A51-1/1974 I
UNIVERSITY OF P. E~I. GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS LIBRARY USE ONL'i
Agriculture 1+ Canada
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00189
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Research Branch Report 1974
CANADA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE @ INFORMATION CANADA OTTAWA, 1975 Cat. No.: A51-1/1974 CONTENTS
Executive of the Research Branch, v Direction de la recherche, v Organization Chart, vi Organigramme, vi Map of Canada, vii Carte du Canada, vii Research Coordinators, viii Coordonnateurs des recherches, viii Administration and Executive Program, ix Administration et Programmes, executif, ix Foreword, x Avant-propos, xi Research Stations (Eastern) Stations de recherches (Est) St. John's West, Nfid., I Charlottetown, P .E.I., 7 Kentville, N.S. 17 Fredericton, N .B., 31 L'Assomption, Que., 41 Lennoxville, Que., 45 Sainte-Foy, Que., 53 Saint-Jean, Que., 65 Delhi, Ont., 73 Harrow, Ont., 79 Ottawa, Ont., 91 Vineland Station, Ont., 107 Research Institutes and Services Instituts et Services de recherches Animal Research Institute, 115 Biosystematics Research Institute, 131 Chemistry and Biology Research Institute, 149 Food Research Institute, 165 Soil Research Institute, 173 Research Institute, London, 189 Engineering Research Service, 197 Ornamentals Research Service, 205 Statistical Research Service, 21 I Research Stations (Western) Stations de recherches (Ouest) Brandon, Man., 2 I7 Morden, Man., 225 Winnipeg, Man., 235 Melfort, Sask., 249 Regina, Sask., 257 Saskatoon, Sask., 265 Swift Current, Sask., 279 Beaverlodge, Alta., 289 Lacombe, Alta., 297 Lethbridge, Alta., 305 Agassiz, B.C., 327 Kamloops, B.C., 333 Sidney, B.C., 339 Summerland, B.C., 343 Vancouver, B.C., 357 Index of Professional Staff and Visiting Scientists, 367 Cadres professionnels et chercheurs invites, 367 Subject Index, 377 Index alphabetique, 377
. iii CANADA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RESEARCH BRANCH
I DIRECTOR GENERAL I I i i j i I I ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL COORDINATOR INSTITUTES AND SERVICES WESTERN PLANNING & COORDINATION EASTERN ADMINISTRATION EXECUTIVE PROGRAM ----1-- I RESEARCH C~ORDINATORS I Atlantic Provinces 1 SI. John's West INSTITUTES RESEARCH SERVICES i Morden Charlottetown Beef Cattle Portage 10 Prairie Kenlvifle Animal Engineering Winnipeg Biosystemotics Nappan Fredericton Biosystematil;s Ornamentals Soskolchewon Cereal Crops Melfort Quebec Chemistry and Biology Sfatistical Dairy Cottle Regina L' Assomption Food Entomology Indion Head Lavaltrie Soil Saskatoon Environmental Quality Lennoxville
Scott Sointe-Foy London Environment and Resources Swift Current La Pocatiere Field and Oilseed Craps Normandin Alberto Food St-Jean Beoverlodge Frelighsburg Fort Vermi lion Forage Crops L'Acadie Prince George (B.C.l Horticulture Ste-Clothi Ide Lacombe Plant Pathology Vegreville Ontario Lethbridge Sheep, Swine ond Poultry Delhi Harrow Monyberries Soil Fertility Stavely Woods lee Weeds Vauxhall Ottawa Smithfield British Columbia SPECIAL ADVISORS Kapuskasing Agassiz Thunder Bay Abbotsford Vine land Station Kamlaops Economics Sidney Summerland Engineering Crestan Ornamentals December 1974 Kelawna Statistics Vancouver i;
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* 0 '=' 0 FOREWORD
The Research Branch report for 1974 is a summary of the research carried out by the compilation of the reports prepared by all scientists of the Research Branch establish- the research establishments. Each report is a ments. summary of the research activities conducted The results and activities reported in this by the scientists and support staff of that publication are all interrelated and constitute particular station, institute, or service. a cohesive agricultural research program. A This 1974 report, together with all pre- companion report, prepared by the Planning vious reports, represents a historical account and Coordination group, is also published of the progress of research in agriculture as each year. This report reviews the Research conducted by the Research Branch of Agri- Branch programs according to objectives and culture Canada. goals. It clearly demonstrates the existence of It will be noted that the Director of each a coherent Research Branch program to establishment includes in the report his own which contributions are made by all research introduction, which states summarily the part establishments located in Canada from coast of the overall Research Branch program for to coast. which he is responsible. All the establish- Two changes in management personnel ments conduct programs that are, to a greater took place during the year. The research or lesser degree, of national interest. In coordination staff was strengthened by the addition, most of the stations also direct their appointment of Dr. R. R. Riel, as Research efforts to regional and local problems. Coordinator (Food). Dr. J. Holme was ap- The research program plans are a result of pointed Director of the Food Research the combined deliberations by the Planning Institute. and Coordination group at headquarters, the The increased emphasis on global food Directors and staffs of the research establish- production has stimulated interest in agricul- ments, and the Research Branch Executive. It tural research by numerous agencies other is the task of the Director General and than Agriculture Canada. This interest em- Assistant Directors General to ensure that phasizes the need for cooperative activity programs are conducted according to plan and coordination of research programs con- and are in concert with the objectives and ducted by all organizations involved in goals of the Branch. The responsibility for research of importance to agriculture. how the research is conducted remains with the Directors and scientists of the esta blish- B. B. Migicovsky ments. Thus, this report represents a brief Director General A VANT-PROPOS
Le rapport de la Direction de la recherche rapport com porte un bref resume des re- de 1974 est constitue de l'ensemble des cherches effectuees par les chercheurs de rapports prepares par tous les etablissements chacun des etablissements. de recherche. Chacun de ceux-ci est un Les resultats et les activites decrits dans resume des activites menees par les ceue publication sont relies entre eux et chercheurs et Ie personnel de soutien de s'inscrivent dans Ie cadre d'un programme de chaque station, instilUt ou service. recherche agricole coherent. Le groupe de la Le rapport de 1974, comme ceux qui I'ont planification et de la coordination prepare precede, rend compte de I'evolution de la d'autre part un rapport complementaire recherche en agriculture telle qu'elle a ete publie annuellement dans lequel il passe en me nee par la Direction de la recherche du revue les programmes de la Direction selon ministere de l'Agriculture du Canada. les objectifs et les buts. II demontre claire- On notera que Ie directeur de chaq ue ment la coherence des elements du pro- etablissement presente dans son rapport sa gramme global auquel collaborent tous les pro pre introd uction exposant sommairement etablissements de recherche du pays. la tache qui lui revient dans l'ensemble du Deux modifications ont touche Ie person- programme de la Direction de la recherche. nel de direction au cours de I'annee. Le Certains etablissements ont des programmes personnel de la coordination de la recherche qui sont, a des niveaux divers, d'interet a ete renforce par I'arrivee du Dr R. R. Rie! national. De plus, la plupart des stations au poste de coordonnateur des recherches orientent leurs efforts vers la solution des (technologie alimentaire). Le Dr J. Holme a problemes locaux et regionaux. ete nom me directeur de l'Institut de recher- La planification du programme de recher- che sur les aliments. che est Ie fruit des deliberations tenues entre L'importance accrue de la production Ie groupe de la coordination et de la planifi- alimentaire globale a stim ule I'interet de cation du bureau central, les directeurs et les nombreux organismes autres que Ie ministere employes des etablissements de recherche et de I'Agriculture pour la recherche agricole. les administrateurs de la Direction de la Cet interet fait ressortir Ie besoin de coopera- recherche. Le Directeur General et les Di- tion et de coordination des programmes recteurs Generaux adjoints ont la tache de menes a bien par tous les organismes se veiller a ce que les programmes soient menes livrant a des recherches d 'im portance en scIon Ie plan etabli et qu'ils soient conformes agriculture. aux objectifs et buts fixes par la Direction. II appartient aux directeurs et aux chercheurs des etablissements de determiner les moda- Le Directeur General lites d 'execution des recherches. Ainsi, ce B. B. Migicovsky
xi
Research Station St. John's West, Newfoundland
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
H. W. R. CHANCEY, B.S.A., M.S.A. Director
Entomology Section
R. F. MORRIS, B.S.A., M.Sc. Head of Section; Vegetable insects
Horticulture Section
B. G. PENNEY, B.Sc., M.Sc. Vegetable crops
Plant Breeding and Pathology Section
K. G. PROUDFOOT, B.Agr., M.Agr. Head of Section; Potato breeding M. C. HAMPSON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant diseases
Soils and Agronomy
A. F. RAYMENT, B.Sc., M.Sc. Soil fertility
Departures
P. K. HERINGA Pedology Transferred to Soil Research Institute, Ottawa, April 1974 M. D. SUDOM Pedology Resigned March 1974
RESEARCHSTATION,ST. JOHN'S WEST, NFLD. •• Research Station Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
L. B. MACLEOD, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Director D. A. HUTCHINSON Administrative Officer B. STANFIELD, B.S.A., M.S.A., M.L.S. Librarian
Cereal and Tobacco Section
J. D. E. STERLING, B.S.A., M.Sc. Head of Section; Breeding (barley) H. W. JOHNSTON, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Diseases (cereal) K. E. LELACHEUR, B.Se. (Agr.) Tobacco J. A. MACLEOD, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutrition (forage and cereal) H. G. NASS, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Breeding (wheat), physiology (cereal) J. B. SANDERSON, B.Sc. (Agr.) Management (winter cereals and protein crops) I
Forage Section
C. B. WILLIS, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. . Head of Section; Diseases (forage) W. N. BLACK, B.Sc. (Agr.) Nutrition (pasture and corn) U. C. GUPTA, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Micronutrients (soil and plant) J. KIMPINSKI, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Nematology M. SUZUKI, B.Sc., Ph.D. Biochemistry and physiology (forage) L. S. THOMPSON, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Insects (forage, cereal, and vegetable) R. P. WHITE, B.S. (Ed.), M.S., Ph.D. Nutrition (corn and potato), soil chemistry
Crop-Livestock Systems Section
J. H. LOVERING,1 B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Economics (prod uction) H. T. KUNELIUS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology and management (forage) J. A. McIsAAC,l B.Sc. Systems engineering
RESEARCHSTATION,CHARLOTTETOWN,P.E.I. 7 D. G. RUSSELL,I B.SC. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Economics (systems) K. A. WINTER, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutrition (cattle) .
Horticulture Section
J. A. CUTCLIFFE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Head of Section; Nutrition and management (vegetable) L. C. CALLBECK, B.Sc. (Agr.) Diseases (potato) J. A. IVANY, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Weed control (vegetable, forage, and cereal) J. P. MACKINNON, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Virus diseases (potato) D. C. MUNRO, B.S.A., M.Sc. Nutrition (potato and vegetable) D. C. READ, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide bioactivity, insects (vegetable)
Departure
G. W. AYERS, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Diseases (crucifer and potato) Retired May 1974
ISeconded from Economics Branch.
8 RESEARCHBRANCHREPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION
The Research Station at Charlottetown has regional responsibility for research into the production' of forages, cereals, tobacco, and vegetable crops grown for processing. Research is also conducted on local problems with potatoes, cattle nutrition and breeding, and small fruits. This report summarizes the results from selected research projects; further information on the results presented, or on other aspects of the research program, may be obtained from the Station or individual scientists. Copies of this report and reprints of the scientific papers listed may be obtained from: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 1210, Charlottetown, P.E.I. CIA 7M8.
L. B. MacLeod Director
CEREALS Fababeans. Fababeans showed potential as a protein crop by producing up to 1700 kg Breeding and Testing of protein/ha. The crude protein content of seed was 28-33%. The highest yielding Barley. Kinkora, the first and only com- cultivar, Herra, produced 5268 kg of seed/ mercial variety of barley that is resistant to ha, which was 100 kg/ha more than Diana the barley jointworm, Tetramesa hordei and 430 kg/ha more than Herz-Freza, the (Harris), was licensed. In addition to joint- earliest maturing cultivar. worm resistance, Kinkora has smut resistance similar to Conquest, but is susceptible to the recently identified strains of Ustilago nuda Management and Nutrition (Jens.) Rostr., which are virulent on cultivars derived from Jet. It has moderate resistance Potential for expansion of crops and live- to scald and to soils with low pH. Under stock production in the Maritimes. A model severe jointworm infestation, Kinkora of Maritime agricultural production was used yielded 4372 kg/ha, whereas Voila and to. examine the physical possibilities of Charlottetown 80, two highly susceptible expanding cereal and protein production to varieties, yielded 897 kg/ha. provide the feed for enough livestock to meet Two European varieties, Diva and Lud, the regional demands. Although there ap- and several breeding lines from Charlotte- pears to be ample physical opportunity to town performed well, producing high yield expand crop and livestock production in the and showing resistance to lodging. These Maritimes, the economic merits of expansion varieties have not been licensed yet in depend to a large extent upon the prices of Canada. imported cereals and the efficiency of local production. Winter wheat. The selection WW 100I-I continued to yield well in comparative trials. It has greater hardiness, higher test weight, Economics of labor-machinery substitution and heavier kernel weight than the present in seeding operations. The economic implica- recommended varieties. It outyields Yorkstar tions of substituting labor for machinery in in years when winterkilling is a problem. It is tillage and seeding operations were exam- resistant to sprouting in the head. It will be ined. For most combinations of values in the considered for licensing in 1975. likely ranges of costs for machinery, timeli- ness penalty, and labor, there was a very Fall rye. Excellent yield potential of fall wide range of machinery system sizes (and rye was shown by several varieties that hence labor inputs) that provided a total cost produced more than 100 q/ha in compara- per hectare within 10% of the cost at the tive trials. Several lines from Poland out- least-cost size. However, the minimum cost. yielded Kustro. Two F1 composite popula- per hectare varied considerably with the cost tions of rye were initiated with emphasis on of machinery (or cultural practice selected) combining winterhardiness, shorter straw, and the extent of the timeliness penalty and yield. arising from delayed seeding.
RESEARCH STATION, CHAR LOlTE;rOWN, P.E.I. 9 Least-cost combine size. The cost of har- same soil, with no added S. Yellowing of vesting cereal was found to vary from $30/ entire plants and burning and scorching of ha to $86/ha for combine sizes of 4.5 t/h to leaf edges were the two most distinguishing 11.5 t/h on areas of 40 to 121 ha. The costs features of S deficiency observed. included buying and operating the combine, labor, natural crop loss that occurs after the Diseases optimum time of harvest has passed, and loss Seed source and treatment. Barley seed of the crop due to combine (header and tail produced in Western Canada had a much losses). lower level of contamination by Helmintho- The least-cost combine for 81 ha, a crop sporium spores than seed produced in East- value of $88/t, and a crop loss of 33.5 kg/ha ern Canada. Seed treatment with Vitaflo per day was found to be the combine with a (UniRoyal Chemicals) increased the yields capacity of 6.75 t/h. In this situation, the from eastern-grown seed to a level compara- estimated harvesting cost was $39.50/ha. ble with that produced by western seed. Herbicide-N solution combinations for Yields of Keystone and Voila barley were cereals. Delaying application of part of the N improved to such an extent by seed treatment requirement of spring wheat until the 4- to that treating all eastern-grown barley seed 5-leaf stage usually resulted in slightly higher before planting is recommended. yields and higher protein levels. Studies showed that N at up to 22 kg/ha applied as a urea - ammonium nitrate solution in com- FORAGES bination with either 2,4-D or MCPA gave Physiology and Management weed control similar to that obtained with a conventional herbicide. By using the her- Winter survival of alfalfa. Alfalfa survived bicide-N solution combination, it was possi- the 1973-74 winter season with 20% or less ble to make a delayed N application without winterkill in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward an additional field operation. Island. Severe winterkill of alfalfa occurred in New Brunswick, where 80% or more of the Control of hemp-nettle in cereals. Amine crop was lost. In the first week of April, only salt and estemine formulations of MCPA at 10% of sample plants taken from New 0.56 litre ai/ha and 0.84 litre ai/ha were Brunswick were viable and no heaving was applied postemergence to hemp-nettle in the observed. By the last week of April, however, 4- or 6-leaf stage. The amine formulation extensive heaving of taproots was observed. gave greater control than the salt formula- Because lethal damage had occurred before tion, which was better than the estemine heaving was observed, the heaving may have formulation when the lower rate was applied been the result rather than the cause of at the 4-leaf stage. There were no differences winter injury. In a cold-room experiment, it in hemp-nettle control between formulations was found that Saranac alfalfa plants can with the lower rate of application at the survive 2 mo under a 5-cm-thick ice sheet 6-leaf stage and those with the higher rate cover with little damage to the plants when applied at the 4- or 6-leaf stage. they were grown in a dry soil having a Sources of Nand P for cereals. Severe moisture level as low as 40% of field damage to wheat, oats, and barley seedlings capacity. was observed when fertilizer containing urea Viability of overwintering plants. The most and diammonium phosphate was drilled with reliable method for estimating viability of the seed on Culloden sandy loam. Much less overwintering plants was a test in which the damage was observed from urea with triple percentage of survival was determined on superphosphate. No damage was evident sample plants transplanted from the field when fertilizers containing ammonium ni- and grown for 3 wk in a greenhouse. For trate and triple superphosphate or ammo- forage crops and winter cereals, the accuracy nium nitrate and diammonium phosphate and speed of estimating viability using were drilled. fluorescein diacetate (FDA) were best, fol- Symptoms of sulfur deficiency in crops. lowed by triphenyl tetrazolium chloride Sulfur deficiency was induced in cauliflower, (TTC). For strawberry plants the use of TTC rutabagas, wheat, barley, and alfalfa in a was as accurate as or better than the FDA greenhouse by continuous cropping on the method.
10 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Irrigation of pastures. In a grazing experi- Cereals as whole cropforage. In lout of 3 ment conducted on a light sandy loam for 5 yr, applied N substantially increased DM yr, sprinkler-irrigation plots consistently out- yields and CP concentrations of whole crop yielded nonirrigated plots, except in the late barley, oats, and triticale harvested at the fall, when moisture was adequate and a early-dough stage. Yields of cereal forage treatment on September I of N at 56 kg/ha were 3090-10 190 kg/ha, depending on was applied. The average annual dry matter year, species, and amount of N applied. Split (DM) production of pasture swards consist- applications of N were not any more effective ing of timothy, Kentucky bluegrass, and wild than single applications in increasing CP white clover was 14.04 t/ha for irrigated concentrations. Whole crop barley, triticale, plots and 12.63 t/ha for nonirrigated. Irri- and oats had mean rvDDM of 46.9-58.3%. gation increased the average DM production High rates (200 kg/ha) of N tended to result 1.72 t/ha on the zero N plots. Yields on in accumulation of potentially toxic levels irrigated plots increased linearly as the levels (0.2% or higher) of NO]-N, particularly in of N were increased; the largest increase was oat and barley forages. 4.21 t/ha, attained after the split application of N at 280 kg/ha (56 kg in early spring, 84 Corn management. Yields of silage corn on June 15, 84 on August I, and 56 on DM increased until the first killing frost in September I). late September and then declined progres- sively thereafter. The percent digestible DM Effect of stage of maturity of timothy at of the material harvested in 1973 also harvest on costs of feeder cattle rations. declined progressively after frost. Lodging Rations based on timothy harvested at stages increased in severity with time after frost. of maturity from vegetative to flowering Better yields and maturity were obtained were formulated for several classes of beef when corn for silage was planted from mid- cattle whose average daily gain and length of to late May, but plantings later than early keep varied widely. The stage of maturity of June produced much lower yields. However, timothy at harvest that leads to minimum early plantings suffered greater germination feed costs differed substantially as a function losses. In 1974, one-third less seedlings of cattle class and the price of the cereal emerged on a plot planted on May 16 than component of the rations. The feed costs for on one planted May 31. Field populations of various stages of maturity of timothy ranged 54,000-69,000 plants/ha gave satisfactory from $9/head for short-keep animals fed to yields and maturity. gain 1.I kg/day to $38/head for wintering Establishment of alfalfa. N fertilization at animals fed to gain 0.57 kg/day when barley seeding was not usually needed to establish cost $IIO/t. These differences were $3/head vigorous alfalfa stands. Applied N produced for short-keep animals and $IO/head for small increases in the DM yields of alfalfa in wintering animals when barley cost $55/t. the first harvest only. The DM yields of alfalfa without any weed control were 2~64% Cutting management of grasses. Total DM lower than those of hand-weeded plots. yields of timothy, bromegrass, and or- Embutox E (May and Baker (Canada) Ltd.) chard grass increased until the flowering stage plus dalapon tended to lower the DM yields and ranged from 4370 to II 840 kg/ha. of alfalfa. Yields of the first harvest in two Aftermath DM yield rarely exceeded 3500 out of three trials contained less than 30% kg/ha. Stand persistence was satisfactory weeds when no weed control was used. under all cutting managements. Percent in vitro digestible dry matter (IVDDM) of Control of barnyard grass in field corn. primary growth varied from 76.5 to 37.0. Alachlor at 2.24 kg ai/ha gave longer-lasting The rvDDM of primary growth declined and better control of barnyard grass than from 0.69% to 0.82% per day for 24 days. cyanazine at 2.24 kg ailha, which was better The IVDDM of aftermath tended to be than atrazine at 1.68 kg ai/ha when either inversely related to the length of the re- cyanazine or atrazine was used alone before growth period. Percent crude protein (CP) of field corn and barnyard grass emerged or primary growth was 18.2-7.1 under various early postemergence (when barnyard grass cutting managements and decreased at an had two leaves). Combinations of alachlor or average daily rate of 0.33-0.37. Percent CP cyanazine with atrazine gave excellent con- of aftermath was 15.0-9.6. trol of barnyard grass all season, even when
RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. II applied at late postemergence (when barn- Insects and Nematodes yard grass had four leaves). The combina- tions of pesticides applied late postemer- Bronzed cutworm in the Tantramar Marsh. gence, however, severely injured the corn. The bronzed cutworm, Nephelodes emmedo- nia (Cramer), appeared in near-epidemic Time of glyphosate application and control numbers in the Tantramar Marsh, New of quack grass. Glyphosate at 1.12 kg ai/ha Brunswick, in 1974. However, before serious applied to quack grass, Agropyron repens (L.) damage to grasses could occur, predators, Beauv., at the 4-5-leaf, 6-7-leaf, or flower- parasites, or disease reduced the population ing stages gave 95% control of shoot and markedly. Granulosis virus was not recov- rhizome growth in the greenhouse, but at the ered from the dying specimens, but a micro- 1-3-leaf stage, however, gave only 50% sporidian disease was detected in some control of shoot and rhizome growth. There specimens. Six insecticidal sprays effectively was no difference in control of quack grass reduced populations of the cutworm in a field when glyphosate was applied to shoots that trial. had grown from 2-node or 10-node rhizome pieces. Control was 90% with both 2-node New alfalfa insect. The alfalfa blotch and IO-node rhizome pieces when applica- leafminer, Agromyza frontella (Rondani), tion was made at the 4-leaf stage but only was identified for the first time in the Atlantic 20% with application at the 2-leaf stage. region as a potentially serious pest of alfalfa.
New timothy pest. The European skipper, Nutrition Thymelicus lineola (Ochsenheimer), was identified as a potentially serious pest of Molybdenum, copper, and sulfur relation- timothy and other grasses in Prince Edward ships in forages. With up to 0.2 ppm Mo Island. applied to the soil, 5.7-11.5 ppm Cu, 0.15- 0.21% S, and 0.22-3.92 ppm Mo in timothy Nematodes inforage legumes. The identity and red clover, plants were safe for con- has been confirmed of 18 species in 10 sumption by animals. Toxic levels of Mo in genera of potentially parasitic nematodes red clover and timothy that resulted from associated with forage legumes in New applications of I ppm Mo to the soil were Brunswick. Pratylenchus crenatus Loof was alleviated in most cases by applying S at 50 found more often than P. penetrans (Cobb) ppm. in New Brunswick and more often than comparable samples in Prince Edward Banded phosphorus sources for establishing Island. alfalfa. Banding P at 25 kg/ha below the seed improved alfalfa establishment. Diam- Root-knot nematode affects forage leg- monium phosphate was superior to monoam- umes. Of five forage legumes inoculated in monium phosphate, which was superior to the greenhouse with the northern root-knot triple superphosphate. nematode, Meloidogyne hapla Chitwood, sainfoin was the most susceptible and crown- Corn fertility. Yields of DM increased vetch the least; alfalfa, red clover, and significantly when N was applied at 45 kg/ha birdsfoot trefoil were intermediate. Nema- to silage corn growing for the first time and tode inoculation decreased foliage yields of at 90 kg/ha when growing for the third year sainfoin and red clover more than of the in the same location. Yields also increased other legumes. Sainfoin was the only forage when K was applied at 37 kg/ha and P at 25 legume that died when inoculated with the kg/ha at one first-year and one third-year root-knot nematode. location. Yields responded to P at 50 kg/ha at another location, but no yield responses Population dynamics of root-lesion nema- resulted from the addition of K. Yield todes. Four generations of P. penetrans, each increases were usually accompanied by im- lasting about 6 wk, occurred after the nema- proved maturity of the grain component of todes invaded the roots of red clover in the the silage. Higher fertility rates of N up to seeding year. The average numbers of nema- 180 kg/ha, P to 100 kg, and K to 150 kg did todes per plant in each generation in order not affect yields or maturity. were 40,579,1534, and 3510.
12 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Corn insects. One application of the granu- :> dolomitic limestone :> MgO. Dolomitic lar insecticides fonofos, carbofuran, dia- grits provided no available Mg to plants. zinon, or fensulfothion applied at the whorl stage was as effective as three spray treat- Potato Diseases and Insects ments with either carbofuran, Pencap E Control of late blight. In a study on the (Pennwalt Corp.), or carbaryl in reducing effects of the shape and size of plots, it was larvae and larval tunnels of the European found that less positive interplot interference corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner), in in fungicide control of potato late blight, field corn. Although total silage yields were Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary, not significantly increased, several of the occurred among long, narrow plots than treatments resulted in significantly increased among wide, square plots. grain yields over the untreated controls. Under conditions that prevailed in 1974, DeKalb 22, Cargill 185, and Stewart's 3502 adequate control of late blight was provided hybrids exhibited partial resistance to attack by the fungicides chlorothalonil, mancozeb, by the borer. No difference in corn-borer fentin, and the confidential materials CGF infestation was observed between plots 2660 (Ciba-Geigy Canada Ltd.), RH6-356 plowed in the spring and those plowed in the (Rohm & Haas Company of Canada Ltd.), fall. and TF 3288 (Chipman Chemical Ltd.). The test product FMC 28221 (FMC of Canada Ltd.) was not efficient. The dinoseb product HORTICULTURAL CROPS INT-174 (Interprovincial Co-Operatives Ltd.) was found to be an effective potato top Potato Nutrition and Management killer. Fertilizers, seeding dates, and plant spac- Control of potato viruses. Over 10,000 ings. Urea or ammonium nitrate in combina- tubers were eye-indexed for detection of potato leaf-roll virus, and another 3000 were tion with triple superphosphate or diammo- nium phosphate were equally good sources tested serologically or on indicator plants for potato viruses S (PVS), X (PVX), and Y of N for potatoes. Rates of N as high as 200 kg/ha were used. Plant emergence and (PVY). Four tubers were found infected with leaf-roll in the index work; no PYX or PVY growth were not affected by N source. The cool, moist soil conditions in the spring were found in the serological work, but slightly less than I% of the tubers were prevented buildup of toxic levels of ammo- nia from the urea and diammonium phos- infected with PVS. Results from 1400 tests of Pre-elite stocks at the Prince Edward Island phate. Total yields and yields of large tubers increased as the rate of N increased. As plant seed farm showed I% infection with PVS spacing was increased from 28 to 46 em for and none with PYX. Netted Gem and from 20 to 38 em for Spread of viruses S and X. No spread of Kennebec, the yield of large tubers increased PVS of PYX occurred in the Kennebec and small ones decreased, but the total yields variety of field trials. No spread of PYX was were unaffected. Late planting decreased found in Sebago, but 13.5% of the plants tuber size in Netted Gem but increased it became infected with PVS. slightly in Kennebec. Tuber sp gr decreased somewhat with late planting. Low tempera- Aphid studies. Yellow pan trappings and tures in spring delayed emergence of early actual counts on potato plants from five plantings by 12-14 days, which minimized locations on Prince Edward Island showed effects of planting dates. that nearly 14 times more potato aphids were present than peach aphids. The largest Magnesium sources compared. No yield populations were present in August, and the responses were obtained when Mg from potato species arrived in potato fields earlier various sources was applied to potatoes, than the peach species. tobacco, or field beans grown on soils low in Vegetable Nutrition and Management Mg « 40 ppm). Some yield responses were noted in the greenhouse with beans and Nitrogen applications for Brussels sprouts. . ryegrass. Uptake by plant tissue indicated the Applications of N in two bands, on both following relative availability of Mg from sides of the row about 15 em apart and about
various sources: MgS04 = K2S04.2MgS04 8 em below the soil surface, resulted in as
RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.1. 13 ,--.------...------.0lIl
great or greater yields of Brussels sprouts higher and persisted longer in plant tissue, than either broadcast applications or broad- both in the field and in storage. When cast plus topdressing. Optimum yields were banded below the soil surface, persistent obtained where N was applied at 112 kg/ha. compounds such as phoxim were too slowly Cultivars and spacing for single-harvesting bioactivated to control root maggots in of broccoli. In experiments conducted with crucifers during early to midseason attacks several cultivars during three seasons, yields but gave good control of attacks in late generally increased and spear weight de- summer and fall. Also, toxic residues slowly creased as the distance between plants de- accumulated in roots during the growing creased. Cultivars differed considerably in season and were very slowly degraded in maturity and percentage of marketable roots in storage. CGAI2223 was the most spears in response to spacing. The best efficient material tested for control of root cultivars tested for single-harvesting were maggots in 1974. Green Duke, Blue Ocean, S & G No. I, and Atlantic, and the best spacings were 30 x 30 Pea diseases. Disease surveys of pea fields cm to 40 x 40 cm. have shown the importance of both the Boron deficiency in cole crops. In field Ascochyta and root-rot diseases. Crops with experiments conducted on a fine sandy loam visible damage caused by disease may show containing 0.28 ppm available B, broccoli losses of up to 80% of potential yield, and cauliflower responded to added B. An whereas healthy-appearing fields may lose application of I ppm B to the soil increased up to 20% of expected yield. Fungicide seed the yield of broccoli and Brussels sprouts by treatments improved stands and yield of field 20%. However, B-deficiency symptoms were peas. Disease severity of field peas was observed only on broccoli in the form of reduced and yields were increased by plant- browning of older leaf edges. A lack of ing enough grain crops with the peas to hold response to B on Brussels sprouts indicated the peas above ground level. that this crop is less sensitive to B deficiency than are broccoli or cauliflower. Strawberry Nutrition Vegetable Insects and Diseases Bioactivity of new insecticides. The insecti- Effect of N, P, and K on strawberry yields. cides that showed the highest level of toxicity Broadcast applications of Nand P increased within 30 days after application (e.g., Coun- the yields of strawberries in the first and ter (Cyanamid of Canada Ltd.), propoxur, second fruiting years, whereas applications and carbofuran) usually degraded fastest to of K had very little effect. The fertilizer nontoxic components. However, some mate- treatments were applied 6 wk after trans- rials were both initially and residually highly planting and immediately after the first toxic (e.g., CGAI2223 (Ciba-Geigy Ltd.), harvest season. Optimum yields were ob- chlorpyrifos, and fonofos), depending on tained where N was applied at 90-180 kg/ha method of application. The most persistent and P at 200 kg/ha. compounds showed the lowest levels of initial toxicity, and toxicants of compounds such as phoxim and trichloronat gradually increased during most of the growing season in the soil and throughout the whole growing TOBACCO season in plant tissue. When mixed with the soil or banded 2.5-5 Nitrogen requirements for flue-cured to- cm below the soil surface, all materials bacco. Based on soil tests, optimum N differed quite markedly either in their level requirements for growing tobacco in soils of toxicity at a given time after application or with organic matter levels below 2.0% were in their rate of absorption into plant tissue 26-30 kg/ha. Highest tobacco yields and and subsequent rate of degradation to non- dollar returns per hectare, however, were toxic moieties. For example, Counter was obtained when N at 34.7-43.7 kg/ha was slightly more toxic per unit than phorate, and applied, indicating an increased demand for higher levels of toxicants persisted longer in N above predicted amounts when soil orga- the soil. However, phorate toxicants were nic matter levels were below 2.0%.
14 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 CATTLE wk of age can be successful, but that some calves may not adapt to weaning at 2 wk of Rye rations for steers. Grain rations con- age. taining 0%, 40%, 60%, and 80% ergot-free Selenium content of feedstuffs produced in rye, fed free-choice to steers along with the Atlantic Provinces. Analyses of forage restricted amounts of corn silage and hay, samples from the four Atlantic Provinces did not affect feed intake. Barley-fed steers indicated that all samples except those from gained 1.5 kg/day, whereas those on the rye several locations in Nova Scotia contained rations averaged 1.3-1.4 kg/day. These data less than 0.\ ppm selenium and were Se indicate that up to 80% ergot-free rye can be deficient. These data were consistent with the included in the grain ration without affecting widespread reports of white muscle disease intake and with only a slight reduction in rate in beef calves and stiff-lamb disease of gain. throughout the region. Age of dairy calves at weaning. Ayrshire Evaluation of pastures for growing steers. bull calves that had been fed whole milk Pasture plots seeded to timothy, or- with free access to dry calf starter were chardgrass, and meadow fescue were com- weaned abruptly at 2, 3, and 5 wk old onto a pared with permanent pasture having a dry starter feed. From birth to 15 wk old, Kentucky bluegrass - wild white clover liveweight gains were 0.41, 0.45, and 0.41 sward for growing steers. The average kg/ day with intakes of dry feed of 154.5, liveweight gains were 629.4, 603.7, 549.9, \61.2, and 130.2 kg for the 2-, 3-, and 5-wk and 605.9 kg/ha. Under the conditions of weaning ages. The calves weaned at 3 wk ate this experiment, with ample rainfall, high more starter ration than the calves weaned at fertility, and rotational grazing, the perma- 2 wk, which explains their better perform- nent pasture performed as well as the timo- ance. This study showed that weaning at 3 thy and orchard grass pastures.
PUBLICAnONS
Research Kunelius, H. T. 1974. Effects of weed control and N fertilization at establishment on the growth Calder, F. W., and MacLeod, L. B. 1974. Effects of and nodulation of alfalfa. Agron. J. 66:806- soil pH and NPK fertilization on yield and 809. quality of two barley cultivars. Can. J. Soil Sci. Kunelius, H. T. 1974. Influence of weed control 54:1-6. and N fertilization at establishment on growth and nodulation of birdsfoot trefoil. Can. J. Call beck, L. C 1974. Screening of potato fun- Plant Sci. 54:259-264. gicides in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:22- 23. Kunelius, H. T., MacLeod, L. B., and Calder, F. W. 1974. Effects of cutting management on yields, digestibility, crude protein, and persist- Cutcliffe, J. A., and Simpson, W. G. 1974. Effects ence of timothy, bromegrass, and orchard of lime on yield of field beans. Can. J. Plant grass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54: 55-64. Sci. 54:589-590. MacKinnon, J. P. 1974. Detection, spread, and Gupta, U. C, and Cutcliffe, J. A. 1974. Boron aphid transmission of potato virus S. Can. J. status of rutabagas and cole crops in Prince Bot. 52:461-465. Edward Island. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:329-330. MacLeod, L. B., and MacLeod, J. A. 1974. Effects Gupta, U. C, and Veinot, R. L. 1974. Response of of Nand K fertilization on the protein, nitrate crops to sulfur under greenhouse conditions. and nonprotein reduced N fractions of timo- Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 38:785-788. thy and bromegrass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:331- 341.
James, W. C, Shih, C S., and Callbeck, L. C 1973. Munro, D. C, and Cutclilfe, J. A. 1974. Relation of Survey of fungicide spraying practice for nutrient content of rutabaga leaves to fertil- potato late blight in Prince Edward Island, ization with N, P, and K. Can. 1. Plant Sci. 1972. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 161-166. 54: 135-139.
RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN. P.E.1. 15 Read, O. C. 1974. Bioactivity of fensulfothion and Javed, A. H., and Winter, K. A. 1974. Feeding trichloronat in soil. Can. Entomol. 106:87-92. urea to ruminants. P.E.I. Oep. Agric. & For. Publ. 7 pp. Suzuki, M., and Mortimer, O. C. 1973. Sugar concentration gradients of the sugar beet plant Langille, J. E., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, E. A., and in relation to translocation. Can. J. Bot. MacLeod, J. A. 1974. Field pea evaluation 51:1733-1739. trials, Atlantic region, 1973. Canadex 142.34. Langille, J. E., Bubar, 1. S., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, Suzuki, M., and Willis, C. B. 1974. Root lesion E. A., and Kunelius, H. T. 1974. Atlantic nematodes affect cold tolerance of alfalfa. Provinces fababean trials, 1973. Canadex Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:585-586. 142.34.
Townshend, 1. L., Willis, C. B., Potter, J. W., and LeLacheur, K. E. 1974. Phosphorus and potassium Santerre, J. 1973. Occurrence and population for flue-cured tobacco in the Atlantic region. densities of nematodes associated with forage Lighter 44(3): 10-12. crops in eastern Canada. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 131-136. MacKinnon, 1. P. 1974. Production of virus tested seed potatoes in Prince Edward Island. Am. White, R. P., Munro, O. c., and Sanderson, 1. B. Potato 1. 51 :304-305. 1974. Nitrogen, potassium, and plant spacing MacLeod, L. B., and Macleod, 1. A. 1974. Effects effects on yield, tuber size, specific gravity, and of N on timothy and bromegrass. Effets de tissue N, P, and K of Netted Gem potatoes. I'azote sur la fleole et Ie brome. Canadex Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:535-539. 127.542. Miscellaneous MacLeod, L. B., and Macleod, J. A. 1974. Liming and fertilization for grass-legume mixtures. Call beck, L. c., and Arsenault, W. 1. 1974. Evalu- Chaulage et fertilisation des melanges grami- ation des fongicides du mildiou. Canadex nees legumineuses. Canadex 120.540. 258.630. Nass, H. G., Johnston, H. W., Sterling, 1. O. E., Cutcliffe, J. A. 1974. Once-over harvest for broc- and Macleod, J. A. 1974. Effect of seeding coli. Cueillette unique du brocoli. Canadex date, foliar spraying and seed treatment on 252.51. yield of cereals. Effets de la date de semailles, de I'application foliaire et du traitement des Gupta, U. c., and Cutcliffe, J. A. 1974. The semences sur Ie rendement des cereales. Ca- availability of boron to rutabagas. Can. Agric. nadex 110.21. 19(3):34-35. Winter, K. A 1974. Non-protein nitrogen and Gupta, U. c., and Macleod, J. A. 1974. Effects of sulfur in calf starters. J. Anim. Sci. 39:257. boron and soil pH on the growth and boron Winter, K. A., and Javed, A. H. 1974. A new look concentration of bromegrass under green- at forage quality. P.E.I. Oep. Agric. & For. house conditions. Soil Horizons 15( I): 1-3. Publ. 5 pp. Huggard, R. J., Winter, K. A, and Burgess, P. L. Willis, C. B. 1974. Northern root knot nematode in 1974. Feeding guide for the Atlantic Prov- forage legumes. Nematode de la nodosite des inces. Atl. Provo Livestock Comm. Bull. racines dans les legumineuses fourrageres. 400.50. Canadex 120.628.
16 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Ken tville, Nova Scotia
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administra tion
J. R. WRIGHT, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D., F.e.I.e. Director R. G. Ross, D.F.e., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Assistant Director K. B. McRAE, B.Ed., M.S., Ph.D. Statistician K. M. CARTER, B.Comm. Administrative Officer E. M. TINGLE (Miss), B.Sc., M.Sc., M.L.S. Librarian
Berry Crops and Ornamentals
D. L. CRAIG, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Head of Section; Plant breeding L. E. AALDERS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cytology and genetics e. R. BLATT, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Plant nutrition I. V. HALL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ecology and physiology
Entomology
l A. W. MACPHEE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Insect ecology K. P. BUTLER, B.A. Insect ecology-life systems H. J. HERBERT (Miss), B.Sc. (Agr.) Mite investigations e. R. MACLELLAN, M.e., e.D., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.A. Ecology of the codling moth W. T. A. NEILSON, B.Sc., M.Sc. Apple maggot D. J. PREE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Toxicology K. H. SANFORD, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Development of integrated programs H. B. SPECHT, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Vegetable insects
Food Technology
R. STARK, B.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Food processing D. B. CUMMING, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Food technologist D. J. SCHRODER, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Food microbiology W. G. SIMPSON, B.S.A., M.S. Product development
RESEARCHSTATION,KENTVILLE,N.S. 17 I Plant Pathology and Pesticide Residues
I R. G. Ross, D.F.C., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Tree fruit diseases D. CHISHOLM, B.Sc. Insecticide chemistry C. O. GOURLEY, B.Sc. (Agr.) Vegetable and berry diseases C. L. LOCKHART, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Fruit and vegetable storage diseases M. T. H. RAGAB, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Herbicide chemistry D. K. R. STEWART, B.Sc., B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Fungicide chemistry
Plant Physiology
F. R. FORSYTH, B.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Postharvest physiology P. A. POAPST, B.Sc., B.Sc. (Agr.) Postharvest physiology D. H. WEBSTER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Tree fruit physiology
Poultry
F. G. PROUDFOOT, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S. Head of Section; Genetics A. C. Cox, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutritional physiology
Tree Fruits
A. D. CROWE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Tree fruit breeding
Vegetables, Cereals, and Field Crops
R. F. BISHOP, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Soil fertility E. W. CHIPMAN, B.Sc. (Agr.) Vegetable crops C. R. MACEACHERN, B.Sc. Soil chemistry G. G. SMELTZER, B.Sc. (Agr.) Cereals and field crops L. R. TOWNSEND, B.A., B.Sc. Plant chemistry
Experimental Farm, Nappan
T. M. MAcINTYRE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Superintendent; Livestock management and nutrition F. W. CALDER, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S. Forage crops, pasture L. P. JACKSON, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S. Soils-crop nutrition J. E. LANGILLE, B.Sc. (Agr.) Cereals and forage crops
18 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION
This publication summarizes the main research results of the Research Station at Kentville and the associated Experimental Farm at Nappan for 1974. Kentville is the center for research in horticulture, poultry, food technology, and pesticide residues in the Atlantic Provinces. The Experimental Farm at Nappan, 80 km (50 miles) north of Kentville, serves as an associate establishment doing applied and developmental research on the production of cereals, forages, and lowbush blueberries, and on the management of livestock. The Atlantic region is characterized by a cool, humid climate and Podzol soils. On March 20, 1974, Premier Gerald A. Regan of Nova Scotia and the Honorable Eugene Whelan, Minister of Agriculture, jointly announced that a new laboratory and office complex would be built at the Kentville Station to house the extension services and the research facilities. This structure will aid the agricultural community of the area greatly. The firm of Leslie R. Fairn and Associates, Ltd., has been appointed as design consultant for the project. Our staff was strengthened by the addition of two scientists during the year. Dr. K. B. McRae came to Kentville on May 17, 1974, from the Department of National Health and Welfare, Ottawa. He is responsible for experimental design and statistical procedures at all research stations in the Atlantic Provinces. Dr. D. B. Cumming came to Kentville on December 10, 1974, from the University of British Columbia, where he completed his doctoral thesis in food technology. Copies of this chapter of the Research Branch Report and reprints of the listed publications are available on request from the Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Kentville, N.S. B4N U5.
