Screening the Peanut Core Collection for Resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus

Abstract

Abstract Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is among the greatest yield-reducing viruses affecting peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The best known method of control of TSWV is through the use of resistant cultivars. Unfortunately, only a few peanut genotypes with moderate levels of resistance are known. The objectives of this study were to identify additional sources of resistance to TSWV and to determine whether plant descriptor information is associated with reaction to TSWV in the field. Peanut plant introductions from a core collection were evaluated for resistance to TSWV in field trials from 1991 to 1993. Great variability was found among PIs for reaction to natural TSWV epidemics at Attapulgus, GA. Accessions which exhibited potential resistance in 1991 or 1992 were reevaluated in subsequent years. Disease pressure was high in 1993 and 27 accessions exhibited significantly greater resistance than Florunner, and one (PI 262049) had lower disease incidence than Southern Runner. Only minor relationships existed between TSWV incidence and plant descriptor traits (growth habit and maturity) using the stepwise multiple regression procedure. Peanut accessions with resistance to TSWV were found among all maturity levels and growth habits. These accessions provide additional parents and may provide additional genes for resistance that may be useful in developing resistant cultivars.