compared with openfield conditions. The increase in air temperature and the formation of a favorable microclimate under the shelters accelerated the progression of phenological stages, shortened the growing season, and enabled earlier crop production. The use of tunnel shelters reduced the growing period from 130–135 to 113–117 days, allowing marketable yield to be obtained 17–18 days earlier than under open-field cultivation.Conclusion. Temporary tunnel-type shelters are an effective tool for managing agroclimatic conditions in risk-prone farming areas. Their application compensates for heat deficits and contributes to the sustainable production of vegetable crops. The greatest effect is achieved when tunnel shelters are integrated with drip irrigation and appropriate agronomic practices.
Relevance. This year, the scientific community celebrates the 145th anniversary of the birth of Sergei Ivanovich Zhegalov, Professor of Timiryazev Academy, an outstanding scientist, the founder and first director of the Gribovskaya Vegetable Breeding Experimental Station, and the creator of the first breeding department in the country. As the direct successor of the station, the Federal Scientific Vegetable Center preserves, develops, and enhances its scientific heritage. Zhegalov was a talented scientist and a skilled organizer of science who successfully combined theoretical research with practical breeding. His work on breeding new varieties of vegetable and flower crops, as well as on developing seed production methods and popularizing scientific knowledge, had a significant impact on the development of agriculture in Russia.Results. The processes of plant formation, the creation of new and higher-quality forms, as well as distant crossbreeding, hybridization and heterosis, are issues that have always interested S.I. Zhegalov and formed the focus of his scientific work. These areas remain relevant today. Scientific research is evolving from a phenotypic description to the application of molecular biology methods such as marker-assisted selection and biotechnology, to accelerate the creation of source material. Sergey Ivanovich Zhegalov made a significant contribution to the formation of the theoretical foundations of seed production in Russia, striving to ensure that seed production developed side by side with breeding, served as an extension of breeding work, and provided funds for its development. He also pointed out the need to develop varietal agrotechnology to fully unlock the potential of the variety. The large-scale collection of genetic resources and more than 1600 varieties and hybrids created for 120 crops, of which over 1370 are included in the State Register of the Russian Federation, are the practical embodiment of the scientific continuity of generations of scientists and vegetable breeders. Today, the activities of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Federal Scientific Vegetable Center represent a synthesis of Zhegalov's fundamental ideas and modern technologies in breeding and seed production, ensuring food security and technological sovereignty of the country.
Relevance. The integration of molecular markers into the breeding process opens up new opportunities for creating sugar beet hybrids that are more resistant to diseases. Two isoforms of acidic chitinase (corresponding genes: SE1 and SE2) have been identified in sugar beet leaves, but only one isoform (SE2) exhibits exochitinase activity and is capable of effectively hydrolyzing chitooligosaccharides. Similarly to SE2, the glycolized isoform of chitinase, SP2, can participate in the defense mechanisms of sugar beet against phytopathogens. The aim of the research is the molecular-genetic study of the SE2 acid chitinase gene, which is indirectly associated with the formation of resistance to fusariosis in sugar beet samples. Results. To study the SE2 acid chitinase gene, which is located on chromosome 3, amplification was performed using the FusA primer. The materials used were 11 sugar beet samples (separate-fruited MS forms, Owen-type (O-type) sterility fixers, and fused-fruited pollinators). For all genotypes A 400-bp DNA fragment was detected. Nucleotide substitutions were identified, localized in individual CDS positions and distinguishing the studied samples from the reference sequence (GenBank: A23398.1). These variations were found in 4 of the 11 samples studied. The only nonsynonymous substitution c.500G>C found in genotype_3 resulted in a Gly→Ala substitution at position 167 (p.Gly167Ala). In the remaining genotypes, the amino acid sequence was identical to the reference sequence. Conclusion. It was found that the studied SE2 gene fragment is characterized by a high degree of conservation at both the nucleotide and amino acid levels, and the identified differences are predominantly neutral, with the exception of a single potentially significant amino acid substitution in the genotype genotype_3.
