ABSTRACT

Approaches and methods used by cotton breeders differ with specific breeding objectives, available equipment and facilities, and level of personnel and financial support. The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the methods presently being employed by the University of Arkansas Cotton Breeding Program. Development of lines with improved host plant resistance and that are well suited to Arkansas cotton production has been and continues to be the primary emphasis of cotton breeding in Arkansas. Selection criteria include methods to improve host plant resistance (active and passive screens), increase yield parameters (earliness, yield and yield components), and enhance fiber quality. The selection criteria are used to develop breeding lines, which are evaluated in non-replicated tests. Superior breeding lines are promoted to strains and tested in replicated strain tests. Strains are eventually either discarded or released as cultivars or germplasm lines.