J. R. Wright Director
BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND reduced and winter frost-heaving was mini- CULTURE OF CROPS mized on mulched areas. Control of eastern bracken. The herbicide Lowbush Blueberries and Cranberries asulam (40%) applied at 2.8 and 5.6 kg/ha to eastern bracken at full frond gave 85% Lowbush blueberry fertilization. Plant control in 1973 and 94% in 1974. growth and fruit production of seedlings and Fern plants on associated untreated areas cuttings of lowbush blueberry with various grew vigorously and increased in number by N, P, and S soil treatments were compared. 55% in 1974. Asulam is registered in Canada The addition of N alone did not improve for the control of wild oats in flax. It is plant stem growth, flower bud development, expected that registration for its use on or numbers and weights of berries compared bracken will be completed after assessment with results on unfertilized soils. Plants of reports in 1974. grown on P-treated soils had more numerous, longer stems than unfertilized plants and the Biology of bayberry. Bayberry is a native highest number of flower buds in the experi- shrub occurring mainly along or near the ment. Plants fertilized with N-P and P-S seacoast of the Maritime Provinces. Bayberry combinations produced the greatest number grows on light sandy soils that are highly of berries per plant. acidic and is the main weed in fields of lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Surface mulch effect on plant growth. A Ait. and V. myrtilloides Michx.) developed' on mulch of sawdust was spread 5 cm deep on the Culloden soil series in Prince Edward weed-free ground planted with select clones Island. Lateral growth of bayberry occurs by of lowbush blueberry. Increases in plant rhizome, and after burning, new shoots grow diameters and rhizome production after 2 yr from dormant buds of the stem or rhizome. have indicated a beneficial effect from the Because the upper surface of bayberry leaves mulch. Soil erosion by water and wind was is waxy, the shrub is quite resistant to salt
RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S. 19 spray and 2,4-D. The herbicide 2,4,5-T in oil pallidosis was present in the cultivars Red- applied to cut branches can control this weed. coat, Cavalier, Veestar, Vibrant, Raritan, and Cranberry performance. During the past 2 Midway. This disease was not found in the yr the performance of the cranberry cultivar European cultivars Redgauntlet and Gorella. Ben Lear in Nova Scotia was disappointing, A new cultivar developed at Kentville, called whereas the cuItivar Stevens performed Bounty, was free from the disease. Pallidosis remarkably well. Fruit from Ben Lear ma- was detected in excised leaf grafts to UCIO, tured at least 2 wk ahead of that from native the University of California Fragaria vesca selections and from Stevens, and exhibited indicator. The principal symptoms are short- excellent size and color. The problem with ened petioles with pale, stunted leaflets Ben Lear, however, was its poor productivity. showing epinasty, or cupping. Pallidosis is About mid-July in 1972 and 1973 the termi- considered a potentially serious disease nal bud withered and a new one developed because when it is combined with other from the nearest adventitious bud. The viruses a marked plant degeneration can second terminal bud never reached the same result. The infected cultivars are being heat stage of development that was reached by treated and the runner tips cultured in an the cultivar Stevens at the end of the growing attempt to produce pallidosis-free stock. season. CuItivar Testing of Berry Crops Strawberries Testing has revealed several new cultivars Breeding. A diallel of seven inbred clones of good potential value for the Atlantic of the domestic strawberry was evaluated for Provinces. The strawberry cultivar Bounty five variables and was compared with the has performed well from Quebec to New- standard cultivar Redcoat. Redcoat figures foundland. Second-year yields of fruit from for fruit yield, berry weight, mean date of experimental plots 60 cm wide in matted harvest, and area covered per clone were rows have exceeded 45 000 kg/ha. similar to the mean of the diallel. Unexpect- The raspberry cultivar Festival, released edly, all seedling crosses produced more than by the Research Station, Ottawa, in 1971, has twice as many runners as did Redcoat. hardy canes and is productive. Other charac- The additive component of variance was teristics are short upright canes; strong only 3.2% for fruit yield, but was 50.5, 83.0, fruiting laterals; and bright red, medium- 27.6, and 10.9% for berry weight, mean date sized, firm, good-quality berries suitable for of harvest, runner number per clone, and home gardens or commercial production. area covered per clone, respectively. Total Northland, a lowbush-highbush blueberry fruit yield was significantly influenced by all hybrid introduced by Michigan State Univer- of the other four variables, but the relation- sity in 1967, appears promising. By the third ship was highly variable and did not present season after planting, yields exceeded I litre any consistent pattern. A cautious interpreta- per bush. This early-fruiting; hardy cultivar tion of results is required because of common appears useful for Eastern Canada. parentage and inbreeding in the parental The hybrid grape selection V53035 (Alden lines. x Seibel 9110) of the Horticultural Research The results of this study are in general Institute of Ontario is hardy and productive agreement with similar studies at North in the Annapolis Valley. The white grapes of Carolina and Ottawa, but all three studies this variety make a nice white table wine. yielded results quite different from those of a California study in which a parent-offspring Ornamentals regression method of analysis was used. It A new rhododendron cu/tivar. A rhododen- appears that different methods of measuring dron seedling from the cross Rhododendron genetic parameters may be as significant in fortunei Lindl. X R. smirnowii Trautv. was causing this discrepancy as are differing selected in 1974 and will be named Bellefon- methods of culture, range of cultivars, and taine. This selection is a sibling of Evange- climatic factors, which have been previously line, which was named in 1973. Bellefontaine implicated. is a surname used in Longfellow's poem A new virus disease. A check of the nuclear Evangeline. Bellefontaine flowers a week stock grown at the Research Station, Kent- earlier than Evangeline, but otherwise it ville, revealed that the latent virus disease resembles Evangeline closely. The flowers
20 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 are large, scented, and rose opal in color. The Results indicated that the western-type plant is winter-hardy and vigorous. grasses were not greatly superior to timothy or bromegrass for late fall grazing. Animal Apples gain was slightly greater on tall fescue than Hormones for ripening. The effects of on other grasses that had been grazed until ethephon applied at two dates at 0.62 and July 15, rested until September 15, and then 1.25 litre/ha (0.5 and 1.0 pt/ac) and of grazed again until November 15. The least daminozide at 13.2 kg/ha were tested on gain was made by animals grazing timothy Crimson Gravenstein apples. Daminozide- and bromegrass. It would appear that if the and ethephon-treated apples bore more stand of the western grasses could be main- pronounced red overcolor than did untreated tained, animal gains could be increased; but controls. Ethephon at 0.62 litre/ha was the competition from couchgrass and other almost as effective as at 1.25 litre/ha. Fruit weeds is very strong and rapidly reduces the ripening after harvest was slowed by early seeded stands, which cancels their advantage. picking and by the application of damino- The average daily gain of animals was zide, and was accelerated by application of greatest on the grasses grazed twice, where ethephon. However, no significant interaction quality was better but percentage of seeded was found between the two chemicals when species was lower. both were applied to the same fruit. Effect of lime on field bean yields. Dolo- Forage and Vegetable Crops mitic limestone was applied at 0, 2240, and 4480 kg/ha to a Charlottetown fine sandy Weather effects on hay drying. Three loam soil with a pH of 5.0-5.2. These consecutive good days were chosen as the applications increased the yield of field beans standard for good hay-drying weather at substantially. Applications of 2240 kg/ha Nappan, N.S. Based on 30 yr of weather each year for 2 yr resulted in greater yields records, the highest probability (36%) of than did a single application of 4480 kg/ha. having this good weather at Nappan occurs in the first 2 wk of July. Maximum produc- tion of digestible dry matter in hay occurs PROTECTION OF CROPS about mid-June. Rapid storage of high- AGAINST PESTS quality forage is desirable. To facilitate harvest, early cuttings of forage should be Plant Pathology taken as ensilage. An index based on poten- Apple and pear scab. Seasonal sprays of tial evaporation and precipitation is proposed the benzimidazole-type fungicides at high as a measure of the suitability of weather dosages inhibited and at low dosages re- I data for predicting field-drying rates. A good duced the overwintering inoculum of apple drying day was defined in terms of this index scab fungus, Venturia inaequalis (Cke.) and used in the estimation of the probability Wint. On spur apple leaves sprayed with of sequences of good drying days from 30 yr Dikar (Rohm and Haas) the overwintering of weather data from Nappan, N.S. inoculum was reduced to a low level, whereas Grasses for fall grazing. In 1971 three on extension-growth leaves, ascospore pro- fields of 2.4 ha each of tall fescue, crested ductivity increased as the age of the leaves on wheatgrass and Russian wild ryegrass, and the extension shoots decreased. timothy and bromegrass were established to In fungicide trials thiophanate-methyl, Bay evaluate these species for pasture. Establish- Dam 18654 (Chemagro Corp.), and benomyl ment was good for all species; couchgrass all gave excellent control of apple scab. It was the only significant weed present. was possible to reduce the dosage required Tall fescue, crested wheatgrass, and Rus- for control by adding a small quantity of sian wild ryegrass may provide more nutri- superior oil to the spray mixture. Thio- tious grazing in late fall than does a mixture ph an ate-methyl at 35.2 g ai (active ingredi- of timothy and bromegrass. Digestibility of ent) per hectolitre was very effective against the 1st-year crops remained high throughout pear scab, Venturia pirina Aderh., on the the late fall. This result could be attributed to cultivars Clapp Favorite and Flemish Beauty. immaturity, however, because timothy and This rate was much more effective than a rate bromegrass also remained highly digestible of 26.4 g/hl. Bay Dam 18654 with and in late fall. without superior oil gave good control.
RESEARCH STATION. KENTVILLE. N.S. 21 Triforine gave good control on Clapp Favor- application also indicated the need for addi- ite and fair control on Flemish Beauty but tional cover sprays. More frequent low- caused some fruit injury to the latter cultivar. dosage applications of azinphos-methyl Strawberry diseases. The incidence of could provide effective control of the apple Gnomonia fructicola (Am.) Fall was second maggot but would also destroy beneficial only to that of Botrytis cinerea Pers.; both fauna, and the cost of the additional sprays are parasites of calyxes of mature strawberry would not be economical. fruit. Dry necrotic calyxes on sound mature Four insect-developmental inhibitors were fruit often resulted from' infection by G. tested on various stages of the apple maggot. fructicola. The stem-end fruit rot phase of G. ZR515 (Zoecon Corp.) was the most effective fructicola is not prevalent on the cultivars compound, completely inhibiting adult de- grown in Nova Scotia. The weak parasite velopment from larvae and pupae treated at Pezizella oenotherae (Cke. & Ell.) Sacco and concentrations of 10 JL g120 cm2. Larvae the saprophytic Alternaria and Penicillium were more susceptible than pupae. Sensitivity fungi colonized many calyxes, primarily as declined as pupae aged. Dissection of pupa- secondary invaders. ria showed a pupal-adult intermediate, usu- Benomyl, thiophanate-methyl, and captan ally with some adult characteristics in the were tested in a 2-yr trial for ability to thoracic region. ZR512 (Zoecon Corp.) in- control gray mold fruit rot caused by Botrytis hibited adult development from larvae or cinerea on the strawberry cultivars Cavalier pupae exposed to concentrations of 1.0 mg/ 2 and Redcoat. All treatments increased mean 20 cm , whereas R20458 (Zoecon Corp.) marketable yields, and there was little dif- inhibited adult development at concentra- ference among fungicides in the control of tions of 10 mg120 cm2. RO 20-3600 (Zoecon fruit rot. Maximum biological effectiveness Corp.) inhibited adult development from of benomyl and thiophanate-methyl was larvae exposed to concentrations of 10 mg/ 2 attained with 1.68 kg/ha and 2.35 kg/ha, 20 cm • ZR515 and ZR512 applied to fruit respectively, applied in three sprays. had little effect on larval development, but numbers of adults emerging from pupae Diseases of other crops. Postharvest treat- from treated fruit were reduced. Adults from ment of washed carrots with benomyl- or all tests produced viable eggs in the follow- thiabendazole-type fungicides gave signifi- ing generation. cantly better control of storage decay than did'powicide A (Dow Chemical). Gray mold Mean lethal doses (LDso) in nanograms and crater rots were the dominant types of per fly were established for dimethoate, decay. azinphos-methyl, phosmet, and phosalone by topical application of insecticides to the Insect Pests dorsum of the thorax of laboratory-reared Apple maggot. Two and three cover sprays adult apple maggots. The LDso for females of azinphos-methyl at 0.2 kg/hI (0.25 lbllOO treated with dimethoate was 2.4 ng, phosmet gal), with or without an attractant, were 11.2 ng, azinphos-methyl 12.1 ng, and phosa- applied, but did not provide acceptable lone 25.9 ng. Males were more susceptible economic control of the apple maggot. The than females. amount of fruit injury in the baited and Twenty other candidate pesticides were unbaited spray plots was 9.6 and 5.1%, tested but none was as toxic as dimethoate. respectively, in 1972 and 6.0 and 5.7% in Eleven were about as toxic as azinphos- 1973. Injury in excess of 4% is unacceptable methyl. Diazinon and methyl parathion were for domestic use, except for juice making, the most toxic of these. Field-collected flies and no injury is tolerated for export markets. and strains from Vermont and Quebec were In the test orchard, adults were active from not significantly different in susceptibility July 17 to September II, 1973, as deter- from laboratory-reared flies. On a dry weight mined by trapping. Gravid females were basis, the blueberry maggot and the apple captured 3 days after each cover spray, maggot were almost identically susceptible to which indicated a very short protective dimethoate. period and suggested that the dosage did not provide sufficient residues to persist over the Apple rust mite. The apple rust mite was IO-day interval between applications. Peri- active on apple leaves from late May until odic capture for 35 days after the last early August and passed through three
22 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 generations as indicated by the peak num- growing season after pesticide application, bers of eggs. This species overwinters as but trace residues could still be detected in deutogynes under bud scales and crevices in the soil 4 yr later. the bark. They laid eggs during the latter part Endosulfan. When technical endosulfan of May. From these eggs the first-generation was incorporated into soil at 6.7 kg ai/ha, primaries were produced, followed by a' studies showed that ex -endosulfan decom- second generation in the latter part of June. posed fairly rapidly (50% reduction in "v 60 Eggs laid by the second-generation primaries days). Equivalent amounts of endosulfan produced the overwintering deutogynes. In- sulfate, which appeared to be stable in soil, jury to the leaves, mainly bronzing to the were formed simultaneously. -Endosulfan ventral surfaces, became noticeable early in f3 disappeared slowly ("v 50% reduction in 800 July. The numbers of apple rust mite varied days). Endosulfan residues that were abs- among cultivars within orchards. The differ- ences were not consistent among orchards. orbed directly from the soil by potato tubers during the season in which the pesticide was Wireworms and associated fauna. Granu- applied at 6.7 kg/ha were measured. In the lar formulations of the insecticides propoxur, peel endosulfan sulfate was found at 0.3 fensulfothion, trichloronat, and Bayer 38156 ppm, f3 -endosulfan at 0.06 ppm, and ex-en- (Chemagro) were applied in June to grass- dosulfan at 0.0 I ppm; in the pulp endosulfan land at 2.2 kg ai/ha without subsequent sulfate concentration was 0.03 ppm. Eight cultivation. Trichloronat most reduced the foliar sprays, each applied at the rate of 0.6 numbers of wireworm, Agriotes obscurus kg/ha, resulted in residues of 0.0 I ppm (L.), and had the least effect on earthworms, endosulfan sulfate in peel and pulp. Allobophora tuberculata Eisen. Propoxur and Fensulfothion. Fensulfothion degraded Bay 38156 reduced earthworm numbers. rapidly in a sandy loam soil to the moder- Collembola-Arthropleona increased in plots ately persistent metabolite fensulfothion treated with fensulfothion and decreased in sulfone. Traces of fensulfothion sulfone were those treated with trichloronat and Bay found in rutabagas grown on fensulfothion- 38156. Collembola-Symphypleona de- treated field plots but were confined, for the creased in plots treated with fensufothion, most part, to the peel. Sulfone was detected trichloronat, and Bay 38156. Mites increased in carrots at 0.10 ppm on a fresh weight in plots treated with propoxur and Bay basis. Fensulfothion sulfone persisted in 38156. frozen carrots during a storage period of 4 Strawberry weevil. Treatments of furadan, yr. vydate, and malathion gave good control of Simazine. When simazine at 4.48 kg ai/ha strawberry weevil. Damage after each treat- was incorporated with soil to a depth of 15 ment was assessed by counting the number cm, 53, 40, and 18% were detected at 18, 63, of blossoms that had been cut off. and 161 days, respectively, after which there was a gradual decrease to 1.5% at 690 days. A year after application the soil contained PESTICIDE RESIDUES 0.18 ppm simazine. When crops were grown Chlorfenvinphos. Application of chlorfen- in this soil, no residues were detected in corn, vinphos (Birlane, Shell Canada Ltd.; Supona, oats, or beans. The latter two crops, however, Shell Canada Ltd.; diethyl 1-(2,4-dichlo- were injured, and Swiss chard did not grow. rophenyl)-2-chlorovinyl phosphate; SD There was slight toxicity to oats planted 2 yr 7859; GC 4072) broadcast on field plots at after application, when simazine concentra- 5.6 kg ai/ha (Birlane 100 at 56 kg/ha) 4 days tion in the soil had decreased to 0.03 ppm. before seeding resulted in traces of the parent compound in beets, potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and rutabagas at harvest. The STORAGE ex-isomer was found in all crops, except Estimation of gases in packaged vegetables. beets, at ,\,0.0 I ppm. The f3 -isomer was A 5-min evacuation technique was used to found in all crops; carrots and parsnips collect 0z, COz, ethanol, and ethylene from contained 0.09 and 0.06 ppm, respectively. potato tubers surface-treated with substances Chlorfenvinphos residue concentrations in inhibiting normal respiratory exchange. The treated soil declined "v 73% during the 23-wk method utilized the purging effect of steam
RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S. 23 ! I
and the vacuum produced by its gases through the polyethylene sac set up a condensation. beneficial atmosphere of approximately 3% CO2 and 7% 02 when the storage tempera- Superficial scald in cold-stored apples. In ture was -1.1 to O°C(30 to 32°F). 1972, the incidence of superficial scald in Mcintosh apples was increased from 8.9 to Alternaria disease of stored pears. Alter- 15.4% by fumigation with ethylene dibro- naria alternata (Fr.) Keissler seriously af- mide, whereas scald was reduced from 48.9 fected the stored cultivar Clapp Favorite to 5.5% in fumigated Delicious apples. Ethyl- during the 1972-73 and 1973-74 seasons. ene dibromide must be tested because it is This is the first time this disease has been effective in killing overwintering European reported on pears in Canada. The five red mite eggs. Some countries have embargos culti~ars Cayuga, Ewart, Aurora, Confer- on apples that might bear this pest. ence, and Bartlett also had a light incidence of A. alternata during both storage seasons. Ripening of apples in controlled-atmo- Controlled-atmosphere storage showed some sphere storage. Low or high ethylene (C:2H4) promise for control of A. alternata. levels and medium or high relative humidity have been found to influence the ripening of apples in controlled-atmosphere storage. FOOD TECHNOLOGY . Low levels of atmospheric C2H4 « 10 ppm)' accompanied by low humidity (65%) Development of a fluidized-bed freezer and
during storage caused increased C:2H4 pro- dryer. Plastic beds of 30.4 or 45.7 cm diam duction in the apple. When combined with were developed for freezing or drying 5- or high relative humidity (92-96%), low atmo- IS-kg batches of particulate food products.
spheric C:2H4 caused high carbon dioxide Fluidization velocities of up to 243 m/min (C02) production and firmer apples. High can be reached with either bed . . C2H4 levels (> 500 ppm) in the storage The freezer air temperature is controlled atmosphere accompanied by either high or with the hot gas bypass load control on the low humidity caused increased production of two-stage condensing unit. Temperature con- acetaldehyde, ethyl alcohol, and ethyl butyr- trol is within :l:0.88°C throughout the range ate in the apple. Core flush (brown discolora- -17.8°C to -40°C. A IS-kg sample of diced tion of the core) was inhibited more by a potatoes was taken from 15.5°C to -23.5°C combination of low levels of atmospheric in 7.0 min, and a 5-kg sample, from 12.8°C
C:2H4and high relative humidity than by any to -23.5°C in 3.5 min. Similarly, 3.0 min and other possible com bination of these two 6.2 min were required to freeze 5-kg and 15- variables. kg samples of diced apples. High relative humidity had no effect on The dryer air is steam heated to tempera- firmness but lowered the malic acid content, tures of up to 127°C; temperatures are greatly increased the intensity of core flush, controlled within :l:2°C above MOC by a and increased the production of low molecu- pneumatic cam programmer. Times required lar weight volatile compounds. to dry 9.6-mm cubes of diced potatoes or
Low levels of atmospheric C:2H4 helped apples to 10% of original moisture were in maintain firmness of the apple fruit in the range 1.5-3.5 h, depending on test controlled-atmosphere storage and slowed conditions. down the rate of senescence, which is ev- Cranberry juice concentration by reverse idenced by increased production of acetalde- osmosis. Reverse osmosis produced a good- hyde and ethyl alcohol in the apple and the quality concentrate of 20-23% soluble solids appearance of core flush. from cranberry juice, with little loss of Modified-atmosphere storage of pears. aroma, flavor, or color. When reconstituted Clapp Favorite, Bartlett, and other named as cranberry cocktail, concentrate prepared varieties of pears have been successfully by this process tended to be preferred over stored in a self-generated (modified) atmo- concentrate produced by a climbing-film sphere in I-mil sealed polyethylene bags. A evaporative process, although no significant standard 0.9-kg (2-lb) sample of pears was differences were observed. Energy consump- placed in a nonperforated sac and the tion required to achieve similar levels of opening was hermetically heat-sealed. The concentration was much lower in the case of respiration of the pears and the diffusion of reverse osmosis than in the case of a simple
24 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 evaporative process. Slight loss of acidity h of darkness from 7 to 56 days of age were during the reverse osmosis process could then compared with a control group that offset energy cost savings by lowering the received continuous light to 56 days of age. final yield when the product is reconstituted There was no difference in performance as cranberry cocktail. This procedure, how- except that the group on cycles of 2 h of light ever, presents the processor with a low- and 4 h of darkness exhibited better feed volume room-temperature alternative to conversion than did the other experimental large-volume freezer storage. group. A natural outbreak of infectious bursal disease occurred in an experimental broiler ANIMAL SCIENCE flock being reared on three .starter diets Cattle containing 18.8, 21.6, and 24.0% protein. Groups fed the highest protein starter exhib- Calves from a Jersey x Shorthorn cross ited significantly higher mortality and had were 5 kg lighter at birth than calves from a larger numbers of stunted birds. Brown Swiss X ShorthoI:n cross. The average difference in weaning weight was about 5 kg Egg production stocks. Approximately for the first 3 yr, but was 20 kg for the 4th yr. 7000 Single-Comb White Leghorn (SCWL) The calves were weaned in early October. birds were used to study the effects of the Calculations based on feed consumption three following light treatments: a gradually showed that it cost 2.93 cents a head per day increasing photoperiod during rearing; a less to maintain the Jersey X Shorthorn modified photoperiod natural for Northern cross. This represents a saving of about Hemisphere spring-hatched birds, which was $ 10.70 per cow per year. The cost of feed per decreased during the latter part of rearing; tonne was: hay, $28.60; corn silage, $24.09; and a constant 14-h photoperiod from hatch- grass silage, $26.84; and barley, $110.00. ing to the end of rearing. Restricted feeding Calves from this experiment were fed to during the rearing period was also compared market weight at Fredericton, N.B. The cost with full-feeding. Five commercial egg- per unit of gain was less for the steers from production genotypes were used in each of the Brown Swiss X Shorthorn cross than for these experiments. those from the Jersey X Shorthorn cross. All Increasing the photoperiod during the carcasses were graded in the A category. rearing period was detrimental to ,general The data indicated that the Jersey X performance, and the return over costs was Shorthorn cow has an economic advantage reduced when compared with that for the over the Brown Swiss X Shorthorn cow until constant 14-h photoperiod treatment. the calf is weaned, but this advantage is overcome by more efficient gains made by The results of a comparison between the 14-h constant photoperiod treatment and the calves from the Brown Swiss X Shorthorn cows during feedlot feeding. modified natural photoperiod treatment that was decreased toward the end of rearing Poultry were not conclusive. The latter treatment, Meat stocks. An experiment was conducted however, appeared to be somewhat superior to estimate the effects of varying the time to the constant 14-h photoperiod treatment. interval between hatching and placement in Although the birds on restricted feeding the rearing house on mortality, carcass qual- showed higher returns on income over feed ity, feed conversion, and body weights of costs than did fuJI-fed birds, the difference chickens. The time intervals studied were 0, was not significant. The effect was not 7, 24, and 48 h, under two programs of considered important enough under condi- intermittent lighting. When birds that had tions of this experiment to offset the extra spent the same amount of time in the rearing cost of imposing feed restriction. However, in house were weighed, no significant difference an environment in which the photoperiod in body weight was observed among any of cannot be controlled, restricted feeding may the groups. be used to offset disadvantages associated All chicks were exposed to continuous light with an adverse day length. to 7 days of age. Two experimental groups There was some evidence that indicated receiving continuous cycles of either 2 h of that interactions between genotype and pho- light and 4 h of darkness or 4 h of light and 2 toperiod may be important.
RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S. 25 It was concluded that in windowless lambs are subjected to more cold stress than houses, photoperiodism can be used effec- late lambs. tively to achieve optimum performance Soil fungal toxins and lamb growth. Soil among SCWL egg-production genotypes and herbage fungal spores had no effect on without using a rearing-period feed restric- lamb growth in a pasture-grazing trial. tion program. Lambs were grazed on a pasture sprayed with thiabendazole at 560 g/ha and on an Sheep untreated pasture. Soil fungal spore counts exhibited considerable weekly variation and Pregnancy diagnosis in the ewe. An echo- were highest in late June. Thiabendazole sounding device based on the Doppler princi- treatment was moderately effective in reduc- ple was successfully used to determine preg- ing spore counts. Weight gains were higher nancy in ewes. The device is 98% accurate in for the lambs on the treated pasture, but detecting fetal sounds 60-90 days after differences were not significant. There was no conception and offers sheep men a means of difference in the rumen fatty acid levels detecting pregnancy long before it may between the lambs on the two pastures. otherwise be obvious. Rumen bacteria counts were similar for both groups. There were no significant differences Protein levels in creep feed for lambs. over the growing season in the criteria Lambs weaned from the ewe at I day of age measured. and reared on cold liquid milk replacer for Out-of-season breeding of ewes. There 24 days were fed rations formulated to appears to be real potential for developing contain IS, 20, and 25% crude protein from out-of-season breeding in sheep, adequate 24 to 70 days of age. The lambs on the 15% for the maintenance of year-round lambing crude protein ration had a lower average for the well-managed flock. Five years of daily gain than the lambs on the 20 and 25% work with a Dorset x Shropshire cross ewe rations. A ration containing 20% protein flock gave promising results in out-of-season appeared to be adequate for the growth of breeding. Up to 70% of ewes exposed to early weaned lambs. rams from March to May gave birth to lambs. These sheep had previously been bred Effect of age and season on feed efficiency in early fall to lamb in January. Rams were of lambs. The growth and feed efficiency of put in with the flock immediately after lambs born early (January-February) and lambing in January. Most of the breeding late (April-May) were measured. Lambs activity took place during April. The results were put on feeding at 70 :t 3 days of age of this work are significant because no and fed until they reached a live market artificial stimulants such as light control or weight of 40 kg. Late lambs utilized feed hormones were used. These sheep showed more efficiently than early lambs. Late lambs good breeding activity from early August to required about 5 kg less feed per kilogram of late January, to afford the flock owner a long body gain than did the early lambs. There is breeding season. Considerable breeding ac- no explanation for this difference, but early tivity in the early spring is also anticipated. . PUBLICAnONS
Research Bishop, R. F., Chipman, E. W., and MacEachern, C. R. 1973. Effect of nitrogen, phosphorus and Aalders, L. E., and Craig, D. L. 1974. Analysis of potassium on yields and nutrient levels in fruit yield and related factors in a diallel of carrots grown on sphagnum peat and mineral seven inbred strawberry clones. Can. 1. Genet. soils. Commun. Soil Sci. & Plant Anal. 4:455. & Cytol. 16:381-387. 474.
Bancroft, R. P., Pree, 0.1., and Toews, D. P. 1974. Blatt, C. R., and Sponagle, A. G. 1974. Effects of Comparative toxicities of some insecticides to several growth regulators on runner plant the apple maggot. 1. Econ. Entomol. 67:481. production, yield and fruit maturity of the 483. strawberry. Can. 1. Plant Sci. 54:873-875.
26 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 _J Brewer, D., McLachlan, J., Neish, A. c., Shack- Hayhoe, H. N., and Jackson, L. P. 1974. Weather lock, P. F, Taylor, A., and MacIntyre, T. M. effects on hay drying rates. Can. J. Plant Sci. 1974. Effects of Chondrus crispus on fertility, 54:479-484. pregnancy, post-natal welfare of Shropshire Herbert, H. J. 1974. Notes on the biology of the ewes. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:41-45. apple rust mite, Aculus schlectendali (Prostig- Calder, F. W., and MacLeod, L. B. 1974. Effects of mate: Eriophyoidae) and its density on several soil pH and NPK fertilization on yield and cultivars of apple in Nova Scotia. Can. Ento- quality of two barley cultivars. Can. 1. Soil Sci. mol. 106:1035-1038. 54: 1-6. Herbert, H. J., and Butler, K. P. 1973. Sampling Chisholm, D. 1974. Persistence of fensulfothion in systems for European red mite, Panonychus soil and uptake by rutabagas and carrots. Can. ulmi (Acarina: Tetranychidae), eggs on apple J. Plant Sci. 54:667-671. in Nova Scotia. Can. Entomol. 105:1519- 1523. Cutcliffe, J. A., and Simpson, W. G. 1974. Effects Kunelius, H. T., Macleod, L. B., and Calder, F. W. of lime on yield of field beans. Can. J. Plant 1974. Effects of cutting management on Sci. 54:589-590. yields, digestibility, crude protein, and persist- Forsyth, F R. 1974. Ripening of apples in C.A. ence of timothy, bromegrass, and orchard storage, low or high ethylene levels and grass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:55-64. medium or high humidity levels. Colloq. Int. Lockhart, C. L., and Delbridge, R. W. 1974. Cent. Nat. Rech. Sci. No. 238, Paris. Control of storage diseases of carrots with postharvest fungicide treatments. Can. Plant Fox, C. J. S. 1974. Note on the ovipositing Dis. Surv. 54:52-54. preferences of the imported cabbageworm, Pieris rapae (L.), on cole crops. Phytoprotec- MacLeod, L. B., and MacLeod, J. A. 1974. Effects tion 55:36-37. of Nand K fertilization on the protein, nitrate and nonprotein reduced N fractions of timo- Fox, C. J. S. 1974. Effect of a carbamate and three thy and bromegrass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:331- organophosphorous insecticides on the num- 341. bers of wireworms, earthworms, springtails and mites in grassland soil. Phytoprotection Neilson, W. T. A., and Sanford, K. H. 1974. Apple 55(3): 103-105. maggot control with baited and unbaited sprays of azinphos-methyl. J. Econ. Entomol. Fox, C. J. S. 1974. The activity of ground beetles 67:556-557. (Col.: Carabidae) in hayfields and their mar- gins in Nova Scotia. Phytoprotection Poapst, P. A., and Forsyth, F. R. 1974. The role of 55(3):99-102. internally produced carbon dioxide in the prevention of greening in potato tubers. Acta Fox, C. J. S., and Smeltzer, G. G. 1974. Influence Hortic. 1(38):277-290. of forage plants on the springtails and mites in Poapst, P. A., .Lightfoot, H. J., and Forsyth, F. R. soil. Phytoprotection 55:33-35. 1974. A quick method of obtaining samples Gourley, C. O. 1974. A comparison of benomyl, for the estimation of carbon dioxide, oxygen thiophanate-methyl, and captan for control of and volatiles in the potato tuber. Am. Potato J. strawberry fruit rot. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 51: 197-20 I. 54:27-30. Poapst. P. A., Stewart, D. K. R., and Sanford, K. H. 1974. An enigmatic effect of ethylene Hall, I. Y., and Brydon, A. C. 1974. Die-back of dibromide on the incidence of superficial scald terminal bud in Ben Lear under Nova Scotian in cold-stored apples. Can. J. Plant Sci. conditions. Cranberries 39(2): 14. 54:429-430. . Hall, I. Y., Jackson, L. P., and Everett, C. F. 1973. Pree, D. J. 1974. Effects of insect developmental The biology of Canadian weeds. I. Kalmia inhibitors on the apple maggot Rhagoletis angustifolia L. Can. J. Plant Sci. 53:865-873. pomonella (Walsh). Can. Entomol. 106: 10 19- 1024. Hall, I. Y., Murray, R. A., and Jackson, L. P. 1974. The biology of Canadian weeds. 2. Spiraea Pree, D. J., and Saunders, J. L. 1974. Metabolism latifolia. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54: 141-147. of carbofuran in Mugho pine. J. Agric. Food Chem.22:620-625. Hall, I. Y., and Nickerson, N. L. 1973. Changes in the shoot growth of Vaccinium angustifolium Proudfoot, F. G. 1974. The effects of genotype and Ait. resulting from loops and placement in a storage time on hatchability when chicken reclining position. Nat. Can. (Que.) 100:631- eggs arc in contact or separated during hatch- 634. ing. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:713-714.
RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S. 27 Proudfoot, F. G., and Gowe, R. S. 1974. The Forsyth, F. R., Embree, C. G., and Crowe, A. D. influence of an increasing photoperiod, a 1973. Ethrel as a crop management tool. N.S. modified natural daylength and feed restric- Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:47-50. tion during the rearing period on the perform. ance of five S.c. W.L. genotypes. Poult. Sci. Forsyth, F. R., and Lockhart, C. L. 1974. Excellent 53:518-528. eating pears from SCA storage. Can. Agric. 19(4):20-22. Ragab, M. T. H. 1974. Simazine persistence in soil and effect of its residues on crops. Can. 1. Forsyth, F. R., Lockhart, C. L., and Eaves, C. A. Plant Sci. 54:713.716. 1974. Home storage for fruits and vegetables. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1478 Rev. 15 pp. Reid, W. S., and Stark, R. 1974. Design and development of a batch fluidized bed freezer Hall, I. V. 1974. Blueberry plants from cutting or seed. Des plants de bleuets partir de bou- and fluidized bed dryer for diced food pro- a tures ou de semences. Canadex 235.22. ducts. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & Technol. 1. 7:236-242. Hall, I. V. 1974. Blueberry plants from cutting or seed. Can. Agric. 19(3): 18. Ross, R. G. 1974. Conidium production of Ventu- ria inaequalis in synthetic culture media. Can. Herbert, 1. 1973. Modern apple production for 1. Plant Sci. 54:93-100. Nova Scotia. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:50-52. Ross, R. G., and Crowe, A. D. 1973. Replant disease in apple orchard soil. Can. Plant Dis. Langille, 1. E. 1974. Regional fall rye trial, Atlantic Surv. 53: 144-146. Provinces, 1972-73. Essais regionaux de seigle d'automne, provinces de ['Atlantique, 1972. Specht, H. B. 1974. Cutworms (Lepidoptera: Noc- 73. Canadex 117.34. tuidae) on tobacco in Nova Scotia II. Fall rye and winter fallow effects on a field population. Langille, 1. E., Bubar, 1. S., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, Can. Entomol. 106:73-77. E. A., and Kunelius, H. T. 1974. Atlantic Provinces fababean trials, 1973. Canadex Stark, R., Forsyth, F. R., Lockhart, C. L., and Hall, 142.34. I. V. 1974. Processing quality of cranberries after extended storage in Nz atmosphere with Langille, 1. E., and Hough, D. 1. 1974. Fababean low and high relative humidities. Can. Inst. production in the Atlantic Provinces. Agdex Food Sci. & Technol.1. 7:9-10. 141. Publ. No. 125.
Stewart, D. K. R., and Cairns, K. G. 1974. Langille, 1. E., and Slater, D. T. 1974. Growing Endosulfan persistence in soil and uptake by field peas in the Atlantic Provinces. Agdex potato tubers. J. Agric. Food Chern. 22:984. 142. Publ. No. 120. 986. Langille, J. E., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, E. A., and MacLeod, J. A. 1974. Field pea evaluation Miscellaneous trials, Atlantic region, 1973. Canadex 142.34.
Cox, A. C. 1974. Reduce broiler feed costs. Ca- MacIntyre, T. M. 1974. Winter shelter for beef nadex 425.60. cows. Abris d'hiver pour vaches de boucherie. Canadex 420.20. Cox, A. C. 1974. Les producteurs d'oeufs peuvent- ils reduire leurs couts d'alimentation. Canadex MacLellan, C. R. 1973. Codling moth, eye-spotted 451.50. bud moth. and leafrollers. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:41-42. Crowe, A. D. 1973. Tree spacing or the 14 x 20, 155 trees per acre system. N.S. Fruit Grow. Ncilson, W. 1973. Apple maggot, removal of Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:69-75. neglcctcd trees and sticky yellow bait traps for timing sprays. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Crowe, A. D. 1973. Harvesting in the medium Rep. 110:42-43. density and high density orchards. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:66-69. Proudfoot, F. G. 1974. Some environmental effects of the efficiency of broiler production. Can. Crowe, A. D. 1974. Nova Easygro Apple. Canadex Poult. Rev. 98(8, 9): 14-16, 12-16. 211.33. Research Station, Kentville. Nova Scotia. 1974. Experimental Farm, Nappan, Nova Scotia. 1972. Annual report, 1973. 116 pp. Research summary. 82 pp. Ross, R. G. 1973. Single application treatment or Forsyth, F. R. 1973. Controlled atmosphere stor- massive dose for the control of apple scab. age. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. N.S. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:44- 110:58-60. 46.
28 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 ,--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~---- ... - -
Ross, R. G. 1974. Nova Scotia growers aim for Van der Zwet, T., and Crowe, A. O. 1974. Pear virus-free apple trees. Can. Agric. 19(3):7. and apple breeders conference, 1973. Fruit Var. 1. 28(3):69-70. Sanford, K. H. 1973. White apple leafhopper and its control Typhlocyba pomaria McAtee. N.S. Webster, 0.1973. Leaf analysis. N.S. Fruit Grow. Fruit Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:54-56. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:57. Sanford, K. H., and Horsburgh, R. L. 1974. Management of apple pests ...present status in Webster, O. 1973. Soil considerations. N .S. Fruit Nova Scotia. Can. Agric. 19(4):32-34. Grow..; Assoc. Annu. Rep. 110:61-63. Stark, R., Hall, I. V., and Murray, R. A. 1974. The • Wright, J. R. 1974. Report of Research Station, cranberry industry in Nova Scotia. Can. Agric. Kentville, N .S. pp. 17-29 in Research Branch 19(3):30-31. Report 1973, Can. Oep. Agric.
RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S. 29
Research Station Fredericton, New Brunswick
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
G. M. WEAVER, B.Sc., Ph.D. Director F. J. WHITTEN Administrative Officer D. B. GAMMON, B.A., M.A., B.L.S. Library Area Coordinator, Quebec and Atlantic Region
Environmental Quality Program
A. A. MACLEAN, B.Se., M.Sc., Ph.D. Program Manager; Soil chemistry C. F. EVERETT, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Herbicides W. A. HODGSON, B.Sc., M.Sc. Fungicides D. D. POND, B.Sc. Insecticides
Livestock Feeding and Animal Nutrition Program
J. W. G. NICHOLSON, B.Se., M.Sc., Ph.D. Program Manager; Meat animal nutrition P. L. BURGESS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Dairy cattle nutrition C. F. EVERETT, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed control A. D. L. GORRILL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Calf and lamb nutrition E. A. GRANT, B.Sc., M.Sc. Forage and cereal crops J. G. KEMP, B.E. Harvesting and storage engineering R. E. MCQUEEN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Rumen microbiology
Potato Program
D. A. YOUNG, B.sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Program Manager; Breeding J. B. ADAMS (Mrs.), B.A., M.Sc. Aphid physiology R. H. BAGNALL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Virus resistance R. H. E. BRADLEY, B.Sc., Ph.D., D.Sc. Aphid-borne viruses M. C. CLARK, B.Sc., Ph.D. Biochemistry of disease resistance W. B. COLLINS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Potato physiology H. T. DAVIES, B.S.A. Quality and breeding H. DE JONG, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Diploid breeding and genetics C. F. EVERETT, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed control W. A. HODGSON, B.Sc., M.Sc. Late blight
RESEARCHSTATION. FREDERICTON.N.B. 31 C. H. LAWRENCE, B.Sc., M.Sc. Soil-borne pathogens M. E. MACGILLIVRAY (Mrs.), B.A., M.Sc., D.Sc. Insect ecology A. R. McKENZIE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil-borne pathogens G. C. MISENER,l B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Harvesting and storage engineering G. R. SAINI, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil physics R. P. SINGH': B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Virus diseases G. C. C. TAl, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Quantitative genetics T. R. TARN, B.Sc., Ph.D. Cytogenetics . G. W. WOOD, B.Sc., M.A. Insect control, small fruits
Departure
M. LANTAGNE, B.S.A., M.Sc. Soil erosion Resigned November 1974
VISITING SCIENTISTS
P. S. HARRIS, B.Sc., M.Sc. Potato vIruses On transfer of work from Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland
Nationul Research Council postdoctorate fellows
J. R. SEOANE, B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD. Ruminant nutrition H. R. SHARMA, B.Sc., Ph.D. Ruminant nutrition
I 20n transfer of work at Michigan State University. East Lansing, Mich .. USA, until August 1974. On transfer of work at National' Research Council. Ottawa. ant. until July 1975.
32 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION
The Research Station at Fredericton is the Canadian center for research on the potato crop. Emphasis is placed on breeding and genetics, pest management, soil and crop management, and harvesting and storage engineering. The Station is also the Atlantic center for research on animal nutrition, for studies on harvesting, storage, and utilization of cereal and forage crops for livestock feeding, and for environmental quality studies relating to the impact of nutrients and pesticides on water quality. The Station collaborates with other Branch establishments in evaluating new cultivars and selected management practices for New Brunswick. Developments of interest during the year included the closing of the Potato Breeding Substation at Alma, after 29 years of operation. Construction of new facilities continued on a 340-ha (850-acre) site at Benton Ridge, 80 km (50 miles) north of Fredericton; the new Substation will be fully operational in 1975. This report presents a summary of significant research activities during 1974. Additional information may be obtained by writing to Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 280, Fredericton, N.B. E3B 4Z7.
G. M. Weaver Director
LIVESTOCK FEEDS AND ANIMAL matter (DM) that was 62% digestible, and NUTRITION 16-18% protein, 67% digestible, if fababeans were harvested when the lower leaves were Frost Heaving of Alfalfa mature. A high degree of correlation was reported previously between the loss of alfalfa by In preliminary comparisons of fababeans, frost heaving and the moisture equivalent of peas, and sunflowers for silage, peas were the the soil. The widespread loss of alfalfa in the best crop, as they produced higher DM Atlantic region during the winter of 1973-74 yields, higher DM digestibility, and higher confirmed earlier observations that Joss by daily consumption by sheep. They have a heaving becomes more severe as the soil shorter growing season than the other crops, moisture equivalent increases. The data also and must be harvested soon after they reach indicated a relationship between winterkill- optimal maturity. ing per se and moisture equivalent. The determination of moisture equivalent, a fairly simple laboratory procedure, is a Supplements for Rations Containing useful means of aiding producers in selection Potatoes of sites for alfalfa production. Fababean Yield Trials When an adequate protein supplement was added to a basal ration of potatoes and High prices for protein have stimulated corn silage, steer calves gained 18 kg (42%) interest in the production of high-protein crops, including fababeans. In the past 3 yr more than calves on the basal ration in a 76- yields of the licensed cultivars Erfordia, day experiment. When the ration was supple- Diana, and Ackerperle averaged 3239,2747, mented with urea the calves gained 9 kg and 2467 kg/ha in plot trials, and approx- more, but preformed protein was necessary imately 1800 kg/ha in field-scale plantings. in the supplement to obtain maximum gain and efficiency of feed conversion. The hy- Silage from Fababeans, Peas, or pothesis on urea fermentation potential Sunflowers . developed at Iowa State University was Whole-plant silage from fababeans is a tested and found to be effective for predict- highly palatable feed for cattle and sheep. ing the amount of urea required in rations The feed was fouT)d to contain 20-25% dry based on potatoes.
RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B. 33 Improved Procedures for Analysis of Milk Fat Depression in Dairy. Cows Neutral-detergent Fiber in Cereal Grains Dairy cows were offered 13.6 kg of con- centrates in two physical forms, mash or Neutral-detergent fiber (NDF) includes pellets, and at three levels of hay intake, 4.5, the total fibrous constituents of plant materi- 6.8, and 9.1 kg/cow daily, to determine the als (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin). The effect of physical form of the concentrate filtration step in NDF analysis can be a and level of fiber intake on milk composition. source of error with cereal grains. A starch Cows fed the pelleted concentrate had sig- gel may form and block the filtering disk, nificantly lower acetate and higher propio- which leads to overestimates of NDF. nate levels in the rumen. Milk composition was not affected by the physical form of the When cereal grains were subjected to concentrate or the level of hay intake. digestion by bacterial ex -amylase at pH 7, the quantity of NDF (as a percentage of DM) Fornialdehyde Treatment of Protein was reduced by 15% in corn and by 6% in barley. This showed that the conventional A low level of formaldehyde was added to NDF procedure did not completely remove rapeseed meal or ground fababeans in ra- the starch. Other treatments examined were tions fed to sheep. This reduced the break- predigestion by a fungal amylase at pH 5, down of protein in the rumen and increased and by pepsin at pH 1.8. The fungal amylase the amount of protein nitrogen that reached was less effective than the bacterial amylase. the abomasum. A higher level of formalde- The treatments at pH 1.8 with or without hyde (1.5 g/ 100 g of protein) was required to pepsin gave equal NDF values, indicating protect the highly soluble fababean protein that the conventional NDF contained little than the rapeseed protein (1.0 gil 00 g of protein and some of the hemicellulose was protein). hydrolyzed at pH 1.8. The bacterial -amyl- ex Control of Abomasal Bloat in Lambs ase treatment is an inexpensive and simple modification that made filtration easier and The addition of 0.1 % (v /w) of formalin provided a more accurate assay of the fiber (37% formaldehyde) to milk replacers con- content of cereal grains. taining 20% solids nearly eliminated aboma- sal bloat in lambs fed warm milk replacer to appetite twice daily. There was no adverse Ensiled Complete Feeds for Dairy Cows effect on the lambs' growth or their digestion of nutrients in the milk replacers. When When second-cut timothy (65% moisture) formalin was added at 0.15%, some lambs was ensiled, grain was added to a level of decreased their intake of the milk replacer. 40% of total DM to form a complete feed for Microorganisms in abomasal or rumen dige- dairy cows. This feed was compared with sta produced markedly less gas when incuba- timothy silage fed in the conventional way ted in vitro with milk replacer containing (as silage ad lib. plus grain at 1.0 kg for each formalin. The predominant gas-producing 3.0 kg of fat-corrected milk), to determine organism in lambs that became bloated was the effects of the two rations and feeding Lactobacillus fermenti. Gas production by methods on feed intake, milk yield, and milk this organism was not affected by the pres- composition. Cows fed timothy silage in the ence of fats or fatty acids in the milk replacer conventional way consumed 2.9 kg more (tallow or low-erucic-acid rapeseed oil; mix- DM, produced 1.6 kg more fat-corrected ture of 67% oleic and 16% stearic acids). milk daily, and gained less body weight than Rather high levels of most antibiotics tested cows fed the complete feed during a 12-wk were required to reduce gas production by L. period. Milk composition and rumen volatile jermenti. fatty acids were unaffected by the method of Milk Replacer Feeding Systems for feeding. When the two rations were fed to Lambs sheep, digestibility of DM and energy was similar but protein digestibility was higher Two experiments were completed at the for the timothy silage. For cows in early Experimental Farm, Nappan, to determine lactation, a higher ratio of grain to forage the effect on the performance of lambs when must be used in complete feeds based on 0.05% formalin was added to a milk replacer grass silage. containing 20% solids, and when their intake
34 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 of milk replacer was restricted. Lambs fed ad cross number, year of first field trial, other lib. formalin-treated milk replacer at 17°C parent, number and percentages of seedlings from I day old to weaning at 28 days tended grown and selected during each of the to grow faster and consume more than lambs successive stages of progeny testing (single-, fed refrigerated (5°C) milk replacer without 4-, 10-, and 100-hill trials), and the running formalin. Weight gains were 237 and 192 percentages of seedlings selected at each g/day. The same formalin-treated milk re- stage compared with the total number of placer was fed to lambs either ad lib. or seedlings grown at the single-hill stage. restricted to 900 g/ day after they reached 8 Summary results are also given on all other days of age. Weight gains to weaning at 28 crosses in which a parent was involved. A days were 311 and 212 g/day, and gains to general description of the characteristics of 10 wk 259 and 220 g/day. Intakes of DM each cross, taken at the single-hill stage, is from the milk replacer were 8.8 and 5.4 kg presented separately. The Selection Record per lamb. These lambs did not suffer any now contains information on 346 parents and abomasal bloating or other digestive 103 I crosses. disturbance. Genotype-Environment Interactions of Potato Varieties
POTATO BREEDING A method was developed for analyzing the Belleisle, a New Table Stock Cultivar genotype-environment interactions of potato varieties. It is based on the concept that the Fredericton seedling F580 I 0 has been three yield components of a potato genotype, named Belleisle and released as a main-crop number of stems per unit area (X), number cultivar. It has excellent table quality and of tubers per stem (Y), and average tuber resists bruising. It is comparable to Kennebec weight (Z), are determined at sequential in yield and matures in about the same time stages in the development of plants. Yield as Katahdin. Consumer acceptance trials (W) is a product of the components, that is conducted in Montreal and Toronto showed W = XYZ. The assumption is made that that Belleisle was highly acceptable as a table environmental resources can be separated potato. The white color and the texture of the into independent groups (R1, R2, and RJ, cooked tubers received highly favorable each supporting the development of a com- comments from Toronto markets. Approx- ponent trait. The interacting effects can then imately 1000 35-kg bags of Elite II and Elite be broken down into three multiplicative III seed will be available for dislribution in terms, each with a genotypic and an environ- early! 975. mental component. The three genotypic components each represent the efficiency Benton Ridge Potato Breeding Substation with which a genotype uses the environmen- Modern facilities have been constructed on tal resources during the successive stages of the 340-ha site at Benton Ridge, 80 km north plant development toward the formation of of Fredericton, to accommodate the field final yield. requirements of the potato breeding project. The structure includes a greenhouse and Tuberosum-Andigena Potato Hybrids laboratory as well as storage facilities for One of the most significant short-term potatoes and machinery, which should im- contributions anticipated from hybrids of prove the scale and scope of breeding Tuberosum (T) and Andigena (A) is an activities conducted at this site. This new increase in yield. In single-hill populations, complex will replace the Substation at Alma, TA and AT hybrids out yielded TT seedlings which was operational for 29 yr. by 31 % and 12% in 2 consecutive yr. In the Computer Storage of Data on Potato 2nd yr, when the Tuberosum seedlings Parentage yielded better, nine of the ten hybrid proge- nies gave yields greater than the mean yield As an aid to the selection of parents, a of the TT population, whereas none of the computer program has been written to store five TT progenies had a mean yield equal to information on all potato crosses from 1960 the mean of either hybrid population. The to 1973. For each indexed cross, presented best hybrid out yielded Kennebec by 13% according to parent, the system records the under normal crop management practices.
RESEARCH STATION. FREDERICTON, N.B. 35 "- Tuberosum-Andigena F1 hybrids differ in sanctae-rosae (4); S. cardiophyllum (3); S. plant type from present varieties in that the stoloniferum (6); and S. polyadenium (4). hybrids have more stems and tubers per hill, Some clones of S. multidissectum, S. brachis- and tuber size is small. Earlier work has totrichum, S. polyadenium, and S. canasense shown that an important component of the showed good resistance to the aphids. Others heterosis of such hybrids is the multiplicative were almost as susceptible as the controls interaction of large tuber size from the (Katahdin). Tuberosum parent and high set from the Twenty-three cultivars of S. tuberosum, Andigena parent. This being so, high sets will named varieties and advanced Fredericton be a characteristic of such high-yielding seedlings, were exposed to aphids in the field, hybrid varieties when they are released as were the species. No selection was as commercially. Because all primitive cultivars resistant as the species, although F65071 was share similar characteristics of plant type, almost as resistant and F510 13 and F65l13 whether they belong to the group Andigena were highly tolerant to field populations of or to Solanum phureja, management prac- aphids. tices may have to be modified in breeding programs that use these germ-plasm Resi~tance to Potato Virus Y resources. As a result of tests during the past 5 yr, 51 Diploid Breeding Fredericton seedlings have been rated highly resistant to potato virus Y (PVY). Another 40 A stockpile is being established to contain F-seedlings have been rated moderately haploids from many well-adapted tetraploid resistant, and 78 susceptible. Most of this varieties and breeding stocks of diverse resistance can be traced to extensive use of genetic origin. Several "superior seed par- Katahdin and USDA seedling 46952 in the ents" have tentatively been identified (these early years of the breeding program, fol- are tetraploid clones that produce a fairly lowed by continued use of several resistant high frequency of parthenogenetic haploids). local parents (F450 19, F47024). Twenty-five The haploids are being evaluated for many commercial varieties have also been found economically important traits. Several intro- resistant to PVY. ductions of cultivated diploid potatoes (groups Phureja and Stenotomum) are being Resistance to Potato Leaf Roll Virus screened for adaptation to the Canadian Resistance to the potato leaf roll virus environment. (PLRV) has been confirmed in the U.S. cultivars Penobscot and Abnaki, as well as Aphid Resistance in Solanum moderate resistance in Katahdin. The Dutch cultivar Dorita and Fredericton seedlings More than 1500 seedlings from the F1 generation of crosses between survivors of F644l and F59103 also appear to be resist- previous screenings of diploid species of ant. Several other Fredericton cultivars and Solanum were infested with aphids. Their seedlings have been confirmed as moderately response was noted, and 263 of them were resistant. reserved for electronic examination. Among the controls, F1 generation of Katahdin selfed, 830 seedlings were screened and one POTATO PATHOLOGY was retained. From the subsequent electronic read-out eight selections were rated resistant Computer Forecasting for Late Blight and 21 sufficiently unusual to merit further Control examination. These 29 will be regrown. The The efficiency of a computer program for material is mainly from bulk pollen crosses forecasting the time to apply sprays for late of S. canasense and S. sanclae-rosae. blight control was evaluated in the New Between June and September, 25 new Brunswick potato industry. Data on tempera- species accessions from the Potato Introduc- ture, humidity, and rainfall from three test tion Station at Sturgeon Bay were exposed in areas were fed into the computer twice the field to populations of the four aphid weekly as a means of forecasting spray species that infest potatoes. They included requirements. Satisfactory control of blight Solanum mullidisseclum (I clone); S. ca- was obtained with an average of two fewer nasense (5); S. brachislolrichum (2); S. sprays than normally recommended.
36 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974
J Fingerprints of Multiple Forms of Potato completely inhibited growth and develop- Spindle Tuber Metavirus ment of germ tubes, but only slightly affected the germination process per se. At first it was Potato spindle tuber metavirus (PSTM) concluded that this response could. be ex- was extracted from infected plants of Scopo- plained in part by a difference in the perme- lia sinensis Hemsl. with phenol. Total nucleic ability of the sporangium and the zoospore acid was precipitated with cetyltrimethyl with respect to the uptake of actinomycin D. ammonium bromide, and meta virus RNA However, a very similar pattern of inhibition was purified by extraction with lithium was produced by 5-fluorouracil, which sug- chloride and with isopropyl alcohol, and by gested that such a difference in permeability polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Two may not be the exclusive factor in the distinct peaks of infectivity were found by differential behavior of the sporangium and 10% gel electrophoresis. The slow-moving zoospore. peak (I) was further separated into two components by high-pressure liquid chroma- Tests for Symptoml'ess Strains of Leaf tography on glycophase G columns, and the Roll Virus fast-moving infectious peak (II) was recov- ered after gel electrophoresis. Both infectious On the basis of reports from the Research forms were digested with pancreatic ribonu- Station at Vancouver, symptomless strains of clease, treated with bacterial alkaline phos- leaf roll virus (PLRV) may be quite common phatase, and labeled with y -[32PJATP-poly- in North American potatoes. However, tests nucleotide kinase according to Richardson's of about 800 seed potatoes from various procedure. After the reaction mixture was parts of New Brunswick have failed to reveal treated with glucose and hexokinase, the any infected with symptomless PLRV. The digests were separated by electrophoresis on test methods were the same as those used at cellulose acetate at pH 3.5 and by the Vancouver. Each potato was infested soon homochromatographic procedure of Sanger. after emergence with young nymphs of The two infectious PSTM forms gave differ- Myzus persicae (Sulz.), which fed for several e~t . fingerprint patterns, indicating their days. Then the nymphs were placed on dlsslmilanty (work done in cooperation with healthy young seedlings of Physalis jforidana Dr. S. A. Narang, National Research Coun- Rydb., which develops diagnostic symptoms cil, Ottawa). when infected with any of the known strains of PLRV. After the test seedlings were freed Effects of Metabolic Inhibitors on Spore from aphids they were maintained for 4-6 Germination in Phytophthora infestans wk in a growth cabinet at 28°C. The potato plants being tested were also maintained in a The influence of some nucleic acid deriv- glasshouse for 10-15 wk and observed for atives, their structural analogues, and several symptoms of leaf roll. metabolic inhibitors on spore germination in Most of the tubers tested were Kennebec, Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary was because that variety was the one most often investigated. Adenine, hypoxanthine, and the infected with symptomless PLRV at Vancou- riboside of N'-dimethyl adenine stimulated ver. About I% of the 800 tubers tested were indirect germination in race 1,2,3,4, but these infected with PLRV, but all of these pro- compounds had no effect on germination of the less virulent race 1,4. duced plants with unmistakable symptoms of leaf roll. Plants from some of the remaining The enhancement of zoospore production tubers developed mild to moderate rolling of in race 1,2,3,4 contrasted sharply with the some leaves. Repeated tests of these suspect decline in rate of zoospore formation when plants did not reveal any infected with sporangia were incubated with the purine PLRV. analogue benzimidazole. Except for its ap- parent reversibility, this inhibition was identi- cal to that observed when sporangia were treated with low concentrations of the respi- POTATO ENTOMOLOGY ratory inhibitors sodium azide and 2,4- Pest Management dinitrophenol. The most striking effect on spore develop- The work in cooperation with the New ment occurred when spores were incubated Brunswick Department of Agriculture and with actinomycin D. This antibiotic almost Rural Development has been intensified. An
RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON. N.B. 37 aphid alert program started in which green- tubers were filling out this trend was re- house and storage areas in the potato produc- versed, 10% per wk going to tuber growth in tion area were examined early in the season. single-stem plants and 12% per wk in multi- Appropriate control measures were instituted ple-stem types. The rate of leaf area expan- as required. Insects (aphids, Colorado potato sion was greatest in one-stem plants: the beetle, and flea beetles) were counted weekly rates were 24, 21, and 20% per wk for one-, in potato fields and the counts were used with two-, and four-stem plants. pertinent meteorological data to project The net assimilation rate was greatest in hazardous levels of insect populations and multiple-stem types, with a weekly rate of timely implementation of controls. To evalu- DM production of 38 g/m1 compared with ate the effectiveness of this approach, the 30 g/m1 in one-stem plants. The main factors same data were used as a basis for insect that determined the net photosynthetic pro- control in research plots at three locations duction of the plants were the sink demands within the potato production area. expressed by the processes of tuber forma- Aphid populations were generally low. tion and development. Size and arrangement Aphis nasturtii Kaltenbach was the most of the canopy appeared to have a smaller abundant species, followed by Macrosiphum effect. euphorbiae (Thomas); both appeared by the end of June. M. persicae was not found until Transplanted and Sprouted Netted Gem the 3rd wk of July. In plots that received a Potatoes systemic insecticide, the first two species were Yields of Netted Gem potato transplants not encountered before August 21 and the set out on three dates and yields from last not before August 14. sprouted whole small seed and sprouted cut Aphid populations and the time and effec- seed were compared with yields from un- tiveness of topkilling were closely examined. sprouted seed. Transplants, 10-12 cm in M. persicae was found in traps again in 1974 height, were set out in the field at the time after topkilling. The lower leaves of many seed was planted and I and 2 wk later. plants remained green and were subject to Plants from sprouted cut seed produced 7% aphid infestation. Thorough topkilling is more marketable tubers than plants from important to prevent the spread of disease in unsprouted cut seed. When sprouted whole early September. small seed was used, marketable yield was 4% lower although total yield was 10% higher. Transplants set 2 wk after seed POTATO PHYSIOLOGY, CROP planting gave 17% higher total yield and 18%. AND SOIL MANAGEMENT higher marketable yield. Transplants set I wk after seed planting produced 26% higher Growth Analysis total yield and 33% higher marketable yield ' The influence of stem number on the than yields from unsprouted seed. The early growth and development of the potato was transplants, set at the time seed was planted, studied by comparing one-stem, two-stem, gave 28% higher total and marketable yields. and four-stem plants of Kennebec. In stands of each plant type, the rate of DM produc- Mulching Netted Gem Potatoes tion over the season increased with stem number; weekly DM production was 90, 105, The effects of mulching on the growth and 2 and 116 g/m The three stem types used a yield of Netted Gem potatoes were studied similar proportion of DM production for new by comparing results from soils with mulches leaf growth up to the time tubers began to of clear plastic, black plastic, and plastic- form, but afterwards the multiple-stem coated black paper with results from tilled plants used a smaller proportion for new leaf and untilled soil without a mulch. Thermo- growth than did single-stem types. Numbers couples were placed at seed depth in each and dry weights of tubers were consistently plot and soil temperatures were recorded superior in two- and four-stem plants. throughout the season. Three weeks after In terms of plant efficiency during early planting, average emergence of plants was growth, the relative growth rate of one-stem 37% with clear plastic, 31 % with plastic- plants was 40% per wk and that of two- and coated black paper, 25% with black plastic, four-stem types was 38% per wk. When and 6% from unmulched soil.
38 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Maximum and minimum daily soil temper- FRUIT CROPS atures during the first 6 wk were markedly higher under clear plastic than in unmulched Forest Spraying and ~lueberry Production soil. Maximum temperatures under black Fenitrothion, used for control of the spruce plastic were slightly higher for the same bud worm, is highly toxic to bees. Blueberry period but temperatures under plastic-coated growers have made claims for crop losses black paper varied little from those in that they attribute to mortality of pollinators unmulched soil. Once a leaf canopy was resulting from the fore~t spray operation. established soil temperatures varied little Alternative materials with a higher level of among treatments, but when the tops of specificity have been tested for budworm plants senesced temperatures rose again control, and one of them, trichlorfon, has under clear and black plastics. shown promising results in preliminary tests No increase in yields resulted from mulch- carried out by the Canadian Forestry Service. ing despite earlier emergence, and yields Trichlorfon is of particular interest to the from plots with clear plastic were' actually blueberry industry because it is relatively lower. nontoxic to bees. In a recent test, no effect on the activity of honey bees or native bees resulted when an adjacent forest block was Potato Storage sprayed with trichlorfon (Dylox 4L; Che- magro Corp.) at the rate of 0.46 kg active The rate of moisture loss from Kennebec ingredient (ai)/ha. In another test a blue- potatoes early in the storage period was berry field was sprayed directly by aircraft experimentally determined by static salt with trichlorfon (Dylox 80 sp; Chemagro solution techniques. The tubers were sub- Corp.) soluble powder at l.l kg ai/ha, with jected to temperatures of 4.5, 16.6, and no effect on pollinators. If current tests show 28.3°C and a relative humidity range of trichlorfon to be effective for bud worm 11.9-98.4%. The experimental data were control, it can provide a compatible alterna- fitted to a drying equation: tive in areas adjacent to blueberry WT = C) (VPDf2(tf3 plantations. where WT = weight loss per unit of tuber Control of Blueberry Flea Beetle (kg vapor/kg tuber), VPD = vapor pressure difference (mm Hg), t = time (h), and C,,~, Insect surveys detected a serious outbreak and ~ were regression coefficients. of the blueberry flea beetle, A/tica sylvia Malloch, in New Brunswick. Trichlorfon A simulation model of potato cooling was (Dylox 80 sp) controlled larvae effectively in developed and experimentally verified by a early June and did not cause significant comparison of predicted and experimental mortality to pollinators. Azinphos-methyl gradients of temperature in a 2.4-m column applied in mid-July effectively controlled the of potatoes. The total moisture loss from the adult stage of the blueberry maggot as well. column of potatoes was also compared with Results indicate these compounds to be the calculated value. The experimental and superior to carbaryl, which is recommended predicted values agreed satisfactorily. at present.
Soil Compaction ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY Assessment is being made of the influence Nutrient Concentration of Various Water of various physical properties of soils on Sources potato yields in Carleton and Victoria coun- ties, as indicated by data from 19 farms. In Studies on the environmental effects of associated investigations, a simple correlation agricultural practices have been particularly coefficient (r = 0.69) showed a relationship concerned with the nutrient content of water between the oxygen diffusion rate at the 25- discharge from streams. Associated studies cm depth when moisture was at field capac- started in 1973 have related to nutrient ity, and the extent of soil compaction. concentrations in tile drainage effluent and in Oxygen diffusion rate varied from 0.21 to domestic wells. Comparisons of concentra- 2 0.45 fL g/cm per min. tions in forest streams, agricultural streams,
RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B. 39 tile drain effluent, and domestic wells have Ethylenethiourea Residues in Potatoes proved to be interesting. Levels of ,nitrate Recently concern has been expressed nitrogen were 0.6, 3.2, 4.0, and 7.0 ppm, about residues of ethylenethiourea (ElY), a respectively; phosphorus 3.0, 9.0, 10.0, and metabolite of dithiocarbamate fungicides which are used extensively for late blight 10.0 ppb; and potassium 0.4, 1.2, 3.0, and control. Tubers from potato plants treated 7.0 ppm. Differences between the levels were with mancozeb at weekly intervals for 10 wk similar for calcium, magnesium, chloride, at rates up to 2 kg/ha were analyzed for and sulfate. The relatively high levels of ETU residues by thin-layer chromatography. Estimated concentrations (6-10 JL gil 00 g) nitrate nitrogen and phosphorus encountered are now being assessed by more highly in a number of domestic wells are under quantitative methods of gas chromatog:, investigation. raphy.
PUBLICAnONS
Research Singh, R. P., Lee, C. R., and Clark, M. C. 1974. Manganese effect on the local lesion symptom Clark, M. C. 1974. Metabolism of adenine in of potato spindle tuber 'virus' in Scopolia healthy and blighted potato leaves. J. Exp. sinensis. Phytopathology 64: 1015-1018. Bot. 25:309-319. Singh, R. P., Michniewicz, J. J., and Narang, S. A. 1974. Multiple forms of potato spindle tuber Davies, H. T., and Johnston, G. R. 1974. Reliabil- metavirus ribonucleic acid. Can. J. Biochem. ity of potato selection in the first clonal 52:809-812. generation. Am. Potato J. 51 :8-11. Tai, G. C. C. 1974. A method for quantitative Gorrill, A. D. L., and Walker, D. M. 1974. genetic analysis of early clonal generation Rapeseed oils low or high in erucic acid in seedlings of an asexual crop with special milk replacers for lambs: their effects on application to a breeding population of the growth, digestion, nitrogen balance and inter- potato. Theor. Appl. Genet. 45: 150-156. nal organs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:411-418. Miscellaneous Gorrill, A. D. L., Jones, J. D., and Nicholson, J. W. Langille, J. E., Bubar, J. S., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, G. 1974. The nutritional value and trypsin E. A., and Kunelius, H. T. 1974. Atlantic inhibitor content of processed soybeans for provinces fababean trials, 1973. Canadex lamb milk replacers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 142.34. 54:337-346. Langille, J. E., Smeltzer, G. G., Grant, E. A., and Gorrill, A. D. L., Cameron, C. D. T., Comeau, J. MacLeod, J. A. 1974. Field pea evaluation E., Nicholson, J. W. G., and Larmond, E. trials, Atlantic region, 1973. Canadex 142.34. 1974. Comparison of milk replacers or ewe Lawrence, C. H. 1974. Common and powdery scab milk, with or without solid feed, on lamb of potato. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1530. performance and meat quality. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54: 149-155. Nicholson, J. W. G. 1974. Guidelines for feeding potato processing wastes and culls to cattle. Hall, 1. V., Jackson, L. P., and Everett, C. F. 1973. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1527. The biology of Canadian weeds. 1. Kalmia Nicholson, J. W. G., Nunn, T. R., and Willis, G. A. angustifolia L. Can. J. Plant Sci. 53:865-873. 1974. Beef production in the Atlantic Prov- inces. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1494. Saini, G. R. 1974. Effects of soil compaction and shredded tree bark on phosphorus 'A' values Singh, R. P., and Finnic, R. E. 1973. Seed trans- of two New Brunswick potato soils. Can. J. mission of potato spindle tuber metavirus Soil Sci. 54:501-502. through the ovule of Scopolia sinensis. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 153-154. Singh, R. P., and Clark, M. C. 1973. Similarity of Wood, F. A., and Young, D. A. 1974. TGA in host response to both potato spindle tuber and potatoes. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1533. citrus exocortis viruses. FAG Plant Prot. Bull. 21:121-125. Young, D. 1974. Belleisle potato. Canadex 258.33.
40 RESEARCH BRANCH REP6RT 1974 Ferme experimen tale L'Assomption, Quebec
CADRES PROFESSIONNELS
P. P. LUKOSEVICIUS,Diplomlandwirt, M.Sc., Ph.D. Directeur
Tabae
N. ARNOLD, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Physiologie M. DUPRE, B.A., B.S.A. Pesticides V. KOZUMPLlK, Diplomirani inzerijer Genetique et amelioratio~ poljoprivrede, M.Sc. du tabac it cigare M. LAMARRE, B.Sc. (Agr.) Phytotechnie
~ SCIENTIFIQUE INVITE
D. G. R. McLEOD, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Physiologie Institut de recherches, London, Ontario, 1974- 1975.
, ~ FERME EXPERIMENTALE,L'ASSOMPTlON,QUE. 41 INTRODUCTION
Le but principal de cette Ferme est de poursuivre des recherches sur trois types de tabac, soit tabac a cigare, a cigarette et a pipe. Pour la premiere fois cette annee, Ie tabac a cigare a ete seche dans des sechoirs en vrac et dans un sechoir a seulement une travee recouvert de plastique. L'objectif du travail en cooperation avec Ie ministere de I'Agriculture du Quebec, avec les manufacturiers de cigares et aussi avec la Cooperative des producteurs de tabac a cigare est d'introduire la mecanisation dans la production et Ie sechage du tabac a cigare. Nos recherches sur la repression des vers gris du tabac ont ete intensifiees par Ie travail du Dr G. McLeod de I'Institut de recherches de London. LeDr McLeod travaillera chez nous pendant un an. Cette publication represente un resume des principaux resultats de recherches obtenus en 1974 a la Ferme experimentale de L'Assomption. De plus amples details se rapport ant aux recherches en cours sont disponibles en adressant les demandes a la Ferme experimentale, Agriculture Canada, c.P. 1070, L'Assomption, P.Q. JOK IGO.
P. P. Lukosevicius Directeur
TABAC Test de degustation. Comme les caracteris- tiques morphologiques, agronomiques et Tabae a cigare chimiques du tabac a cigare peuvent etre atfectees par les conditions climatiques du- I' Etudes gemJtiques. L'efficacite d'une me- rant sa croissance, on presuma que les thode d'amelioration utilisee pour obtenir de qualites degustatives des cigares Ie seraient nouvelles varietes par hybridation depend de parallelement. Des cigares fabriques avec du I'action et de l'interaction des genes prove- tabac de dix varietes et deux lignees hybrides nant des genotypes parents. Vne experience experimentees de 1967 a 1969 furent evalues en vue de determiner les ditferentes portions par 250 fumeurs d'un jury de degustation. Le de la variance genetique dans Ie tabac a classement des cultivars, etabli d 'apres l'ap- cigare a ete completee. Les resultats morpho- preciation des degustateurs, varia considera- logiques et agronomiques obtenus demon- blement d'une annee a l'autre, ce qui expli- trent que la plus grande partie de la variance que que des resultats d'evaluation bases sur 3 genetique fut additive, ce qui corrobore la ans d'essais ne sont pas suffisants pour methode d'amelioration utilisee jusqu'a pre- recommander la commercialisation d'une sent a notre etablissement pour obtenir de lignee de tabac a cigare. nouvelles lignees de tabac a cigare.
Sechage. La mecanisation de la recolte Methodes culturales. En 1974 nous avons peut reduire les couts eleves de la production modi fie cette experience. Elle se compose du tabac a cigare. Le tabac recolte mecani- maintenant de trois distances de plantation, quement peut etre ameliore pendant la soit 30, 36 et 41 cm (12, 14 et 16 po), de trois periode du sechage, si I'on utilise une metho- stades d 'ecimage, soit debut f1oraison, 25% de ditferente de celie dite conventionnelle. f1oraison et 50% f1oraison et aussi de deux Les resultats obtenus d'une experience pilote, hauteurs d'ecimage, soit haut et normal. utilisant du tabac a cigare recolte mecanique- Chaque parcelle est recoltee a un stade ment, indiquent que Ie tabac peut aussi bien appele maturite physiologique. Les resultats etre seche dans un sechoir en plastique a un de cette annee nous indiquent qu'une planta- niveau de pente que dans un sechoir conven- tion a raison de 30 cm (12 po) entre les tionnel. De plus, Ie tabac a cigare ne deman- plants, avec un ecimage haut au stade 25% de qu'une dizaine de jours pour secher dans f1oraison, nous donne Ie meilleur rendement. un sechoir en vrac. Les feuilles detachees du Pour la qualite et Ie revenu, c'est different; plant sechent mieux dans ce sechoir que les une distance de 36 cm ( 14 po) combinee it un plants entiers. ecimage au stade de 50% f1oraison sont Ie
42 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 plus favorables. Par contre, la hauteur d'eci- Les donnees preliminaires accumulees mage est la meme q'Je pour Ie rendement, jusqu'a present ne permettent pas de certifier soit ecimage haul. la predominance d 'un traitement sur un autre. Mais elles demontrent quand meme Tabac a cigarette des tendances favorables, pour Ie rendement, I'indice de qualite et Ie revenu brut, pour une Evaluation des eultivars. En 1974 nous plantation distancee de 41 cm (16 po) sur les avons compare la valeur agronomique de 14 rangs et 122 cm (48 po) entre les rangs. cuItivars. Sept cultivars ont surclasse Ie D'autre part, on obtient un meilleur rende- temoin Delhi 34. Au point de vue du rende- ment avec un stade d'ecimage de debut ment, Strain C-18 venait au premier rang. f1oraison, tandis qu'un meilleur indice de Trois cultivars seulement etaient superieurs qualite et un meilleur revenu brut sont au temoin pour I'indice de qualite, Delhi 34 atteints par un ecimage au stade debut 72-D 21-3F se classant Ie meilleur. En ce qui bouton. concerne Ie revenu brut a l'acre, six cultivars surpasserent Ie temoin, Strain C-18 etant Ie Cette premiere annee nous laisse entrevoir des resultats concrets dans Ie cas d'une premier. Le temps necessaire pouryarvenir a la f1oraison s'echelonne entre 66 JOurs (cmq plantation de 41 cm (16 po) sur Ie rang et cultivars) et 74 jours (Mutagenic 205). d'un ecimage au stade debut bouton. Fumigation d'automne par rapport fumi- L'ejJet de N, Pet K sur Ie tabae. Commen- a gation de printemps pour la lulle eontre les ce en 1973, ce projet comporte I'essai de nematodes. Trois nematocides fumigants, quatre niveaux d'azote, quatre niveaux de D-D (Shell Canada), Telone (Dow Chemical phosphore, quatre niveaux de potasse et deux of Canada Ltd.), Vorlex (Nor-Am Agricultu- types de sol. Les resultats demontrent qu'on ral Products Ltd.) appliques soit l'automne obtient les memes resultats sur un sol fiche precedant la transplantation a Ia volee, soit Ie avec des applications de fertilisants inferieu- printemps de la transplantation a la volee ou res a celles faites sur un sol pauvre. Les sur Ie rang, n'ont apporte qu'une legere equations des fonctions de productio~ nous augmentation du rendement et du revenu indiquent que Ie rendement, la quahte et Ie brut en comparaison avec Ie tabac non traite. revenu sont fonction de I'application d'azote Les nematocides appliques en rang au prin- 'et de potasse. Le phosphore pour sa part temps ont donne Ie plus de tabac. influence la maturite. Nematocides non(umigants. Les nematoci- Repression des drageons du tabae. En 1974, des triazophos et Vydate (DuPont of Canada six produits differents furent mis a I'essai afin Ltd.) ont augmente Ie rendement de 131 et de connaftre leur pouvoir de represslOn sur 200 kg/ha (l18 et 180 Ib/ac) respectivement, les drageons du tabac. L'experience compre- tan dis que carbofuran a porte Ie rendement 3. nait aussi deux stades et deux methodes 54,4 kg/ha (49Ib/ac) en de<;3.des tabacs non d'application. Tous les produits ont assureun traites. Les trois nematocides ont donne des bon contr61e des drageons. Vne apphcatlon qualites moindres, soit 4.4 cents de moins par des produits a la machine a diminue Ie kilogramme de tabac (2.0 cents/lb) pour rendement de 3.7%, I'indice de qualite de carbofuran et Vydate, et 6.6 cents (3.0 cents/ 1.0% et Ie revenu brut de 4.8%, en comparai- Ib) pour triazophos. son avec une application manuelle des pro- duits. Repression des mauvaises herbes. Combi- Si l'on compare les temps d'application, nes a deux sarc1ages mecaniques, les traite- nous constatons qu'une application avant ments herbicides ont donne des rendements ecimage assure un meilleur contr61e des de tabac superieurs a ceux du tabac sarcle un drageons qu'une application apres ecimage. meme nombre de fois mais n'ayant re<;u aucun herbicide. Par contre, lorsque les Distance et ecimage. Cette annee un nou- parcelles ont ete tenues exemptes de toutes veau projet a ete mis sur pied portant sur mauvaises herbes durant tout l'ete a l'aide de I'etude de trois stades d'ecimage (debut deux sarclages mecaniques et 3. I'aide d'au- bouton, debut f1oraison et 25% f1oraison) tant de sarc1ages manuels que requis par la ainsi que sur trois distances de plantation sur pousse des mauvaises herbes, tous les herbici- Ie rang (41, 5 I et 61 cm - 16, 20 et 24 po) des ont abaisse Ie rendement en de<;a des avec des rangs espaces de 122 cm (48 po). parcelles sans herbicide.
FERME EXPERIMENTALE. L'ASSOMPTION, QUE. 43 Repression des vers gris. Pour contraler Ie solutionne Ie probleme. On n'a note aucun ver gris blanc, Euxoa scandens (Riley), il faut signe de phytotoxicite avec l'un ou l'autre des recourir it deux applications soit de chlorpyri- deux insecticides. [os ou soit de leptophos avant la transplanta- tion, la premiere application se faisant tot au Nous avons observe la presence de E. printemps et la seconde immediatement scandens dans toutes les regions du Quebec avant la transplantation. Les applications ont ou se cultive Ie tabac it cigarette. ete faites tant sur Ie seigle que sur Ie sol devant etre plante en tabac. Les insecticides Repression des taupins. L'identification des chlorpyrifos et leptophos appliques avant la transplantation n'ont pas reussi it combattre adultes de cet insecte revele que l'espece efficacement Ie ver gris moissonneur E. taupin commun Melanotus fissilis (Say) do- messoria (Harr.). Leptophos en poudre solu- mine. L'insecticide granule fonofos s'est ble et N-2596 (Stauffer) appliques en post- avere tres efficace sans causer de dommage plantation it des intervalles de 15 jours ont au tabac.
PUBLICAnON
Divers Lamarre, M., L'influence de la densite de popula- tion et de la dose d'engrais sur Ie developpe- ment des varietes de tabac jaune au Quebec, Le Briquet, 1974,44(2): 19-23.
44 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Station de recherches Lennoxville, Quebec
CADRES PROFESSION NELS
Administration c. S. BERNARD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Directeur L. M. SEVIGNY (Mile) Agent, service administratif
Zootechnie
J. DUFOUR, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section, physiologie R. BOUCHARD, B.A., B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Nutrition M. H. FAHMY, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique P. FLIPOT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutrition G. LALANDE, B.A., B.S.A. Regie G. Roy, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique
Productions vegetales
J.-L. DIONNE, B.A., B.S.A., Ph.D. Chef de la section, fertilite des sols J. GENEST, B.S.A., M.Sc. Plantes fourrageres W. MASON, B.S.A., M.Sc. Plantes fourrageres G. PELLETIER, B.S.A., M.Sc. Utilisation des fourrages A. PESANT, B.S.A., M.Sc. Physique des sols
Depart
L. LAFLAMME,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutrition mute en avril 1974 a la Division des produits vegetaux
STATION DE RECHERCHES,LENNOXVILLE,QUE. 45 INTRODUCTION
La recherche it cette Station s'oriente vers les productions animales: bovins laitiers, bovins de boucherie, porcs et moutons, cette derniere en collaboration avec la Ferme experimentale de La Pocatiere. Elle porte egalement sur la production et I'utilisation des cultures herbageres, soit paturage en ete ou foin et ensilage en hiver. II convient de noter I'importance accrue que I'on accorde graduellement it la recherche en bovins laitiers, tant pour la production laitiere que l'exploitation pour fin bouchere. D'autre part, on intensifie la recherche portant sur la survie de la luzerne it l'hiver, particulierement l'elfet physique de l'exhaussement du sol par Ie gel. Ce rapport decrit sommairement les resultats de quelques experiences. Un compte-rendu plus detaille de to ute la recherche en cours est disponible en s'adressant it: Station de recherches, Agriculture Canada, Lennoxville, Quebec, JIM IZ3.
c. S. Bernard Directeur
ZOOTECHNIE nourris au lait entier pour toute la periode de l'experience, un gain de I, I kg. Alimentation du veau au colostrum suri La performance des veaux nourris au On a entrepose, dans des barils en metal, colostrum suri se compare favorablement it suffisamment de colostrum pour nourrir 12 celie des veaux nourris au lait entier ou au veaux durant 4 semaines au taux de 12% de melange de colostrum suri et de lait de leur poids vir. On a compare leur performan- remplacement. ce it celie de veaux alimenJes au lait entier, Niveaux de protl~ines et de graisses dans servi froid. Quatre des 12 veaux recevaient les mouh~es d'engraissement du veau uniquement du colostrum suri, tandis que les huit autres recevaient un melange de 75% de L'experience avait pour but de determiner colostrum suri et 25% d'un lait de remplace- les elfets de dilferents niveaux de proteines ment, reconstitue it 12% de matiere seche et provenant du tourteau de soya et dilferents servi it 43,3°C. Suite it la periode experimen- niveaux de graisses animales dans lesmou- tale de 4 semaines, nous avons servi, it tous lees destinees it l'engraissement du veau. On les veaux, du lait de remplacement contenant a assigne 108 veaux males, sevres it l'age de 3 30% de graisses durant 5 semaines de finition jours, de rayon factorielle it six traitements, afin d'observer si Ie colostrum suri aurait un dont trois niveaux de proteines digestibles elfet residuel sur la croissance du veau. (9.5%, 11.0% et 12.5%) et deux niveaux de Le gain de poids vif durant les 28 premiers graisses animales (3% et 6%). On a servi du jours a ete de 0,41 kg par jour pour les veaux lait entier it raison de 10% du poids vif au colostrum suri, de 0,36 kg pour ceux au durant les 2 premieres semaines. Pendant la colostrum suri et lait de remplacement et de troisieme semaine, les veaux ont ete transfe- 0,54 kg pour ceux au lait entier. La digestibi- res graduellement it l'alimentation solide, lite de la matiere seche etait de 8 I .2%, 92.8% sauf 12 qui ont continue it recevoir du lait et 87.4% respectivement, pour Ie colostrum entier jusqu'au poids de 114 kg. La composi- suri, Ie melange et Ie lait entier. Le dosage de tion des moulees comprenait: 20% de maYs proteines (sur base de matiere seche) et de moulu, 45% it 79% de ble moulu, 5% it 15% matiere seche etait de 43.68% et 14.5% dans de tourteau de soya, 0% it 6% de graisses Ie colostrum suri, de 31.3% et 13.1 % dans Ie animales, 5% de mel asses, 2% de phosphate melange et de 21.9% et I 1.4% dans Ie lait dicalcique, 1% de pierre it chaux et I% de sel entier. Le colostrum suri contenait donc iode. presque deux fois plus de proteines que Ie lait Le poids initial etait d'environ 45 kg. Les entier. veaux it la moulee ont atteint Ie poids moyen Durant les 5 semaines de finition, les veaux de 114 kg en 124 jours, avec un gain de 0,54 nourris au colostrum suri ont accuse un gain kg par jour. Ceux au lait entier ont atteint le journalier moyen de I, I kg, ceux nourris au poids de 118 kg en 102 jours, pour un gain melange un gain de 1,2 kg et les quatre quotidien de 0,68 kg. Le rendement des
46 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 carcasses etait de 51% pour les veaux a la premiere ovulation, 33.3% ont eu un cycle de moulee et de 55% pour les veaux au lait moins de 10.0jours. entier. Les dilferents niveaux de proteines et de graisses n'ont pas influence de fa<;:on L'influence du taureau et de I'ouverture marquee Ie rendement de la carcasse, la pelvienne des genisses sur leurs difficuItes couleur du muscle et la conversion alimentai- de velage reo Les veaux a la moulee ont du consommer On a insemine 101 gemsses crOtsees de 3,0 kg de matiere seche pour faire I kg de boucherie x laitiere a la premiere chaleur gain, alors que ceux au lait entier en consom- suivant I'age de 365 jours, avec de la semen- maient 1,3 kg par kg de gain. ce d'un taureau Angus ou d'un Limousin, II en ressort que les veaux a la moulee ont dans Ie but d'etudier I'influence de la race du consomme 104 kg de lait entier et 195 kg de pere, du poids du veau et de I'ouverture moulee pour faire un gain de 69 kg de poids pelvienne de la mere, sur I'assistance au vif en 124jours, alors que ceux au lait entier velage (AV). On a mesure la hauteur et la ont re<;:u945 kg de lait pour realiser 70 kg de largeur de l'ouverture pelvienne au velage et gain en poids vif en 102jours. cote Ie degre d' AV de I (nul) a 5 (maximum). Le pourcentage et la cote moyenne d' AV L'influence du taux de croissance sur pour les genisses ayant une ouverture pel- I'age a la puberte et I'activite ovarienne vienne plus petite que la moyenne ont ete de de genisses laitieres 25.0% et 2. I lorsqu'elles etaient saillies par un taureau Angus et de 37.5% et 2.5 lorsque On a soumis 36 genisses Holstein, pesant saillies par un taureau Limousin. Dans Ie cas chacune 136 kg, a deux regimes alimentaires, de genisses avec une ouverture pelvienne plus I'un a croissance acceleree (FR), I'autre a grande que la moyenne, Ie pourcentage et la croissance moden':e (MR). Les genisses cote moyenne d'AV ont ete de 12.5% et 2.0 etaient soumises a I'un ou a I'autre de ces lorsque saillies par un taureau Angus et de regimes alimentaires soit pendant une phase 18.8% et 2.1 lorsque saillies par un taureau initiale de 100 jours, soit pendant une phase Limousin. finale qui se terminait par I'ovariectomie. L'experience etait en meme temps poursui- Les genisses du traitement FR ont atteint vie a l'Universite Laval oil 77 genisses la puberte 16.3 jours plus tot et pesaient 26,2 croisees etaient saillies, d'apres leurs poids, kg de plus que les genisses du traitement MR avec de la semence d'un Angus ou d'un lorsque ces traitements etaient commences Shorthorn. Le pourcentage et la cote moyen- dans la phase initiale de croissance. Lorsque ne d' AV pour les genisses ayant une ouvertu- les memes traitements etaient commences au re pelvienne plus petite que la moyenne ont debut de la phase finale, I'age a la premiere ete de 29.4% et 2.6 lorsque saillies par un chaleur est apparu 52.0 jours plus tot chez les taureau Angus et de 41.7% et de 2.2 lorsq ue genisses soumises au FR alors que leur poids saillies par un taureau Shorthorn. Dans Ie cas etait de 10,0 kg inferieur a celui des genisses de genisses avec une ouverture pelvienne plus MR. Le developpement folliculaire etait, grande que la moyenne, Ie pourcentage et la d'une fa<;:onbien marquee, plus accentue sur cote moyenne d'AV ont ete de 25.0% et 2.3 I'ovaire portant un corps jaune actif. Les lorsque saillies par un taureau Angus et de genisses soumises au traitement FR durant la 20.8% et 2.2 lorsque saillies par un taureau periode finale de croissance avait developpe Shorthorn. un deuxieme follicule, plus gros que celui des Chez les veaux, les structures anatomiques genisses au MR. les plus importantes par rapport au AV Une injection de gonadotropines a la etaient la circonference du nez et de la tete, chaleur precedant I'ovariectomie n'a eu pour la ceinture du coeur et la largeur de I'epaule. elfet que d'accroitre Ie pourcentage de petits Le sexe du veau n'a eu aucune influence sur follicules, alors que Ie taux d'ovulation Ie degre d'AV. n'etait aucunement change. Le nombre de Croissance rapide et croissance lente des corpora albicantia observes au moment de bouvillons croises I'ovariectomie indiquait que 75% des genisses avaient eu une ovulation avant la puberte, On a eleve 178 bouvillons sur deux regi- sans toutefois demontrer un oestrus. Des mes alimentaires, I'un a croissance rapide genisses qui demontraient une chaleur a la (CR) et I'autre a croissance lente (CL). lis
STATION DE RECHERCHES. LENNOXVILLE, QUE. 47 etaient issus de taureaux Charolais, Hereford et 300 kg/ha de N et l'ensilage d'herbe etLimousin et de vaches Holstein-Frison et respectivement. A la fin de la cinquieme Ayrshire. Leur poids initial moyen etait de semaine d 'alimentation on a observe des 185 kg et leur poids a l'abattage de 545 kg. teneurs en hemoglobine du sang de 12,3 Les bouvillons du regime CR sont toujours gl 100 ml et en hematocrite de 35.4% chez les restes en stabulation libre et ouverte et ont vaches alimentees a l'ensilage d 'herbe, soit re9u jusqu'a 8,2 kg de moulee avec un peu de des valeurs aussi elevees qu'au debut de foin. Ceux du CL se sont alimentes unique- l'essai. Par ailleurs, les teneurs en hemoglobi- ment de paturage en ete, tandis qu'en hiver, ne et en hematocrite du sang des vaches ils ont consomme 7,3 kg de foin par jour et alimentees au chou fourrager avaient dimi- un peu de mouJee. nue etant de 9,56, 9,29 et 9,86 gl 100 ml pour Les bouvillons du regime CR ont converti l'hemoglobine et de 28.4%, 28.8% et 28.8% leurs aliments en viande de fa90n plus pour l'hematocrite avec Ie chou fourrager a efficace que ceux du CL (5.8 par rapport a 0, 150 et 300 kg de N Iha respectivement. On 11.1). lis ont fait 0,42 kg de gain de plus par a conclu que Ie niveau de fertilisation azotee jour que les autres et ont atteint Ie poids du chou fourrager n'a pas d'influence sur d'abattage 306 jours plus tot. Les bouvillons l'apparition de l'anemie. a croissance rapide ont aussi eu un rende- Dans une deuxieme experience, du chou ment a l'abattage de 2% superieur, une fourrager deshydrate a haute temperature couche de gras 5,7 mm plus epaisse et une (95°C) et de l'ensilage de chou fourrager ont surface de muscle dorsal (noix de cote) de 5 ete servis a des groupes de 4 moutons cm2 plus etendue que ceux a croissance lente. pendant 3 mois. Un groupe supplementaire Toutes ces differences furent significatives (P de 4 moutons alimentes au foin et au <: 0.0 I). Les bouvillons du regime CL ont concentre a servi de traitement temoin. Les fait perdre, en moyenne, par annee, $27.50 teneurs en proteines brutes ont ete de 12.29% alors que les autres ont fait realiser un profit et 14.96% et en N-N03 de 0.124% et 0.272% moyen de $14. pour I'ensilage et Ie chou fourrager deshy- Les bouvillons de descendance charolaise drate respectivement. Les teneurs en hemo- ont eu Ie gain quotidien Ie plus rapide et ont globine et en hematocrite ont ete aussi eleves atteint Ie poids du marche les premiers. Ceux pour les moutons alimentes au chou fourra- de descendance limousine, eleves au regime ger que pour ceux alimentes au foin et aux CR, ont eu Ie plus haut pourcentage de concentres indiquant ainsi que la chaleur et Ie rendement a l'abattage (58%). lis ont aussi processus d'ensilage detruisent I'agent toxi- obtenu la surface du muscle dorsal la plus que qui cause I'anemie du chou fourrager. etendue, quel que soit Ie regime. Quant aux bouvillons issus de pere Hereford, ils ont Mortalite embryonnaire et developpement obtenus les couches de gras les plus epaisses des foetus chez trois races de truie et les surfaces du muscle dorsal les plus Nous avons mesure Ie taux d'ovulation, la petites. Ceux du regime CR furent les plus grosseur des portees et Ie poids des placentas, rentables, tandis que ceux du CL ont fait la des foetus et des comes uterines aux 23, 42 et plus grande perte. 63 jours de gestation, de 138 truies multipa- II n'y a pas eu de difference significative res de races Yorkshire, Landrace et Lacom- entre les bouvillons de descendance Holstein be. Les truies etaient saillies par des verrats et ceux issus d'Ayrshire. Yorkshire, Landrace ou Hampshire de fa90n a engendrer des portees de race et des L'apparition de l'anemie du chou portees croisees. fourrager chez les ruminants Des 53 truies Yorkshire abattues, 13.2% Dans une premiere experience, du chou etaient non gestantes par rapport a 7.5% et fourrager fertilise a 0, 150 et 300 kg/ha de N 8.5% pour les Landrace et les Lacombe a ete donne a des groupes de 4 vaches en respectivement. Le nombre moyen de corps gestation. Un groupe supplementaire de 4 jaunes rencontres chez les Landrace etait de vaches alimentees a l'ensilage d'herbe a servi 15.1 par rapport a 14.1 pour les Yorkshire et de traitement temoin. Les teneurs en protei- Lacombe. Le taux de mortalite des embryons nes brutes ont ete de 9.6%, 9.0%, 15.4% et croises etait de 7.5% et 6.0% plus eleve chez
11.4% et en N-N03 de 0.028, 0.030, 0.185 et les Landrace que chez les Yorkshire et les 0.015 pour Ie chou fourrager fertilise a 0,150 Lacom be respectivement. La mortalite des
48 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 embryons de race etait de 8.4% plus eleve de fortes precipitations de pluie. Puis, une chez les Landrace que chez les Yorkshire. vague de froid intense s'est abattue sur les Les portees issues de verra ts Yorkshire couronnes de luzerne sans protection. Ces etaient en moyenne 7.8% plus nombreuses conditions climatiques defavorables ont fait que celles issues de verrats Landrace ou que les degres d'adaptation et les taux de Hampshire. survie ont diminue radicalement pour .attein- Le 23e jour de gestation, 19% des oeufs dre un niveau inferieur a 20% des'la fin de reliiches etaient perdus; on a enregistre une janvier. Les luzerni,eres etaient deja loin en perte additionnelle de 4% aux autres jours dessous d'un niveau acceptable de survie. etudies. Le poids des embryons Landrace et On a constate aussi que Ie taux de survie Lacombe etait plus eleve que celui des diminue tres rapidement dans la mesure ou Ie Yorkshire. Les embryons croises de truies pourcentage d'humidite du sol augmente au Yorkshire et Landrace etaient plus lourds cours de I'hiver. II appert qu'une augmenta- que les embryons de race et ce, de 27%,8% et tion de 10% ou plus de la teneur en eau du e 6% aux 23e, 42e et 63 jours de gestation, sol geIe, entre decembre et fevrier, soit fatale respectivement. pour la survie de la luzerne. Les comes uterines et les membranes Dans I'ensemble, nos resultats nous ont placentaires etaient plus lourdes chez les permis d'etablir que Ie seuil critique etait Landrace et les Lacombe que chez les York- deja depasse au mois de fevrier. Notre shire. On a note tres peu de difference entre technique nous fait donc connaitre I'instant les races Landrace et Lacombe pour Ie poids meme ou les dommages se produisent et nous des foetus, des membranes placentaires et permet aussi la recommandation d'une regie des comes uterines. Les correlations entre Ie appropriee avant Ie debut de la saison de poids des membranes placentaires et celui vegetation. des foetus, pour les trois stades etudies, etaient de 0.6~, 0.57, 0.76 respectivement et Elfet du regime hydrique et du pH des tres significatives. La correlation entre Ie sols sur la teneur -en manganese de la nombre d'embryons viables et la longueur luzerne et du lotier des comes uterines etait de 0.30 alors que celie entre Ie nombre d'embryons viables et Le manganese est un des elements respon- Ie poids des comes etait de 0.10. sables du pauvre comportement des legumi- neuses en sols acides. Nous nous sommes donc servis de la teneur en Mn du sol et des PRODUCTIONS VEGET ALES . pIantes comme moyen d'evaluer I'interaction existant entre Ie pH du sol 'et son regime Facteurs Iimitant la survie a I'hiver des hydrique. On a cultive, en serre, de la luzerne luzernieres du sud-ouest du Quebec et du lotier sur I'argile Ste-Rosalie et Ie sable Durant I'hiver 1973-1974, on a releve les St-Jude ajustes aux pH 4.8, 6.6 et 7.5. Les facteurs impliques dans I'adaptation et la regimes hydriques compares etaient tres survie de la luzerne a I'hiver. On a preleve humide, optimum et tres sec. periodiquement des echantillons de luzernie- En regime hydrique tres humide, la teneur res en semis pur sur des types de sol represen- en manganese echangeable a augmente de tatifs de la region. 18% par rapport a celie du sol d'humidite De chaque echantillon, quelques plants optimale. L'effet de I'humidite s'est manifes- etaient soumis a un test de congelation, afin te surtout en argile Ste-Rosalie de pH 5.1 ou de mesurer leur degre d'adaptation au froid, Ie manganese echangeable du sol s'est accru tandis que les autres etaient transferes en de 3.51 ppm a 6.15 ppm quand Ie sol a ete serre pour connaitre leur taux de survie a soumis a un regime hydrique ties humide I'hiver. Cette technique nous permettait donc (entre point de saturation et capacite aux de connaitre I'etat des luzernieres a n'importe champs). En regime tres sec (entre 40% de quelle periode de la saison froide. be plus, capacite aux champs et point de fietriss~ on a determine I'humidite des sols a 10 cm de ment) la teneur en Mn echangeable a ete\ profondeur lors de I'echantillonnage. legerement reduite. A la mi-decembre, ,Ia survivance de la L'augmentation du pH des sols a la suite luzerne etait dans un etat satisfaisant. Au du chaulage a extremement diminue les debut du mois de janvier, les champs ont ete teneurs en Mn echangeable. Elles se sont complt~tement recouverts de glace a la suite chiffrees en moyenne a 3.59 ppm, 1.36 ppm
STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXVILLE, QUE. 49 et 1.06 ppm de Mn pour les sols dont les pH plantes si ce n'est dans Ie cas OU elles avaient ete fixes a 4.8, 6.6 et 7.5 respective- croissaient sur sol chaule au pH 7.5. On a ment. alors trouve un peu plus de Mn dans la La diminution de la teneur en Mn echan- luzerne et Ie lotier soumis a des regimes geable a la suite du chaulage a ete beaucoup hydriques tres humides. moins marquee en sol humide qu'en sol sec et Les deux sols non chaules contenaient a egalemt!nt beaucoup moins prononcee en peu pres la me me quantite de Mn echangea- sable St-Jude qu'en argile Ste-Rosalie. ble soit 3.5 ppm. Cependant, les plantes Dans la plante, la teneur en Mn a ete provenant du sable St-Jude de pH 5.0 do- nettement fonction du pH du sol. On y a dose saient 361 ppm de Mn compare a 142 ppm 252 ppm, 99 ppm et 79 ppm de Mn en pour I'argile Ste-Rosalie. On sait que ce moyenne pour la luzerne et Ie lotier cultives dernier sol contient 17 fois plus de magne- sur des sols de pH 4.8, 6.6 et 7.5 respective- sium que Ie sable St-Jude. Cette haute teneur ment. en magnesium a vraisemblablement freine Les regimes hydriques du sol n'ont pas l'absorption du manganese par la luzerne tellement influence la teneur en Mn des croissant sur l'argile Ste-Rosalie.