Relevance. Peas are an important element of dietary nutrition in the Russian Federation due to the content of vitamins, microelements and essential amino acids. For the conditions of the Omsk region, which is a zone of risky farming due to unpredictable weather conditions, it is necessary to create ecologically flexible varieties that would ensure high productivity in favorable cultivation conditions and not significantly reduce it in stressful ones. The purpose of our research is to assess the ecological plasticity and stability of samples of peas based on productivity traits in the conditions of the southern forest-steppe of the Omsk region. Material and Methodology. The research material was 65 samples of the international collection of genetic resources. The research was conducted over five years from 2018 to 2022 in the conditions of the southern forest-steppe of the Omsk region. The records were kept in accordance with the "Methodological guidelines for studying the collection of grain legume crops". The calculation of ecological plasticity was carried out according to the method of S.A. Eberhart and V.A. Russell as presented by V.A. Zykin. Results. The studies have established that the greatest influence on the formation of the thousand-seed weight and the number of seeds in a pod was exerted by the genotype (from 57 to 60 %), however, in terms of seed weight per plant, growing conditions had a greater influence (69 %), which indicates greater plasticity of this trait in the conditions of Western Siberia and makes it possible to isolate valuable genotypes for breeding programs. Calculation of the ecological plasticity parameters made it possible to select vegetable pea samples characterized by high ecological plasticity and responsiveness to growing conditions: by seed weight per plant – Triumph; by thousand-seed weight – Triumph and Sovinter; by the number of seeds in a pod – Triumph, Darunok and Premium. The samples demonstrating stable productivity were selected, which is a specific response of the genotype to changing environmental conditions: by seed weight per plant – Sovinter, Premium, Neistoshimiy 195; by weight of 1000 seeds – Premium with large seeds, Neistoshimy 195 and Darunok with medium-sized seeds; by number of seeds in a pod – Sovinter.
Relevance. In the global crop production, white cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata L.) is one of the most important vegetable crops. One of the priorities of domestic cabbage crop breeding is the creation of highly productive hybrids. The most time-consuming and lengthy stage in this process is the creation of constant parent lines. The purpose of this review was a systematic analysis of scientific publications devoted to the process of transition from the vegetative to the generative phase of development in representatives of the Cabbage family (Brassicaceae). Results. In traditional breeding, inbred lines of white cabbage are obtained through forced self-pollination for 6-12 generations. The use of the biotechnological method of culture of isolated microspores in vitro ensures the achievement of complete homozygosity of the genome during one generative cycle and contributes to the expansion of the spectrum of formation of genetic recombinant forms, including those with recessive traits. Also, in combination with the technology of obtaining doubled haploids and genomic approaches such as marker breeding, genomic selection and genome editing, "Speed Breeding" allows to increase the efficiency of breeding by reducing the breeding cycle time, providing early phenotypic assessment, efficient use of resources, increasing the accuracy of selection and genetic progress. Despite the advantages of biotechnological methods, the use of double haploid (DH) lines is associated with a number of practical difficulties, in particular, concerning the reproduction of the obtained plants. An additional problem is the lack of flowering in some DH plants after undergoing vernalization, which may be due to a number of reasons: unsuitable vernalization conditions for specific lines. There are also plants with normal vegetative development, which, nevertheless, do not set seeds. Conclusion. As a result of the conducted review of world and domestic practice, important stages of vernalization have been studied: temperature, duration, lighting, and stages of plant development. This knowledge will make it possible to increase the percentage of plants passing into the reproductive stage of development.
Relevance. The development of bacterial diseases and their severity are determined by the complex interaction between the pathogen, the host plant genotype, and environmental conditions. Light is a key abiotic factor that modulates both physiological processes during etiolation (in darkness) and photomorphogenesis (in light), as well as the pathogenesis process. Furthermore, the use of etiolated seedlings allows for the identification of the specific virulence expression of pathogens, which may be masked or compensated for under light conditions. The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess the influence of different types of pathogenic bacteria on the morphophysiological parameters of bean seedlings, depending on the cultivar genotype and lighting conditions. Methodology. Bean varieties with varying field resistance to bacterial diseases were used in the study: Lika, Si Bemol (SBM), and Rant. At the radicle emergence stage, seedlings were inoculated with suspensions of four species of phytopathogenic bacteria: Dickeya chrysanthemi (Dc), Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens (Cf), Pseudomonas syringae (Ps), and Xanthomonas phaseoli (Xp). The control was sterile water. After inoculation, seedlings were grown in plastic containers with sterile perlite under two conditions: a 16-hour photoperiod and complete darkness. Stem and root system length, primordial leaf area, and plant fresh weight were measured after 7 and 14 days, and the types of disease symptoms and their severity were recorded. Results and Conclusions. The analysis of the influence of phytopathogenic bacteria on the morphogenesis of bean seedlings confirmed that the observed effects are non-linear and determined by the specific combination of factors in the "plant-pathogen-light" triad. The cultivar-specific action on seedling growth processes indicates the leading role of genotype in resistance to bacterial invasion. In this context, growth parameters can serve as early indicators of the development of the infectious process. The most prognostically valuable indicators are plant mass and the area of primordial leaves. Each bacterial species formed a characteristic symptom complex: Ps exhibited a necrotic-toxic type of pathogenesis with the formation of localized necrosis and the ability to induce chlorosis; Xp showed pronounced variability in symptomatology depending on the host genotype, manifesting as depression of root system development and vascular disorders with the formation of vein necrosis; Cf displayed moderate aggressiveness and the ability to induce compensatory reactions in tolerant genotypes with elements of growth stimulation; and Dc exhibited properties of an aggressive vascular polyphage with pronounced tropism towards apical meristems and young leaves, causing wilting and rot of the apex of etiolated bean seedlings. The modulating role of the light regime involved the differentiation of "pathogen x plant" interaction strategies: induction of compensatory reactions under light in the tolerant cultivar 'Lika', growth inhibition and potentiation of symptoms in the dark in the susceptible cultivar 'Rant'; and light-dependent, divergent effects in the moderately susceptible cultivar 'Ci Bemol'. The identified group resistance to bacterial diseases makes the 'Lika' cultivar promising for use in breeding programs for immunity.
