Genetic variation for seed retention in accessions and genotypic lines of perennial ryegrass ( <i>Lolium perenne</i> L.)

Seed shattering is a key constraint to improvement of seed yield in perennial ryegrass and, as result, retention an essential trait for breeding this valuable crop. It unclear whether sources are available plant breeders. Field studies were conducted near Corvallis, OR 2 yr (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) identify genetic variation ascertain there was phenotypic traits that may contribute loss due shattering. The field examined the values these 40 diverse global accessions genotypic lines within accessions. Plant mortality high only 21 original survived sufficient numbers analysis. exhibited great growth habit, spikelets per spike, seeds weight, spike length, retention. among ranged from 27.1 78.7% with commercial cultivar at 42.4% For most part, observed other characteristics similar found investigations, some materials representative cultivars. This study presents evidence higher than cultivars could be used shatter-resistant