Assessing potato seedling progenies for resistance to the white potato cyst-nematode

Abstract
SUMMARY: A bulk seedling test is described which can be applied shortly after completion of a crossing programme. The test assesses resistance to G. pallida in progeny derived from crossing programmes involving S. luberosum, S. vernei and S. tuberosum spp. andigena. It provides good estimates of both the mean level of resistance within progenies and the breeding value of the parents. The test was applied to a crossing schedule involving a half-diallel and a North Carolina 2 design utilizing a range of material. The results and their implications are discussed.