Relevance. Along with germination, the ability of rice seedlings to overcome a layer of water in order to form an optimal density of seedlings and a good harvest is of fundamental importance. Rice is a hygrophite, and in the Kuban region, it is grown using the technology of flooding with a layer of water to improve the environmental friendliness of the rice industry and reduce the use of herbicides. The field germination of seeds is significantly lower than the laboratory germination, which is associated with the varietal characteristics of their germination physiology and the morphological parameters of the seedlings to overcome the layer of flooded soil. It is important to determine the tolerance of rice varieties to flooding during the germination phase. Purpose of research. To evaluate the features of morphological parameters of rice varieties seedlings under conditions of humidification and flooding, the rate of growth at the initial stage and the intensity of plant growth throughout the rice vegetation for the optimization of approaches in cultivation. Materials and Methods. The research was conducted on the basis of the USU (Unique Scientific Unit) group of the Federal Scientific Rice Center, with the involvement of 15 varieties from the Rice Bioresource Collection in the experiment. Laboratory experiments on assessing the viability of seeds and the growth intensity of seedlings were conducted in two variants: in a 10 cm layer of water in glass containers and on moistening in Petri dishes at the same temperature. The cultivation of these same varieties in a field on an irrigated plot was carried out according to the generally accepted methods and technologies of rice cultivation in the Krasnodar Territory. Results. The analysis of the obtained data showed that when growing rice, it is necessary to take into account the reaction of the varieties to the irrigation regime and the intensity of growth in the initial germination phase. In almost all varieties, flooding with a layer of water led to a decrease in the length of the seedling and the main embryonic root. On average, over a period of 14 days, the growth of the rice seedling under a layer of water was 2.36 cm shorter and the root was 6.72 cm shorter compared to the moistened variant. However, in a number of varieties, the seedlings successfully overcame the water layer, the percentage of such was 80-100 for varieties: Avangrad, Kuban 3, Yakhont and Strombus; more than 50 % for varieties: Victoria, Aral 22, Kauris, Fast and Furious and Leader. In the field, a high rate of increase in stem length per day over the entire growing season was observed in tall varieties: Kuban 3, Avangard, Marzhan and Strombus (0.89-1.01 cm/day). It was recorded that the lowest seed germination rate in a 10 cm layer of water was observed in the Marzhan, Flagman, Polus-5, and Junior varieties.
Relevance. Studying the seed production characteristics of cabbage varieties in southern Dagestan, where direct transplantation is favorable, is essential for obtaining high-quality seed material of domestic varieties and hybrids for Russian agricultural producers. Study Objective – determining the optimal sowing time for the formation of full-fledged reproductive shoots (inflorescences) is the primary objective of direct transplantation of cabbage seed in Dagestan. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted at the Dagestanskaya Os, a branch of the All-Russian Institute of Plant Research, located in the southern lowlands of Dagestan. The material consisted of varieties and hybrids of different cabbage species. Results. The study identified optimal seed sowing and seedling planting times for growing different cabbage varieties – white cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and red cabbage – directly in southern Dagestan, where the natural and climatic conditions are most favorable for seed production. The study also demonstrated the key development phases during the fall, winter, and spring-summer periods.
