Conventional fruit and nut tree breeding with emphasis on outcomes for tropical and subtropical regions
2002
Sykes, S.R.
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) began its genetic improvement research for selected woody horticultural species during the 1950s and 60s. The first perennial fruit-breeding program focused on grapevines and though directed mainly at varieties suitable for temperate and Mediterranean climatic regions, table grape selections have been identified for evaluation in tropical and subtropical areas. In addition, Marroo seedless, a CSIRO variety with field resistance to downy mildew and a high level of fruitfulness under tropical conditions, has been adopted to a limited extent in northern Australia. Breeding objectives for tropical and subtropical grapes include disease tolerance and adaptations to lower chill regimes to ensure uniform budburst and flowering. Genetic improvement programs have also been conducted for a range of other perennial horticultural species including citrus, avocado, mango, cashew, macadamia, guava, annonas, lychee and longan. Some of these are clearly suited to tropical and subtropical production regions while others are more ubiquitous in their adaptive range being suited to temperate, Mediterranean as well warmer climates. For example, mango breeding is directed at new varieties for the tropics and subtropics, while the citrus program focuses on key fruit quality characteristics that will lead to marketing advantages regardless of where the varieties are grown. This paper presents a review of some of CSIRO's conventional fruit breeding activities. Research of significance for tropical and subtropical regions as well as breeding methodologies are highlighted with reference to biological characteristics, such as flowering, juvenility and tree size, which influence research outputs and the delivery of key outcomes to industry.
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