PUBLICATIONS
Recherches Bouchard, R. et Brisson, G. T., Methionine require- ment of the calf, J. Dairy Sci., 1974, 57:640 Bouchard, R., Sulfur metabolism and nutritional (Abstract p.152). changes in lactating cows associated with sup- plemental sulfate and methionine hydroxy Dionne, J.-L., Engrais chimique et pollution des analog, Can. J. Anim. S<;i., 1974,54:587-593. eaux, Can. Agric., 1974, 19( I): 16-17.
Dufour, J., The duration of the breeding season of Dionne, J.-L. et Lalande, G., Production de boeuf four breeds of sheep, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1974, sur paturage Ii fertilisation massive, Bull. des 54:389-392. Agric., avril 1974:48-51.
Dufour, J. et Fahmy, M. H., Follicular and luteal Dufour, J., Du lait sans qu'il y ait eu velage, Bull. changes during early pregnancy in three breeds des Agric., novembre 1974:23-24. of swine, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1974,54:29-33. Dufour, J., Deux agnelages par annee, par croise- Gorrill, A. D. L., Cameron, C. D. T., Comeau, J. ment, Bull. des Agric., juin 1974:20-22. E., Nicholson, J. W. G. et Larmond, E., Comparison of milk replacers or ewe milk, with Dufour. 1.. La taure de boucherie laisse un veau or without solid feed. on lamb performance and avant de partir pour l'abattoir, Bull. des Agric., meat quality, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1974,54: 149- mai 1974: 18-21. 155. Dufour, J., Haltmann, W. B., Roy, G. L. et Lalande, G., Dionne, J. L. et Lachance, L., In- Charette, L. A., Influence of sire size and pelvic fluence des types de piiturages ct des systemes opening on calving difficulties in crossbred d'exploitation sur la performance des bouvil- heifers bred at 1 year of age, Can. J. Anim. Sci. Ions, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1974,54:61-71. (resume) 1974. Laflamme, L. F., Trenkle, A. et Topel, D. G., Effect of castration or breed type on growth of the Fahmy, M. H., Les croisements entre races amelio- < Bouchard, R., UNT et energie nette pour la vache Pelletier, G., Forage kale in Quebec, Can. Agric., laitiere, Canadex, 1974,410.50. 1974, 19(2):27-29. 50 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Pelletier, G. et Darisse, F., Faut-il semer des Pelletier, G., Preservation and storage, Forage especes seules ou des melanges pour la produc- Notes, 1974, 19:IQ-23. tion de foin et d'ensilage?, Can. Agric., 1974, 19( I):30-31. Pesant, A. R., Copper and manganese nutrients in Pelletier, G. et Donefer, E., Valeur alimentaire du oats as affected by some soil physical properties, chou moellier, Canadex, 1974, 128. Soil Horizon,juin 1974, Vol. 15, nO!. Pelletier, G. et Genest, 1., Une bonne gelee amelio- re l'ensilage de mais, Bull. des Agric., aout Pesant, A. R. et aI, Facteurs Iimitant la survie a 1974:32-33. l'hiver chez les luzernieres de la province de Quebec au cours de j'hiver 1973-1974, Can. 1. Pelletier, G. et Genest, J., A quel stade recolter Ie PI. Sci. (resume) 1974. mais-ensilage?, Bull. des Agric., juillet .1974:18-20. Pesant, A. R. et Bolduc, R., Le degre d'adaptation Pelletier, G. et Genest, J., Augmenter Ie rendement et Ie taux de survie a l'hiver chez les cultures et la valeur alimentaire de votre ensilage de bisannuelles et vivaces. Can. J. Plant Sci. mais, Can. Agric., 1974, 19(2):8-10. (resume) 1974. , STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXVILLE, QUE. 51 Station de recherches Sainte- Foy, Quebec CADRES PROFESSION NELS S. J. BOURGET, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Directeur C. GAGNON, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Directeur adjoint J. R. FRAPPIER, B.A. Services administratifs Support scientifique P. VENNE, B. Bib!., M.L.S. Bibliotheque Amelioration des plantes H. GASSER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section; pi antes fourrageres M. R. BULLEN, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique des plantes fourrageres J. M. DESCHENES, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Ecologie J. P. DUBUC, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Cereales R. MICHAUD, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique des legumineuses E. ROCHAT, Ing. agron., M.Sc., D.Sc. Amelioration des graminees C. A. ST-PIERRE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Cereales J. C. ST-PIERRE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Physiologie des pIantes fourrageres \ Physiologie des plantes R. PAQUIN, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section; survie a l'hiver R. BOLDUC, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Resistance au froid, cytologie H. J. HOPE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Resistance au froid, mecanisme C. WILLEMOT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Resistance au froid, mecanisme Phytoprotection C. GAGNON, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section; maladies des legumineuses A. COMEAU, B.Sc., Ph.D. Entomologie G. PELLETIER, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., PhD. Maladies des cere ales C. RICHARD, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.Sc. Maladies des legumineuses STATIONDE RECHERCHES,SAINTE-FOY,QUE. 53 J. SANTERRE, B.A., B.Sc., M.Sc. Nematologie Sols C. DE KIMPE, B.A., Ing. Chim. et Ind. agr., Chef de la section; genese D.Sc. L. BORDELEAU,B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbiologie M. LAVERDIERE,B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Pedogenese et mineralogie Y. MARTEL, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Chimie et fertilite G. MEHUYS, B.A., Ing. Agr., Ph.D. Physique J. ZIZKA, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Fertilite Economie J. V. LEBEAu', B.S.A., M.Sc. Rentabilite 1 C. FALGON , Ing. agron. Rentabilite Ferme experimentale, La Pocatiere J. E. COMEAU, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Regisseur G. BARNETT, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Sols L. BELZILE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Plantes fourrageres H. GENEREUX, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc. Maladies des pommes de terre R. RIOUX, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Herbicides et cultures speciales Ferme experimentale, Normandin J. P. F. DARISSE, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Regisseur R. DRAPEAU, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Plantes fourrageres SCIENTIFIQUE INVITE V. O. BIEDERBECK,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbiologie des sols Station de recherches de Swift Current (Saskatchewan) IDetache de la Direction de I'economie du ministere de l'Agriculture du Canada. 54 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION La Station de Recherches de Sainte-Foy s'identifie de plus en plus aux problemes agricoles du centne de la province de Quebec et des regions du Bas St-Laurent et du Lac Saint-Jean. En 1974 nous avons fait homologuer la nouvelle variete d'avoine «Alma» dont la semence sera bient6t disponible a tous les cuItivateurs. Ce rapport presente certains des resultats obtenus en 1974. II faut adresser toute demande de renseignements a: Station de recherches, Agriculture Canada, 2560 Chemin Gomin, Sainte-Foy, Quebec G IV 213. Le Directeur S. J. Bourget LES PLANTES se maintient au cours de I'endurcissement, a I'exception d'une repression specifique de la L'endurcissement au froid desaturation de I'acide oleique en acide linoleique. La stimulation a basse temperatu- Depuis un peu plus d'un an on a poursuivi re de la synthese de l'acide linoleique de la une etude sur la methodologie d'un test de phosphatidyl choline, surtout chez la variete tamisage pour la resistance au froid et la Rambler, suggere que la phosphatidyl choli- genetique de celle-ci. Le test de tamisage en ne est etroitement liee a la desaturation de est presentement a sa deuxieme phase. A la I'acide oIeique et de son controle au cours de premiere phase nous avons demontre qu'il I'endurcissement. Les changements observes est possible d'obtenir des F qui sont signifi- 1 se produisent avant I'augmentation de la cativement plus resistantes au gel que leur resistance a la gelee. lis semblent donc un parent. Les F, ont mieux survecu et produit prerequis a I'endurcissement chez la luzerne. plus de repousses que Ie parent Angus. Elles Quoique la synthese des sterols libres soit tres tolerent 1,4°C plus de froid que Ie parent active dans les racines de la luzerne, la Angus. Apres la premiere recolte de la radioactivite incorporee dans les esters de deuxieme phase il appert que les F2 ont deja sterols, faible au debut de I'endurcissement moins de tolerance au froid que les F et 1 mais tres importante a la fin de celui-ci, guere plus que Ie parent Angus. II faudra surtout chez la variete tendre Caliverde, ne se attendre une deuxieme, voire meme une retrouve que dans la partie acide gras de ces troisieme coupe pour tirer les conclusions. En composes. Le dosage du phosphore lipidique genetique, un croisement dialleIe a partir de des racines indique une augmentation des cinq plantes du cuItivar Angus, ayant survecu phospholipides chez la variete rustique Ram- a un gel de _14°C et _16°C, a ete evalue. Ces bler et une diminution de ceux-ci chez la cinq pIantes ont demontre des aptitudes variete tendre Caliverde au cours de I'endur- generales et specifiques a la combinaison cissement. pour certains caracteres morphologiques responsables du rendement. Un autre essai a Au cours de I'endurcissement du ble d'hi- ver en conditions controlees, l'incorporation demontre que meme a la F1 il est possible d'obtenir une aptitude generale a la combi- du 33p dans les lipides est stimulee fortement naison pour ce que nous appelons I'index de chez la variete rustique Kharkov mais peu survie (survie x rendement en matiere chez la variete tendre Champlain. II n'y a seche). La encore une deuxieme et une cependant que peu de changements qualita- troisieme coupe seront necessaires pour tifs des phospholipides au cours de I'endur- confirmer ou infirmer ces resultats cissement. II y a peu de correlation entre preliminaires. I'augmentation de la synthese des phospholi- pides et I'endurcissement. Cette augmenta- Les lipides. Le marquage des lipides des tion ne semble donc pas etre un prerequis a racines a montre que la stimulation de l'endurcissement, quoique un taux eleve de I'elongation et de la desaturation des acides synthese des phospholipides peut etre neces- gras a basse temperature, stimulation plus saire au maintien de la resistance a la gelee. prononcee chez Rambler que chez Caliverde, Le dosage du phosphore lipidique des racines STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FaY, QUE. 55 ------~------..., de ble indique peu d'augmentation de celui- plants endurcis durant 2 a 4 semaines dans ci au cours des deux premieres semaines des boites isolees de faryon a ne laisser d'endurcissement. penetrer Ie froid qu'a la surface des pots. Les resultats ont montre qu'effectivement la La proline. II existe une correlation entre la resistance au gel des piantes est inversement synthese de la proline dans les feuilles de proportionnelle au degre d'humidite du sol. luzerne et Ie degre d'endurcissement atteint Dans un sol relativement sec (10% d'humidi- par la plante endurcie ai,S, 5,0 et lO°C. A 5° te) les plants non endurcis ont un seuil de et 10°C, apres avoir atteint un maximum, resistance (DLso = temperature OU Ie taux de l'endurcissement et la synthese de la proline mortalite atteint 50%) inferieur de 2°C diminuent comme si la plante s'adaptait aces comparativement a un sol demi-sature ou temperatures et pouvait croltre a nouveau. sature. Apres 2 et 4 semaines d'endurcisse- La proline s'accumule plus rapidement ment, la difference du seuil de resistance dans les couronnes et les racines soumises a entre Ie sol sec et Ie sol sature atteint 4° a 6°C des temperatures d'endurcissement de 5° et ce qui peut signifier sous certaines conditions 10°C qu'a celie de 1,5°C. Apres 3 semaines climatiques la vie ou la mort de la luzerne. elle diminue aussi plus rapidement a 5° et lOoC qu'a 1,5°C. Ces resultats semblent Le tnHle rouge demontrer que la proline synthetisee dans les Dans une experience sur la longevite, des feuilles serait transportee dans les couronnes cultivars de trefle rouge ont maintenu leur et les racines moins rapidement a 1,5°C qu'a production et leur vigueur meme apres une 5° et lOoC et qu'a ces temperatures, apres periode continue de plus de 10 mois. Ceci une periode d'adaptation, la plante utiliserait impliqua lO recoltes pour un cultivar tardif a nouveau ses reserves de proline. dit d'une coupe et jusqu'a 14 pour les Les proteines. On a etudie Ie point de cultivars hatifs. Une variete tardive diploYde congelation (II) du suc cellulaire exprime a donne Ie meilleur rendement total. Les chez quatre varietes de plantules de ble varietes tardives tetraploYdes ont donne en d'hiver endurcies pendant 0, 10 et 20 jours. moyenne une meilleure recolte que les hati- La temperature lethale (LTso) etait en corre- yes diploYdes.A la fin de l'essai nous n'avions lation significative avec II aux jours 0 et 20 perdu que deux plantes sur 324 et aucune de I'endurcissement. Au jour lOla LTso maladie interne n'a ete pecelee. Seul Ie observee etait plus basse que prevue. La mildiou poudreux a ete observe sur les difference entre les valeurs observees et feuilles. prevues pour la LTso indique la possibilite d'un second mecanisme d'endurcissement, La luzerne autre que l'augmentation en concentration Taches foliaires. Des nombreuses observa- des solutes dans les tissus. tions faites au cours de quelques annees, il On a etudie Ie taux d'incorporation des ressort qu'on ne peut considerer uniquement proteines nouvellement synthetisees dans les la tache commune, mais plutot Ie complexe fractions subcellulaires des tissus de la racine de taches foliaires causees par les organismes et du collet chez Ie ble d'hiver au cours des pathogenes suivants: Phoma medicaginis 15 premiers jours de l'endurcissement. Une MaibI. & Roum., Cercospora zebrina Pass., incorporation significative a ete observee Leptosphaerulina briosiana (Poll.) Graham & dans les proteines du surnageant apres Luttrell, Peronospora trifoliorum de Bary, centrifugation des mitochondries et microso- Pseudopeziza trifolii & sp. medicaginis-sati- meso Cette incorporation a atteint un maxi- vae Schmied., Leptotrichila medicaginis mum apres II jours d'endurcissement et etait (Fckl.) Schuepp, Stemphylium botryosum plus grande chez la variete rustique Kharkov WaibI. Plusieurs de ces organismes pathoge- que chez la variete tendre Champlain. L'ana- nes peuvent se manifester ensemble ou a tour lyse des acides amines des proteines non de role, par groupe de deux, trois ou plus, a purifiees de cette fraction indique des chan- differents moments de la saison de gements dans les teneurs en methionine et en vegetation. acide stearique. Pourriture. Un inventaire effectue a travers L 'humidite du sol. Afin de determiner la province dans plusieurs luzernieres d'ages l'influence de l'humidite du sol sur l'endur- differents nous revele que partout la luzerne cissement au gel de la luzerne, on a place des est affectee par la pourriture de la couronne a 56 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 divers degres selon l'age et la localite. Des Le mil essais d'isolation des micro-organismes asso- Hesperie europeenne. Un inventaire effec- cies a la pourriture, essais effectues pour tue dans toute la province en collaboration determiner la sequence d'infection, ont reve- avec l'Universite Laval demontre une impor- Ie, par ordre de frequence, la presence du tante augmentation de l'aire de distribution Fusarium so/ani (Mart.) (Appel et Wr.) Sn. et de I'insecte et une intensification de l'epide- H., F. oxysporum (Schlecht.) Sn. et H., F. mie dans trois regions differentes: Ville- roseum (Link) Sn. et H. et F. tricinctum Marie, Joliette et St-Felicien. Dans cette (Cda.) Sn. et H. derniere region nous avons fait des tests pour mesurer I'effet de I'hesperie sur Ie rendement en matiere seche et Ie rendement en proteines Les Rhizobium a l'acre. On etudie egalement Ie rendement en graine de mil. L'analyse des donnees n'est Une etude entre Ie metabolisme oxydant pas completee mais les fermiers insistent sur du Rhizobium en culture in vitro et sa la gravite de la situation et declarent des capacite a fixer symbiotiquement I'azote pertes de 30% a 50%. atmospherique sur la luzerne nous indique On peut deja conclure it I'urgence de qu'il y a une .correlation interessante. Les fournir des mesures de repression immediate mesures de la consommation d'oxygene et de aux regions OU l'hesperie est epidemique. On mannitol au cours de la croissance exponen- recommande l'insecticide microbien Bacillus tielie du Rhizobium, en regard du taux de thuringiensis pour 1975. II faudra cependant synthese des proteines cellulaires, nous ont accorder une plus grande attention aux perm is d'etablir des correlations avec l'effi- agents biologiques qui ont Ie potentiel de cacite symbiotique des souches. Nous som- donner un contr61e plus efficace, plus durable mes a essayer plusieurs courbes de regression et moins couteux. Mentionnons Ie virus (type en vue d'obtenir les parametres physiologi- polyhedrose nucleaire) decouvert a Norman- din par Ie Dr Vladimir Smirnoff (Environne- ques que nous utiliserons pour evaluer les ment Canada), lors d'une epizootie naturelle, souches. et aussi Ie parasite Stenichneumon scutellator Nous avons continue en 1974 l'enquete que Ie Dr K.P. Carl (Commonwealth Institute entreprise au Quebec afin d'acquerir plus de of Biological Control) recherche pour nous en renseignements sur la qualite des inoculants Europe. Le travail de ces deux collaborateurs commerciaux des legumineuses tels qu'ils merite une haute priorite. Le Dr Smirnoff a sont distribues aux cultivateurs. Ce projet se prepare 320 gallons de virus concentre a partir de larves malades recoltees dans Ie realise en collaboration avec Ie Departement secteur de Normandin avec notre colla- d'Agrobiologie de l'Universite Laval et Ie boration. Ministere de l'Agriculture du Gouvernement du Quebec. Nos resultats indiquent que de Les cereales serieux problemes existent au niveau de la commercialisation des inoculants et c'est ce Enquetes pathologiques. Les donnees re- qui affecte grandement la qualite des pro- cueillies au cours d'une enquete de 3 ans duits offerts aux cultivateurs. Ainsi, pour les dans les parcelles d'essais de cereales du inoculants mixtes trefle-Iuzerne, sur un total c.P.V.Q. (Conseil des productions vegetales du Quebec) indiquent une diminution de de 75 echantillons achetes en mai 1974 chez l'incidence et de la severite des rayures et des des distributeurs de la province, 8 etaient taches des feuilles de cereales. Ainsi, la passes date; seulement 10 des 57 echantillons septoriose de I'avoine qui au cours de la testes etaient satisfaisants pour Ie trefle et 28 derniere decennie avait connu un sommet pour la luzerne. Un probleme semblable entre 1966-1968 est maintenant a son plus existe aussi pour les autres inoculants des bas niveau. II en est de meme pour l'helmin- legumineuses, telles la feve soja et la fevero- thosporiose de l'orge. Dans la region de St- Ie. En plus du mauvais entreposage des Hyacinthe cependant, la septoriose du ble se inoculants et des produits passes date, nous maintient. Les rouilles des feuilles du ble, de avons constate que Ie nombre de cellules I'orge et de l'avoine sont plus abondantes viables par gramme d'inoculant est trop dans l'ouest de la province et semblent causer faible pour assurer une bonne nodulation. plus de dommages. La rouille de l'avoine a STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUE. 57 ete particulierement severe a Ste-Anne-de- indiquer que la tige principale avait un Bellevue, au cours des deux dernieres annees. apport detc::rminant sur Ie rendement, une Ailleurs en province, I'arrivee des rouilles est etude a ete faite en impliquant Ie type de sol, tardive et n'a generalement pas d'effet sur Ie Ie taux et la date de semis pour des varietes rendement. Parmi les cultivars a I'essai, pures et des melanges. L'analyse des resultats l'avoine Alma, Ie ble Maderes et I'orge de la premiere annee demontre qu'il n'y a Loyola sont particulierement resistants aux aucune correlation entre Ie poids de la tige rouilles des feuilles. principale a maturite et Ie rendement. L'avoine Septoriose. On a effectue pour la deuxieme annee consecutive une etude comparative sur Evaluation. Les essais cooperatifs de I'est la tolerance et la resistance de cultivars du Canada ont perm is d'evaluer deux lignees d'avoine la septoriose de l'avoine. Trois pour leur adaptabilite et leur rendement. La a traitements: (a) une inoculation naturelle (b) lignee Q.O. 130.4 semble prometteuse et a une application continue de fongicide tous ete retenue pour une autre annee d'evalua- a les 10 jours et (c) une inoculation artificielle tion. Suite la preuve de la tolerance a a furent effectuees sur quatre replicata de six Septoria de la lignee Q.O. 115.1.2, on a cultivars trois endroits dans I'est du Cana- homologue cette derniere sous Ie nom de a da. Cette etude demontre que l'application «Alma» en 1974. du fongicide manebe a augmente Ie rende- Amelioration. Quelque 180 croisements ont ment moyen de I'avoine a chaque site. ete realises en 1974 pour repondre aux L'inoculation artificielle a rMuit Ie rende- objectifs du Quebec et des Maritimes en plus ment de cultivars moins tolerants. Generale- de plusieurs objectifs speciaux tels que grain ment, I'inoculation artificielle en comparai- nu, paille naine, efficacite physiologique, son avec Ie temoin n'affectait pas de fa, F6 et F7 dont la moitie etait des selections Parmi les cultivars, CI 8175 etait Ie moins pour la resistance contre Ie virus du jaunisse- sensible et Cabot Ie plus sensible aux trois ment des feuilles. Quelque 2000 lignees F4 endroits. Alma etait aussi tolerante que ont ete selectionnees de la meme fa, 58 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 nouvelles ont ete en essai d'observation a calibrage des sols. Seize traitements de trois stations. Nous avons continue d'etudier fertilisants ont ete utilises. Ces experiences l'effet des stations sur la selection naturelle de ont eu lieu dans la region du Lac St-Jean. Les populations massales d'orge. Une etude en rendements en grain ne sont pas encore serre no us a permis de montrer que nous connus sauf pour Ie ble a un endroit. Dans ce pouvons controler Ie tallage de I'orge, de cas les rendements moyens du grain ont varie l'avoine et du ble en changeant la configura- de 2543 a 3273 kg/ha seIon les traitements. tion spaciale du semis. Un semis de quatre En serre, une experience sur l'effet d'une grains a chaque demi-pouce a presque com- fertilisation en N, P, K et S sur la luzerne pletement controle Ie tallage. L'apport de pour deux sols a ete completee. Contraire- nouveau materiel genetique au programme ment a ce qui etait attendu, Ie sol St-Andre a d'amelioration a ete assure par I'introduction donne des rendements beaucoup plus eleves de 13 lignees importees de Chine. Une que Ie sol Kamouraska, ce qui pourrait selection intensive des populations en dis- s'expliquer par la compacite de ce dernier jonction s'est poursuivie. sol, suite aux frequents arrosages. "Les rende- ments moyens pour les cinq coupes ont varie de 62,6 a 78,7 g de matiere seche par pot sur LES SOLS Ie sol St-Andre et de 37,2 a 51,8 g de matiere seche par pot sur Ie sol Kamouraska. Fertilite Matiere organique. Une etude sur les Criteres de classification proprietes de l'humus, dans 19 des principa- Horizons indures. Dans les Appalaches, on les series de sols utilisees pour la grande a etabli des profils de densite partant de la culture au Quebec, a demontre que Ie carbo- surface et descendant, au moins dans un cas, ne sous forme d'humus augmentait de 2% a jusqu'en dessous de I'horizon indure, a 2,40 5% de l'ouest vers l'est du Quebec. La moitie m de profondeur. En general, la densite dans de cet humus est sous forme d'humine et sous la partie superieure des profils est inferieure a forme non hydrolysabIe avec de I'acide. Les I. Dans l'horizon de transition, a environ 50 resultats ont aussi perm is de condure que les cm de profondeur et d'epaisseur variable (10 types pedologiques (GleysoIs ou BrunisoIs et 20 cm), on a mesure des valeurs de densite PodzoIs) et Ie pH n'affectent pas Ies proprie- a de 1,5 a 1,65. Ensuite, les valeurs passaient tes de l'humus dans les horizons Ap, mais rapidement a plus de 1,9 et pouvaient me me que I'accumulation des degres-jours et Ie atteindre 2,05. Cependant, l'examen mor- contenu en argile y jouent un role significatif. phologique du profil montre, en plus des Le pH a ete Ie seul facteur qui affectait de fentes de retrait typiques (gray streaks) des faf,:on significative Ies proprietes de l'humus faces de divage et une structure lamellaire dans les horizons B. Dans tous les sols, qui suggerent qu'en dessous de l'horizon tres l'augmentation du carbone etait reliee avec compact qui forme Ie dessous du fragipan, l'augmentation des acides fuIviques au detri- les fluides sont susceptibles de circuler plus ment des acides humiques. ou moins facilement. II est impossible de On a utilise la datation au radiocarbone faire des mesures de conductivite en place pour mesurer l'age moyen de l'humus des dans ces sols tres pierreux et on a donc sols. II appert que l'humus de I'horizon Ap de preleve une trentaine d'echantillons pour Ia serie Kamouraska, echantillonnee a La travailler en laboratoire. Pocatiere, est moderne. Toutefois, 17% du Dans les basses Laurentides, l'analyse de carbone qui se trouvait sous forme d 'acides quelques profils des series Ste-Agathe et humiques montra 1220 ans et 55% du carbo- Gatineau a perm is de faire des comparaisons ne non hydrolysable a I'acide 1530 ans. Ces avec les horizons indures des Appalaches. Ce premiers resultats indiquent qu'une bonne sont des sols texture plus sableuse mais on proportion de l'humus est tres resistant meme a retrouve cependant plusieurs horizons avec a la surface des sols cultives au Quebec. Une des densites de l'ordre de 2. A premiere vue dizaine d'autres echantillons de sol seront les profils sont plus permeables, mais il y a etudies en 1975. quand meme une limitation pour la penetra- Nutrition minerale. De I'avoine a cinq sites, tion des racines et un debut d'induration. de l'orge a trois sites et du ble a deux sites ont Celui-ci presente plusieurs differences avec Ie ete semes dans Ie cadre d'une etude sur Ie fragipan: absence des fentes de retrait, due a , STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FaY, QUE. 59 la texture, et differences dans les phenomenes sur Ie rendement d'un semis du printemps de dispersion dans I'eau. Par contre, on 1974. retrouve les phenomenes de fragilite et de L'association en rangs alternes de la luzer- durete quand Ie profil seche. ne et du mil a donne des rendements supe- rieurs aux semis en melanges et purs. Le , semis en rangs a ete superieur au semis a la FERME EXPERIMENT ALE volee pour Ie mil et la luzerne en culture pure. LA POCA TlERE Les cereales Plantes fourrageres Fertilisation. Plus les semences etaient Fertilisation. L'azote a augmente Ie rende- tardives, plus bas etaient les taux d'azote et ment du trefle rouge dans cinq cas sur six de phosphore donnant Ie maximum de ren- tandis que celui de la luzerne n'a a peu pres dement de I'orge. Pour Ie ble de printemps, pas ete influence. Le rendement n'a pas I'azote etait legerement Ie plus important sur toujours repondu positivement aux apports deux types de sol. Le phosphore etait impor- de phosphore. Le potassium avait tendance a tant sur Ie trefle de l'Anse. En general, Ie accroltre les rendements de la premiere rendement des cereales a augmente quand Ie coupe plus que ceux de la deuxieme. Le pourcentage d'azote avec la semence aug- placement du phosphore en bandes a cote de mentait. ou avec la semence a augmente les rende- Des experiences sur deux types de sol ont ments; par contre, Ie placement en dessous demontre que Ie cultivar Dorval (sensible au de la semence a ete moins efficace que les BYDV) etait superieur a Pendek (relative- autres placements. ment resistant au BYDV) en rendement en grain. Avec de I'azote, les pucerons (BYDV) Regie de coupe. Le trefle rouge a reagi a la ont diminue Ie rendement plus chez Pendek coupe. Coupe en une seule fois, la meilleure que chez Dorval mais cette diminution etait production est obtenue avec la coupe la plus moindre avec une augmentation de la dose. tardive; coupe plus d'une fois, c'est avec la Avec Ie phosphore, les rendements ont plus combinaison premiere cpupe et la date la diminue chez Dorval que chez Pendek. La plus eloignee de cette premiere coupe que Ie diminution etait beaucoup moins forte pour rendement est Ie plus eleve. La combinaison _ les deux varietes quand Ie phosphore etait d'une premiere coupe avec differents inter- plus eleve. Avec Ie potassium, les rendements valles pour les autres coupes donne toujours ont diminue autant ou plus chez Dorval que un rendement superieur a une seule coupe chez Pendek. peu importe la date de ces coupes. Regie. Sur un retour d'orge, un hersage a La luzerne coupee apres Ie gel a donne un I'automne constitue une bonne. preparation rendement plus faible que celie qui n'a pas du sol pour I'orge la OU il n'y a pas de ete coupee. Le nombre de degres-jours chiendent; lorsque Ie chiendent ou Ie mil ecouJes entre la premiere et la seconde coupe presente des problemes, il est necessaire de influence aussi Ie rendement de l'annee herser au printemps surtout si Ie semis est suivante. retan,ie. Le chiendent (entre I et 25 plants Regie du semis. La luzerne semee en aout par m2) peut causer une reduction de 25% a 1971 a donne un rendement superieur au 70% de la matiere seche de I'orge. On a semis du printemps 1971. Le taux de semis a obtenu une repression de 90% du chiendent influence positivement Ie rendement du semis avec du glyphosate (\,12 a 2,24 kg/ha) du printemps. Semee en aout 1972, la variete applique a !'automne. Alfa a rendu plus que si elle avait ete semee Les pommes de terre au printemps 1972, tandis que I'inverse s'est produit pour Vernal et Narragansett. On note Regie. L'EPTC employe a 8.96 kg/ha n'a peu de difference dans Ie rendement des enraye Ie chiendent qu'a 50% cependant que differentes dates de semis du printemps 1973, l'addition de metribuzine (0,64 kg/ha)'a 3,36 mais en aout il diminue avec Ie retard de la kg/ha d'EPTC a reduit de 88% cette adventi- date de semis et Ie meilleur rendement du ceo Les melanges paraquat-alachlor (0,64 et printemps l'emporte legerement sur Ie meil- 2,24 kg/ha) et paraquat-linuron (0,64 et 1,12 leur d'aout. II y a peu d'influence de la date kg/ha) ont reduit Ie chiendent de 91% et 97% 60 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 respectivement lorsqu'employes a la sortie Regie de la gourgane et de la jeverole. des pommes de terre. Deux buttages, effectues au stade de 10 cm et 25 cm de croissance, de la gourgane Grosse Fh}trissure bacterienne. Le cIimat a ete de Windsor fertilisee a la volee au semis ont moins favorable a l'expression des sympto- contribue a un accroissement significatif de 'la meso Consequemment, les desinfectants ont production de grain sec (4585 kg/ha) en ete plus efficaces pour desinfecter les conte- comparaison de plants buttes une seule fois nants. Les nouveaux cultivars HI-Plains, au stade de 10 cm (4260 kg/ha) et de plants Nook-Sack, Noordeling, Pentland Ace, Wash non buttes fertilises au semis, soit en bande 284-RV et Voran sont apparus sensibles a la (4253 kg/ha), soit a la volee (3864 kg/ha). maladie. Un seul cultivar de Fredericton n'a La feverole Erfordia n'a pas ete influencee pas montre de symptomes apres inoculation par l'un et I'autre traitement et a produit une des racines. Les cultivars tolerants a I'orga- moyenne de 3708 kg/ha. nisme pathogene et inocules en 1973 n'ont On a etudie la reponse de la gourgane pas tous vehicule la maladie au cultivar Windsor et de la feverole Erfordia a la sensible G.M.D. d'ou I'importance de recher- contrainte imposee par la competition entre cher des cultivars vraiment resistants a la les plants en variant l'ecartement des rangs maladie. et, par consequent, la population par unite de surface. La surface de terrain entre les plants a ete Ie facteur critique puisque la diminution FERME EXPERIMENTALE du rendement en grain sec a ete proportion- nelle a I'espace entre les rangs, soit: 5088, NORMANDIN 3200, 2545 et 2007 kg/ha avec la gourgane et 3664, 2480, 1695 et 1385 kg/ha avec la L'espece Vicia laba comme culture feverole, respectivement dans les espace- speciale ments de 17,5, 35, 52,5 et 70 cm. Le poids sec Adaptation de varietes. La production de par plant a ete significativement plus eleve gousses vertes de huit varietes de gourgane avec les plus grands espacements, indiquant (Vicia jaba L. var. major) et trois varietes de ainsi que la croissance vegetative s'est faite feverole (Vicia jaba L. var. minor (Peterm.) au detriment de la formation du grain. Beck.) a ete comparee en parcelles. Les trois L'apport de N aux taux de 28, 56, 84, 112 varietes de gourgane: Vainqueur, Rapide et et 168 kg/ha n'a pas eu d'effet tangible sur la Windsor, ont produit une moyenne de production en' grain sec de la feverole Erfor- 10 170 kg/ha, soit 526 kg de plus que dia qui avait w;u une fumure de base faite Erfordia, la meilleure variete de feverole a de 448 kg/ha de 5-20-20. Le rendement I'essai. moyen a ete de 2168 kg/ha dans une population de 366 300 plants/ha. Dans un autre semis comportant sept varietes de feverole, Erfordia et Hertz Freya Exploitation de la jeverole comme jourra- ont produit une quantite identique de grains ge. Des parcelles de feverole ont ete recoltees secs, soit 5190 kg/ha; Minden, Cote Sud et apres 36, 48 et 55 jours de vegetation et une Kleine Thuringer ont forme un groupe recolte finale a ete faite apres 122 jours dans intermediaire avec une moyenne de 4418 kg/ Ie but de mesurer l'aptitude a la repousse de ha, alors que Ackerperle et Diana n'ont cette plante. La coupe a ete effectuee a rapporte que 3596 kg. environ 8 cm de hauteur. Les resultats obtenus ont demontre qu'il y a peu d'avanta- Ecimage de lajeverole. La variete Erfordia ges a effectuer des prelevements en cours de ecimee apres 81, 88 et 95 jours de vegetation croissance et qu'une seule recolte en fin de n'a pas subi une diminution sensible de la saison fournit Ie double (2400 kg/ha) de la teneur en humidite, plant entier et gousses, matiere seche produite par un regime com- comparativement au temoin intact. portant deux fauches (1190 kg/ha), STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUE. 61 PUBLICAnONS Recherches Jordan, W. A., Lister, E. E., Wauthy, 1. M. et Comeau, J. E., Voluntary roughage intake hy Bolduc, R., Interaction de la lumiere et de la nonpregnant and pregnant or lactating heef temperature sur la structure des ehloroplastes cows, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1973,53:733-738. de ble exposes aux chocs par Ie froid, Proc. Can. Fed. BioI. Soc., 1974, 17: 19. Martel, Y. A. et Paul. E. A., The use of radiocarhon dating of organic matter in the study of soil Colmet-D,aage, F., Gautheyrou, M. et Dc Kimpe, genesis, Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc., 1974,38:501- c., Etude des sols it allophane derives de 506. materiaux volcaniques des Antilles et d'Ameri- que latine it l'aide de techniques de dissolution Martel, Y. A. et Paul, E. A., Effects of cultivation differentielle, Cah. ORSTOM, serie Pedol., on the organic matter of grassland soils as 1973,11:97-120. determined hy fractionation and radiocarhon dating, Can. J. Soil Sci., 1974,54:419-426. Comeau, A., McNeil, J. et Duchesne, R. M., Extension de l'aire de distribution de l'hesperie Pelletier, G. J., Comeau, A. et Couture, L., Interac- europeenne, Thymelicus lineola (Ochs), un tion entre Ie virus de la feuille rouge de defoliateur de la fleole des pres (Ph/eum I'avoine (BYDV), Septoria avenae et Puccinia pratense L.) Ann. Soc. Entomol. Que., 1974, coronata sur Avena sativa, Phytoprotection, 19: 117-118. 1974,55:9-12. Dc Kimpe, C. R. et McKeague, 1. A., Micromor- Richard, C. et Fortin, J. A., Distribution geographi- phological, physical and chemical properties of que, ecologic, physiologic, pathogenecite et a Podzolic soil with a fragipan, Can. J. Soil sporulation du Mycelium radicis atrovirens, Sci" 1974,54:29-38. Phytoprotection, 1974,55:67-88, Deschenes, J. M., Competitive effects of harnyard- Richard, C. et Fortin, J. A" The identification of grass and corn spurry on yields of birdsfoot Mycelium radicis atrovirens (Phialocephala trefoil, Can. J. Plant Sci., 1974, 54:463-470. dimorphospora), Can. J. Bot., 1973, 51:2247- 2248. Deschenes, J. M., Intraspecific competition in expe- Rioux, R., Bandeen, J. D. et Anderson, G. W., rimental populations of weeds, Can. J, Bot., Effects of growth stage on translocation of 1974,52:1415-1421. glyphosate in quack grass, Can. J. Plant Sci., Deschenes, J. M., St-Pierre, C. A. et Laberge, C. H., 1974, 54:397-401. Un systeme de refroidissement du sol en serres Rioux, R., Genereux, H. et Comeau, J. E., L'in- par air force, Can. J. Plant Sci., 1974, 54:443- flue nee des methodes de culture et de desher- 445. bage sur les pommes de terre, Phytoprotection, Gasser, H. et Wille mot, c., Amelioration genetique 1974,55:96. de la luzerne it la resistance au froid apres une Townshend, J. L., Willis, C. B., Potter, J. W. et generation de selection, Can. J. Plant Sci., Santerre, J., Occurrence and population densi- 1974,54:833-34. ties of nematodes associated with forage crops Gorrill, A. D. L., Cameron, C. D. T., Comeau, J. in eastern Canada, Can. Plant Dis. Surv., E., Nicholson, J. W. G. et Larmond, E., 1973,53:131-136. Comparison of milk replacers or ewe milk, with Webber, M. D., McKeague, J. A., Raad, A. T., De or without solid feed, on lamh performance and Kimpe, C. R. et aI., A comparison among nine meat quality, Can. J. Anim. Sci., 1974,54:149- Canadian lahoratories of dithionite-, oxalate-, 155. and pyrophosphate- extractahle Fe and Al in Grenier, G. et Willemot, c., Lipid changes in roots soils, Can. J. Soil Sci., 1974,54:293-298. of frost hardy and less hardy alfalfa varieties Wille mot, c., Stimulation of phospholipid hiosyn- under hardening conditions, Cryobiology., thesis during frost hardening of winter wheat, 1974, 11 :324-331. Plant Physiol., 1974,53: Annu. Suppl. 32. Hill, A., Carde, R. T., Comeau, A., Bode, W. et Williams, R. J. et Hope, H. J., Two freezing Roelofs, W. L., Sex pheromones of tufted resistance mechanisms in Triticum, Plant Phy- apple hud moth (Platynota idaeusalis), Envi- siol., 1974,53: Annu. Suppl. 30. ron. Entomol., 1974,3:249-252. Divers Hope, H. J. et Bullen, M., Protein synthesis in hardening winter wheat, Proc. Soc. Cryobiol., Barnett, G. M., Too much manure-its effects, Can. Londres, aout 1974. Agrie., 1974, 19(3):24-25. 62 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Barnett, G. M., Excess manure can be toxic, Genereux, H., Rapport sur les essais de fraisiers, Macdonald J., 1974,35(4):7-10. pruniers et poiriers et sur la f1etrissure baete- rienne de la pomme de terre, Can. Hortie. Barnett, G. M. et Comeau, J. E., Profit with cereals, Coune., 1973, p. 26. Macdonald J., 1974,35(8):3-6. Hope, H. J., Winter hardiness of plants, Can. Agrie., Belzile, L., Barnett, G. M. et Comeau, J. E., La 1974,19:11-12. luzerne peut-elle beneficier d'une fumure azo- Martel, Y., Le role des engrais chimiques, Actual. tee dans notre region?, Forage Notes, 1973, Agrie., 1974,34:16-18. 18:45-46. Paquin, R., La saison froide et ses degats, Can. Bolduc, R., Methode pour echantillonner les raeines Agrie., 1974, 19:5-6. de plantes en hiver, Ann. ACFAS, 1974, 41:10. Pelletier, G. et Darisse, F., Comparaison des rendements de certaines especes fourrageres Bordeleau, L. M., Inoeuler les ICgumineuses: Est-ee semees seules et en assoeiiltion, Forage Notes, payant?, Actual. Agric., 1974,34(4):10-13. 1973, 18:42-52. Comeau, J. E:, Barnett, G. M. et Rioux, R., Deux Pelletier, G. et Darisse, F., Faut-il semer des tonnes de grain au Quebec? Jamaisry La semai- especes seules ou des melanges pour la produc- ne du eultivateur 1973. Publ. 47-QA-38-AI-1, tion de foin et d'ensilage, Can. Agric., 1974, M.R.Q. 1974, pp. 121-136. 19( I):30-32. Pelletier, G. J., Rapport d'enqucte pathologique - Comeau, J. E., Barnett, G. M. et Rioux, R., A Parcelles d'essais de varietes de cereales au reprieve for cereals in Quebec, Can. Agric., Quebec. Cons. Prod. veg. Que., 1974, pp. 1974, 19(1 ):6-9. 1-21. Comeau, J. E., Northern Agriculture-Northern Richard, c., A guide to graduate students and Ontario and Quebec, Agrologist, 1974, graduate studies in botany in Canada, Bull. 3(6): 18-22. Assoc. Bot. Can., 1974,7:4-17. Comeau, A. et Rochat, E., Des proteines a bon Rioux, R., Action du sencor sur Ie pied-de-coqet marehe, Actual. Agrie., 1974,34: 19. les pommes de terre Kennebec, Can. Hortic. Counc~ 1973,p.27. De Kimpe, C. R. et McKeague, J. A., Drainage vs Rioux, R., Dix rapports sur des essais de differents egouttement, Actual. Agrie., 1974,34:23-25. herbicides sur plusieurs mauvaises herbes et Deschenes, J. M., Les essais de melanges au plantes eultivees, Res. Rep. Can. Weed Com., Quebec. Rapport presente au Comite des 1974, pp. 15-16,30-32,292 et 349. herbages, Cons. Prod. veg. Que, mars 1974, Rioux, R. et Bandeen, J. D., Factors influencing pp.I-15. quack-grass control by glyphosate, Minutes of Can. Weed Com. (East.Sect.), 1973, pp. 18-19. Dubuc, J. P. (cd.), Rapport d'amelioration de l'avoine, Groupe du Quebec, 1974, nO 17, p. Rioux, R., Genereux, H. et Comeau, J. E., Metho- 55. des de culture et herbicides sur les pommes de terre. Can. Hortic. Coune., 1973, p. 27. Gagnon, c., Genest, J. et Dionne, J. L., La brGlure septentrionale du maYs, La Terre de Chez St-Pierre, C. A. (cd.), Rapport sur l'amelioration de Nous, 1974,44(9):8. I'orge, Groupe du Quebec, 1974, nO 17. St-Pierre, C. A. et Venne, P., Deux cent quatre- Genereux, H., Disinfection of knives and wooden vingt-dix-huit fois moins de mauvaises herbes boxes, Pestic. Res. Rep., 1973, p. 313. dans la semence certifiee, Actual. Agric., 1974, 34: 16-17. Genereux, H. (cd.), Rapport annuel des essais regionaux de pommes de terre au Quebec, St-Pierre, J. c., Breeding grasses for efficiency of 1973, pp. 1-94. nitrogen use, Forage Notes, 1974, 19:5-15. STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FaY. QUE. 63 Station de Recherches Saint-Jean, Quebec CADRES PROFESSION NELS J. J. JASMIN, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Directeur Y. BONNEAU (Mme) Services administratifs Cultures fruitieres R. O. PARADIS, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section; ecologie de la faune entomologique A. BELANGER, B.Sc., Ph.D. Chimie des pesticides l L. BERARD (Mile), B.Sc., M.Sc. Physiologie de la senescence L. J. COULOMBE, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Phytopathologie 2 R. L. GRANGER , B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc. Physiologie M. LAREAU, B.Sc. (Agr.) Regie des cultures B. PARENT, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Ecologie et repression des acariens et des homopteres I. RIVARD, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Ecologie et repression des insectes G. L. ROUSSELLE, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique Cultures maraicheres E. J. HOGUE, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chef de la section; physiologie et malherbologie R. BERNIER, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.) Regie des cultures M. S. CHIANG, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetique R. CRETE, L.S.A., M.Sc. Phytopathologie H. A. HAMILTON, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Chimie des sols organiques M. HUDON, B.S.A., M.Sc. Ecologie et repression des insectes du mars K. A. MACMILLAN, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutrition des plantes P. MARTEL, B.A., B.Sc., Ph.D. Toxicologie J. MILLETTE, B.Sc. (Agr. Eng.), M.Sc. Agro- hydrologie 3 T. C. VRAIN , M.B.Y., D.E.A. Nematologie STATION DE RECHERCHES,SAINT-JEAN,QUE. 65 SCIENTIFIQUE INVITEE B. CHIANG (Mme), B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cytogenetique Bourse de recherche post-doctorale MINISTERE DE L'AGRICULTURE DU QUEBEC Protection des vergers M. DESSUREAULT,B.Sc. app., M.Sc., Ph.D. Phytopa thoIogie M. MAILLOUX, B.S.A., M.Sc. Entomologie ~En conge d'etude iI l'Universite de Guelph, Guelph, Ont. Echange pour une periode d'un an avec Ie Dr J. L. Mason de la Station de Recherches, Agriculture 3 Canada, Summerland. C..B. En conge d'etude iI I'Universite North Carolina Slate, Raleigh, N.C. 66 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION La Station de recherches de Saint-Jean se specialise dans les domaines des productions fruitieres et legumieres. Nous fournissons presentement un effort special pour resoudre les problemes economiques de la production de la pomme et essayons d'augmenter la rentabilite des cultures maraicheres en sol organique tout en prevenant, Ie plus possible, I'affaissement de ces sols. Ce rapport contient Ie resultat sommaire de nos recherches. On peut obtenir des exemplaires des publications mentionnees a la fin de ce rapport ou des renseignements additionnels en adressant sa demande directement aux chercheurs ou a la Station, comme suit: Station de recherches, Agriculture Canada, Casier postal 457, Saint-Jean, Quebec J3B 6Z8. J. J. Jasmin Directeur POMME integree. Par ailleurs, carbophenothion-huile s'est avere aussi efficace qu'ethion-huile en Entomologie traitement preventif. Dans nos essais de Mouche de la pomme. L'emergence des fumigation sur des pommes destinees a adultes de Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh), qui l'exportation, Ie melange de dibromoethane a debute Ie premier juillet et s'est terminee et de bromure de methyle detruisit presque vers la fin d'aout, a ete un peu moins 100% des oeufs. abondante qu'en 1973. Phytopathologie Punaise terne. Les degiits causes par Lygus lineolaris (P. de B.) ont ete un peu moins Tavelure du pommier. Dix applications eleves qu'en 1973. Malgre cela, deux applica- regulieres de l'un ou I'autre des produits tions de I'un ou l'autre des insecticides DDT, benomyle, thiophanate de methyle, dodine et Dikar ont contr61e la tavelure, Venturia dimethoate, trichlorfon, amidophos, methi- dathion, formetanate, azinphos-methyl, inaequalis (Cke.) Wint., dans une proportion de 93% a 97%. Les nouveaux produits teis phosmet et leptophos n 'ont pas reussi a eli miner completement les dommages. que cypendazole, DPX-164 (DuPont of Ca- nada Ltd.) et Ie melange benomyle-manebe Charanqon de la prune. Deux applications ont egalement contr6le la maladie dans une de l'un ou l'autre des produits methidathion, proportion de 93% a 98%. D'autre part, les dialifos, azinphos-methyl, leptophos et para- parcelles traitees avec une dose massive de thion-methyl ont reprime Conotrachelus .ne- captafol ont donne autant de fruits sains nuphar (Hbst.) dans une proportion de 97% a qu'une parcelle temoin traitee a la dodine. 