In the breeding program, we initiated the development of new populations to meet our objectives and the F1 generation was sent to Puerto Rico for additional crossing and increase (two cycles). We increased seed of 36 populations (crosses made in Puerto Rico) and made single plant selections in 20 populations near Ames in the summer of 2015. In our attempt to improve the soybean yield, we have taken two main research approaches: 1) understand the genetic drivers of soybean yield, and 2) increase the genetic diversity of soybean germplasm to breed with novel genes/alleles. Experiments included replicated trials at 3 locations in Iowa to study elite cultivars vs plant introductions, varying maturities, growth habit (indeterminate and determinate), planting density, and row spacing (15” and 30”). Meaningful measurements were taken at critical vegetative and reproductive growth stages using multiple sensors (ground) and aerial imagery. Statistical analysis will be done in fall and spring, and we look forward to making a presentation to the soybean growers in early 2016.

To increase the diversity of soybean germplasm, we are currently testing plant introductions for their merit to use as a parent in our breeding program. We planted specialized field (and indoor) nurseries to assess the genetic worth of plant introductions for new sources of stress tolerance/resistance. We are now analyzing the data to help pick useful parents for the breeding objectives.