Monday, 7 November 2005
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Simulating out-Crossing in Maize Seed Production Fields.

Juan Astini1, Agustin Fonseca1, Craig Clark1, Jon Lizaso2, Mark Westgate1, and Raymond Arritt1. (1) Iowa State University, 1301 Agronomy Hall, Ames, IA 50011, (2) University of Florida, Agronomy Department, Gainesville, FL 32611-0500

In hybrid seed production, controlling cross-pollination is critical to achieve maximum kernel set and high levels of genetic purity. The objective of this project was to simulate the level of out-crossing resulting from adventitious pollen entering the seed field. To do so, we combined our kernel set model which calculates kernel numbers formed from inbred flowering dynamics with a new pollen dispersal model, which calculates pollen drift based on local weather conditions and pollen physical properties. Male and female flowering synchrony and detasseling were varied to provide a wide range for risk of out-crossing. Measured yields varied from 13.4 to 24.5 Mil kernels per ha, and measured out-crossing varied from 0.5 to 20 % as identified using molecular markers. The relationships between flowering dynamics, kernel yield, potential risk of out-crossing, and actual out-crossing percentages will be presented. The analysis provides a quantitative approach for defining the management strategies that will optimize seed production and genetic purity.

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