Inheritance of resistance to Phomopsis (Diaporthe helianthi) in sunflower

The inheritance of resistance of sunflower to Phomopsis (Diaporthe helianthi) was studied on 10 inbred lines representing a range of resistance and susceptibility levels, and 25 hybrids from a factorial cross of these lines. Analyses of observations over a 3-year period, of semi-natural infection (presence of stem lesions greater than 5 cm) on the hybrids indicated that additive gene control was predominant, with no significant interactions between parental effects. Correlations between infection of parental lines and the mean of their hybrids were not always significant, with certain inbreds which appeared quite susceptible giving hybrids with good levels of resistance. In order to predict hybrid values, it appears necessary to determine the general combining abilities of parental lines. Some inbreds gave very high levels of resistance, others gave very high levels of susceptibility. A test measuring the rate of extension of D. helianthi mycelium on leaves was significantly correlated with the results of natural infections. In particular, it permitted distinction of the most susceptible genotypes, and thus could be used in first generations of breeding to eliminate the most susceptible plants.