99%. Genetique Attraction sexuelle. Des pheromones sex- uelles synthetiques, employees pour determi- Selection et cultivars de pommiers. Les ner l'opportunite d'appliquer des traitements pommiers a lambourdes endommages par Ie insecticides, ont permis d'evaluer les popula- froid sont surtout ceux greffes sur semis de tions de la pyrale de la pomme, Carpocapsa Delicieuse et de Mcintosh. Le cultivar pomonella (L.), de la tordeuse a ban des «Macspur» demeure plus precoce et plus rouges, Argyrotaenia velutinana (Wlk.), de la productif que plusieurs autres selections. tordeuse a bandes obliques, Choristoneura Developpement de porte-greffes. Le systeme rosaceana (Harr.) et de la petite pyrale de la radiculaire des porte-greffes M.7, MA, pomme, Grapholitha prunivora (Walsh). MM.I06, MM.IIl et M.26 a ete fortement Tetranyque rouge du pommier. Les fongici- endommage lors d 'un hiver rigoureux sans des benomyle et Dikar (Rohm & Haas Inc.), neige. Les porte-greffes 0-3, 0-5, 0-8, 0-12, tout en reprimant la tavelure, timent en echec MA et M.26 favorisent une mise a fruit les populations de Panonychus ulmi (Koch) rapide. D'autre part, 0-3 repond mieux au jusqu'a la mi-ete, favorisant ainsi une lutte bouturage des racines que M.7 et Malus STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUE. 67 robusta 5; un pretraitement de 15 jours sous specialement contre cette maladie. Les appli- brouillard favorise I'enracinement. cations, meme chez les cultivars les plus sensibles, comme la Earlidawn, n'ont pas Regie des pommeraies suscite d'augmentation significative dans les Regulateurs de croissance. Des traitements rendements. a l'ethephon ont augmente de 20% a 25% Ie Genetique rendement de la Melba. De plus, des applica- tions de ce produit a 100 et 200 ppm avec Evaluation des cultivars et selections de NAA et 2,4,5-TP a 20 ppm, 2 semaines avant jraisiers. Les dix meilleurs cultivars et selec- la 'date normale de cueillette, ont augmente tions a Freligbsburg (Que.) ont ete dans considerablement la coloration des Melba et I'ordre decroissant: Catskill, Redgauntlet, avance la cueillette de 8 a 10 jours. Senga Sengana, K-65-72, K-64-403, K-68- 408, Veestar, Vibrant, Bounty et Redchief. A Herbicides. Excepte pour Ie dichlobenil, les La Pocatiere (Que.), les dix meilleurs dans Ie traitements du printemps furent plus efficaces meme ordre ont ete: K-64-436, K-68-108, que ceux d'automne; dichlobenil, terbacil et Guardsman, Redcoat, Sparkle, K-64-403, metribuzin ont facilement detruit to ute la Vibrant, Earlidawn, Veestar et Cavalier. vegetation. Atomiseurs. Les pulverisations concentrees a I'aide d'atomiseurs a prise de pouvoir au FRAMBOISE tracteur et utilises a vitesse reduite ont donne Entomologie des resuItats comparables a celles appliquees au moyen d'un pulverisateur conventionnel. Ecologie. L'etude de la faune dans les Des essais preliminaires ont demontre que les framboisieres a montre que les insectes les doses de fongicides a I'acre pourraient etre plus ravageurs ont ete la punaise terne, les diminuees avec des concentrations de 15 X et nitidules, Carpophilus dimidiatus (F.) et, a la plus. fin de la recolte, I'anneleur du framboisier, Oberea bimaculata (Oliv.) et les cynipes (Cynipidae) qui causerent des galles sur la FRAISE variete Newburg. Entomologie Phytopathologie Ecologie. L'etude de la faune des fraisieres Blanc du jramboisier. Des essais sur la s'est poursuivie au cours de 1974. Les insec- repression du blanc du framboisier ont tes qui ont cause les dommages les plus demontre qu'il n'etait pas avantageux de considerables sont la punaise terne, I'antho- traiter specifiquement contre cette maladie. nome de la fleur du fraisier, Anthonomus Les traitements avec des mildioucides n 'ont signatus Say, la chrysomele rhizophage du pas contribue a augmenter les rendements fraisier, Paria jragariae Wilcox, la tordeuse d'une fa~on significative meme chez les du fraisier, Ancylis comptana jragariae (W. cultivars sensibles comme la Carnival. & R.) et I'altise a tete rouge, Systena jrontalis (F.). MAIS" Repression. Des essais de repression de la punaise terne dans deux localites differentes Genetique du sud-ouest du Quebec ont montre que dans Resistance a la pyrale du maYs. Sous un endroit Ie methidathion s'est avere Ie infestations naturelles et artificielles d'Ostri- meilleur insecticide tandis que dans l'autre Ie nia nubilalis (Hbn.), 132 bybrides et 131 trichlorfon s'est classe Ie produit Ie plus lignees de maYs grain provenant de 21 centres efficace. de mars a travers Ie monde ont fait I'objet d 'etudes suivies quant a leur maturite, leur Phytopathologie sensibilite aux pontes de l'insecte, leur tole- Blanc du jraisier. La fin d'une serie d'es- rance ou resistance a la pyrale, ainsi qu'a leur sais de fongicides pour. Ie traitement specifi- rendement. Bien que l'infestation artificielle que du blanc du fraisier, Sphaerotheca fut reduite, 60% des plantes ont demontre humuli (DC) Burr., a demontre qu'il n'est une certaine resistance (antibiose) aux pre- pas economique de pratiquer des traitements mieres attaques des jeunes cbenilles, mais 68 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 plus tard a l'automne, 66% demontraient une CAROTTE sensibilite a l'insecte. PresentemeI).l, Ie meil- leur materiel genetique trouve tres resistant a Nematologie la pyrale provient de varietes synthetiques developpees en Iowa et a la Station de Des six fumigants de sol utilises au prin- recherches d'Ottawa. En fait, dans Ie cadre temps dans la culture de la carotte, Ie D-D d'une cooperation internationale en vue de (Shell Canada Ltd.), 402 litres/ha, Ie Telone l'amelioration genetique du maYs pour une C (Dow Chemical of Canada Ltd.), 268 plus grande resistance a la pyrale, 2 I lignees litres/ha et Ie Vorl ex (Morton Chemical Co.), et 43 hybrides simples furent mis a I'essai 134 litres/ha ont sensiblement reduit Ie dans 14 pays. La lignee canadienne C022 I nom.bre de nematodes dans Ie sol apres Ie s'est particulierement revelee resistante a la traitement et, de plus, ils ont donne respecti- vement, 35,5, 32, I, 27,3 t/ha de carottes pyrale et CO 114, en croisement avec des vendables et seulement 3,4%, 6,2% et 9,8% lignees hongroises de me me maturite, s'est de carottes avec nodosites, comparativement montree tres resist ante a la pyrale. au temoin, non traite, 8,0 t/ha et 63,4%. Lutte chimique Production de mini-carottes en sol organique Pyrale du mai:~.Les essais de lutte chimi- Etude varifJtale. Les cultivars Amstel, que contre la pyrale, en plein champ sur maYs AM.C.A, Baby Finger, Amsterdam AB.K., sucre et maYsgrain, ont com porte l'evaluation Amsterdam Mini-Cor, Little Finger et Mini d'insecticides granules, tels que Ie chlorfen- Pak furent semes avec un semoir a cone (trois vinphos, fonofos, triazophos, carbofuran, rangs equidistants de 5 cm) a raison de 1300 2 diazinon, leptophos, CME 74210, CME plants I m , les 4 et 18 juin et Ie 15 j uillet. A la 74200 (EM Laboratories, Inc.), N-N-2596 premiere recolte (77 jours), Ie rendement (Stauffer Chemical Co.), Bacillus thuringien- moyen total fut de 22,7 t/ha avec un classe- sis Berliner et d'insecticides en pul verisa tion, ment de 56% nO I, 23% jumbo et 21 % rebut. Ie carbaryl et Ie carbofuran, tous deux La deuxieme recolte (70 jours) a donne 16,0 presentement homologues au Canada contre t/ha dont 42% nO I, 46% jumbo et 12% la pyrale. Seulement N-2596 a donne de rebut. Le troisieme semis fut detruit a 90% bons resultats quant au nombre d 'epis venda- par les inondations et la grele en juillet. La bles a l'etat frais et ce produit ainsi que Ie plupart des varietes ont une tres belle forme chlorfenvinphos ont sensiblement reduit les pour l'emballage en cello sauf Mini Pak dont populations larvaires dans les plantes au Ie diametre de la couronne (22,6 mm) moment de la recolte de maYs sucre. Quatorze depasse les normes et Amsterdam AB.K. qui insecticides furent testes en laboratoire contre est trop longue (99 mm). A la recolte, la des larves de la pyrale; FMC 33297 (FMC of hauteur moyenne du feuillage est de 25 cm Canada Limited), chlorpyrifos, carbaryl et pour toutes les varietes, sauf Mini Pak qui DDT ont donne de bons resultats contre les domine avec 40 cm. Afin d'augmenter Ie chenilles du premier age, mais seulement volume de nO I a 16 ou 18 t/ha, on devra FMC 33297 s'est avere efficace contre les ameliorer la technique des semis (densite et larves du troisieme age ou plus agees. espacement). Densite de semis. Cette phase du travail Fertilite des sols comprend les memes cultivars qu'a la section ci-haut mentionnee, mais semes a I'aide d'un semoir Planet Jr modifie pour donner une Reponse du mai:~.were au phosphore rema- bande de cinq rangs equidistants de 2,5 cm. nent dans Ie sol. Les rendements les plus En utilisant ]'ouverture nO 9 (taux de semis eleves d'epis vendables ont ete obtenus 7,25 kg/ha), on obtient une augmentation du l'annee de I'application du phosphore. Bien rendement total et vendable d'environ 10% que cet element possede un fort pouvoir respectivement et une reduction de 50% du remanent dans Ie sol apres quelques annees volume jumbo. Au taux de semis de 10,2 kgl de culture, ceci ne semble pas etre Ie cas pour ha, on note une reduction du rendement total Ie maYs sucre produit sur un loam argileux de de 25% pour les varietes Amstel et Baby St-Blaise. Finger, une legere reduction dans la classe STATION DE RECHERCHES. SAINT.JEAN. QUE. 69 jumbo, mais une augmentation du pourcen- Evaluation des varietes ~age de rebut. Avec I'ouverture nO 10, il Y a Dix-huit varietes traitees au Pro-Gro fu- reduction de la longueur moyenne des raci- rent semees au semoir de precision Stanhay a nes tandis que la couronne atteint Ie diametre raison de 66 graines/metre lineaire. Le ideal de 15,3 mm. Aftn de remedier au taux pourcentage moyen de survie a 6 semaines eleve de rebut avec cette methode, on etudie- est de 44% mais tombe a 33% a Ia recolte ra l'espacement des rangs a 30 cm avec un (120 jours). La variete temoin Autumn Spice taux de semis de 7,25 kg/ha. est tres sensible aux fluctuations climatiques et donne Ie plus faible rendement. Certains hybrides relativement nouveaux, tels que OIGNON Bronze Age, Fawn Preview et Ontario L, ont Phytopa thologie un rendement eleve et un faible pourcentage (15%) de rebut. Le rendement total moyen Evaluation des pertes causees par Ie char- fut de 16,5 t/ha reparti comme suit: 58% nO bon et la fonte des semis - Epidemiologie et 1,21 % nO 2 et 21 % rebut. repression. Le Pro-Gro 80D (UniRoyal Che- Parmi les 36 cultivars dans l'essai d'intro- mical Co.) a 25 g/kg, seul ou en melange duction, on releve les points suivants: Spar- avec les fongicides Derosal (Hoechst Chemi- tan Sleeper, un nouvel hybride du Michigan, cals), Truban (Mallinckrodt Chemical avec 41,4 t/ha est superieur de 36% a D.Y. Works) et chloroneb a donne une bonne Globe, Trapp # 8 et Spartan Banner; Ruby, repression du charbon de l'oignon, Urocystis une variete rouge a retenir, donne un rende- magica Pass. ap. ThUrn (5% a 10%). Par ment total de 38,4 t/ha avec 88% nO I et 5% contre, les meme fongicides, sans Ie Pro-Gro, rebut. n'assurent pas une repression adequate du charbon (:f: 50%). Une epreuve de resistance au charbon de CHOU I'oignon de 30 cultivars semes dans un sol Genetique organique inocule avec une concentration de 10 spores/kg de sol sec a donne les resultats Une epreuve de resistance a la hernie, race suivants: six cultivars avaient de 10% a 15% 6, fut realisee en plein champ avec huit de charbon; 13 avaient de 15, I% a 20% de lignees issues d 'un croisement d 'une lignee charbon; 9 avaient de 20, I a 25% de charbon autofertile x 8-41. Les Iignees 74-07 et 74- et 2 de 25, I% a 30% de charbon. II semble 08 se sont montrees resistantes. L'indice qu'aucun cultivar ne soit resistant mais que pathologique etail de 1,2 et 4,0 certains aient plus de tolerance que d'autres. respectivement. L'essai a aussi demontre que J'infection est proportionnelle a la concentration de spores Phytopathologie dans Ie sol. A la ferme de L'Acadie (Que), deux grandes parcelles furent inoculees artiftciel- Malherbologie lement avec une forte concentration de La repression des mauvaises herbes de spores de hernie, Plasmodiophora brassicae I'oignon, au moyen des herbicides homolo- Wor.: l'une avec la race 6, I'autre avec la race gues, s'est averee inadequate meme en 2. L'inoculation fut reussie it 95%. Ces utilisant des, programmes d'applications. parcelles serviront dans Ie fGtur aux epreuves Certaines combinaisons comprenaient jus- de resistance des nouvelles lignees. qu'a trois produits dilferents et huit applica- tions. Dans un autre essai, cependant, Ie nouvel herbicide oxadiazon, applique a trois LAITUE reprises au taux de 0,56 kg/ha ou deux fois a Rendements par rapport it varietes, semis 0,84 kg/ha, a fourni un tres bon contr61e des de precision et maladies mauvaises herbes. Cet herbicide cause Ufie legere phytotoxicite, surtout a un taux eleve. Trois semis de precision avec de la semen- L'herbicide apparait donc prometteur surtout ce enrobee des varietes Minetto, Ithaca, a un faible dosage, soit seul ou en melange Fulton, Fairton et Imperial 456 et aux avec d 'autres produits et a des applications distances entre les plants de 25 et 30 cm pour repetees. la Minetto et de 30 et 36 cm pour les autres 70 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 varietes n'ont pas donne les resultats escomp- percolation trop bas ne permet pas la pene- tes a cause de conditions climatiques defavo- tration de cet exces d'eau dans Ie sol. rabies au cours de la saison 1974. La germi- Production de CO , Dans des conditions de nation du premier semis a varie de 85% 2 a laboratoire, la respiration d'un sol organique 68%, tandis que celIe du deuxieme semis a incube a 200% d'humidite demontre qu'il ete en moyenne de 22% inferieure. L'applica- faudrait 90 ans pour perdre 453,6 t de sol tion d'un engrais chimique commercial aug- organique' par simple oxydation. mente les rendements mais seul l'azote est responsabl~ de cette augmentation. Remanence et disponibilite du potassium Le melange sulfaIIate-paraquat utilise De tous les elements nutritifs necessaires pour la destruction des mauvaises herbes, a la production des legumes en sol organique, selon la methode des semis diffhes, donne de Ie potassium est Ie premier manquer dans bons resultats et facilite les sarclages ma- a des conditions de culture intensive, Le potas- nuels. Des six fumigants de sol utilises pour sium residuel n'est pas absorbe par la carotte, Ie contr61e des nematodes dans la culture de ce qui indiquerait qu'il est, soit non assimila- la laitue, Ie Telone C, 268 Iitres/ha, a donne ble, soit lave, ou, peut-etre un peu des deux. les meilleurs resultats. Une enquete menee chez 10 producteurs a Transformation de I'azote demontre que les pertes dues aux maladies et autres facteurs s'elevent a 20% (pourriture Des sols organiques exposes a differents regimes de culture et de fumure furent basale, 7%;jaunisse, affaissement sclerotique, echantillonnes tous les 20 cm sur une mosalque, 6%; pommes moIles, etc., 7%). On a a observe Ie puceron de la racine, Pemphigus profondeur totale de 100 cm durant la saison de croissance. A chaque endroit, Ie NH -N bursarius (L.), dans six champs et la nodosite, 4 Meloidogyne hapla Chitwood, dans quatre etait present en plus grande quantite que Ie champs sur 10. N03-N et restait stable durant toute la saison, NOrN a atteint un maximum en aout puis a decru. L'azote inorganique dans Ie sol GESTION DES SOLS n'a jamais depasse 100 ppm de N, ce qui ORGANIQUES suggere fortement Ie besoin d'un apport de fumure azotee pour permettre une recolte En 1974, on a entrepris des recherches maximale. portant sur la gestion et la preservation des sols organiques utilises a la production Les antiparasitaires en sol organique maralchere. Dans les conditions normales de champ, Ie linuron applique la volee au taux de 4,48 Atraissement des sols organiques a kg/ha a ete retrouve presque au complet par Facteurs hydrologiques. La ferme experi- nos analyses apres un mois, Trois mois apres mentale de Ste-Clothilde, Quebec fut arpen- I'application, les racines ainsi que les feuilles tee en 1942. Apres 32 ans, un arpentage de carottes ne contiennent aucune trace de systematique du terrain a perm is de determi- linuron, Les possibilites de metabolites a ner un affaissement maximal de 0,787 m I'interieur des tissus de la carotte sont a dans certains cas. Des puits d'observations I'etude, furent instaIIes dans Ie but de suivre les L'effet du linuron, du carbofuran, du mouvements de la table d'eau et il semble fonofos et du paraquat sur Ja microfaune du probable que Ie niveau trop bas de cette table sol a ete etudie, Un effet synergetique du serait l'une des causes principales de l'affais- linuron et du carbofuran sur la microfaune sement des sols. L'erosion de ces sols, qui ont demande des etudes plus poussees. Les une tres faible pente, ainsi que des inonda- transformations d 'azote et de phosphore, tions locales sont cependant possibles durant influencees par la microfaune, ont necessaire- de fortes precipitations lorsque Ie taux de ment f1uctuesensiblement. STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUE. 71 PUBLICA nONS Recherches Granger, R. L. et Hogue, E. 1., Propagating apple rootstocks by root cuttings Bull. Tech., mars Chiang, M. S., Cabbage pollen germination and 1974,6 pp. longevity, Euphytica, 1974,23:579-584. Granger, R. L., Rousselle, G. et Lareau, M., Chiang, M. S. et Hudon, M., Genetic studies of L'Ottawa 3, Ie MaIling 9 et Ie Mailing 26 en resistance to the European corn borer in grain tant que porte-grelfes et tigcs intermediaires corn, Genetics, 1973, 74:s46. de pommier, Quebec Hortic., 1974, 14:12- Coulombe, L. J., Repression chimique en serre de la 13&16. racine noire de la betterave sucricre, Phytopro- tection, 1974,55:47-54. Hergert, G. B. et Bernier, R., Mccanisation de la production des mini-carottes, Bull. Tech. 7302- Crete, R., Voisey, P. W., Bernier, R. et Larmond, 7, Servo Rech. Tech., 1974, II pp. E., A new technique for evaluating changes in onion firmness during storage and a comparison Hergert, G. B. et Jasmin, 1. J., Machine necessaire a with sensory measurements, HortScience, 1974, la production de gourganes horticolcs pour la 9:223-225. transformation, Bull. Tech. 7302-3, Servo Rech. Tech., 1973, 6 pp. Hogue, E. J. et Heeney, H. B., Ethephon and high density plantings increase yield of pickling Hogue, E. J. et Martin, P., Des tomates hiltives cucumbers, HortScience, 1974,9:72-74. pour Ie marehe frais, Quebec Hortic. 1974, 14: 13-14. Martel, P. et Hudon, M., Les insectes des cultures maraichcres dans Ie sud-ouest du Quebec en Hudon, M., A l'agriculteur de prendre ses responsa- 1973, Ann. Soc. Entomol. Que., 1974, 19:110- bilites! Propos d'un scientifique sur la produc- 1'2. tion du ma'is-grain au Qucbec et sur ses producteurs, Bull. des Agriculteurs, dccembre Paradis, R. 0., Parent, B., Rivard, 1. et Mailloux, 1974, pp. 16&18. M., Les ravageurs des cultures fruiticres dans Ie sud-ouest de Quebec en 1973, Ann. Soc. Jasmin, 1. J., La technologic agricole au cours de la Entomol. Que., 1974, 19: 113-114. prochaine dccennie, Quebec Hortic., 1974, Rivard, 1., Faune carabique d'un verger expcrimen- 14:18&20. tal, Phytoprotection, 1974,55:55-63. Jasmin, J. J., L'entreposage des legumes, Associa- Rivard, 1. et Mailloux, M., Grapholitha prunivora tion des jardiniers-maraichers de la region de (Walsh) (Lepidoptcres: Olethreutidae) dans Montreal, 3e revue annu., novembre 1974, p. les pommeraies du sud-ouest du Quebec, 68. Phytoprotection, 1974,55:29-32. Lafrance, J. et Paradis, R. 0., Insectes collectionncs Spangelo, L. P. S., Fejer, S. 0., Leuty, S. J. et dans la region des sols organiques de Ste- Granger, R. L., Ottawa 3 clonal apple roots- Clothilde, au sud-ouest du Qucbec, de 1965 a tock, Can. J. Plant Sci., 1974,54:601-603. 1969, Minist. Agrie. Can., stn. de rech., Saint- Jean, Que., 1974,62 pp. Voisey, P. W. et Crete, R., A technique for establi- shing instrumental conditions for measuring Millette, J., Etudes agro-hydrologiques des sols food firmness to simulate consumer evaluations, organiq ues, Association des jardiniers mara!- J. Texture Stud., 1973,4:371-377. chers de la rcgion de Montrcal. 3e revue annu., novembre 1974, p. 38. Voisey, P. W., Buckley, D. J. et Crete, R., A system for recording deformations in texture tests, J. Paradis, R. 0., Etude biographique et bibliographi- Texture Stud., 1974,5:61-75. que de William Couper, membre fondateur et premier president de la Societe entomologique Divers du Quebec, Ann. Soc. Entomol. Que., 1974, Bernier, R., Du nouveau la mini-carotte, Quebec 19:4-15. Hortic., 1974, 14: 10. Paradis, R. 0., Notice biographique: Gerard Coulombe, L. J., La rcpression de la tavclure peut Rioux, Prcsident de la Societc entomologique couter moins cher, Bull. des Agriculteurs, avril du Quebec, 1973-1974, Ann. Soc. Entomol. 1974, pp. 12-13, 130. Que., 1974, 19:97-99. Coulombe, L. J., Un mode pratique de prevention Paradis, R. 0., Blais, J.-R. et Cartier, J.-J., Remise de la mosalque sur lcs plants de tomates au des decorations au Dr G. Maheux, au Dr L. cours du repiquage ou de la transplantation, Daviault et a M. J.-B. Maltais, Ann. Soc. Qucbec Hortic., 1974. 14:8-9. Entomol. Que., 1974, 19:28-34. 72 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Delhi, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF L. S. VICKERY, B.S.A., M.S. Director Tobacco H. H. CHENG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Entomology W. A. COURT, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chemistry J. M. ELLIOT, B.S.A., M.S.A. Soil science S. K. GAYED, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology R. S. PANDEYA, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetics and plant breeding N. RosA, B.Sc., PhD. Plant physiology E. K. WALKER, B.S.A., M.S. Plant science F. H. WHITE, B.Sc., M.Sc. Genetics and plant breeding B. F. ZILKEY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant physiology EXTENSION SERVICES1 M. C. WATSON, B.S.A. Tobacco N. W: SHEIDOW, B.Sc. Tobacco Iprovided by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. RESEARCHSTATION,DELHI, ONT. 73 INTRODUCTION The Research Station at Delhi is located in the heart of the largest flue-cured tobacco area in Ontario, where over 72% of the crop is grown within a radius of 32 km (20 miles). Emphasis is placed on the production and health programs, done in cooperation with the Department of National Health and Welfare and the Universities of Guelph, Waterloo, and Kentucky. This report summarizes the main accomplishments of 1974. Detailed information may be obtained from individual scientists. Correspondence should be addressed to: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Delhi, Ont. N4B 2W9. L. S. Vickery Director SOIL SCIENCE dichloropropene, chloropicrin, and Vorlex. Oxamyl and ethoprophos were the nonfumi- Potassium Depletion gants investigated. Seven consecutive crops of flue-cured tobacco were grown in a Fox loamy sand PLANT SCIENCE with K omitted from the fertilizer. The level of K in the soil was less than half of that in Time of Topping soil fertilized with K at 17.8 kg/ha. Omission of from the fertilizer lowered the K in the K Topping during the pre bud and bud stages leaves but increased P, Ca, and Mg. Lamina of growth gave higher yields over 3 yr than weight, particularly of leaves from the mid- did topping at both the normal stage, when dle and lower stalk positions, was high. three flowers are fully open, and the late Cigarettes from K-depleted tobacco had stage. Levels of total alkaloids in leaves and poor burning qualities, but total particulate in smoke were highest when topping was matter in the smoke was unaffected. Low done during the pre bud and bud stages and concentrations of total alkaloids were found lowest when the tobacco was not topped. in these leaves, but levels found in the smoke Topping during the pre bud stage tended to were similar to those of K-fertilized tobacco. give the highest levels of total particulate matter in the smoke. Side-dressing Application of fertilizer (3-9-21 or 3-16-18 Ethephon analysis) at 336 kg/ha 3-4 wk after the tobacco plants were transplanted increased Acceleration of ripening upon application the annual yield from 1970 to 1974 by 56- of ethephon increased with age and maturity 258 kg/ha; the greatest response to treat- of the leaves. Maximum response occurred ment was in 1972 when excessive rainfall in when the chemical was applied after the time June leached soil nutrients from the root of normal harvest. Response also increased zone. with rate of application, up to 150 mg per plant. Immature upper leaves were unaf- Nematocides fected by ethephon. Relatively ripe upper Control of the root-lesion nematode Praty- leaves were affected by treatment. When lenchus penetrans (Cobb) Filipjev & Stekh. ip these leaves were cured, the extent of quality soil in which tobacco had been recently deterioration was less than that of treated transplanted was better with fumigants than leaves from the middle and lower stalk with nonfumigants. Both types of nemato- positions. Ethephon was effective in produc- cides produced similar control in the roots. ing desirable overripe ness in leaves of dense Final yields of flue-cured tobacco could not populations designated for whole-plant har- be correlated with the degree of control of P. vest within 4 days of application. However, penetrans at anyone time during the growing leaf drop became increasingly pronounced season. The fumigants studied were D-D, when harvest was delayed beyond 4 days. 74 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 , j Culture for Whole-plant Harvest The effects of surfactant applied at these levels without the active ingredient were Yield increased with population among identical with those of water. Total alkaloids, densities of 16 400, 27 000, 40 400, 60 800, reducing sugars, lamina weight, filling value, and 80900 plants/ha (6,650,10,917,16,376, and yield were similar. The effects of com- 24,624 and 32,750 plants/ac). Levels of mercial formulations were similar to those of starch varied little with population: 3-4% the experimental formulations that contained starch was measured in whole plants com- l1-decanol com bined with varying levels of pared with about 1.5% in whole leaves or in surfactant. The use of sucker-control chemi- stalks only. Yield also increased with each cals resulted in highly significant increases in 672-kg increment of fertilizer broadcast reducing sugars, lamina weight, and yields. between 1008 and 2352 kg/ha. Measured The study to date indicates that Tween 80, a brightness of chopped whole plant, particu- common surfactant used in commercial larly of plants fertilized at 1008 kg/ha, was sucker-control formulations, does not ad- similar to that of high-quality grades of versely affect the physiology of tobacco or whole leaves. reduce the quality of the cured lamina. Harvesting and Curing of Whole Plants Leaf Ripeness A harvesting-curing-handling system for The effects of the degree of leaf ripeness whole plants was developed in conjunction over a 2-wk harvest period were studied. For with the Engineering Research Service. A the variety Delhi 34, increases with ripeness forage harvester was modified and boxes in 3-yr averages for yield, return index, were designed for collecting and curing lamina weight, and reducing sugars were chopped material. Bulk kilns were adapted highly significant. Highly significant de- for curing, and an apparatus was designed to creases were observed in averages for filling unload the boxes. value, total nitrogen, and total chlorophyll. The following factors were unaffected by the degree of leaf ripeness: cured-leaf grade PLANT PHYSIOLOGY index, total alkaloids, and lignin; smoke tar, DDT nicotine, and tar-to-nicotine ratio; and cig- arette puff number, weight, and pressure Levels of DDT in cured tobacco were drop. For the variety Virginia 115, increases monitored on 32 farms in the tobacco- with ripeness in 2-yr averages for yield, growing region. The study was started in return index, lamina weight, and reducing 1971 after the use of various chlorinated sugars were highly significant. Highly signif- hydrocarbons was restricted. In 1971 the icant decreases were observed in averages for average total DDT content (o,p'-DDT, p,p'- grade index and filling value. The degree of DDT, p,p'-DDE, and p,p'-TDE) was 1.29 leaf ripeness had no effect on averages for ppm, with a range of 0.38-2.28 ppm. Aver- green tissue starch, cured leaf total alkaloids, age values for the 1972 and 1973 crops were smoke tarWCl' nicotine, and tarwc,-to-nicotine 0.78 and 0.84 ppm, with ranges of 0.31-1.52 ratio. ppm and 0.35-1.65 ppm, respectively. The study showed a general decrease in Bioassay Program DDT levels with time, especially from 1971 The potency of water-soluble smoke con- to 1972. Because approximately 80% of the densates from two flue-cured varieties that total DDT available to the plants was bound produce 25 and 23 mg smoke tar per cig- in the roots, most of the chlorinated hydro- arette was tested by doing a short-term carbon was returned to the soil. bioassay for ciliostasis in tracheal sections from hamsters. Whole-smoke condensates Formulation of Sucker-control Chemicals from the same varieties were tested by means A study was undertaken to vary levels of of a bioassay for sebaceous gland suppres- surfactant (Tween 80) in a sucker-control sion and epidermal hyperplasia in mice. In formulation in which l1-decanol was the both tests the potencies of the two varieties active ingredient. Surfactant levels were 50, grown the same year were not significantly .100, and 150% of that in commercial formu- different, although potencies differed signifi- lations. cantly between years. RESEARCH STATION. DELHI. ONT. 75 GENETICS AND PLANT PLANT PATHOLOGY BREEDING Black Root Rot When chlorogenic acid was incorporated Male Sterile Tobacco Varieties up to 100 ppm in synthetic media, it had no effect on the growth or sporulation of Thie- Cytoplasmic male sterility has been trans- laviopsis basicola (Berk. & Br.) Ferr. A solution of 1000 ppm chlorogenic acid in ferred to the commercial flue-cured varieties water significantly reduced the percentage of Delhi 34 and Virginia 115 by a backcross- the endoconidia and the length of germ breeding program. After six backcrosses and tubes. selection for either Delhi 34 or Virginia 115 Tobacco leaf disks infected with T. basi- type, the morphological characteristics of the cola endoconidia were floated either on water male sterile lines very closely resembled or on a solution of 100 ppm chlorogenic acid. those of their male fertile parents. Field The number and size of necrotic lesions testing for 3 yr has indicated that the sterility formed on each disk were similar in both characteristics result in a significant reduction treatments. in yield, 2-4 days later flowering, lower Volatile chemical cC!mpounds formed dur- tolerance for black root rot, higher tolerance ing the decomposition of tobacco, rye, and corn residues had no appreciable effect on for weather fleck, and higher stem content. the growth and sporulation of T. basicola. The usefulness of these lines in the produc- In field experiments, Bamot (15% terrazole tion of F, hybrid flue-cured tobaccos would and 25% thiophanate-methyl) at concentra- be dependent on the genetic diversity of the tions of up to 250 ppm of the active ingredi- other parent in the hybrid for the expression ents (ai) in the' planting water had no effect of heterosis. on black root rot severity. Benomyl and thiophanate-methyl at 500 ppm reduced root lesions by 30%, but the vigor of treated and F, Hybrid Tobacco Studies untreated plants was similar. The addition of phosphoric acid to the planting water at a F, hybrids between Canadian and U.S. rate of 0.26% did not increase the effec- flue-cured tobacco varieties were evaluated tiveness of the systemic fungicides in control- ling the disease. over a 2- or 3-yr period. The agronomic characters of 'yield, grade quality, leaf num- Damping-off ber, and leaf size of the hybrids were found In laboratory tests, growth of Rhizoctonia to be intermediate. Total alkaloid levels of solani KUhn in muck exposed to steam was the F, hybrids varied between that of the consistently lower than that in unsteamed mean and the lower parent, whereas the muck. The growth of Phythium ultimum reducing sugar content tended to be similar Trow was similar in both cases. to or less than that of the lower parent. The A mixture of benomyl and captan at 7 g number of days from transplanting to flow- ail 10 m2 checked the growth of R. solani and P. ultimum and effectively reduced the inci- ering for F1 hybrids approached that of the later-flowering parent. Production of ground dence of damping-off. The treatment did not suckers by F, hybrids equaled that of the adversely affect seedling growth and subse- quent growth in the field, or yield and quality maximum parent for those varieties studied. of tobacco. Filling value and lamina weight of the cured leaf of the F, hybrids were usually greater Pole Rot than those of the mid parent. F, hybrids in Rhizopus arrhizus Fischer grew more vig- which one parent carried the black root rot orously on synthetic media containing starch immunity factor from Nicotiana debneyi than it did on those containing maltose or Domin. expressed hybrid vigor for most glucose as a carbon source. agronomic characters, except for the quality. Preharvest spraying of tobacco with 100 This character was similar to the mid parent ppm of either quintozene or formalin (37% value. formaldehyde) in water reduced subsequent 76 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 infection with pole rot by 30-50%. When the mortality increases with increase in moisture twine used to tie tobacco leaves to the lath content. was treated with quintozene or dichloran, Nine chemicals were tested in a field for tobacco leaves were partly protected against their effectiveness as postplanting treatments pole rot infection; levels of dichloran resi- for control of the darksided cutworm on dues in the cured leaf were approximately 7 tobacco. Leptophos and N-2596 best control- ppm. led the larvae of this pest; carbaryl, ace- Forced-air circulation during fumigation phate, and trichlorfon showed similar de- of tobacco leaves with tecnazene effectively grees of effectiveness. Temephos and methi- reduced infection with pole rot. Smoke dathion were numerically less effective than quality of the cured leaves was acceptable, carbaryl and trichlorfon, which are currently and residues were only 0.5 ppm. recommended as a postplanting treatment to control cutworms. Chlordimeform and PP- 505 were ineffective at the rate applied. All ENTOMOLOGY materials tested caused no visible phytotoxic- ity to the tobacco plants. Cutworms The effect of soil moisture on toxicity of Aphids chlorpyrifos and leptophos against the fifth- Greenhouse and field-trial data indicated and sixth-instar larvae of the darksided that a single application of oxydemeton- cutworm was studied. Both materials were methyl to tobacco plants provided excellent significantly more active in moist soil than in control of the green peach aphid, for at least dry soil and showed a regular trend for 5 wk. MANUFACTURERS OF PESTICIDES IDENTIFIED BY TRADE NAMES Trade name Manufacturer Banrot Mallinchrodt Chemical Works D-D Soil Fumigant Shell Canada N-2596 Stauffer Chemical Company PP-505 Chipman Chemical Co. Tween 80 ICI United' States Inc. Yorlex Nor-Am Agricultural Products Ltd. PUBLICA TIONS Research Gayed, S. K., and Walker, E. K. 1974. The effect of dichloran on pole rot and certain leaf properties of ,flue-cured tobacco. Tob. Sci. Cheng, H. H. 1974. Laboratory comparison of the 18:60-62. stomach, contact and fumigant action of chlorpyrifos against the dark-sided cutworm Huber, c., Court, W. A., Devilin, J. P., and (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Proc. Entomol. Soc. Edwards, O. E. 1974. Stemphone: A new type ant. 104:22-26. of natural quinone. Tetrahedron Lett. 2545- 2548. Elliot, J. M., Marks, C. F., and Tu, C. M. 1974. Kupchan, S. M., Hintz, H. P., Smith, R. M., Karim, Effects of the nematicides DD and Mocap on A., Cass, M. W., Court, W. A., and Yatagi, M. soil nitrogen, soil microflora, populations of 1974. Celacinnine, a novel macrocyclic spermi- Pratylenchus penetrans, and flue-cured to- dine alkaloid prototype. Chern. Commun. 329- bacco. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:801-809. 330. RESEARCH STATION, DELHI, ONT. 77 Rosa, N., and Cheng, H. H. 1974. Distribution of Gayed, S. K. 1974. The effect of two sucker control 14 DDT- C in Nicotiana tabacum. Can. J. Plant chemicals on the growth of Rhizopus arrhizus, Sci. 54:403-407. the cause of pole rot. The Lighter 44(1): I 1-I 4. Walker, E. K., and Voisey, P. W. 1974. Measure- Hergert, G. B., and Walker, E. K. 1974. Investi- ment of cigarette firmness and the relationship gations of a method for whole plant harvest of cigarette firmness to filling value of cut of flue-cured tobacco. Report 731 I -I, Engi- tobacco. Tob. Sci. 18:128-131. neering Research Service, Ottawa. Voisey, P. W., and Walker, E.K. 1974. Evaluation Hergert, G. B., and Walker, E. K. 1974. Whole of a new technique for measuring compress- plant harvest of flue-cured tobacco. The ibility of cigarettes. Tob. Sci. 18: I 54-156. Lighter 44(4): 17-2 I. Miscellaneous Rosa, N. 1974. Physiology vital to understanding tobacco. Can. Tob. Grow. 22(6):26-27. Cheng, H. H. 1974. Safe and effective use of tobacco pesticides. Can. Tob. Grow. 22(3):41- Rosa, N. 1974. Effects of a late spring frost on 43. tobacco. The Lighter 44(2): 16-18. Timbers, G. E., Walker, E. K., and Robertson, G. Elliot, J. M. 1974. Phosphorus, one of 16 essential D. 1974. Tobacco drying - A report on elements. Can. Tob. Grow. 22(2):38-4 I. several laboratory drying methods. Report Elliot, J. M. 1974. A survey of flue-cured tobacco 7 I 20, Engineering Research Service, Ottawa. grown in Ontario in 1973. Part I: Nitrogen, Walker, E. K. 1974. Comparison of flue-cured alkaloids, sugars, filling value and lamina tobacco transplants variable in size and weight. The Lighter 44( I):22-24. method of culture. The Lighter 44( I): 15-21. Elliot, J. M. 1974. The effects of levels of phospho- Walker, E. K. 1974. Comparison of flue-cured rus in fertilizer on yield and chemical composi- tobacco transplants variable in method of tion of flue-cured tobacco. The Lighter culture. The Lighter 44(3): 19-26. 44(3): 13-18. Walker, E. K. 1974. Comparison of flue-cured Elliot, J. M. 1974. A survey of flue-cured tobacco tobacco transplants variable in procedures for grown in Ontario in 1973. Part II: Soil charac- hardening. The Lighter 44(4):22-28. teristics, nutrient elements, and smoke analy- 'sis. The Lighter 44(4): 10-14. Walker, E. K. 1974. Mechanization and research. Can. Tob. Grow. 22(5):26-27, 30-31. Gayed, S. K. 1974. Pole rot of flue-cured tobacco - A problem which we created. Can. Tob. Zilkey, B.F. 1974. Tobacco and tobacco smoke Grow. 22(4):27-30. quality. Can. Tob. Grow. 22(8):20-21. 78 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Harrow, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF G. e. RUSSELL, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Director D. H. LEE Administrative Officer K. M. SUTHERLAND(Miss), B.S., B.L.S. Librarian Chemistry and Weed Science Section G. M. WARD, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Greenhouse crops nutrition G. H. FRIESEN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed science J. D. GAYNOR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Environmental chemistry A. S. HAMILL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed ecology P. B. MARRIAGE, B.Sc., Ph.D. Weed physiology F. G. VON STRYK, Dip\. Chern., Ph.D. Pesticide chemistry Crop Science Section e. G. MORTIMORE, B.S.A., M.S. Head of Section; Corn breeding L. J. ANDERSON, B.S.A. Varietal evaluation J. W. AYLESWORTH, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. White bean breeding B. R. BUTTERY, B.Sc., Ph.D. Soybean physiology R. L BUZZELL, B.S., Ph.D. Soybean breeding A. H. TEICH, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Winter wheat breeding Entomology Section W. H. FOOTT, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Field and vegetable crop insects W. M. ELLIOTT, B.Sc., PhD., D.Le. Vegetable insects R. P. JAQUES, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Insect pathology R. J. MCCLANAHAN, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Greenhouse insects B. e. SMITH, B.A. Ecology of field crop insects RESEARCHSTATION,HARROW, ONT. 79 Horticultural and Soil Science Section J. M. FULTON, B.Sc., M.S.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Soil moisture and irrigation E. F. BOLTON, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Soil management V. A. DIRKS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Statistics W. L FINDLAY, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil fertility R. E. e. LAYNE, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Tree fruit breeding A. LIPTAY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Vegetable management V. W. NUTTALL, B.S.A., M.S.A. Vegetable breeding H. A. QUAMME, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Tree fruit breeding Plant Pathology Section W. R. JARVIS, B.Sc., Ph.D., D.Le. Head of Section; Vegetable diseases W. G. BONN, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Bacterial diseases B. N. DHANVANTARI,I B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Tree fruit diseases L. F. GATES, B.A., Ph.D. Cereal viruses and corn diseases J. H. HAAS, B.S., Ph.D. Soybean and white bean diseases P. W. JOHNSON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant parasitic nematodes Soil Substation, Woodslee, Ontario J. W. AYLESWORTH, B.S.A., M.S.,. ~h.D. Officer in Charge Departure W. A. SCOTT, B.S.A. Burley tobacco management Retired December 30, 1974 EXTENSION SERVICES2 J. e. FISHER: B.S.A. Greenhouse and vegetable crops K. H. FISHER (Miss), B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Fruit and vegetable crops IOn a transfer of work from August 19, 1974 to August 4, 1975 at the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Auckland, New Zealand. 2provided by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. 80 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION Research programs at the Research Station at Harrow involve field and greenhouse vegetable production, corn, soybeans, field beans, soft white winter wheat, and tree fruit production. The plant breeding programs resulted in the release in 1974 of two new nectarine cultivars, a new soybean cultivar, and two new corn hybrids. Programs on disease, insect and weed control, and crop management have produced modified and improved production practices for the above crops. This report deals with some of the highlights of the results of research in 1974. Requests for reprints or for further information should be addressed to: Research Station, Research Branch, Canada Department of Agriculture, Harrow, ant. NOR IGO. G. C. Russell Director FIELD CROPS The mean densities were: overwintered eggs, 4.1/1000 g of soil; larvae, 3.2/plant; and Cereals and Forages adults, 1.2/plant. The effect of reducing the Viruses. Wheat spindle streak mosaic ap- use of soil insecticides is under investigation. pears best controlled by resistant cultivars. The second brood of a bivoltine strain of The reactions of 344 wheat genotypes and the European corn borer was of much greater wheat-rye crosses were tested in the field; the importance than the first brood in 1973. Only 35 lines selected overwintered well and 24 of 160 untreated plants examined had showed no sign, or only occasional signs, of first-brood egg masses, although III of these the disease. Seed from crosses made in 1973 plants were eventually fed upon by first- between the resistant cultivar Halytchanka brood larvae, whereas 140 of 160 plants had and three susceptible commercial cultivars second-brood egg masses and nearly every gave susceptible plants, which demonstrates plant was eventually damaged by borers. that resistance depends on recessive factors. When average yields were calculated it was In alfalfa seed obtained locally, usually found that control of both broods or the about 1.5% of the seeds were infected with second brood only produced significantly alfalfa mosaic virus. greater yields than those obtained from Corn' untreated plots. There was no increase in yield when just the first brood was controlled. Breeding. Production rights to two Harrow corn hybrids involving Harrow inbreds were Leaf spot. Numerous water-soaked spots, granted to two commercial companies. One which become dry and brown, and then will be marketed as Co-op 320 and the other white, sometimes appear on corn leaves. This as Pick seed 185. One Harrow inbred, CH 9, condition is seed-transmitted and appears to has been used extensively over the past be genetic in origin or genetically controlled. decade by private and public breeders as a source of germplasm for new inbred lines Movement of nitrate-N in sandy soils. because of its resistance to stalk rot and the Downward movement of N03-N in sandy European corn borer as well as its good soil was slower than expected. Ceramic combining ability. tensiometers, placed at depths of 0.6, 1.2, 1.8,2.4, 3.0, and 3.7 m (2-12 ft) in the soil, Herbicide leaching. Tile runoff water from were evacuated weekly to obtain samples of corn plots monitored at Woodslee in 1974 water from the soil profile. Where an appli- contained atrazine levels of 20-30 ppb, a cation of N at 560 kg/ha was made in June significant increase over the levels found in 1973, N0 -N moved below the 0.6-m (2-ft) the 3 previous years. 