Buffalograss Germplasm Resistance to Blissus Occiduus (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae)

Authors

Osman Gulsen, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Tiffany Heng-Moss, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Robert C. Shearman, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
P. Stephen Baenziger, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Donald J. Lee, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Frederick P. Baxendale, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

ORCID IDs

P. Stephen Baenziger

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

12-1-2004

Comments

Published in J. Econ. Entomol. 97(6): 2101Ð2105 (2004). Copyright © 2004 Entomological Society of America. Used by permission.

Abstract

Plant germplasm collections may offer genetic variability useful in identifying insect resistance. The goal of this project was to evaluate buffalograss genotypes [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.] for resistance to the chinch bug, Blissus occiduus Barber (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae), and to relate resistance to ploidy level, chinch bug number, and pubescence. Forty-eight buffalograss genotypes from diverse geographic locations were evaluated in replicated studies under greenhouse conditions. Of the genotypes studied, four were highly resistant, 22 were moderately resistant, 19 were moderately susceptible, and three were highly susceptible to chinch bug damage. The mean number of chinch bugs was significantly different among the 48 genotypes. There was no significant correlation between chinch bug resistance and ploidy level or chinch bug resistance and pubescence. These results indicate the genetic source of resistance to chinch bugs exists in buffalograss germplasm. Highly resistant genotypes can be used in breeding programs to further improve buffalograss cultivars.