Most research looking at yield has tended to focus on genes that contribute to high mean values of a trait while ignoring the genome’s ability to stabilize the value of the trait across different environments. Our previous project demonstrated that we were able to map yield vQTL in elite germplasm currently being used in the Nebraska soybean breeding program. This project will expand on discovering novel vQTL not present in the germplasm already screened. While we can map large-effect, vQTL there is still a significant proportion of genes with small effects that will not be mapped due to the lack of power. Genomic selection is a method that is highly effective to enhance breeding for quantitative traits. Using genomic selection to help enhance germplasm for yield and seed composition stability has not been tested in soybean. This study will demonstrate its effectiveness for enhancing trait stability early in the breeding process. The findings from this work can be extended across the north central region of the U.S. to identify genes conferring yield stability across this larger region.
Research findings and potential intellectual property developed from the proposed research will be disseminated to the Nebraska Soybean Board through electronic reports or through presentations. Pending patent filings, if necessary, results generated from these studies will be made available to the public through presentations at national and international meetings and by publication in refereed scientific journals.