3 depth in late November, below the l.2-m (4- Insects. All stages of the northern corn ft) depth in February, and below the 1.8-m rootworm, Diabrotica longicornis (Say), were (6-ft) depth in March, after which downward at low population densities in 1973 and 1974 movement appeared to cease. No significant and yield reductions in corn were negligible. concentration of N03-N was detected in the RESEARCH STATION. HARROW. ONT. 81 groundwater. This may be because of dilu- I, ~, 3, and 4 and have been proposed as tion or possibly denitrification. During the races 5 and 6. All currently recommended latter part of the period, when rainfall was cultivars for Ontario are susceptible to races less than normal, the water table fell from a 3, 4, 5, and 6. Germplasm was screened and depth of 2.7 m (9 ft) in 1973 to a depth of the cultivars Kingwa, Toyosuzu, and Tracy 4.1 m (13.5 ft) in October 1974. were found to be resistant to all six races. Root and stalk rot. Ear weights of the Physiology. It has been established that susceptible cultivars Pioneer 3773 and Co-op certain flavonol glycoside genes are associ- 335 at silkiilg and I, 2, and 3 wk later were ated with reduced chlorophyll content and 70, 53, 40, and 33% greater than the ear reduced photosynthetic rate. This correlation weights of the resistant cultivars Harrow 73 between chlorophyll level and photosynthetic and B 14 X CH 9 at these times. In some rate was shown to be a more general phe- hybrids, rapid ear development may accentu- nomenon than it was previously thought to ate early deterioration of the stem pith be. It was observed in experiments with 48 through competition for nutrients. cultivars of diverse backgrounds, grown both in the field and in the growth chamber. Tile drainage for corn. Tile installation at a 60-cm depth on Brookston clay soil increased Weed control. Excellent control of vel- corn yield by 628 kg/ha over yields where vetleaf in soybeans has been obtained with the installation was at 107 cm. Tile lines metribuzin and bentazon. Over a 4-yr period spaced at intervals of 18.3,36.6, and 73.2 m soybeans showed a wide variation in toler- produced corn yields of 6020, 5630, and ance for atrazine incorporated in soil at levels 4530 kg/ha, respectively, indicating consider- from 0.275 to 2.2 kg/ha (0.25 to 2.0 lb/ac), able benefit from tile drainage on clay soil which indicates the important influence of even during a rather dry season. seasonal factors. The application of triazine Weed control. Competition from a mixture herbicides at rates up to 4.4 kg/ha (4 lb/ac) of weed species was most critical during the for weed control in corn on a clay loam soil 2nd to 4th wk after corn germination. Weed did not affect soybeans planted the following' control in this period ensures maximum year. yields. A postemergence herbicide applica- White Beans tion 6 wk after germination did not kill all weeds but resulted in increased corn yields. Breeding. Total protein content in 912 A computer-based system has been devel- plant introduction (P.I.) lines of Phaseolus oped for storage and retrieval of weed vulgaris L. ranged from 15.0 to 35.0%, control research data recorded in the corn compared with an average level of .23.7% and soybean sections of the Canada Weed protein in the cultivar Kentwood. Of the Committee Research Reports (Eastern Sec- above P.I. lines, 9.6% contained 30% or more tion) for 1969-73. The system is flexible and protein. Most of the lines were vine types and can be expanded or duplicated. It provides extremely late, only eight maturing before information on herbicides applied individu- the frost on September 23, 1974. Lines with ally or in combination, at various rates, on desirable agronomic characteristics and high different soil types, and for individual weed protein will be used in developing cultivars species. with improved protein content. Soybeans Pathology. Plant-pathogenic bacteria were tightly adsorbed to leaf surfaces but could Breeding. Harlon, a new cultivar devel- cause infections if the leaves were injured. oped at the Station, was licensed and re- Populations decreased 10-fold during 6 dry leased to seed growers in 1974. In 13 tests in days after inoculation. Keeping the leaves southwestern Ontario during 1971-74, Har- wet after inoculation markedly decreased the Ion matured 3 days earlier and produced a number of bacteria that survived; also, 6-12 4% higher yield than Steele. Harlon is resist- h of wetness before inoculation was deleteri- ant to races I and 2 of Phytophthora ous to the pathogen. Water washings from megasperma Drechsl. var. sojae Hildebrand. dry leaves with lesions had relatively low Pathology. Isolates of P. megasperma var. pathogen populations. Numbers of patho- sojae obtained from soybean fields in Essex genic bacteria increased during the first 12 h County were found to be different from races after wetting but very few were found after 82 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 24 h of wetness, although many nonpatho- cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). At Harrow, genic bacteria were present. Field studies several vegetatively propagated field selec- with common and fuscous bacterial blight of tions died, were stunted, or later showed white bean'showed that the reported greater typical CMV mottle. The cuttings were from virulence of Xanthomonas phaseoli var. fus- plants that appeared healthy but later cans (Burkh.) Starr & Burkh. was not caused showed CMV symptoms. by more rapid spread from infected plants; Skin color in Ottawa 50 with the rare when started by equivalent infection foci, combination of ivory skin and black spine common blight developed faster than fus- and in the cultivar White Wonder was shown cous blight. to be controlled by the same gene. At a high planting density for machine harvest, white-spined cultivars significantly HORTICULTURAL CROPS out yielded black-spined ones. This confirms Field Vegetables the importance of developing new white- spined types. Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, and Cauliflower Disease control. Benomyl and thiophanate- methyl reduced the incidence of powdery Insect control. Weekly sprays of methomyl mildew and increased the marketable yield at 0.56 kg/ha or leptophos at either 0.84 or by about half. 1.12 kg/ha effectively controlled leaf-feeding pests on fall crops. Leptophos was more Irrigation. Application of irrigation water effective than methomyl against thrips. to pickling cucumbers grown with 123, 165, or 247 thousand plants/ha and harvested Cabbage only once (simulated machine harvest) more Insect control by pathogens. Mixtures of than doubled yields. Where the crop was formulations of the bacterium Bacillus thu- grown with 49 000 plants/ha and harvested ringiensis Berliner and chlordimeform several times, irrigation tripled the yield. (Fundal or Galecron) were applied at half- Without irrigation and at 247 000 plants/ha, rates to cabbage in a plot test. The mixtures 33.8% of the total production was culls were as effective against the cabbage looper (nubbins, crooks, wasps) compared with and imported cabbageworm as the materials 17.4% at 49 000 plants/ha. Irrigation re- used alone at full rates. This suggests an duced the percentage of culls to very low effective method of reducing the quantity of values at all populations tested. chemical insecticide applied to the crop for insect control. Onion Cabbage looper virus propagated in cell Disease control. A single post-harvest culture was nearly as effective as virus application of benomyl in the windrow produced in live insects for control of the improved the marketable yield of Spanish cabbage looper. onions stored for 8 wk by about 30% and The bacterium B. thuringiensis, the nu- reduced the incidence of neck rot from 16 to c1ear-polyhedrosis virus of the cabbage 11%. looper, and the granulosis virus of the imported cabbageworm were inactivated at Potatoes similar rates after application to cabbage in the field. Because virus produced in insects Insect control. The systemic insecticide killed by the treatment recontaminates carbofuran, used for control of the Colorado leaves, applications of viruses protect the potato beetle, was more effective applied as a crop for a longer period than do applications single granular treatment when potato~s of the bacterium or chemical insecticides; were planted than as three sprays applied when needed. The carbofuran sprays were Cucumber better than azinphos-methyl sprays. The granular treatment out yielded the sprays by Breeding, testing, and management. It is 10 and 30%, respectively. important that new white-spined pickling types being selected for tolerance for angular Vertici//ium wilt. Some evidence, to be leaf spot, Pseudomonas lachrymans (Sm. & confirmed, suggests that races of seed-borne Bryan) Carsner, also have tolerance for Vertici//ium albo-atrum Reinke & Berth. are RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT. 83 specific to the cultivars Irish Cobbler, Supe- greatest increase was 31.36 t/ha or 90% over rior, Onaway, and Kennebec. the control; in 1974, the increase was 44.14 t/ha or 108%. In 1973, when temperatures Sweet Corn ranged from 29.5° to 33°C, ethephon did not Disease control. Applications of the fun- accelerate ripening or increase yields. gicides Banrot (Mallinckrodt) and Dexon Insecticide residues. Residues of malathion (Bayer AG) improved the emergence of and diazinon, insecticides used to control sweet corn by 30%, but not the emergence of nitidulid beetles, were determined in field peas; the latter suffered some phytotoxicity tomatoes and canned tomato products. The from several fungicides, especially Truban data obtained showed that the amounts of (Mallinckrodt) and chloroneb. r.esidue present were well within the toler- Oviposition by the European corn borer. ance levels set by the Food and Drug Counts of moths of both sexes in light traps Directorate. has proved to be adequately correlated with Insects. The relative attractiveness to nitid- the number of egg masses deposited on sweet ulid beetles (mainly Glischrochilus quadrisig- corn plants. Dissection of females to estimate natus (Say» of tomatoes that had been the percentage that had laid eggs did not damaged for I, 2, or 3 days was examined provide a better estimate of oviposition. through the release of beetles colored with There was no dispersal period before mating fluorescent dyes. An average of 51.7% of the and egg laying, and less than 42% of the beetles recaptured within a few hours of females caught in light traps were virgin, release went to the 3-day-old tomatoes, even when flights had just commenced. 32.5% went to the 2-day-old fruits, and only Three generations occurred at Harrow, asso- 15.8% went to the I-day-old fruits. These ciated with flights of new virgin females in results emphasize the importance of picking early June, late July, and September. Labora- tomatoes as close as possible to the scheduled tory work showed that the age of females time for delivery to the factory. could be estimated from the color and condition of the reproductive organs; accord- Weed control. Metribuzin applied poste- ing to this method, most females caught in mergence after 2 or 3 days of poor growing the light trap in 1974 appeared to be less conditions caused slight temporary injury. than 2 days old, whereas those caught by The combination of a preplant-iricorporated sweeping in weeds were older. herbicide with a postemergence application of metribuzin continued to provide excellent Tomatoes control. Black plastic mulch. As in a previous test with transplants of processing tomatoes, Greenhouse Vegetables black plastic mulch placed between rows was slightly more effective in increasing yield Cucumber than mulch placed over the row. A yield of Protection of bees in cucumber green- 59.6 t/ha was obtained where mulch was houses. An insulated box has been designed placed between rows, compared with 55.2 and tested for a hive of bees, to protect them t/ha where mulch was placed over the row. Mulch over the row resulted in yields approx- from summer heat in a greenhouse. It is highly recommended by a local beekeeper as imately 9 t/ha greater than those of the a means of reducing the casualty rate of unmulched control. colonies rented to greenhouse cucumber Disease control. Defoliation of field toma- growers. The box can also be used for toes resulting from early blight and leaf spot confining bees during pesticide spraying was reduced by 30-50% by the fungicides operations, which makes it unnecessary to chlorothalonil, captafol, Zincofol (Chevron remove the hive from the greenhouse. Chemical Co.), mancozeb, and triforine. Breeding and testing. Breeder seed of the Growth regulator. When applied as a foliar parent inbreds of Harrow HG 70.72 seedless spray at 0.561 kg/ha, ethephon was shown to cucumber was produced. HG70.72 has inter- be most effective at day temperatures of 21- mediate length, 60% of its fruits averaging 24°C in speeding up maturity and increasing 30.5-35.6 em. In several trials across Can- yields of processing tomatoes. In 1972, the ada, it was comparable in productivity to the 84 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 cultivar Toska 70 in both numbers and dichloran, but not for Dikar (Rohm & Haas weight of fruit. Co.). Benomyl-tolerant isolates of B. cinerea Out of 20 European seedless cucumber were also obtained from greenhouse cultivars, none has acceptable tolerance for tomatoes. local isolates of cucumber mosaic virus. Harrow inbreds of the European type were crossed with virus-tolerant Harrow 72-1, a Foot and root rot. A serious and wide- line derived from the U.S. Department of spread outbreak occurred in the Leamington Agriculture accession P.I. 105340. area of southwestern Ontario and was caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. The soil- Powdery mildew. The organism that com- borne pathogen is dispersed by water along monly affects crops in the Harrow area was the ground bed rows from sporulating hypoc- found to be Sphaerotheca juliginea tyl lesions; it is not eradicated from the soil (Schlecht. ex Fr.) Poll. rather than Erysiphe by sheet steaming at depths greater than 30- cichoracearum DC. ex Merat. 40 cm, but tile steaming seems more Tomatoes effective. Cage plants. A study continued on the effect of light as the principal limiting factor Leajminer ecology. Some progress was in plant growth in the greenhouse. Six cage made in determining the life cycle of the plants (procedure described in 1973 Report) vegetable leafminer. Cage studies demon- of the cultivar Vendor were grown in the strated a wide range of hosts, but in the field spring crop in eeat-vermiculite beds and it was found only in tomato leaves and spaced at 2.48 m2/plant. Standard spacing is several weeds. Many fall tomato crops in the 0.37 m2/plant. Fruit yield varied from 32.0 greenhouse were infested, and lettuce was to 45.9 kg/plant, depending on the proximity recorded as a new host. The primary parasite of the plant to the outside glass of the Diglyphus begini (Ashmead) was recovered greenhouse. The control plots at standard from field collections of mined leaves. 2 spacing yielded 14.9 kg/m • This confirms the proposition that, although fruit yield can be greatly varied by altering plant spacing Nematodes. High rates of D-D Soil Fumi- and other relat~d cultural practices, the yield gant (Shell Canada) and split-depth applica- per unit area remains fairly uniform and is tions controlled the ground bed populations determined by the amount of incident light if of Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) all other environmental factors are equal. Chitwood at greater depths than standard rates of D-D, but despite this, only one crop Delayed planting. The conventional spring was adequately protected from yield loss. cropping period for greenhouse tomatoes in Nematodes rapidly reinfested the soil, Ontario is January IS to July IS. Some though once the crop was established their growers delay planting to economize on fuel numbers had little effect on yield. However, and for other reasons. A test to determine the they became sufficiently numerous in the top amount of yield reduction in Vendor because of delayed planting of I mo and 2 mo 15 cm to damage a second crop severely. produced the following yields: 6 mo, 5.59 Foliar application of an experimental kg/plant; 5 mo, 4.60 kg; and 4 mo, 3.91 kg. systemic nematocide is showing some prom- The average size of marketable fruit in- ise as an alternative control; further studies creased with each period of delayed plant- are also proceeding with the nematocide used ing: 6 mo, 98 g; 5 mo, 110 g; and 4 mo, 119 in combination with normal fumigants. g. Disease control. Isolates of Sphaerotheca Aldicarb in greenhouse soil controlled pannosa (Wal1r. ex Fr.) Lev. and Botrytis Pratylenchus penetrans (Cobb) Filipjev & cinerea Pers., which were tolerant of beno- Stekh., but residues in rose leaves 25-74 days myl at concentrations in excess of field rates, after application ranged from 0.7 to 11.0 were obtained from roses near the Station at ppm. This demonstrates its prolonged, con- Harrow. The tolerant isolate of B. cinerea tinuous uptake from the soil and emphasizes also showed some tolerance for chlorotha- the potential residue danger if used before or lonil, ferbam, COCS, captan, anilazine, and during vegetable production. RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT. 85 Tree Fruits used as the parental source of flesh firmness. New cultivars with very firm and slowly Apricots oxidizing flesh will be needed if peaches are Breeding. Haggith was introduced as a harvested and handled mechanically in bulk promising seedling rootstock for apricots. It in the future. originated as a chance seedling in Essex Herbicide residues. Accumulation of the County and it was introduced because the herbicides atrazine, simazine, Iinuron, diuron, seed tree was unusually cold-hardy, consist- and terbacil did not occur after repeated ently productive, and disease-tolerant. The applications at fairly high rates on unculti- seeds germinated readily and the seedlings, vated orchard soil. However, phytotoxic which were adapted to fall planting or spring levels of diuron and terbacil still persisted for transplanting, produced uniform stands of 3 yr after the applications were discontinued. budable trees by August. Controlled freezing Paraquat, sprayed on orchard soil annually tests showed that the root systems of Haggith for 9 yr, penetrated to a depth of 10-15 em seedlings were more cold-hardy than other in spite of the high absorption capacity of the apricot seedling rootstocks in common com- surface layers. mercial use. Seeds and scion wood of Hag- gith are available from the Western Ontario Orchard management systems for peaches. Fruit Testing Association, Harrow, Onto An orchard of Harken on Siberian C root- stocks was planted in 1973 to test the Nectarines individual and combined effects of three Breeding. Two cold-hardy nectarines levels of irrigation and three tree spacings on named Harko and Hardired were introduced, tree growth, yield, and orchard longevity of the first to come from the Harrow breeding peaches. In 1974 application of irrigation program. Both cultivars were selected from water, when the available soil moisture at the 20-cm depth dropped to 50 or 25%, increased the same progeny (Lexington X NJN32). Harko ripened 4 days after Redhaven peach trunk growth 50% and terminal growth of and Hardired ripened 5 days after Harko. scaffold limbs 25%. Tree spacings of 3.1 X The fruits of both cultivars were similar in 6.1,4.6 X 6.1, and 6.1 X 6.1 m did not affect appearance and quality, being yellow-fleshed tree growth. freestones with attractive, bright red skin. In Pruning systems, yields, and harvest effi- addition to being superior in cold hardiness ciency. Data on yield and harvest efficiency to the cultivars from New Jersey, Virginia, were obtained from a pruning demonstration and California in the Harrow collection, they orchard planted in 1969 (Olinda/Rutgers also had greater tolerance for bacterial spot Red Leaf). Four pruning systems were com- caused by Xanthomonas pruni (E.F.Sm.) pared, each at a different planting density, Dowson, and to brown rot caused by Moni- but the density chosen in each case was linia fructicola (Wint.) Honey. Scion wood considered optimum for the system. The and trees of Harko and Hardired are availa- pruning systems were: modified oblique ble from the Western Ontario Fruit Testing palmette (MOP) at 558.4 trees/ha, modified Association, Harrow, Ont. canted oblique palmette (MCOP) at 746.2 trees/ha, central leader cylinder (CLC) at Peaches 536.2 trees/ha, and standard open center Breeding. Ten promising selections were (SOC) at 383 trees/ha. Corresponding yields made from third-generation backcross deriv- were 31.49, 23.60, 21.32, and 18.02 t/ha. In atives in which hardy selections of peach southwestern Ontario SOC is the standard from northern China were used as the source system. When yields were compared with of extreme cold hardiness and several North that of the control (SOC), the best system American cultivars were used as the source of was MOP (75.0% higher), followed by size, appearance, and quality. Some of these MCOP (31.0%) and CLC (18.4%). Harvest selections were comparable with commer- efficiency was measured in terms of man- cially important cultivars but are expected to hours required to harvest a metric ton of be significantly more cold-hardy. Progress fruit. The most efficient system compared was made in breeding for improved flesh with the control was MOP, which required firmness; several freestone selections were 61.3% fewer man-hit. The next best system made from progenies in which H523 was was MCOP, which required 49.9% fewer 86 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 man-hit, and the most inefficient system was cm wide in 1974, eliminating the need for CLC, which required 16.1% more man-hit cultivation in the tree row. No injury was than the control. In the MOP and MCOP observed on the seedling trees in 1974. systems, 97% of the fruit was removed by use Chemical analysis of the string indicated that of a mobile platform, but in the CLC and 87% of the chemicals were removed from the SOC systems, less than 90% could be re- string from mid-November to the end of moved in this way, the remainder being April, the preferred time of year to have it harvested from the ground. The MOP system present in the soil. was best in all aspects of the systems tested. Pears Rootstock influence on cold hardiness of Breeding. Breeding work continues on the scion cultivars. Redhaven scions on two development of cultivars resistant to fire peach seedling rootstocks, Siberian C and blight and with fruit of high quality for the Harrow Blood, were sampled during the fall, processing and fresh markets. To date, three early winter, midwinter, and spring, and fire-blight-resistant pear selections, HW600, parallel freezing and carbohydrate analysis HW60 I, and HW602, have been released for tests were conducted on each sample date. In trials by growers and stations elsewhere. the case of the rootstock Siberian C, en- hancement of scion hardiness was evident as Fire blight. A control program emphasiz- early as October before leaf fall. This was ing the application of streptomycin foliar interpreted as a direct influence of rootstock sprays after each rainfall during the period on enhanced photoperiodic response of the from blossoming to 30 days before harvest scion cultivar (Redhaven) to short days, reduced twig blight by approximately 80% in resulting in earlier cold acclimation. In 1974. Related studies involving disease as- December and February, significantly higher sessment and epiphytic populations of Er- levels of carbohydrates in the form of starch winia amylovora (Burr.) Wins!. et al. indi- and sugars were found in Redhaven/Si- cated that disease broke out after detection berian C than in Redhaven/Harrow Blood. of the bacteria on the leaf surfaces. An Also, scions of Redhaven/Siberian C were association between twig blight and the significantly more bud-hardy than those of epiphytic bacterial population was estab- Redhaven/Harrow Blood. It was postulated lished for June, July, and August. Neither that another effect of the Siberian C root- disease nor bacteria were detected before stock on scion hardiness may be an influence June. on the rate of carbohydrate depletion of the Flavor and aroma components. In taste scion that results in a higher accumulation of panels conducted on canned pear halves, cryoprotective materials and thereby en- Bartlett, several sports of Bartlett, and the hances scion hardiness. selection HW602 were found to have a special intense aroma not present in other The exotherm method for measuring bud cultivars in the Harrow pear collection. This hardiness. Exotherm analysis was used to intense aroma is one of the main attributes of determine the cold hardiness of 10 peach the high quality for which Bartlett is known. cultivars. The average exotherm temperature The decadienoate esters, which are the main was significantly correlated with the tempera- flavor components of pear fruit, were present ture at which 50% of the flower buds were at high levels in cultivars that had Bartlett killed (r = + 0.880). Both measurements of aroma. Measurement of decadienoate ester hardiness were also correlated with natural level may provide a convenient objective test bud mortality of the 10 cultivars averaged for selecting seedlings with Bartlett aroma in over 4 yr. pear progenies. Weed control. A commercially available Rootstocks. Three Pyrus dwarfing root- string impregnated with atrazine, simazine, stocks from Oregon and virus-free Quince A and diuron at 2.2, 6.6, and 2.2% levels, were propagated for trials with growers. respectively, gave excellent weed control in Sixteen other Oregon Pyrus rootstocks, which nursery rows of peach and apricot. A single were not as fully tested, were propagated for strand. of string placed on the soil surface trials at the Station before release to growers. (Fox sandy loam) in November 1973 control- Six Pyrus rootstocks from South Africa have led weed vegetation in a band 15.24 to 25.40 been also received for Station trials. RESEARCH STATION. HARROW. ONT. 87 PUBLICATIONS Research McKeen, C. D. 1973. Occurrence, epidemiology, and control of bacterial canker of tomato in Buttery, B. R., and Buzzell, R. I. 1974. Evaluation southwestern Ontario. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. of methods used in computing net assimilation 53: 127-130. rates of soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merrill). Crop Sci. 14:41-44. McKeen, C. D., Fulton, J. M., and Findlay, W. I. 1973. Fleck and acidosis of potatoes in south- Buzzell, R. I., and Buttery, B. R. 1973. Inheritance western Ontario. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. of flavonol glyeosides in soybeans. Can. 1. 53:150-152. Genet. & Cytol. 15: 865-867. Ormrod, D. P., and Layne, R. E. C. 1974. Temper- Dueck, J. 1974. Bactericidal treatment of apples for ature and photoperiod effects on cold hardi- elimination of surface-borne Erwinia amylov- ness of peach scion-rootstock combinations. ora. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:353-358. HortScience 9:451-453. Dueck, J. 1974. Survival of Erwinia amylovora in association with mature apple fruit. Can. J. Quamme, H. A. 1974. An exothermic process Plant Sci. 54:349-351. involved in the freezing injury to flower buds of several Prunus species. J. Am. Soc. Hortic. Evans, G., McKeen, C. D., and Gleeson, A. C. Sci. 99:315-318. 1974. A quantitative bioassay for determining low numbers of microsclerotia of Verficillium Smith, B. c., and Hamilton, G. 1974. Site prefer- dahliae in field soils. Can. J. Microbiol. ence and oviposition of Tefranychus urficae 20: 119-124. (Acarina: Tetranychidae) on bean with innoc- uous chemicals and pesticides. Environ. Ento- Foott, W. H. 1974. Observations on coccinellidae mol. 3:697-700. in corn fields in Essex County, Ontario. Proe. Entomol. Soc. Ont. 104(1973): 16-21. Wressell, H. B. 1973. A study of infestation by the El\fopean corn borer, Osfrinia nubilalis (Hub- Gates, L. F., and Bronskill, J. F. 1974. Viruses of ner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), in southwestern clovers and alfalfa in Essex County, Ontario, Ontario, 1946 to 1964. Proc. Entomol. Soc. 1970-73. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:95-100. Ont. 103:17-26. Jaques, R. P. 1974. Occurrence and accumulation of viruses of Trichoplusia ni in treated field Miscellaneous plots. J. Invertebr. Pathol. 23: 140-152. Buttery, B. R., and Buzzell, R. I. 1974. Flavonol Jaq ues, R. P. 1974. Occurrence and ace urn ulation glycosides and photosynthesis in soybean of the granulosis virus of Pieris rapae in leaves. Proc. Can. Fed. BioI. Soc. 17: 19. treated field plots. J. Invertebr. Pathol. (Abstr.) 23:351-359. Buzzell, R. I. 1974. Cooperation produces better Johnson, P. W., and McClanahan, R. J. 1974. soybean varieties. Cash Crop Farming Nematode control and other effects of soil 35(6):23-24. treatment of greenhouse rose beds with aId i- carb and oxamyl. Plant Dis'. Rep. 58:730-732. Buzzell, R. I. 1974. Soybean disease problems. Soils & Crops, pp. 124-125. Layne, R. E. C. 1974. Breeding peach rootstocks for Canada and the northern United States. Buzzell, R. I. 1974. Soybean linkage tests. Soybean HortScience 9:364-366. Genet. Newsl. 1:11-14. Marks, C. F., Townshend, J. L., Potter, J. W., BuzzelL R. I., Bernard, R. L., and Buttery, B. R. Olthof, Th. H. A., Johnson, P. W., and 1974. Inheritance of magenta flower color. Lounsbery, J. 1973. Plant-parasitic nematode Soybean Genet. Newsl. I: 14~15. genera associated with crops in Ontario in 1972. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 142-143. Buzzell, R. I., Buttery, B. R., and Haas, J. H. 1974. Soybean genetic studies at Harrow. Soybean Marriage, P. B. 1974. Lack of interaction of Genet. NewsL I: 9-11. herbicides in annual grasses. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:591-593. Donovan, L. S., Mortimore, C. G., and Giesbrecht, J. E. i974. Growing corn. Can. Dep. Agr. Marriage, P. B., and Saidak, W. J. 1974. Control of Publ. 1025. (Rev.) barnyardgrass and yellow foxtail by her- bicides in relation to the sucrose content of the Fulton, 1. M. 1974. Irrigating potatoes and toma- seedling leaves. Weed Res. 14: 115-1 18. toes. Cash Crop Farming 35: 14-16. 88 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Fulton, 1. M. 1974. Root distribution and soil Layne, R. E. C. 1974. Peach varieties, breeding moisture stress at different root zone positions objectives and needs for Ontario. Pages 32-35 related to transpiration and irrigation require- in N. F. Childers, ed: The Peach. Rutgers ments. Proc. Can. Soc. Soil Sci., pp. 28-29. University. 377 pp. Haas, J. H. 1973. White bean diseases. Agdex 1421 Layne, R. E. C. 1974. Peach rootstock research at 632. Harrow. Pages 48-50 in N. F. Childers, ed. The Peach. Rutgers University. 377 pp. Hamill, A. S. 1974. Velvetleaf or soybeans? Weeds Littlejohns, D. A., Brooks, A. K., and Buzzell, R. I. Today 5(1): 19. 1974. Soybean production in Ontario. Ont. Layne, R. E. C. 1973. Progress in breeding hardy Minist. Agric. & Food Pub!' 173. rootstocks and hardy peaches for the fresh Mortimore, C. G. 1974. 20 Companies get inbreds market at Harrow. Fruit Notes 39(1): 1-3. from Harrow. Cash Crop Farming 35:42-44. Layne, R. E. C. 1974. Breeding cold hardy peach Ward, G. M. 1974. Leaf analysis for greenhouse scions and rootstocks. Proc. 19th Int. Hortic. vegetable crops. Analyse foliaire pour legumes Congr., I A:322. (Abstr.) de serre. Canadex 250.532. RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT. 89 I I L Research Station Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF F. K. KRISTJANSSON,B.S.A, M.S., Ph.D. Director L. H. LYALL, B.S.A, M.S. Assistant Director J. G. R. LOISELLE, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant gene resources R. W. MARTIN Administrative Officer Cereal Crops Section V. D. BURROWS, B.S.A, M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Plant physiology, oats R. V. CLARK, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology I. DE LA ROCHE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Quality G. FEDAK, B.S.A, M.Sc., Ph.D. Barley S. O. FEJER, Ing. Agr., Dr. Sc. Tech. Barley V. A HELSON, B.A, M.A Environmental physiology D. P. HOLMES, B.Sc., Ph.D. Growth analysis D. R. SAMPSON, B.Sc., AM., Ph.D. Wheat J. T. SLYKHUlS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Virology S. SYMKO, Ing. Agr. Barley and triticale Crop Loss Section V. R. WALLEN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Aerial photography, methodology P. K. BASU, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Surveys and methodology W. C. JAMES, B.Sc., Ph.D. Surveys and methodology W. L. SEAMAN, B.Sc., Ph.D. Surveys and Editor, Canadian Plant Disease Survey Cytogenetics Section T. RAJHATHY, Ing. Agr., M.Sc., D. Agr. Sci. Head of Section; Cereal crops K. C. ARMSTRONG, B.S.A, Ph.D. Forage crops I. CRAIG (Miss), B.A Haploidy W. A KELLER, B.S.A, Ph.D. Haploidy B. E. MURRAY (Miss), B.S.A, M.Sc., Ph.D. Haploidy RESEARCHSTATION.OTTAWA.ONT. 91 Entomology Section D. G. HARCOURT, B.S.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Population dynamics R. BOCH, Dr. Rer. Nat. Physiology and behavior of bees T. A. GOCHNAUER, B.A., M.S., Ph.D. Pathology of bees J. C. Guppy, B.SA, M.S. Population dynamics Forage Crops Section W. R. CHILDERS, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Head of Section; Grasses H. BAENZIGER, Ing. Agr., M.Sc., Ph.D. Legumes L. M. CASSERLY,B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc. Corn C. C. CHI, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology L. DESSUREAUX,B.A., B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Alfalfa genetics L. S. DONOVAN, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Corn and soybeans D. R. GIBSON, B.Sc. (Agr.) Corn R. W. ROBERTSON, B.S.A. Plant introduction H. D. VOLDENG, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant physiology F. S. WARREN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Corn Horticultural Crops G. R. JOHNSTON,'IB.S.A., M.S.A. Potatoes Experimental Farm, Kapuskasing, Onto J. M. W AUTHY, B.Sc. (Agr.) Superintendent; Crop management and evaluation Experimental Farm, Smithfield, Ont. H. B. HEENEY, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Superintendent; Plant nutrition and irrigation H. L. HOUSE, B.S.A., Ph.D. Insect physiology and nutrition S. R. MILLER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant physiology and biochemistry W. P. MOHR, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Food processing L. G. MONTEITH, B.S.A., M.S.A. Fruit management, pest control Experimental Farm, Thunder Bay, Onto W. B. TOWILL, B.S.A. Superintendent; Crop management and evaluation 92 RESEARCHBRANCH REPORT 1974 Departures T. BURNETT, B.S.A., Ph.D. Insect population ecology Transferred to Ornamentals Research Service, May 1974 J. E. FISHER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cereal crops morphology Died December 30, 1974 S. J. LEUTY, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Fruit crop management Resigned July 1974 A. G. PLESSERS,B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Hybrid winter wheat Retired October 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council postdoctorate fellows J. G. BOWMAN, B.Sc., Ph.D., 1974-75 Cytogenetics 1. TARUMOTO, B. Agron., Ph.D., 1974-75 Wheat IStationed at University of Guelph, Guelph, Ont. RESEARCHSTATION,OTTAWA,ONT. 93 INTRODUCTION The program of the Research Station, Ottawa, emphasizes research on crops for animal feed, including cereals, corn, and forages. A new timothy cultivar was licensed in 1974 and a scab-resistant apple cultivar was named and released; it was developed from a program that is now discontinued. A promising start has been made on the new program on experimental haploidy, which includes studies on haploid production in several species and cell regeneration from cultures of leaf protoplasts of Linum spp. Dr. A. G. Plessers retired after 20 years at the Station, during which he made valuable contributions to the breeding of flax, field beans, and, in recent years, hybrid wheat. Dr. J. E. Fisher died suddenly in December 1974. His excelleht research on developmental morphology in relation to yield and selection criteria was an extremely valuable part of our cereal crops program. This report summarizes some of the more important research results from the Station in 1974. Further information can be obtained from the Director, Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Onto KIA OC6. F. K. Kristjansson Director CEREAL CROPS scientists who are interested in evaluating a cross section of the winter triticale material to Wheat and Triticale request seed. Breeding. The new soft white winter wheat Quality. Chemical analyses of lOS strains Fredrick, released in 1971, has proved to be of spring, winter, and durum wheats and the highest yielding winter wheat in Ontario. triticales showed that little variation exists in It is rapidly becoming the most widely grown lipid content, fatty acid composition, fiber winter wheat in the province, both commer- content, ash content, gross energy, and in cially and as pedigreed seed. Although it will vitro digestibility. In contrast, yield, 1000- be difficult to produce a cultivar superior to kernel weight, and protein content varied Fredrick, two test entries show promise. One, considerably. Estimates of heritability were S077 B92-I, combines high yield with short low for protein content and yield but high for straw and another, 0-IS-3, high yield with 1000-kernel weight. Genotype correlations superior winterhardiness. Weather conditions between percent lysine and protein content experienced at Ottawa during 1973-74 made were significant and negative, but environ- it possible to select for winterhardiness. mental correlations between these two char- Winter-type derivatives of triticale that acters were not significant. range in appearance from true triticale types to wheatlike plants have been developed by Winter survival. A uniform degree of the Station at Ottawa over a period of years. stimulation in the biosynthesis of linolenic In 1973-74 several thousand strains were acid, resulting in a net increase in the evaluated in nurseries at Ottawa, and a few unsaturation of membrane lipids, occurs at advanced lines were tested for yield at low temperatures in four wheat cultivars of Ottawa, Guelph, Ridgetown, and Harrow. In contrasting hardiness. The phenomenon, general, no major advances were made in therefore, is not directly related to resistance raising the yields above those of winter to freezing temperatures, at least in the range wheat. Some strains, however, showed a of -5 to - I SoC, but is probably a general tolerance or resistance to wheat spindle response and adaptation to growth condi- streak mosaic virus. The plants were some- tions at low temperatures. what taller than commercial winter wheat cultivars and varied in their resistance to Virology. Wheat spindle streak mosaic lodging. Seed quality also varied in both the virus was found mainly in the top 20 cm of degree of shriveling and the protein content. soil in a wheat field at Ottawa, but traces The Research Station at Ottawa invites occurred down to about 50 em. The virus was 94 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 transmitted in water from roots of wheat kinetin than did the ones with high protein. plants that became infected from the soil. It This screening test will be used in the oat was not transmitted from plants that were breeding program' to produce high-protein grown in sterile soil but infected with the oats with better yield than the cultivar virus by artificial inoculation of the leaves. Hinoat. When infectious soil was treated with the fungicide Dexon (Bayer AG) at a dosage Diseases. A major advance has been made greater than 90 ft g/ g, wheat suffered less or in the knowledge of Septoria development no ihfection from the soil. However, at lower on oat plants, and the expression of resist- dosages the amount of infection increased. ance. The disease is normally severe in the About 30 triticale lines, some of which are Maritime regions of Canada. In a growth wheatlike in appearance, were resistant to the chamber, oat plants inoculated with Septoria disease in the field for the 2nd year. spp. were submitted to high humidity and cool temperatures that approximated Mari- Oats time conditions. The fungus became systemic in the host and spread through the leaves, Breeding. Scott, the new cultivar of oats into the stems, and eventually throughout the released by the Station in 1972, continued to plant. When the disease developed it reduced be the highest yielding in Ontario. To add to plant height and seed yields, but its severity the inventory of cultivars, two new entries, varied among the oat strains. A few cultivars OA123-124 (grain-type) and OA123-8l (for- and wild species remained relatively free age-type), are now ready for license. Both are from disease and showed good resistance as of interspecific origin, derived from crosses 2 adult plants. The fungus failed to become of Avena sativa X A. strigosa . Significant systemic in these plants. progress was made in combining high seed yield with naked seed (OA287-4, OA288-2, Barley and OA290-5) and with insensitivity to day length (OA266, OA269, OA272, and Breeding. The ne'w barley cultivar Vanier OA313). Attempts to combine high seed released by the Station in 1972 proved to be protein with high fat content were at least the highest-yielding cultivar in Ontario. A partly successful (18-20% protein with 7-8% new strain, OB l28-lO, with greater straw oil in groats), but the selections have not strength than that of Vanier, is ready for been evaluated for yield potential. The newly license. Doubled haploid plants of barley discovered dominant dwarf gene (R. 1. H. produced at Ottawa were included in repli- McKenzie, Res. Sta., Winnipeg) was success- cated yield trials in 1974. Of the 61 lines fully transferred and back crossed to 49 tall tested, 17 equaled or exceeded the best cultivars and strains. A few of these crosses control cultivars in yield, 16 in kernel size, produced plants with short stature and with and 5 in grain weight. Fourteen lines ma- panicles that have long peduncles. tured earlier than the earliest control cultivar. The doubled haploids showed a wider range Physiology. A screening test for seedlings of values for each of these characters than was developed which differentiates between the controls, which means that selection can cultivars or selection lines with high and low be pursued in either direction. The advantage protein contents in the grain. The test in- of selection in doubled haploid material over volves a visual rating of the color of senesced conventional early-generation selection is sections excised from the first leaf of plants that the material is homozygous and stable. grown in a controlled environment. The leaf sections senesce for 4 days under specified Cytogenetics. The problem of attaining conditions in the presence of a buffered fertility in autotetraploid barley appears to kinetin solution. The high-protein cultivars be insurmountable. Fertility and meiotic had significantly higher chlorophyll contents behavior were related in autotetraploids, per unit area of leaf section than the low- amphiploids of Hordeum vulgare X H. protein cultivars, both before and after murinum, and hybrids between the two senescence. This difference is more clearly groups. No reduction of quadrivalent fre- visible in the senesced material, when less quency or increased fertility was realized in chlorophyll is present. Moreover, the low- the hybrids. Fertility was related to A-I protein cultivars lost more of their chloro- disjunction rather than to q uadrivalent phyll during senescence in the presence of frequency. RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA. ONT. 9S Quantitative genetics. In a 6 x 6 complete unstable and develop anomalous organ struc- diallel cross experiment with short and tall tures not present in either parent. An apical six-row spring barleys as parents, the space- spikelet in barley is considered to be a planted F) generation showed considerable detriment to head 'length and hence yield, heterosis (39%) in grain yield. Nonadditive because its presence limits spike length as it gene effects were largely responsible. Recip- does in wheat and rye. The new selection rocal effects were also significant for most OB128-1 has now been reselected for head characters studied. The WR/VR graphs length and is being tested for the presence of indicated overdominance for yield and domi- apical spikelets. nance of the higher-yielding parents. Hetero- sis for yield was lower in the space-planted F2 (33%) and about halved in the solid- CROP LOSS ASSESSMENT seeded F2 (I9%). In growth-chamber experi- ments with hybrids of winter x spring Methodology barleys, heterosis was found to depend on Determination of yield loss of field beans temperature and day length. due to bacterial blight. A model was devel- In the space-planted F2 generation from a oped to assess yield losses from bacterial 5 x 5 complete diallel cross of two-row blight caused by Xanthomonas phaseoli spring barleys, there was slight positive (E.F.Sm.) Dows. in field beans. The model heterosis (I3%) in grain yield but negative uses a yield loss factor of 38, determined heterosis (-6%) in percent protein content. A from the average yield loss in 2-yr field-plot similar relationship was found in growth trials, combined with information on the rooms, where long, cool days resulted in high incidence of bacterial blight in commercial yields and low protein content and short, bean fields in Ontario as determined by warm days, low yields and high protein infrared (IR) photography from aerial sur- content. veys conducted in 1968, 1970, and 1972. Losses for the field bean crop in Ontario Winterhardiness. In vitro freezing tests varied from over I 25 I 913 kg (46,000 bu) conducted in cooperation with Dr. C. An- in 1970 to only 2 I7 724 kg (8,000 bu) in drews, Chemistry and Biology Research 1972. Institute, revealed that winter barley har- Remote sensing. A method was developed dened in the fall to nearly the same degree as to determine the optimum time for aerial IR winter wheat. However, it lost this hardened photography of field beans infected with condition more quickly over the winter, so bacterial blight. Optical density levels were that it was more vulnerable to frost injury in determined from aerial IR films of healthy the spring. The second finding, not previously and diseased bean plots, taken at intervals reported, is that barley is virtually unable to during the growing season. Optical density tolerate an ice cover. Hardened (vernalized) levels of healthy and diseased plots showed seedlings of barley survived only 2 days obvious differences on August 2 (I972) and when covered with ice (-2°C), whereas wheat August 5 (1971), and throughout the growing tolerated the same treatment for more than 5 season. The greatest differences between the days and rye for more than 7 days. optical transmission densities were found in Developmental morphology. The barley films taken on August 15-20. This peak strain OBI28-1, which originated from an indicates the optimum photographic poten- anomalous cross between Hordeum vulgare tial, that is, the time during the growing and H. murinum (H. leporinum), backcrossed season when the canopy and chlorophyll to H. vulgare, produced rudimentary apical content of the crop are greatest and diseased spikelets in 40-50% of the population exam- plants provide maximum contrast to healthy ined. The spikelets varied in development areas in the field. from a distorted glumelike structure, to a Foliar diseases of alfalfa. A simplified well-initiated apical spikelet containing a sampling method was developed to estimate floret primordium. None produced a func- the incidence of common leaf spot, stemph- tional floret. Attempts to find an apical ylium leaf spot, and downy mildew in spikelet in numerous cultivars of H. vulgare farmers' fields in eastern Ontario. The have failed, as they have with H. murinum. method involved examining five plants at IO However, interspecific hybrids are often equally spaced sites along a 90-m pathway 96 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 positioned midway between one corner and southwestern Ontario: 97 fields compnsmg the center of a field. 