Leucaena DNA profiling

The Leucaena DNA profiling project aimed to provide a DNA profile of the new variety ‘Redlands’ (BL12) and compare it to other psyllid resistant leucaenas (BL24, BL34, BL39), and two commercial cultivars Wondergraze and Cunningham.

Summary

A psyllid resistant variety has now been developed and seed has been distributed to two commercial partners, (Leucseeds Pty Ltd and Bandana Station, Carnarvon pastoral) for commercialisation and distribution. The purpose of the project reported here was to provide a DNA profile of the new psyllid variety named ‘Redlands’ (BL12) and compare it to other psyllid resistant leucaenas (BL24, BL34, BL39), and two commercial cultivars Wondergraze and Cunningham. The DNA profile will assist the seed companies, MLA and UQ secure a level of protection over the new pysyllid resistant leucaena. Using 426 DNA markers scored among the different leucaena lines, a dendrogram (family tree) showed that Redlands had a unique DNA profile that was distinct from other psyllid resistant breeding lines BL24, 34, 39 and from commercial leucaena cultivars Wondergraze and Cunningham.

When: 27 July 2015 to 30 April 2016

Contact: Dr Christopher Lambrides

Collaborator: University of Queensland

More information

For more information about this research please read the final report summary and download the final report (B.NBP.0807) from the Meat & Livestock Australia website.