N.M.A. Nassar
Published: August 14, 2019
Genet. Mol. Res. 18(3): GMR18385
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4238/gmr18385

Cite this Article:
N.M.A. Nassar (2019). Cassava cultivars selected or developed from interspecific hybrids and periclinal chimeras. Genet. Mol. Res. 18(3): GMR18385. https://doi.org/10.4238/gmr18385

About the Authors
N.M.A. Nassar

Corresponding Author
N.M.A. Nassar
Email: nagibnassar@geneconserve.pro.br

ABSTRACT

Through use of interspecific hybridization, and in some cases followed by polyploidization, cassava cultivars combining various desirable characteristics have been developed in Brazil. These range from high protein content and increased essential amino acids to tolerance to drought. Some cultivars have highly apomictic behavior. Others show tolerance to bacterial diseases and insect pests. Selection from crosses with indigenous cultivars has led to obtaining varieties with high beta carotene content and excellent palatability. Periclinal chimeras were successfully synthesized and gave very high productivity. Ten outstanding genotypes resulting from this ongoing selection and breeding program are part of the University of Brasilia living Manihot collection and are reviewed here.

Key words: Apomixis, beta Carotene, Beta carotene, Interspecific hybridization, Periclinal chimera, Polyploidization, Protein and essential amino acid content.