1007.7 ha (2,490 ac) in the Hensall area, and In another study, greenhouse experiments 18 fields comprising 100.3 ha (247.8 ac) in showed that the weight of alfalfa leaves was the Chatham area. Only four fields were not significantly reduced because of leaf spot infected in the Hensall area, and those in diseases and that the percentage of defolia- amounts too small to be scanned. Eleven tion would provide a direct estimate of yield fields were infected in the Chatham area and loss. the material has been prepared for scanning to determine the area infected. The overall Root rot (Fusarium solani and related infection level was less than 0.2%. species) in peas. Field plot experiments with 10 pea cultivars showed that moderately Missing plants in potato fields. In a cooper- infected plants suffered an average of 22% ative study with the Research Station at yield losses (dry seed weight) and severely Fredericton and the Statistical Research infected plants, 40%. The individual cultivars Service, the extent, cause, and distribution of did not require use of separate yield loss missing plants in the New Brunswick potato factors. Pea samples from farmers' fields in crop were evaluated. In 1973, the average five provinces showed that plants severely crop had 32% missing plants, resulting in a affected by root rot gave 60% lower yielgs loss of approximately $4 million. The prob- than those of apparently healthy plants. lem has been referred to agricultural engi- When data from experiments and from neers because in most cases the cause of the farmers' fields are averaged for the past 3 yr, miss was the absence of a seed piece, it is apparent that a loss factor of 0.5 indicative of inefficient planting operations. multiplied by the proportion of severely affected plants provides a reasonable esti- Barley diseases. Surveys of leaf and root mate of yield loss due to common root rot. diseases in fields of barley in five counties of western Ontario showed that leaf diseases Late blight forecasting. A computer-based were much less severe in 1974 than in 1973. forecasting scheme was successfully operated However, spot blotch caused by Bipolaris for farmers in the area of Thunder Bay in sorokiniana (Sacc. in Sorok.) Shoem. was 1974. After a disastrous epidemic of late again the most prevalent disease. Estimates blight in 1973, farmers requested help of losses due to root rot were slightly less because they lost 50-60% of their potato crop than 1%. valued at $150,000. As a result of the forecasting scheme operated in 1974, losses were negligible. CYTOGENETICS Surveys Oats New disease problems. Plant pathogens Aneuploidy. In addition to the seven pri- reported for the first time in Canada include mary trisomies, five telocentrics and two a new race of the flax rust fungus, Me- secondary trisomies have been isolated and lampsora lini (Ehrenb.) Lev., and Ascochyta identified in the diploid species Avena stri- rabiei (Pass.) Lab., a destructive seed-borne gosa Schreb. Four of the telocentrics repre- pathogen of Cicer arietinum L. (chickpeas). sented the opposite arms of chromosomes Ergot. An unusually high incidence of M3 and SM5, respectively. The frequency of ergot was reported in shipments of durum trisomies was higher in the small seed frac- wheat inspected at terminal elevators during tions among selfed progenies. No straightfor- 1973. However, field surveys in 1973 and ward relationship was apparent, between 1974 showed that levels of ergot have chromosome length and formation of tri- declined in the southern areas of the Prairie valents, but trivalent formation and transmis- Provinces where most of the Canadian sion rate of the trisome were related. The durum is produced; in common wheat, low highly effective stem rust gene pg-13 was levels of ergot were more prevalent in the tentatively located on chromosome ST20 in northern portion of the wheat-growing area. A. sativa L. Field beans. In 1974, surveys by aerial Electrophoresis. The esterase pattern of A. photography and on the ground were con- canariensis Baum, Rajhathy, & Sampson was ducted on 115 bean fields in two areas of distinct from that of the C-genome diploids, RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT. 97 I- I I and it was more homologous with A. magna selected for a high rate of twinning, 58 were Murphy & Terrell, A. murphyi Ladizinsky, doubled and increased. Forty-four cultivars and A. sterilis L. than with other A-genome were screened for haplo-diplo twinning and diploids. The combined morphological, kary- four were found suitable for selection of otypic, and electrophoretic evidence sug- high-twinning new genotypes. Haploids, gested that A. canariensis is the putative increased by cloning, were back crossed with donor of the A genome to the polyploid normal and mutagen-treated pollen for the cluster cited above. production of genetic markers and for screening of mutants that tolerate low tem- Bromegrass peratures. Protoplasts were isolated from Analysis of chromosome pairing in octo- leaves of the cultivar Redwood 65 by treat- ploid F, hybrids of Bromus pumpellianus ment with enzymes. Subsequent culture in Scribn. X B. inermis Leyss. is difficult, but liquid medium resulted in wall regeneration pairing appeared to be mainly bivalent as in and cell division. the parent species. The frequency of lagging univalents at anaphase I and micronuclei in Wheat. Nine haploid plants of Triticum tetrads was similar to those found in the aestivum L. cultivar Pitic 62 were obtained parental species. Hybrids between tetraploid from anthers cultured on Miller's medium at B. pumpellianus Scribn. ssp. dicksonii Mitch- a high sucrose (6%) level. All the haploids ell & Wilton and tetraploid B. inermis were reached the adult stage and some seeds were more suitable for meiotic analysis. The formed in colchicine-doubled sectors. Seeds univalent frequency in the hybrids was were also obtained from pollinations of higher than in the parent tetraploids. Further haploid florets with normal Pitic 62 pollen. analysis is necessary to determine if this is Clones of each of the haploids are being indicative of genome differentiation. maintained. Several introd uctions of pasture-type Bromus spp. may give earlier growth in spring and better pasture production in late ENTOMOLOGY summer and fall than B. inermis. These or similar Bromus spp. may be useful in land Insect Population Dynamics areas suitable for permanent pasture. Alfalfa weevil. Populations of the alfalfa Experimental Haploidy weevil, Hypera postica (Gyll.), again attained Tobacco. Anthers of Nicotiana tabacum L. epidemic levels in 1974 and in many parts of cultivar Delhi 34 were cultured on a variety southern Ontario damage to forage crops of defined culture media. The frequency of was at an all-time high. Numbers of eggs in anthers that yielded haploid embryoids study plots within the population epicenter of Hastings-Northumberland reached a record ranged between 5 and 35%. It was concluded 2 2 that the technique is suitable for use in 9900/m (92 I /ft ). Cohort life tables showed breeding programs and it was therefore that within-generation survival decreased 20- introduced to the program of the Research fold. This was the second consecutive de- Station at Delhi. crease and foreshadows a local population decline with eastward shift of the focus of Rapeseed. Approximately 40 plants were infestation. The disruption was caused by an obtained from cultured anthers of Brassica epizootic of the fungus Entomophthora phy- campestris L. cultivar Torch. A high sucrose tonomi Arthur, a pathogen not previously level (10%) and glutamine (0.005 M) were recognized on the alfalfa weevil. In some essential for embryoid development. Meiotic fields the epizootic destroyed more than 99% studies revealed the presence of a triploid of the feeding larvae. The fungus has been and two tetraploids; the remaining plants isolated and cultured on egg-yolk medium. were diploid. The striking differences A statistically reliable sampling plan has between the plants in both morphology and been developed for estimating numbers of development strongly suggested that they larvae in green stems of alfalfa. A six-stem were derived from pollen. Some plants bouquet of foliage is used as the sample unit. produced both selfed and crossed seeds. The bouquets are collected from within Flax. Of the 69 haploids obtained from random quadrats of alfalfa and brought to haplo-diplo twins of Rocket-4, a genotype the laboratory where they are placed in small 98 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 J Berlese-Tullgren funnels. The activated lar- yields from progeny lines varied from 8 to 75 vae fall into containers of alcohol. For g per plant. Individual plants that scored 0 typical densities of the weevil, population and I for rust resistance were noted in estimates with acceptable probability and September 1974. Further selection for seed precision may be ob.tained by taking a single yield and rust resistance in the Bumper strain, bouquet from as few as 16 random quadrats and in Kay and Rideau genotypes, has given within a field, at a total cost of 2 man-hours. positive results. A sequential system has been devised for rating the economic potential of weevil Timothy. A new variety, Basho, was li- infestations. Designed to provide more lead censed in February. It is a pasture type time in making management decisions, it similar to Champ but taller, slightly higher- entails counting the oviposition punctures in yielding, and with a higher potential for seed a sequence of three-stem bouquet samples of yield. Significant progress has been made in alfalfa. An appraisal of the plan under field selection for tallness among individual plant conditions showed that it rated the infesta- progenies of the Labelle strain genotype. The tion correctly in 39 out of 40 cases. Time to 50 plants selected varied from 40 to 55 cm in reach a decision averaged 35 min. height, whereas mean height of the Labelle strain was 35 cm. Continued cycles of selec- Honey Bees tion for seed yield per plant have been recorded for populations of the Labelle Behavior. Synthetic 9-oxo-trans-decenoic strain, the S3-2 strain, and Basho. In open- acid was found to attract as many male bees pollinated lines of Basho, mean seed yield (drones) as did extracts of queens, indicating varied from 12 to 42 g/plant. Because that this compound is the component of the timothy is in intense competition with other queen pheromone that attracts drones from a cash crops in the prairies, selection for higher distance. However, the synthetic product did seed yield is being given high priority. not cause the drones to hover, indicating that still other components are involved in the Dry matter from 33 pasture-type clones of mate-finding process. More acid is produced timothy grown in the greenhouse and cut by laying queens than by virgin queens, and four times at monthly intervals was deter- "keeper" substances secreted together with mined in vitro. It varied from 63 to 71%, the pheromone ensure its gradual release and which indicates that digestibility is a valid dispersal. selection criterion for use in variety improvement. Diseases. Infectivity of spores of Bacillus larvae White, the causal organism of Ameri- Bromegrass. The high-seed-yielding syn- can foul brood, was reduced when pollen was thetic, D-9, was recommended for licensing incorporated into the larval food. Saturated by the Ontario Forage Crop Committee in fatty acids contained in the pollen were November 1974. Although the forage 'yield found to suppress growth and inhibit sporuc was similar to that of the recommended lation of the pathogen in vitro, and also in variety Saratoga, the increased seed potential larvae reared in the laboratory or beehive. of this variety was the main reason for the The fatty acids were not as inhibitory as recommendation. Also, a reduction in yields oxytetracycline (Terramycin) fed in syrup, of the cultivar Baylor indicates that a re- but synthetic acids of the short-chain type placement may be needed. A description of showed promise as a prophylactic. D-9 was completed under the name Tempo. Alfalfa FORAGE CROPS Angus and Algonquin alfalfas have Grasses become firmly established as two useful cultivars. In 33 station-years of forage trials, Orchardgrass. In 1974, 1400 kg of Foun- Angus was at least equal to Saranac, and dation seed of Juno orchard grass were Algonquin outyielded Vernal by 5%. Seed harvested, so that plantings of this early multiplication is progressing satisfactorily. pasture-type variety can be increased for the Over 8450 kg of Foundation seed of Algon- production of pedigreed seed. Progeny of the quin and 4360 kg of Angus were produced in Juno genotype continued to be tested for 1974, so that sufficient Certified seed can be seed yield and rust resistance. Mean seed produced in 1976 to satisfy foreseeable RESEARCH STATION, OTIAWA, ONT. 99 markets. Some Certified seed of both culti- mid-June. All plots were harvested by a vars was produced in 1974 and therefore modified picker-sheller on the same date. they were placed on the Ontario recom- Grain losses ranged from less than 2% to mended list. more than 10% of the yield. In general, losses were greater at the higher plant densities but Breeding methods. Breeder seed of BW9 is some low-density plantings had high losses. being increased in expectation of licensing. The later plantings also suffered greater Another evaluation of the allelic method of losses. Some of the variability was probably selection was made when a field trial was due to unfavorable weather conditions, and established for 143 F progenies and their 1 further testing is required. parental synthetics BWI and BW9. In herbicide studies, butylate, alachlor, Corn cyanazine, and 2,4-D amine were used alone and in combination with atrazine applied Breeding. Delayed planting, drought, and premixed and separately to control annual below-normal temperatures in mid-season, grasses and broad-leaved weeds in corn. followed by early frost, seriously affected Every treatment gave some degree of weed growth and development of corn in nursery control and increased corn yield. Use of and test plots. Material that normally re- atrazine improved the efficacy of each of the quires the full season to mature did not ripen, other herbicides. With butylate and alachlor, so that reliable evaluatIons could not be much better results were obtained when they made. Conversely, material that reached were premixed with atrazine than when maturity after being subjected to the unusual applied separately. For the other two h~r- stresses of the season showed exceptionally bicides, better results were obtamed WIth hig~ levels of stalk rot. One benefit of the separate applications. The various combina- adverse season was that it provided a strin- tions of materials, applied either premixed or gent test for stalk quality in the earlier separately, caused variable rates of injury to material. corn plants, depending on the herbICIdes Performance of Ottawa experimental hy- used. brids in Ontario Corn Committee tests was also affected. Four out of six tests containing Soybeans these hybrids had to be discarded. On the basis of the limited data available, two Breeding. Two Ottawa lines entered in the Ontario 2500-2700 Heat Unit Area Test entries, OX519 and OX521, appeared to be competitive and will be tested again in 1975. placed first and fourth of 12 entries in seed yield. These lines out yielded currently recom- Off-station testing of Ottawa experimental mended varieties and generally matured hybrids for grain was expanded in 1974 to about 5 days earlier. Strains with high include four sites in the AtlantIc provmces. In protein content do not yet yield as much seed yield trials at three of four locations, four as the best high-oil lines, although one hIgh- hybrids were identified that successfully protein line produced 94% as much as the reached physiological maturity. These were standard cultivar, Altona. significantly earlier than the control hybnd Haapala 175, currently the earliest licensed Biochemistry and physiology. Correlation hybrid available, and gave comparable analyses among oil, protein, fatty acids, and yields. seed yield of 30 strains in the breeding program demonstrated a posltlve correlatIon Growth and development. The response of between oil and yield and negatIve correla- corn to stress imposed by interplant competi- tions between oil and polyunsaturated fatty tion was studied in an experiment where row acids, and between protein and yield. There- width, distance between plants within the fore, selection for high levels of oil can be row, and number of plants per hill were expected to improve seed quality by decreas- varied. As in 1973, plant arrangement had ing polyunsaturation and mcreasmg the total only a small effect on the yield of grain; the metabolizable energy. Success m combmmg area of land per plant was the critical factor. high levels of protein with high seed yields is Agronomic practices. Harvest losses were not favored by the negative protein-yield studied in grain corn planted at densltles correlation in the Ottawa strains. The ranging from 35 000 to 86 000 plants/ha absence of such a correlation among the F6 and at four planting dates from mId-May to progeny lines of the cross Blackhawk X 100 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Glycine ussuriensis obtained from the breed- France outyielded all other forage grasses in ing program at Harrow indicates that hybrid- one .cut; Kentucky bluegrass, Poa pratensis ization among genetically diverse sources of L., from USSR, a very tall, vigorous strain germplasm may be necessary. with high forage production, showed promise A modified sample holder developed by as a pasture species and has tolerance for the Cereal Quality Laboratory requires only mildew. 3 g of ground seed for infrared spectroscopic From a survey of old meadows in eastern analysis in the Neotec grain quality analyzer, Ontario, 250 alfalfa ecotypes that had per- so that adequate residual seed from a single sisted for 10-20 yr were gathered. plant remains for planting the following An increase block of a new cicer season. milkvetch, Astragalus cicer L., yielded 580 kg/ha of Breeder seed. An increase of a new Pathology Ottawa tetraploid red clover produced 130 kg/ha of Breeder seed. Chemotaxis of Phytophthora megasperma. P. megasperma Drechsl. was found to be the most destructive fungus associated with HORTICULTURAL CROPS alfalfa root rot in North America. The attraction of zoospores toward the roots of Potatoes the alfalfa plant is important in the develop- Breeding and testing. Onaway, an early- ment of this disease. A phenomenon con- sizing, drought-resistant, tough-skinned, cerning the chemotaxis of the zoospores to scab-resistant cultivar, bred in Michigan, was alfalfa roots was observed. The roots of a licensed in 1974. Also licensed in 1974 was susceptible alfalfa variety attracted sporan- Belleisle (formerly Fredericton seedling gia and zoospores of P. megasperma to an F5801O), a maincrop potato variety with obvious degree within a short time. With few good yielding ability, and excellent quality exceptions, chemotaxis first appeared in the for boiling, baking, and french fries. It is region of elongation immediately behind the resistant to late blight and storage rot, and oldest portion of the root cap, and it eventu- very resistant to tuber damage due to han- ally became prevalent farther back in the dling. Fredericton-bred F61025 will be rec- region of differentiation. However, there was ommended for release in 1975. It is medium- no indication of attraction of sporangia or early in maturity, a good yielder, resistant to zoospores in the region of the root cap and in leaf roll virus and verticillium wilt, excellent the mature zone. The phenomenon of zoo- as table stock, and good for chipping. spore attraction in susceptible alfalfa varie- ties tends to be rather specific; the roots of a resistant variety, Agate, did not attract the PLANT GENE RESOURCES zoospores in any regions of the root. The glass rods used as controls neither attracted Collections maintained in Canada. A first nor repelled the zoospores. listing of the collections of plant genetic resources maintained by 167 plant breeders Introductions and other plant scientists was published in 1974. The report lists plant genera (and Several introductions showed promise in species) represented in the collections to- small plot trials in 1974: two alfalfas, Medi- gether with the number of stocks maintained cago falcata L., one from USSR and one in each collection. Eighty-one genera (from from Germany, and two alfalfas, M. sativa Acer to Zizania) are represented in the L., from France out yielded the controls, collections, which contain over 86,000 stocks. Iroquois and Saranac, in forage production; flat peas, Lathyrus silvestris L., from USSR Seed storage facilities with temperature gave double the forage yield of our best and humidity control. Seed stocks from the alfalfas on a one-cut basis; bromegrasses, "Base Collection of Canadian Plant Gene Bromus inermis Leyss., from Belgium and Resources" and the "Canadian Wild Oat Norway gave higher forage yields than Gene Pool" (CAV Collection) are stored Redpatch; orchardgrasses, Dactylis glomer- under controlled temperature and humidity ata L., from Germany and Finland were in a new seed storage room acquired in 1974. hardy and higher in forage production than The facilities will be used also to maintain in Rideau; timothy, Phleum pratense L., from working collections small seed samples of RESEARCH STATION. OTTAWA, ONT. 101 genetic resources from discontinued breeding EXPERIMENTAL FARM, and research programs. SMITHFIELD, ONT. Fruits EXPERIMENTAL FARM, Effects of growth regulators on yields of KAPUSKASING, ONT. hedged apple trees.. When growth regulators were applied in 1973 to mature Kinkaid Red Spy apple trees hedged in 1970, fruit yield Forage Management improved substantially. In 1974, a year of heavy yields for Spy, 'slabbed' trees gave an Longevity of alfalfa compared with brome- average 54% on the yields of 'unslabbed' grass and timothy. The performance of controls. Trees treated with daminozide alfalfa sown five times was compared with (1500 ppm) in mid-June produced 63% as that of bromegrass and timothy sown only much fruit as the control trees, but those once, over 10 yr (1962-73) under a two-cut treated with daminozide (750 ppm) plus system. Adequate levels of P and K were ethephon (250 ppm) produced 93% of the supplied to all species. Bromegrass and yields of unslabbed trees. timothy also received additional levels of N starting in 1967. Alfalfa produced good dry Effect of growth regulators on flower bud matter yields in the 1st and 2nd yr after formation and fruit set. Applications of establishment. In the 3rd yr, the average daminozide, ethephon, or TIBA (Chemagro yields were only about 35% of those in the Corp.) alone, or daminozide in combination first 2 yr. In comparison with the control, the with ethephon or TIBA, to 2-yr-old Northern average dry matter yields of grasses in 1967- Spy apple trees on M 26 rootstocks in June 73 almost doubled with an application of N 1973 increased the number of flower clusters at 67 kg/ha (59.7Ib/ac) and tripled with 201 in 1974. The greatest increase in flowers kg/ha (199.3 Ib/ac). Timothy appeared to occurred on terminals over 15 cm in length. produce a much lower aftermath when the Only the combinations that included damino- supply of N was limited. After the first zide increased fruit set; the increase was most fertilization with N (1967), the dry matter pronounced on the longer terminals, and was yields of the grasses increased for 3 yr, expressed as a doubling in the number of dropped slightly in 1970, then stabilized in fruit per cluster. the following years with adequate N. Appli- High-density apple orchards. In high-den- cation of N had a positive effect on the sity orchards (2152 to 3588 trees/ha), McIn- percent crude protein, especially on the first tosh apples planted in three-row beds (3230 cut. On a 6-yr average, the amount of crude trees/ha) produced the highest yields (17.9 + protein produced (measured in kg/ha) in- t/ha) on both M 26 and M 9 rootstocks. creased linearly with N application up to 20 I Trees in the center rows of five-row beds kg/ha (199.3 Ib/ac). Bromegrass increased (3588 trees/ha) were significantly less pro- protein production faster as N levels were ductive on M 26 rootstocks, but not on the increased. Under proper management, less vigorous M 9. grasses can be produced more cheaply in the Northern Spy yields were highest in the Northern Clay Belt than alfalfa in respect to five-row beds and lowest in single-row plots dry matter yields, and bromegrass can pro- (2152 trees/ha). An application of damino- duce as much protein per hectare as alfalfa. zide in 1973 brought the trees into bearing in 1974. The quantity of fruit per unit of trunk Comparison of various speciesfor early and was higher where trees were sheltered within late pasture. In a 2-yr study of various species the beds, even though trunk circumference managed as early pasture followed by a hay was reduced in the center rows. Northern Spy crop and late pasture, Frontier reed canary- on M 9 produced average yields of 14.805 grass yielded more than double the other t/ha over all plots whereas on M 26 their species as early pasture. As late pasture, average yield was 9.870 t/ha. orchardgrass and tall fescue yielded best. As a hay crop, birdsfoot trefoil appeared to Evaluation of Ottawa clonal rootstocks. produce well. For the total of three cuts, Evaluations of Ottawa clonal rootstocks at Frontier reed canarygrass produced the most Smithfield and Ottawa indicate that only dry matter. Ottawa 3 gives rise to dwarfing. With Quinte 102 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 as the scion variety, average tree trunk Such fully ripe fruit subjected to consider- circumference and yield were 26.9 cm and able shaking in the can were graded Canada 45.4 kg on M 26 and 27.9 cm and 46.3 kg on Choice (60% drained solids), whereas older 0-3. Similar results were obtained with cultivars did not meet the drained solids McIntosh as the scion variety. requirement of Standard grade. The charac- Rootstocks 0-8 and 0-12 were similar in teristically generous amount and distribution size and performance to MM 106 in both of pericarp tissue relative to locule tissue in trials; 0-2, 0-5, and 0-7 produced slightly the new cultivars suggests that cell wall larger trees than MM 106; and 0-1, 0-4, and components such as pectic materials, calcium, 0-14 resulted in trees equivalent to or larger cellulase, and callose are involved. than those on Robusta 5. Because of poor performance or incompatibility with at least Growth regulators on pickling cucumbers. In field trials for 3 yr, cucumbers were one of the scion varieties, the rootstocks 0-5, 0-6, 0-9, 0-10, and 0-13 should be planted at 191 502 plants/ha during the 1st discarded. wk of June and harvested once destructively; ethephon (250 ppm) was applied at the Scab-resistant apples. Macfree (0-532) three-true-Ieaf stage, and morphactin (100 was released during 1974. The fruit of this ppm) on July 25. As a result, returns on apple is medium to large, round to slightly August 5 were 24.2 and 41.8% higher than conic, with 75% dark lively red overcolor. It those of the untreated controls. When the is of good quality with a storage life of 3-4 two treatments were combined, returns were mo. higher. The average return of the best A second very promising seedling is 0-652 treatment over the 3-yr period was $2700/ (0-522 x T-3916); its fruit has an attractive ha. Later treatments with ethephon or mor- golden skin color with a 5-10% maximum phactin, or earlier or later harvests, elimi- overcolor of light red. This apple appears to nated all benefits. be free from the skin blemishes associated with Golden Delicious, has excellent size and a sweet flavor very similar to that of Golden EXPERIMENTAL FARM, Delicious, and stores until at least February. THUNDER BAY, ONT. Manipulation of orchards to facilitate Crop Management control of orchard pests. Manipulation of the environment within acceptable horticultural Effect of nitrogen and rates of seeding on practices favors certain biotic agents. Modi- varietal yields of barley. Nitrogen fertilizer fications of the flora on the orchard surface, was applied to barley plots at 56.0 and 89.7 both as to height and species represented, kg/ha (50 and 80 Ib/ac) in combination with favored the increase of predaceous mites and P and K at rates of 134.5 kg/ha (120 lb/ac) entomophagous insect predators and elimi- and 67.2 kg/ha (60 lb/ac), and the effects nated the need for chemical control of mites, were compared with results without added aphids, or scale for 3 yr. On the other hand, N. Grain yields of Fergus, Paragon, and parasites (Opius spp.) of the apple maggot, Conquest barleys were significantly higher which were found at three sites around the with N, most efficient gains occurring at the Bay of Quinte as well as in the Niagara 56.0 kg/ha rate of N application. In 1972 Peninsula, survive in wild or abandoned and 1974, average grain yields were higher stands of apples with shrubby undergrowth. by 295.9 kg/ha (264.0 lb/ac) where N was Such an environment would not be compati- applied at 56.0 kg/ha (50.0 lb/ac), and ble with commercial apple production. higher by 368.7 kg/ha (329 Ib/ac) with N at 89.7 kg/ha (80 lb/ac). On sandy loam soils Vegetables subject to drought, higher rates of seeding Retention of wholeness in canned tomatoes. significantly improved grain production. Bar- Retention of wholeness after canning, as ley sown at a rate of 161.4 kg/ha (144 lb/ac) measured by ratios of drained solids to fresh gave average yields for all varieties over 2 yr tomatoes, is particularly good with some of that were higher by 663.5 kg/ha (592.0 lb/ the new high-color cultivars such as Veebrite, ac) than those from plants sown at a lower Moira, and Trimson. Even fully ripe fruit rate, 53.8 kg/ha (48 lb/ac). Varieties differed severely shaken after canning retain their significantly in yield potential, Herta and cohesion. Conquest being superior to Paragon. RESEARCH STATION, OTIAWA, ONT. 103 Control of grasses during alfalfa establish- incorporated treatment at seeding on June ment. Dalapon (granular) applied at rates of 19. It failed to control the germination and 2.24,4.48, and 6.72 kg/ha (2, 4, and 6Ib/ac) seedling development of redroot pigweed, as a postemergence treatment failed to sow-thistle, and shepherd's-purse in pure provide satisfactory control of reed canary- stands of alfalfa on sandy loam soil. 2,4-DB grass in the early jointing stage of develop- at 1.12 kg/ha (1.0 Ib/ac), applied postemer- ment. Dalapon (wettable powder) applied at gence on August 9 to plots previously treated rates of 4.48, 9.69, and 13.45 kg/ha (4, 6, with fluchloralin at 1.12 kg/ha (1.0 Ib/ac), and 8 lb/ac) gave excellent control of the gave good control of redroot pigweed, but grass, with reductions of 90% in stands the treatment was not sufficient to control treated with the high rate of herbicide. shepherd's-purse or sow-thistle. Applications Paraquat sprayed at 1.12 kg/ha (1.0 lb/ac) of bentazon (Basagran; BASF Corp.) at 1.68 in early September killed all top growth, but kg/ha (1.50 Ib/ac) in early September failed before freeze-up the alfalfa showed excellent to control dandelion, plantain, chickweed, regrowth. and shepherd's-purse in a 2-yr-old alfalfa stand. Fall applications of 2,4-DB at rates of Control of broad-leaved weeds in alfalfa. 1.05 kg/ha (15 oz/ac) or 1.40 kg/ha (1.25 Fluchloralin (Basalin; BASF Corp.) was lb/ac) gave excellent control of young dan- applied at rates of 1.40 kg/ha (1.25 Ib/ac) delion seedlings, but was ineffective against and 1.68 kg/ha (1.50 lb/ac) as a preplanting the more mature weeds present in the alfalfa. PUBLICAnONS Research Clark, R. V., and Mack, A. R. \ 974. Effects of growing barley continuously on yields, chemi- Andrews, C. J., and Burrows, V. D. \ 974. Increas- cal constituents, and disease prevalence. Can. ing winter survival of dormoat seeds by a J. Plant Sci. 54:307-314. treatment inducing secondary dormancy. Can. 1. Plant Sci. 54:565-571. Cordukes, W. E., and Fisher, J. E. 1974. Effects of shading of the leaf sheath on the growth and Andrews, C. J., Pomeroy, M. K., and de la Roche, development of the tiller stems of Kentucky 1. A. 1974. Changes in cold hardiness of bluegrass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:47-53. overwintering winter wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:9-\5. Craig, 1. L. 1974. Haploid plants from in vitro Armstrong, K. C. 1974. Homology between the A anther culture of Triticum aestivum. Can. J. and B genomes of Bromus pumpellianus spp. Genet.&Cytol. \6:697-700. dicksonii. Can. J. Genet. & Cytol. 16:213-2 \ 7. Craig, 1. L., Murray, B. E., and Rajhathy, T. 1974. Baenziger, H., Pauksens, J., Dhesi, M. S., Towill, Avena canariensis: morphological and electro- W. B., and Skepasts, A. \ 973. Type verifica- phoretic polymorphism and relationship to the tion in red clover cultivars. Proc. Assoc. Off. A. magna, A. murphyi complex and A. sterilis. Seed Anal. pp. 88-93. Can. J. Genet. & Cytol. 16:677-690. Basu, P. K. \ 974. Glucose inhibition of the charac- teristic melanoid pigment of Xanthomonas Fedak, G. \ 97 4. Allozymes as aids to Canadian phaseoli var. juscans. Can. J. Bot. 52:2203- barley cultivar identification. Euphytica 2206. 23: 166-173. Boch, R., and Morse, R. A. 1974. Discrimination Fejer, S. 0., Johnston, F. B., Hammill, M. M., and of familiar and foreign queens by honey bee Gillespie, B. J. A. \ 974. The inheritance of swarms. Ann. Entomol. Soc. Am. 67:709-7\ I. chemical constituents of apple fruit and leaf in two sets of diallel crosses. Can. J. Plant Sci. Boch, R., and Rothenbuhler, W. C. \974. Defen- 54:843-845. sive behavior and production of alarm phero- 'mone in honeybees. 1. Apic. Res. 13:217-22 \. Fejer, S. 0., and Spangelo, L. P. S. \974. Growth Buckley, D. 1., Reid, W. S., and Voldeng, H. D. of Ottawa hybrid seedling rootstocks top- \ 973. A digital leaf-area measuring system worked with McIntosh and Quinte apples and using a television-scanned conveyor. Can. its relation to early yield. Can. J. Plant Sci. Agric. Eng. 15:107-109. 54:101.104. 104 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 _~I Fejer, S. 0., and'Spangelo, L. P. S. 1974. Three maternal mineral supplement. Can. J. Anim. generations of inbreeding and S2 factorial test Sci. 54:49-60. crosses in red raspberry cultivars. Can. J. Genet. & Cytol. 16:419-432. Jordan, W. A., Lister, E. E., Wauthy, J. M., and Comeau, J. E. 1973. Voluntary roughage Gochnauer, T. A., and Bland, S. E. 1974. Persist- intake by non-pregnant and pregnant or lac- ence of tetracycline activity in medicated syrup tating beef cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 53:733- stored in honeybee colonies in late spring. 1. 738. Apic. Res. 13:153-159. Latheef, M. A., and Harcourt, D. G. 1974. The Gochnauer, T. A., and Corner, J. 1974. Detection dynamics of Leptinotarsa decemlineata popu- and identification of Bacillus larvae in a lations on tomato. Entomol. Exp. & Appl. commercial pollen sample. J. Apic. Res. 17:67-76. 13:265-267. Leuty, S. J. 1974. Influence of SADH on response Guppy, J. c., and Mukerji, M. K. 1974. Effects of of McIntosh apples to chemical thinning temperature on developmental rate of the sprays. HortScience 9: 193-195. immature stages of the alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Can. En- Mack, A. R., and Wallen, V. R. 1974. Effects of tomol. 106:93-100. various field levels of soil temperature and soil Harcourt, D. G., Guppy, J. c., MacLeod, D. M., moisture on the growth of beans infected with and Tyrrell, D. 1974. The fungus Entomophth- bacterial blight. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54: 149-158. Arthur pathogenic to the al- ora phytonomi Miller, C. D. F., and Guppy, J. C. 1973. Notes on falfa weevil, Hypera postica (Coleoptera: the biology of the alfalfa weevil, Hypera Curculionidae). Can. Entomol. 106: 1295- postica (Gyllenhal) (Coleoptera: Curculioni- 1300. dae) in southern Ontario. Proc. Soc. Entomol. Harcourt, D. G., Mukerji, M. K., and Guppy, 1. C. 102:42-46. 1974. Estimation of egg populations of the Mohr, W. P. 1974. Freeze-thaw (and blanch) alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Coleoptera: damage to vegetable ultrastructure. J. Texture Curculionidae). Can. Entomol. 106:337-347. Stud. 5: 13-27. Hogue, E. 1., and Heeney, H. B. 1974. Ethephon and high density plantings increase yield of Mohr, W. P., and Adair, R. G. 1974. Wholeness pickling cucumbers. HortScience 9(1 ):72-74. retention in canned tomatoes. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Technol. J. 7:274-278. Holmes, D. P. 1974. Physiology of grain filling in barley. Nature 247:297-298. Rajhathy, T., and Symko, S. 1974. High frequency of haploids from crosses of Hordeum lechleri House, H. L. 1974. Nutrition. Volume 5:1-62 in M. (6x) X H. vulgare (2x) and H. jubatum (4x) Rockstein, ed., Physiology of Insecta. Aca- X H. bulbosum (2x). Can. J. Genet. & Cytol. demic Press, New York. 648 pp. 16:468-472. House, H. L. 1974. Digestion. Volume 5:63-117 in Rinderer, T. E., Rothenbuhler, W. c., and Goch- M. Rockstein, ed., Physiology of Insecta. nauer, T. A. 1974. The influence of pollen on Academic Press, New York. 648 pp. the susceptibility of honey-bee larvae to Bacil- House, H. L. 1974. Insect nutrients. Volume lus larvae. J. Invertebr. Pathol. 23:347-350. 3:1433-1445 in P. L. Altman and D. S. Sampson, D. R. 1974. Equilibrium frequencies of Dittmer, eds., Biological data book. 2nd ed. sporophytic self-incompatibility alleles. Can. 1. Fed. Am. Soc. Exp. BioI., Bethesda, Md. 690 pp. Genet. & Cytol. 16:611-618. Jackson, H. R., Wallen, V. R., Galway, D., and Sampson, D. R., and Souza Machado, V. I. L. MacDiarmid, S. W. 1974. Automatic analysis 1974. Distribution of coefficients of variation of corn aphid infestation from infrared color in Canadian Eastern Cooperative Spring Ce- aerial photographs. Photogramm. Eng. real Tests. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:817-820. 40:943-952. Schneider, E. F., and Seaman, W. L. 1974. Devel- James, W. c., Lawrence, C. H., and Shih, C. S. opment of conidial chlamydospores of Fusar- 1973. Yield losses due to missing plants in ium sulphureum in distilled water. Can. J. potato crops. Am. Potato J. 50:345-352. Microbiol. 20:247-254. Jenkins, K. J., Hidiroglou, M., Wauthy, J. M., and Schneider, E. F., arid Seaman, W. L. 1974. Devel- Proulx, J. E. 1974. Prevention of nutritional opment of a cellular body during differentia- muscular dystrophy in calves and lambs by tion of conidial chlamydospores in Fusarium. selenium and vitamin E additions to the Can. J. Microbiol. 20:1205-1208. RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT. 105 Slykhuis, J. 1'. 1974. Differentiation of transmission Fedak, G. 1974. Fingerprinting barley cultivars. and incubation temperatures for wheat spindle Can. Agric. 19(1):36-37. streak mosaic virus. Phytopathology 65:554- James, W. C. 1974. Assessment of plant diseases. 557. Annu. Rev. Phytopatho!. 12:27-28. Spangelo, L. P. S., Fejer, S. 0., Leuty, S. J., and James. W. C. 1974. The assessment of economic Granger, R. L. 1974. Ottawa 3 clonal apple loss due to late blight of potatoes. Proc. EPPO rootstock. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:601-603. Integrated Control Meet. Eur. Plant Prot. Org., Paris. pp. 10-13. Spangelo, L. P. S., Rouselle, G., and Leuty, S. J. 1974. Macfree - a new scab resistant apple James, W. c., Shih, C. S.. and Call beck, L. C. 1973. cultivar. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:847. Survey of fungicide spraying practice for potato blight in Prince Edward Island, 1972. Miscellaneous Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 161-166.' Baenziger, H. 1974. Alfalfa improvement in humid Leuty, S. 1. 1974. Observations on firmness in regions. Forage Notes 19(2):23. storage of 8 strains of Delicious apples frozen prior to harvest. Fruit Var. 28:26-27. Basu, P. K. 1974. Reduction of primary infection Loiselle, R. 1974. Tabulating Canada's plant po- of tomato early blight by fall fumigation of tentia!' Can. Agric. 19(4):30-31. soil with Vorlex. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:24- 25. Loiselle, R. 1974. The Canadian plant gene re- sources program. Bul!. Genet. Soc. Can. Basu, P. K. 1974. Measuring early blight, its 6(2):9-11. progress and influence on fruit losses in nine tomato cultivars. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:45- Loiselle, R. 1974. Collections of plant genctic 51. resources maintained in Canada. Central Of- fice for the Plant Gene Resources of Canada, Burrows, V. D. 1974. Hinoat high protein oat Ottawa Res. Stn., Res. Branch, Agric. Can. 92 variety. Ont. Min. Agric. & Food Fact Sheet. pp. Agdex 74.042. Mohr, W. P., and Adair, R. G. 1974. Processing Chi, C. C. 1974. Nematodes play an important role qualities of apple varieties and selections. Can. in root rots of alfalfa. Forage Notes 19(2):24- Dep. Agric. Pub!' 1424. 26. Rajhathy, 1'. 1974. On the genetic control of meiotic pairing. Cereal Genet. Work Planning Childers, W. R. 1974. Varietal improvement and Meet., Winnipeg. pp. 104-113. adaptation for northern areas. Abstracts, N. E. Branch, Am. Soc. Agron. pp. 22-24. Rajhathy, T., and Thomas, H. 1974. Cytogenetics of oats (Avena L.). Misc. Pub!' Genet. Soc. Childers, W. R. 1974. International Grassland Can. 2. 90 pp. Congress. Part II. Condensation of some plenary papers of special interest to the Cana- Robertson, R. W. 1974. Forage introductions dian agricultural scene. Forage Notes 19(2): 1- grown at Ottawa in 1971-73 nursery. Forage 6. Notes 19(2):56-60. Schneider, E. F., Barran, L. R., Wood, P. J., Childers, W. R., and Suitor, R. W. 1973. Variation Scaman. W. L., de la Roche, I. A .. Madhos- for increased seed yield within plants sclected ingh, c., and Miller, R. W. 1974. Ccll wall for good forage type. Timothy Plus 2: 15. composition Fusarium sulphureum. Proc. Can. Clark, R. V. 1974. Cereal fungus diseases. Ont. Fed. Bio!. Soc. 17:238. Min. Agric. & Food Fact Sheet. Agdex Wallcn, V. R. 1974. Influence of three Ascochyta 110.632. (Rev.). diseases of peas on plant development and yield. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:86-90. Donovan, L. S., Mortimore, C. G., and Giesbrecht, J. E. 1974. Growing corn. Can. Dep. Agric. Wallen, V. R., and Galway, D. 1974. Monitoring Pub!' 1025. (Rev.). field beans in Ontario for bacterial blight and root rot by aerial photography. Can. Plant Dis. Fedak, G. 1973. Leaf pubescence in barley. Barley Surv.54:61-63. Genet. News!. 3: 14. Wauthy. J. M. 1974. Management of grasses for Fedak, G. 1973. Haploid production in barley. longevity and quality. Proc. 8th Annu. Meet. Haploid Inf. Servo 6:9-11. N. E. Ont. Soils & Crop Improv. Assoc. 16 pp. 106 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Vineland Station, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF A. J. MCGINNIS, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Director M. CHIBA, B.Sc., D.Sc. Residue chemistry D. R. MENZIES, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Agricultural engineering W. B. Ross Administrative officer e. M. SIMPSON Pesticide evaluation Entomology Section E. A. e. HAGLEY, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Section Head; Fruit pest management R. W. FISHER, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Pesticide application D. H. e. HERNE, B.