Introgression of resistance to reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) into upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) from Gossypium arboreum and a G. hirsutum/Gossypium aridum bridging line

Gossypium hirsutum L. is the predominant cotton of commerce and all cultivars of this species are susceptible to the reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis. To introgress resistance to R. reniformis into the tetraploid 2(AD₁) G. hirsutum, a resistant diploid A₂-genome Gossypium arboreum accession (A₂-190) was crossed with a hexaploid 2((AD₁)D₄) bridging line (G 371) to obtain a tetraploid triple-species hybrid. The triple-species hybrid was back-crossed to G. hirsutum and a population of 277 BC₁ individuals was produced. The BC₁s and controls were assayed in growth chambers for resistance to R. reniformis. Fortuitously, the hexaploid bridging line G 371 was also found to be resistant to R. reniformis. The BC₁ segregated 3:1, resistant:susceptible, indicating that resistance was conferred by dominant genes at two different loci, with each originating from a distinct germplasm source. This study demonstrated that it is possible to introgress and pyramid genes for resistance to R. reniformis in G. hirsutum.