Relevance. The pace of scientific study of the varietal diversity of sugar sorghum (Sorghum saccharatum L. Moench) is gradually increasing, but still remain insufficient for a significant expansion of the boundaries of use of this crop in various branches of industry and agriculture in Western Siberia. The purpose of the research is to identify promising lines and varieties of sugar sorghum of universal use. Materials and Methods. Competitive variety testing of sugar sorghum was carried out in the period 2022-2024 at the experimental field of the Federal State Budgetary Institution «Federal Altai Scientific Center for Agrobiotechnology», located in the suburbs of Barnaul. 4 varieties and 2 lines of sugar sorghum were tested: Alga, Galiya, Kinelskoe 4, Tandem, L1533, L1920. The standard variety was Altayskoye 1. The seeds were sown on plots of 10 m 2 in fourfold repetition. The plots were cleaned manually and with the help of a Wintersteiger «Classic» breeding combine. Accounting and evaluation of economically valuable characteristics of cultivars is carried out according to generally accepted and standardized methods. Results. During the test, 3 varieties and 1 line of sugar sorghum were identified, combining a complex of useful agrobiological features: in terms of green yield (93.3 kg/ha) and dry weight (31.2 kg/ha) – Alga; in terms of green yield (76.6 kg/ha), grain (3.0 t/ha) – Kinelskoe 4; in terms of green yield (90.4 c/ha) and dry weight (29.4 c/ha), fat content (2.0%), sugars (23.1 g), digestible protein(111.4 g) – Tandem; in terms of dry weight yield (27.6 c/ha), grain (3.8 t/ha), sugar content (21.8 g), digestible protein (104.6 g) – L1920. Forms that are pronounced according to these characteristics can be commended for further breeding of sugar sorghum.
Relevance. Late blight is a disease associated with significant economic losses in potatoes. Losses from this disease in Russia average over 4 million tons annually. The optimal strategy for containing and combating the spread of the pathogen is the development of resistant potato varieties carrying one or more Rpi genes combined with a high level of horizontal resistance. The aim of research. To identify late blight-resistant genotypes among hybrids of different genetic origins and correlate their resistance level with the presence of Rpi genes. Materials and methods. The study involved potato hybrids of different genetic origins, selected for their agronomic and biological traits from 45 crosses. Resistance to late blight was assessed using a laboratory method, artificially infecting leaves and tubers. The presence of molecular markers was assessed using PCR methods using previously published SCAR markers for five Rpi genes (R1, R2, R3a, R3b, and Rpi-blb1 = Rpi-sto1). Results. The screening identified 24 hybrids with high and very high foliar resistance, most of which carried at least one Rpi gene. The R2 gene was predominant among the very highly resistant and resistant samples. The R1 gene was more common in the group of hybrids with moderate resistance and without leaf resistance. Tuber resistance level does not depend on the number and combination of Rpi genes and is likely controlled by a different set of genes. These results reflect the complexity of genotype-phenotype interactions in the potato plant-Phytophthora infestans system. To increase the efficiency of using molecular markers in breeding for the production and selection of late blight-resistant potato genotypes, it is necessary to expand the range of tested markers of known R-genes and conduct an analysis of the original parental forms, on the basis of which to evaluate the hybrid offspring.
Relevance. Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo) is a variety of hard-shelled pumpkin in the Cucurbitaceae family. It is one of the most common crops in the family. It is characterized by early crop formation, valuable dietary properties, and high yields, and is an integral part of the diet of the population of the Russian Federation. Cucurbita pepo L. is vulnerable to infections, but is responsive to growth regulators and various types of fertilizers, including biological ones. Studying the effects of biological pesticides on the growth and biochemical characteristics of zucchini is important for improving eco-technologies for its cultivation in various natural and climatic conditions. The aim of this study is to study the effects of growth regulators and biofungicides to substantiate elements of open-field zucchini cultivation technology in the Non-Chernozem Zone of the Russian Federation. Materials and Methods. The work was conducted in the Moscow Region at the Federal Scientific Vegetable Center experimental field from 2023 to 2024 on sod-podzolic heavy loam soils. The effects of growth regulators Micromix and BIS, and biofungicides Gliocladin, Fitosporin M, and Tridem on the biochemical parameters and fruit yield of two Cucurbita pepo L varieties (Faraon and Yakor) were studied. Results. Variety-specific responses of zucchini plants to the applied treatments were identified. For the Yakor variety, the greatest yield increase was achieved with the use of biofungicides Gliocladin and Tridem, based on soil fungi of the genus Trichoderma, while for the Faraon variety, the greatest impact was achieved with the use of the growth regulator BIS and the biofungicide Tridem. An increase in fruit dry matter content was observed with presowing seed treatment of both BIS varieties, while pre-sowing seed treatment of the Pharaoh variety with the biofungicide Fitosporin M influenced sugar accumulation in the fruit. Ascorbic acid accumulation in the Pharaoh zucchini fruit was promoted by soil treatment with the biofungicides Gliokladin and Tridem. Conclusions. Integrating biopreparations into zucchini cultivation technology can increase yields and improve fruit biochemical parameters. The greatest effect is achieved with a well-founded selection of growth regulators and biofungicides for a specific variety, opening up prospects for the development of eco-technologies for cultivating new zucchini varieties and hybrids in open ground in the Non-Chernozem Zone of the Russian Federation.