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Acarology J. H. H. PHILLIPS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Fruit pest management A. B. STEVENSON, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Vegetable pest management R. TROTTIER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Fruit pest management Nematology Section e. F. MARKS, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S.A., Ph.D. Section Head; Chemical control T. H. A. OLTHOF, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D., D.T.A. Host-parasite relations J. W. POTTER, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Ecology J. L. TOWNSHEND, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.Le. Ecology Plant Pathology Section H. F. DIAS, Eng. Agr., Ph.D. Section Head; Fruit viroloty W. R. ALLEN, B.A., Ph.D. Fruit virology T. R. DAVIDSON, B.Sc., M.Sc. Fruit virology W. G. KEMP, B.A., M.A. Vegetable virology J. NORTHOVER, B.Sc., Ph.D., D.Le. Fruit mycology A. A. REYES, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Vegetable mycology RESEARCHSTATION.VINELAND STATION.ONT. 107 Departure J. H. H. PHILLIPS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Fruit pest management Retired Octo ber 3 I, I974 VISITING SCIENTIST T. STAMENKOVIC,M.Sc. Acarology Inst. of Plant Protection, Belgrade, Yugoslavia • 108 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION The programs at this station center around the protection of fruit and vegetable crops against diseases, insects, and nematodes. It was shown that the new disease of grapes, apparently specific to the cultivar de Chaunac (Seibel 9549), is caused by tomato ringspot virus. The disease is soil borne but is readily distributed through cuttings. In cooperation with extension specialists from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, insect pests in nine commercial apple orchards in the Georgian Bay area were effectively controlled with less than half the recommended number of applications of insecticide. It has been shown that a foliar application of oxamyl, a nonfumigant nematocide, effectively controls nematodes. The chemical appears to act as a repellent or a feeding deterrent. Certain parameters for effective application of spray materials to fruit trees have been established by using the newly developed experimental sprayer. Dr. J. H. H. Phillips retired from this station after 35 years of service to the horticultural industry. A pest-management system for peaches has emerged from his most recent studies; it provides satisfactory insect control with about half the amount of insecticide that is usually recommended. This report briefly outlines some of the highlights of our research in 1974. For more information on our research projects or for reprints of published papers, please write: Director, Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 185, Vineland Station, Onto LOR 2EO. A. J. McGinnis Director PESTICIDES Comparison of nozzle arrangements on a hydraulic boom in cole crops. In replicated Application experimental plots of cole crops, coverage was generally lower and damage by cabbage Drift control. Droplet extractors were loopers increased when the sprayer traveled made and installed on the experimental 4.3 km/h (3 mph) rather than 3.2 km/h (2 orchard sprayer. Performance data showed a mph). Coverage improved as pressure was 40.5% reduction in the number of droplets increased from 689 kPa (100 psi) to 2067 emitted that were smaller than 80 ft m in kPa (300 psi). Drop arms greatly improved diam, when the 8002 nozzles were operating control of the looper when flat fan nozzle at 551.2 kPa (80 psi) and the sprayer air 8002 was used. Nozzle systems at 689 kPa volume rate of flow was 2.8 m3 Is ~6000 cfm). (100 psi) decreased in coverage and ,pest At 551.2 kPa (80 psi) and 7 m Is (15,000 control in the order: D2-33 with drop arms, cfm) a 36.8% reduction was obtained. Dr25 with drop arms, 8002 with drop arms, Comparative tests of performance and 8002 without drop arms. The 8002 between the experimental machine with nozzle at 413.4 kPa (60 psi) gave poorer droplet extractors and a conventional air- results than at 689 kPa (100 psi). blast machine applying material at the same Chemistry rate indicate no differences in coverage (P> 0.05) in the top inside, middle inside, and Stability of benomyl in organic solvents and middle outside of the trees. Drift losses from water. Benomyl was found to be unstable in application by the conventional machine 70 organic solvents and degraded to methyl m (230 ft) downwind were the same as those benzimidazole carbamate (MBC). Although from the experimental machine at 40 m (130 benomyl also decomposes to MBC in water, ft). At 70 m (230 ft) the drift deposit from the rate of decomposition is not as rapid as the experimental machine was negligible. had been believed. The misconception that Wind speeds during the tests were 16 km/h benomyl rapidly decomposes to MBC in (10 mph) for the experimental machine and water may have developed because benomyl 10 km/h (6 mph) for the conventional rapidly degrades to MBC in common organic machine. solvents during analytical procedures for RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT. 109 residues, such as extraction, purification, and Chemical Co.) are most suitable for control- determination. Benomyl is also thermally ling the European red mite, Panonychus ulmi unstable, because it breaks down during (Koch), in a pest-management program. mass spectrometric analysis at 80°C and also Phytoseiid mites, mainly Amblyseius fa//acis during the codistillation procedure at 100°e. (Garman), became well established by the fourth year in plots treated with the same compounds and these mites contributed INSECTS AND MITES substantially in controlling P. ulmi. A.fa//acis did not develop in plots treated with either Ecology and Pest Management chlorphenamidine or formetanate hydrochlo- ride. However, the predator Zetze//ia mali In Pest management in apple orchards. (Ewing) was relatively tolerant of both 1974, five sprays of insecticide were needed chemicals and it may have contributed to in the experimental and most of the commer- control of the red mite. These predaceous cial orchards to control apple pests. A mites destroyed a large number of the winter prebloom spray to control spring-feeding eggs of P. ulmi. caterpillars was not needed, but late in August, because the codling moth and apple Effects of temperature and day length on maggot were still active, an application of an the carrot weevil. The ranges of threshold insecticide was needed. In general, the total temperature for development and reproduc- insect damage in these orchards was less than tion of the carrot weevil in the laboratory 2%, and the populations of European red were determined in cabinets with 16-h light mite were so low that in many orchards an periods. The range for egg laying is 15- acaricide was not applied. In one experimen- l7.5°C, egg hatch and larval development, tal orchard where the summer generation of 12.5-15°C, and pupation, 10-12.5°e. At codling moth occurred in very low numbers 20°C laboratory-reared adults did not lay and the apple maggot was absent, three eggs when day lengths were 14 h or less, but sprays of phosmet at 3.14 kg/ha (2.8 lb/ac) adults from the field that had overwintered controlled all pests. in an insectary laid eggs when day lengths were as short as 12 h. Comparison of prebaited traps for apple maggot. Yellow Sectar pull-down traps pre- Chemical Control baited with a mixture of HyCase protein hydrolysate, ammonium acetate, and adhe- Control of European red mite with benomyl sive trapped significantly more adults of the fungicide. Two applications of benomyl on apple maggot than did Sectar I yellow traps July 30 and Aug. 12 at either 30 g/hl (0.25 pre baited with the same mixture or Pherocon IbllOO gal) or 60 g/hl (0.5 IbllOO gal) were ICPY baited with a solution of soy hydroly- equally effective in controlling the European sate, and ammonium acetate. The largest red mite on Redhaven peach. Oil alone at number of flies was caught with Sectar pull- 0.62 litre/hI (80 ozllOO gal) was slightly down traps and the first capture was signifi- more effective than benomyl, and benomyl cantly earlier than with the other traps. plus oil was significantly better. By Aug. 20 Nontarget insects, of which about 95% were there were about 150 mites per leaf on Diptera, accounted for approximately 70%, control trees, whereas there were fewer than 25%, and 5% of all captures on Sectar pull- 6 mites per leaf on all treated trees. Labora- down, Pherocon, and Sectar I traps. The use tory studies showed that mites treated with of prebaited yellow pull-down traps (ob- benomyl lay fewer eggs than do untreated tained from Zoecon Corporation) to deter- mites, and that many of the eggs are mine when to apply the first and subsequent nonviable. sprays resulted in fewer sprays than are currently recommended for orchards with Control of carrot insects. Six weekly sprays low or moderate populations of apple of chlorpyriphos, tetrachlorvinphos, phos- maggots. met, or carbofuran, all at 1.1 kg ailha, killed more than 90% of the carrot weevils. Five Long-term effect of acaricides. A 5-yr study weekly sprays of carbofuran at 1.1 kg ai/ha in which acaricides were applied once a killed 95% of the second-generation carrot season to the same apple trees (cv. Delicious) rust flies in O.OOI-ha plots. However, para- showed that propargite and Plictran (Dow thion and diazinon at the rates currently 110 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 recommended gave only 4 I % and 34% Stekh. 1941: as the fumigant-type nemato- control. cides .. FumIgants produce a rapid initial reductIon of numbers of nematodes in the Evaluation. Of the pesticides currently soil, whereas the reduction is gradual over a recommended for use in peach orchards, longer period with oxamyl. Control of nema- only azmphos-methyl and parathion were todes is better with oxamyl than with fumi- found to give complete control of larvae of gants, based on numbers of nematodes in the the oblique banded leafroller, Choristoneura roots 2 wk after transplanting. Results of rosa~eana (Harris), in a laboratory test. work in a greenhouse, however, indicate that MaXImum kill after 3 days contact with oxamyl acts more as a protectant from phosmet, phosalone, and carbaryl was 50%, nematode attack than as a nematocide. 60%, and 60%. When oxamyI wa~ applied as a foliar appli- calIon, reductIon m numbers of nematodes NEMATODES appeared to be due largely to starvation. Physiology Ecology A technique has been devel- Population densities and crop loss. Penn- Mitochondria. oped for isolating active mitochondria from lake lettuce and Chieftain potatoes were the fungal-feeding nematode Aphelenchus grown t.o market size in clay-tile microplots avenae Bastian. Electron microscopic exami- filled WIth Bradford muck soil infested with natIons mdlcate that mitochondria from A. northern. root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne although smaller, are morpholog- hapla ChItwood. Losses in weight of market- c:venae,. Ically slmtlar to those isolated from beef able head lettuce were 32%, 46%, 54%, and heart. Preliminary results show that except 55% with initial populations of 300, 2600, for aldl.carb and ethoprop nonfumigant 15,000, and 27,000 larvae/litre of soil. nematocldes have no noticeable effect on the L?sses in weight of marketable potato tubers activity of beef heart mitochondria. WIth 200, 4000, and I 1,000 larvae/litre were 28%, 20%, and 14%. At 28,000 larvae/litre, the weight of market-sized tubers increased PLANT DISEASES to 6% more than the controls, and the number of market-sized tubers increased Fruit Virology 25%. These increases are attributed to in- Virus diseases of grapes. The three strains creased stolon production by the heavily of grape fanleaf virus (fanleaf, yellow mo- attacked plants. saic, and vein banding) have similar virus Seedling emergence, production of dry components. Each strain has an RNA-free matter, and weIght and length of individual protein shell and two types of complete virus shoots of four legumes were reduced in direct partlcles, mIddle (M) and bottom (B); S20 w proportion to the population density of the values for the three components are 50 northern root-knot nematode, M. hapla. Red 87 and 122. Infectivity was only associated ~ith clover was the most severely affected legume the B component, which contains 42% RNA. and alfalfa the least. Dry matter produced by Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed each legume with populations of 0, 600, and that the B component from all strains con- 20,000 second-stage larvae/kg soil was 11.3, tains two different RNA's and that only the 8.6, and 9.1 tiha (5.1, 3.9, and 4.1 tons/ac) slower movmg RNA was infectious. Equilib- for alfalfa cv. Saranac; 10,8, 8.2, and 6.4 rIum density gradients of the B component t/ha (4.9, 3.7, and 2.9 tons/ac) for birdsfoot YIelded two dIstmct peaks and the infectious trefoil cv. Empire; 9.3, 4.0, and 4.2 t/ha (4.2, RNA. was associated with the lighter of the 1.8, and 1.9 tons/ac) for red clover cv. two VIruS partIcles. This work was conducted Ottawa; and 4.4, 4.0, and 2.7 t/ha (2.0, 1.8, at the John Innes Institute, Norwich, En- and 1.2 tons/ac) for white clover cv. Merit. gland, by Dr. H. F. Dias while he was on a Mode of action of nematocides. The nonfu- postdoctorate transfer of work. ~igant nematocide oxamyl applied either The virus isolated from vines of the dIrectly to the soil in the transplant water or cultivar de Chaunac (Seibel 9549) showing as a foliar spray to cabbage provides the yellowmg and curled leaves, short internodes, same control of the root-lesion nematode poor fruit set, and stunting was identified as Pratylenchus penetrans (Cobb) Filipjev &. tomato ringspot by means of biological and RESEARCH STATION. VINELAND STATION. ONT. III serological tests. The weeds growing near Vegetable Virology infected vines were indexed and tobacco Viruses of umbelliferous crops. Celery rings pot was isolated from common milk- mosaic virus significantly reduced yields of weed plants, Asclepias syriaca L., with five out of nine commercial celery cultivars streaking and mosaic symptoms. grown in Ontario. The other four cultivars appear to possess some tolerance for the Chemotherapy for X-disease of peach. Ontario isolate of the virus. At the start, ali Terramycin was effectively used to induce the cultivars showed small yellow-veined remission of X-disease symptoms in peach leaves with shortened leaf blades and the . under both glasshouse and field conditions. plants .were noticeably stunted, but as day After one application of Terramycin at length and air temperature increased the dosages below the phytotoxic level, symptom cultivars Summer Pascal, Slowbolt, Salt remission was apparently complete for at Lake, and Non-Bolting Green made consid- least 9 mo in the glasshouse and for the erable recovery. Utah 52-70, Utah 15, growing season in the field. The antibiotic Greenlight, Stoke's Golden Plume, and Cor- was administered by gravity feed through nell 619 remained stunted. tubing inserted into small holes bored into the lower trunk; field applications were made Effect of colored polyethylene mulches on immediately after harvest. The solubility and the incidence of aphid-transmitted virus dis- stability of the antibiotic were increased by eases in peppers. The incidence of virus and using citric acid. The treatment, as used, is the populations of a common aphid vector of effective, inexpensive, simple, and commer- pepper viruses were reduced by the use of cially feasible. colored polyethylene mulches placed between the rows in pepper plots. Alumi- Superior fruit stock program. The reposi- num-colored mulch reduced the incidence of tory for virus-tested material now contains virus by 59% relative to the controls. The 163 lines of stone fruit including apricot, incidence of virus was reduced by 46% with peach, nectarine, plum, cherry, and ornamen- yellow polyethylene, 39% with red, 31 % with tal Prunus; 123 lines of pome fruit including green, and 19% with blue. The mean number apple, pear, quince, and ornamental Malus; of aphids per leaf was highest on plants 83 lines of strawberries; and 35 lines of mulched with blue polyethylene and least on raspberries. All lines are being indexed and those mulched with aluminum polyethylene. trials to verify trueness-to-name are progressing. Vegetable Mycology Effect of benomyl on crucifer pests. Beno- Fruit Mycology myl acted selectively on crucifer pests. At 154 ppm ai based on ovendry soil, benomyl Control of leaf curl and canker of peach. A controlled black leg (Phoma Iingam (Tode ex post-leaf-fall application of captafol was Fr.) Desm.), yellows (Fusarium oxysporum more effective than one of ferbam for Schlecht. f. conglutinans (WI.) Snyd. & preventing the shoot-infection phase of can- Hans.), green peach aphid, cabbage maggot, ker of peach (Leucostoma spp.). Used at this and the mite Tetranychus bimaculatus Har- time, captafol was also superior to chlorotha- vey, but not gray leaf spot (A Iternaria lonil and sometimes even to ferbam for brassicae (Berk.) Sacc.), turnip mosaic virus, controlling leaf curl. Pre-leaf-fall applica- imported cabbageworm, cabbage looper, or tions of captafol and ferbam were as effec- the nematode Heterodera schachtii A. tive as post-leaf-fall sprays for controlling Schmidt. The earthworm, Lumbricus terre- leaf curl, but early use of captafo] was less stris L., was killed by benomyl at 23 ppm ai effective for controlling peach canker. in soil. 112 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 I -~ PUBLICATIONS Research Olthof, T. H. A., Marks, C. F., Potter, 1. W., and Townshend, J. L. 1973. Plant parasitic nema- Allen, W. R. 1973. Nontransmissible, virus-like todes of economic importance in Ontario. disorders of pome fruits in Ontario. Can. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Ont. 103:3-5. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 167-169. Olthof, T. H. A., Potter, J. W., and Peterson, E. A. Allen, W. R. 1974. Fungi associated with root and 1974. Relationship between population densi- collar necrosis of deelining Montmorency sour ties of Heterodera schachtii and losses in cherry on Prunus maha/eb undcrstocks in vegetable crops in Ontario. Phytopathology Ontario. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:431-432. 64:549-554. Potter, J. W., and Olthof, T. H. A. 1974. Yield Buckley, D. J., and Trottier, R. 1974. An accurate losses in fall-maturing vegetables relative to integrator with analog output for use with population densities of Praty/enchus penetrans digital data loggers. Agric. Mcteorol. 13:87- and Me/oidogyne hap/a. Phytopathology 89. 64:1072-1075. . Chiba, M. 1974. Distribution of spray deposits in Reyes, A. A., Davidson, T. R., and Marks, C. F. peach trees and number of leaves that consti- 1974. Races, pathogenicity and chemical con- tute an adequate sample. J. Econ. Entomol. trol of P/asmodiophora brassicae in Ontario. 67:529-534. Phytopathology 64: 173-177. Chiba, M., and Doornbos, F. 1974. Instability of Roberts, M.-D., and Stevenson, A. B. 1974. Carrot benomyl in various conditions. Bull. Environ. weevil: A laboratory-rearing method. J. Econ. Contam. & Toxicol. II :273-274. Entomol. 67: 140. Dias, H. F. 1973. A sap-transmissible virus associ- Townshend, J. L., Eggens, J. L., and McCollum, N. ated with a severe disease of the hybrid Vitis K. 1973. Turf grass hosts of three species of sp. cv. Joannes-Seyve (26-205). Proc. 5th Int. nematodes associated with forage crops. Can. Council for the Study of Virus and Virus Plant Dis. Surv. 53:137-141. Diseases of Grapes. Rivista Di Patologia Townshend, J. L., and Potter, J. W. 1973. Nema- Vegetale 9:64-67. tode numbers under cultivars of forage leg- Elliot, J. M., Marks, C. F., and Tu, C. M. 1974. umes and grasses. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. Effects of the nematicides DD and Mocap on 53: 194-195. soil nitrogen, soil micro flora, populations of Townshend, J. L., and Potter, J. W. 1973. Some Pratylenchus penetrans, and flue-cured to- observations on the survival and development bacco. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:801-809. of Helicoty/enchus digonicus under alfalfa. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 196-198. Fisher, R. W., Menzies, D. R., Herne, D. c., and Chiba, M. 1973. Parameters of dicofol spray Townshend, 1. L., Willis, C. B., Potter, J. W., and deposit in relation to mortality of European Santerre, J. 1973. Occurrence and population red mite. J. Econ. Entomol. 67: 124-126. densities of nematodes associated with forage crops in eastern Canada. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. Hagley, E. A. C. 1974., Codling moth: emergence, 53:/3/-136. sex ratio, and abundance. Can. Entomol. 106:399-402. Miscellaneous Kemp, W. G., Wiebe, J., and Troup, P. A. 1974. Allen, W. R. 1974. Bacterial canker of sweet Occurrence of squash mosaic virus in musk- cherry. Agdex 213/634. melon seeds available in Ontario in 1973. Can. Hagley, E. A. C. 1974. Pest management in Plant Dis. Surv. 54:43-44. Ontario apple orchards. Can. Agr. 19(2): 14- 15. Marks, C. F., and Davidson, T. R. 1973. Effects of preplant and postplant nematicidcs on popula- Marks, C. F. 1974. Nematodes-the underrated tions of nematodes in the soil and on growth enemy. Can. Fruitgrower 30(4): 11-15. of fruit trees in the Niagara Peninsula. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 170-\74. Marks, C. F. 1974. Soil fumigants. Agdex 606. Northover, J. 1974. How to control apple scab Marks, C. F., Townshend, J. L., Potter, J. W., while fishing next spring. Can. Fruitgrower Olthof, T. H. A., Johnson, P. W., and Louns- 30(2):4-5. bery, J. 1973. Plant-parasitic nematode genera associated with crops in Ontario in 1972. Can. Olthof, T. H. A. 1974. Nematodes cut vegetable Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 142-143. yields. Cash Crop Farming 35:34-35. RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION. ONT. 113 Animal Research Institute Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF Administra tion R. S. GOWE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director D. A. LEGER, B.Sc. A/ Assistant to the Director G. B. MATTHEWS Chief, Administration and Resources G. T. SPURR, B.A. Administrative Officer, Accounts M. W. MOSLEY (Mrs.) A/ Administrative Officer, Personnel D. B. SNYDER, B.Sc. (Agr.) A/Resources Manager Scientific Support G. P. KAVANAGH Computer systems 1 K. B. LAST Computer systems and programming S. M. REID, I Dip. Bus. Adm., Compo Sci. Computer programming R. R. MACKAY,2 D.V.M. Veterinarian Animal and Poultry Breeding Section J. A. B. EMSLEY, B.Sc., Ph.D. Dairy cattle breeding J. S. GAVORA, Ing., C.Sc. Poultry breeding, disease resistance R. S. GOWE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Poultry breeding, egg production A. A. GRUNDER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Poultry breeding, biochemical genetics D. L. HARRIS,3 B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Dairy cattle breeding C. G. HICKMAN, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Dairy cattle breeding K. G. HOLLANDS, B.S., B.S.A., M.S.A. Poultry breeding, biochemical genetics W. E. LENTZ, B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD. Poultry breeding statistics J. NAGAI,4 B.A., D.Agr. Mouse quantitative genetics H. F. PETERS, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Sheep breeding ANIMAL RESEARCHINSTITUTE 115 Monogastric Nutrition Section G. A. LODGE, B.Sc., Ph.D. Chief of Section; Swine, energy and protein metabolism N. A. G. CAVE,s B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Poultry nutrition, amino acids and proteins J. D. CIPERA, Ing., M.S.A., Ph.D. Poultry nutrition, eggshell formation J. r. ELLIOT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Swine nutrition, artificial rearing D. W. FRIEND, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Swine nutrition, sow nutrition and reproduction R. M. G. HAMILTON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Poultry nutrition, eggshell quality N. K. SARKAR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Swine nutrition, protein synthesis r. R. SIBBALD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Poultry nutrition, energetics Reproductive Physiology Section L. AINSWORTH, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chief of Section; Steroid hormones and reproduction A. J. HACKETT, D.V.M., M.Sc., Ph.D. Reproductive and light physiology W. G. HUNSAKER, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Environmental and light physiology H. A. ROBERTSON, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.r.e., F.R.S.E Steroid hormones and reproduction e. P. W. TsANG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Metabolism and assay of steroid hormones F. A. VANDENHEUVEL,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., D.r.e., Identification and assay of steroid Fe.r.e. metabolites Ruminant Nutrition Section F. D. SAUER, D.V.M., M.S., Ph.D. Chief of Section; Rumen metabolism and physiology J. D. ERFLE, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Rumen metabolism and metabolic diseases D. P. HEANEY, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Sheep nutrition and management H. W. HULAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Lipid nutrition and metabolism W. A. JORDAN, B.S.A. Beef cattle nutrition and management J. R. LESSARD, B.S., B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Forage conservation E. E. LISTER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Beef cattle and calf nutrition S. MAHADEVAN,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Short- and long-chain fatty acid metabolism N. K. PATNI,6 B.Ch.E., M.S., Ph.D. Livestock waste utilization and pollution abatement D. S. WALSH (Mrs.), B.A. Hormones of energy metabolism Trace Minerals and Pesticides Section K. J. JENKINS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chief of Section; Nutrition and metabolism of Cu, Mn, Zn, Se 116 RESEARCHBRANCH REPORT 1974 T. S. FOSTER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide metabolism and residues M. HIDIROGLOU, D.V.M., Dip. Nut. Nutrition of Vito E, Mn, Se J. K. G. KRAMER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide syntheses and analyses Departures G. R. BARR, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Chief of Animal and Poultry Resigned December 1974 Breeding Section; Dairy cattle breeding L. J. FISHER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Dairy cattle nutrition, proteins and Transferred to Research Station, energy, pollution Agassiz, B.c., October 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS B. B. BOHREN, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Poultry breeding, multi-trait selection National Research Council postdoctorate fellows R. S. BUSH, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D., 1974-75 Rumen microbiology and metabolism J. P. CHESNAIS, B.S., M.S., Ph.D., 1974-75 Dairy cattle breeding, statistical genetics E. IBRAHIM, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D., 1973-74 Ruminant nutrition H. M. MUKHOTY, B.V.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., 1972-74 Sheep breeding and meat quality ~Secondedfrom Data Processing Division, Finance and Administration Branch. )Seconded from Animal Diseases Research Institute, February 1974 to December 1974. 4Appointed August 1974. sOn transfer of work at North Carolina State University, Raleigh, N.C., July 1974 to July 1975. I.'ppointed May 1974. Appointed June 1974. ANIMAL RESEARCHINSTITUTE 117 ------ INTRODUCTION The Animal Research Institute was honored in 1974 in that two of its senior scientists received major awards for their research. Drs. Jenkins and Hidiroglou both received awards for their studies of selenium metabolism and utilization, and the prevention of nutritional muscular dystrophy in ruminants. This research project of the Institute is now almost completed and the trace mineral program team will now investigate problems associated with the requirements of ruminants for the trace elements zinc, copper, and manganese. The swine nutrition program team began studies on artificial rearing of newborn piglets, and the poultry nutrition program team started research on the biological availability of amino acids from cereal grains. The Institute's pollution program was strengthened by the addition of a full-time scientist to investigate the problems of farm animal wastes and environmental pollution. This program will develop models of animal waste management systems for large integrated farms. The development of specialized facilities for animal research continued at the Institute's Greenbelt Farm. A building was completed for surgery and radioisotope studies with livestock, and it also provides space for post-mortem examinations and carcass incineration. The construction of two large horizontal silos has made it possible to start investigations into the practical use of this type of silo for forage conservation in an intensive livestock production system. In cooperation with the Radio and Television Unit, Information Division, Agriculture Canada, two 30-minute, l6-mm, color films with sound tracks were produced to describe the research programs on dairy cattle and sheep production and the Greenbelt research facilities that house these programs. The films, entitled "Dairy cattle breeding and production program" and "Sheep breeding and production program and related research," are available on loan in either English or French from the Information Division, Agriculture Canada. This report records only the highlights of our accomplishments in 1974; more detailed information can be obtained from the publications listed at the end of the report. Reprints of the research publications and copies of this report are available on request from Animal Research Institute, Headquarters Building, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, OntoKIA OC6. R. S. Gowe Director ANIMAL AND POULTRY early mortality after challenge of day-old BREEDING chicks with JM-V. In a test involving 40 inbred lines, no correlation existed between Poultry resistance to JM-V and resistance to virulent Genetic resistance to Marek's disease. MD virus, which indicates that two different Research on Marek's disease (MD) contin- genetic mechanisms may be involved. Chal- ued in cooperation with the Animal Diseases lenge with JM-V appears to provide a rapid Research Institute, Ottawa. method for detecting immunity resulting The response of chickens to challenge with from vaccination with turkey herpesvirus. the MD tumor transplant JM-V was studied Because differential response of genotypes to in several experiments. The size of tumors vaccination was observed, vaccines should be produced by an injection of JM-V into the tested consistently on chickens of the same wing web was affected both by the genotype strain to permit valid comparisons of the of the bird and by vaccination with turkey results. herpesvirus before challenge with JM-V. Since February 1972 there has been no Differences between the genotypes on the evidence of MD in the Institute's isolation basis of tumor size were' not large enough, facility, which provides filtered air and however, for this technique to be recom- positive pressure (FAPP), even though MD mended as a test for genetic resistance to was enzootic in other flocks of the farm. MD. Genotypes also differed significantly in FAPP houses can therefore be recommended 118 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 I i I ____ ------J for production of MD antibody-free chicks Data from the project were analyzed up to for experimental purposes. and including those from birds hatched in Cooperative research was conducted with 1972. The improvement in egg production the University of Alberta in developing an in per housed hen to 273 days was 33.4 eggs for ovo test for resistance to MD. The studies strain 3 and 43.1 eggs for strain 4. This was implied that hereditary differences in adult accompanied by a reduction in average age susceptibility to MD are related to differen- at first egg of 31.1 days in strain 3 and 26.9 tial infectivity, or cellular response, or both, days in strain 4. The gain in the egg produc- that can be demonstrated in the embryo. tion per housed hen for the whole year was When eggs from the flock housed under only 34.1 eggs for strain 3 compared with FAPP conditions were used, it was also 86.4 eggs for strain 4; however, most of the found that results of this test are not influ- gain in strain 4 (61.8 eggs) was achieved in enced by the presence of maternal MD the first five generations. Because mortality in antibody in the embryo. strain 4 was lower than in strain 3, perform- ance based on data from surviving hens was Eggshell quality and carbonic anhydrase. A similar for both strains. study was made of the relationship between Genetic parameters of egg production and eggshell quality as measured by specific related traits were estimated year by year for gravity of eggs and the presence of carbonic the two strains. In general, estimated herita- anhydrase (CA), the enzyme responsible for supplying carbonate ions for shell formation. bility of the various traits declined up to 1964. The estimates increased markedly Two groups of 20 hens, one group laying starting in 1965, which coincided with a eggs of low specific gravity and the other, eggs of high specific gravity (measured at change in the housing environment of the adult birds, from floor pens to individual 450 days of age), were selected from each of six Leghorn strains. Analysis of their oviducts cages. Subsequent effects of this change were obscured by a high incidence of Marek's revealed five CA isozymes in the uterus and magnum, but only four in the isthmus. Sera disease in 1969 and 1970, which was accom- contained two CA isozymes, both of which panied by another sharp increase in heritabil- were found in each of the three regions of ity estimates. Although the birds have been the oviduct. Sera from five hens with inactive protected from this disease by vaccination since 1971, estimates from another year or ovaries contained at least one additional isozyme. No apparent differences in the two will be required before it is clear whether presence of isozymes were observed between heritability is changing. the groups that laid high- and low-specific- Dairy Cattle gravity eggs. Field test of Finnish Ayrshires. A compari- Long-term selection for increased egg pro- son of proven Finnish, proven Canadian, and duction. This project was started in 1950 to young Canadian Ayrshire sires is continuing compare long-term selection response and in cooperation with 60 breeders of registered selection limits in strains with narrow (strain Ayrshires in Quebec and Ontario. All mat- 3) and broad (strain 4) genetic bases. An ings have been completed and heifers are unselected control strain, identical in origin approaching breeding age. Preliminary with strain 3, was also maintained studies of meat production conducted in throughout the project. Production per cooperation with Macdonald College of housed hen for the full test year at the McGill University on 75 male calves from beginning of the project was 196 eggs for the project indicated that progeny of Cana- strain 3 and 157 eggs for strain 4. The dian sires gain better than progeny of Finn- primary selection criterion was the number of ish sires, by 0.05 kg/day. eggs produced from time of housing to 273 days of age, but the production was recorded Evaluation of selection and crossbreeding. for a full test year (to 497 days of age). Other Two pure lines of dairy cattle are being traits were later added to the selection established, one Holstein (H) and the other a criteria to maintain a bird with commercially synthetic (A) line consisting mainly of Cana- acceptable characteristics such as fertility, dian Ayrshire with the addition of Brown livability, and egg size. Management prac- Swiss, Norwegian Red, and Finnish Ayrshire tices were changed from time to time to genes. A crossbred line (C) from the two pure reflect changes in commercial practice. lines will be used for an evaluation of ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 119 ---_._------ heterosis on the basis of protein production, MONOGASTRIC NUTRITION longevity, and reproductive performance. Research Branch establishments at Leth- Poultry bridge, Alta., Charlottetown, P.E.I., Lennox- Insoluble grit for replacement pullets. Ten ville, Que., and Normandin, Que., are coop- strains or strain crosses were reared to 20 wk erating in the project. The first C-line cows of age with or without access to insoluble have begun to lactate. In late 1974, more granite grit. No major differences in mortal- than 1,500 females were taking part in the ity, weight gain, or feed consumption were experiment at the five locations, 911 H line, associated with the availability of grit. 612 A line, and 15 C line, all of which are young stock. Matings with semen from Phosphorus requirement of laying hens. foreign bulls were completed. Female calves Eleven strains or strain crosses were fed 0.40, born in 1974 totaled 155. 0.45, 0.50, or 0.55% of available phosphorus in a laying diet. After 20 wk of laying there were no effects on egg production, feed Sheep efficiency, mortality, or egg quality. Growth restriction of broiler breeder stock. New strains development program. After Over a 49-wk laying period, hens of two the successful termination of a 3-yr quaran- strains reared on a 14% protein diet from 0 to tine, four lie de France rams and the 20 or 2 to 20 wk of age laid more eggs, used progenies of lie de France and East Friesian less feed per egg, and produced smaller eggs rams were moved and integrated into the than a control group that received an 18% main breeding flock. Three populations, each protein diet from 0 to 6 wk and a 14% of 40 rams and 480 ewes, will be kept in protein diet from 6 to 20 wk. In all three total-confinement barns. One population will rearing regimes, birds were fed on alternate consist of a sire strain selected for muscle days from 6 to 20 wk. Mortality was highest growth and the other two of dam strains in the group fed 14% protein from hatching. selected for prolificacy and growth. Ability of Birds fed 14% protein from 0 to 6 wk females to breed at 6- to 8-mo intervals will followed by rye ad lib. from 6 to 20 wk had be a criterion of selection in each of the three the lowest egg production, poorest feed strains. The sire strain will. have lie de efficiency, smallest eggs, and highest mortal- France, Suffolk, and Leicester genes, with ity. The strains differed in mortality and feed lesser contributions from the Lincoln, North efficiency. Country Cheviot, Southdown, Shropshire, In another experiment, the addition of Romnelet, and Corriedale breeds. The two urea at up to 150 g/kg of diet had no effect dam strains will each carry about 50% on gross feed intake of chicks but caused a Finnish Landrace genes. In addition, one will decrease in body-weight gain, probably have mainly Shropshire and Suffolk genes, because its effect was to dilute the ration. It is and the other, Dorset Horn and East Friesian not feasible to use urea to restrict the growth genes with smaller contributions from the of replacement pullets. Leicester, North Country Cheviot, Shrop- shire, Suffolk, Romnelet, and Corriedale Measurement of metabolizable energy. The breeds. Two purebred populations, one Suf- variation in metabolizable energy (ME) of folk and the other Finnish Landrace, with 40 the diet was measured and partitioned ac- rams and 80 ewes in each, will be kept as cording to bird, day, and acclimatization to random-bred control strains to help interpret dietary change. The results make it possible trends in the performance of the selected to design ME assays with the sensitivity strains. The five populations housed in total required to detect differences of a predeter- confinement will provide replacements for a mined magnitude. It was shown that the 400-ewe population in conventional barns. standard deviation of an ME value increases Three-way-cross lambs of the sire strain and in a curvilinear manner as the level of two dam strains will be produced in this flock inclusion of the test material in the diet for use by other research programs. Other decreases. major research activities related to the sheep The ME values of cereal grains were production system are reported under "Re- measured with adult roosters. In dry matter productive Physiology" and "Ruminant of wheat (25 samples), barley (39 samples), Nutrition." and oats (28 samples), ME values ranged 120 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 from 11.7 to 15.5,9.9 to 14.5, and 9.6 to 16.2 other groups. Tl)e uteri and ovaries from gilts kJlg (2.80 to 3.70, 2.36 to 3.47, and 2.33 to of both groups fed the corn-soybean diets 3.88 kcallg). Hull-less and high-fat oats had were heavier (dry weight) than those from particularly high ME values. gilts fed the basal diet. Uteri contained about It was shown that the observed ME value 15% dry matter, of which 3.5-4.0% was fat. measured with adult roosters is reduced The mean weights of nitrogen, fat, and ash when the energy intake is less than the in the uterus of gilts from groups I to 4 were maintenance requirement. 10.6,7.9, 9.4, and 10.1 g nitrogen; 2.6, 2.2, 2.5, and 2.5 g fat; and 4.9, 3.7,4.4, and 4.9 g Swine ash. Uterine fatty acid composition (%) was: Artificial rearing of neonatal piglets. Pi- C16, 19.4; CI6:1, 2.7; CIS:1' 26.8; C'S:2' 7.9; and glets were collected at birth and reared in ~O:4' 12.0. individual cages in a temperature-controlled room, the air supply for which was drawn from the adult pig area. To simulate the REPRODUCTIVE PHYSIOLOGY immunological protection that piglets nor- Hormones in Body Fluids and Tissues mally receive from the colostrum and subse- quent milk, a serum-derived porcine glob- Steroid identification. A method has been ulin, prepared from slaughterhouse blood, developed for identification of neutral was fed in the milk replacer for the first 10 steroids in body fluids and tissues, based on days of life. Globulin was administered at I the correlation of retention time by gas-liquid two levels, either (I) 6.5 g/kg body weight chromatography with steroid structure. Its (BW) on day I, followed by 1.3 g/kg BW on reliability has been improved by further days 2-10, or (2) 10 g/kg BW on day I synthesis of commercially unavailable followed by 2 g/kg BW on days 2-10. A steroids and study of their properties by gas- negative control (no globulin) was also liquid and thin-layer chromatography. included, and survival to 3 wk of age was 10% for the control group, 47% for the first Hormone levels in plasma. The changes in test group, and 70% for the second test plasma levels of estrone sulfate, estrone, and group. estradiol (estradiol-17a plus estradiol-I 7,8 ) have been determined by radioimmunoassay Glycogen reserves at birth and their rates of in plasma samples taken twice daily from depletion. Sows were fed either 0.45 or 2.28 four cows around the time of parturition. kg feed/day from the 100th day of ges,tation, The plasma levels of estrone sulfate ranged to determine whether the glycogen reserves from 5.0 to 24.0 ng/ml around the time of of the piglets at birth, or their rate of use, or parturition, whereas the levels of estrone and both, could be influenced by the nutrient estradiol were approximately equal and intake of the sow during this period of ranged from 1.0 to 2.0 ng/m!. The plasma maximum fetal growth. Dietary treatment levels of all the estrogens dropped rapidly to did not significantly influence the levels of nondetectable levels within 24 h after partu- glycogen in liver or muscle of piglets at birth rition. The significance of this high plasma or at any time during the subsequent 96 h. level of estrone sulfate at the time of There was considerable variation between parturition is not yet apparent, but a similar individual piglets, both within and between pattern has also been observed in the ewe litters, in their glycogen reserves and the rates and the sow. of depletion. Average glycogen contents as A reliable early pregnancy test for pigs has percentages of wet tissue, at birth and at 6, been established. A positive diagnosis of 12,24,48, and 96 h, were 13.2, 8.5,3.4,2.4, pregnancy is recorded if estrone sulfate can 3.2, and 3.8 in liver and 9.7, 6.8, 5.6,4.5,3.0, be detected in a single plasma sample taken and 2.2 in muscle. 20-30 days after breeding. Age at puberty in gilts. Control gilts were Cattle fed ad lib. a corn-soybean diet (group I), and others received equal but limited Post-partum ovarian activity in cattle. In amounts of a basal corn diet (group 2), the collaboration with the University of Guelph, basal diet plus lysine (group 3.), or the corn- ovarian activity in a group of 70 post-partum soybean diet (group 4). The control gilts were 'dairy cows was monitored by sequential younger and heavier at puberty than the determination of plasma progesterone from ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 121 10 to 60 days post-partum and the results breedings), estrus is synchronized by the use were correlated with the occurrence of of vaginal sponges impregnated with 40 mg behavioral estrus. The cows were equally FGA and PMSG. Artificial insemination is distributed between free-stall and tie-stall used for breeding and is compared with systems of management. Behavioral estrus natural mating. A controlled daily light was monitored continuously in the free-stall regimen, consisting of 18 h light: 6 h dark for group with a time-lapse video recorder, 4 mo during breeding and early gestation whereas, in the tie-stall group, estrus was and 10 h light: 14 h dark for 4 mo during detected by conventional management proce- late gestation and after parturition, is used to dures. Close agreement was observed induce estrous cyclicity. Ewe lambs incorpo- between a sharp depression in the concentra- rated into the breeding groups are bred at 7 tion of plasma progesterone and the occur- mo of age and estrus is induced by use of rence of estrus in free-stall animals. In the small vaginal sponges impregnated with 40 tie-stall group, although similar sharp depres- mg FGA and PMSG. sions in progesterone concentrations occurred at fairly regular intervals, estrus was not This program began in May 1974, and to always reported. Ovarian function was simi- date each group has been bred once, group A lar in the two groups but estrus detection was in May 1974 and group B in September enhanced significantly in the free-stall group 1974. As data are accumulated from succes- by continuous monitoring. sive breedings and lambings, each of the experimental components will be evaluated Synchronization of the estrus cycle in in terms of its effectiveness and contribution cattle. A field trial has been conducted in to the efficiency of the system. collaboration with the University of Guelph to evaluate the use of two injections, each Three other light regimens are being consisting of 30 mg of prostaglandin F2a evaluated for their ability to induce estrous tromethamine salt, administered 10 days cyclicity in ewes: a continuous regimen of 10 apart, to synchronize estrus. Of the 30 h light: 14 h dark, a normal annual light randomly cycling heifers treated, 83% cycle contracted to 8 mo, and a normal showed estrus 2-4 days after the second annual light cycle contracted to 8 mo but 4 injection. Out of 15 control heifers, 13 (87%) mo out of phase with the other cycle. were detected in estrus over a 3-wk period. Both treated and control groups were bred by Methods for collection, extension, and artificial insemination during estrus, and their long-term storage of ram semen, and for pregnancy rates were similar. This two- assessment of semen quality, are being injection system may have commercial appli- developed and evaluated. cation in the controlled breeding of cattle. Biorhythms. Body temperatures of a group Sheep of sheep were recorded continuously for 17 Controlled breeding program for increasing days. Time series analysis of the data (corre- sheep production. A controlled breeding logram, periodogram, and power spectrum) program has been established for the genet- revealed a periodicity of approximately 24 h. ics breeding flock to increase reproductive The intensity of the biorhythm varied potential and efficiency of lamb production. between animals. Periodicities of more and The breeding flock, which will ultimately less than 24 h were also evident. In another comprise 2,000 ewes, has been divided into study, eating and resting activities and body two groups (A and B). Each group is being temperature were recorded in a group of bred every 8 mo, with one group starting 4 sheep under a light regimen of 12 h light: 12 mo after the other. The breeding is done in h dark for 26 days. The hours of light and January, May, and September. During the darkness were then reversed for 21 days, and anestrous season of May, estrus is induced by reversed again for 19 days. Chronogram the use of vaginal sponges impregnated with plots revealed a fairly definite biorhythmic 30 mg fluorogestone acetate (FGA) (Chrono- pattern of eating activity which was reversed gest; Laboratoire Searle, Departement Vet- within 48 h of change in the light regimen. erinaire, Paris, France) and pregnant mares' Little or no biorhythmic pattern was discern- serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). During the ible in drinking activity. Body temperature estrous season (January and September data are now being analyzed. 122 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Swine were -0.17 kg for cows and 0.81 kg for calves. For those on unrenovated unrotated, Factors that control follicular development unrenovated rotated, renovated unrotated, and ovulation. In collaboration with Macdon- and renovated rotated pasture, the weight ald College of McGill University, and the changes of cows were -0.05, +0.10, +0.12, University of Western Ontario, investigations and + 0.31 kg and weight changes of calves are under way on the role of prosta- were 1.04, 1.06, 1.13, and 1.15 kg. glandins in the events leading to ovulation. The prepuberal pig, treated with pregnant Shorthorn X Limousin steers and heifers mares' serum gonadotrophin and human were marketed after a 322-day feeding chorionic gonadotrophin to induce ovulation, period on grass silage and high-moisture is being used as an experimental model. barley treated with propionic acid. They were Preliminary results have indicated that the graded 89% A I and 11% B I, which indicates prostaglandin F content of fluid in preovula- that cattle can be finished satisfactorily in the tory follicles increased markedly 10-12 h Northern Claybelt on locally grown feeds. before ovulation. These data support the hypothesis that prostaglandins are involved Electronic feeding gates for Holstein steers. Steers were housed loose and fed individu- in the process of ovulation in the pig. ally by use of an electronically controlled Induction of parturition in swine. Various feeding gate, and their growth and feed levels of prostaglandin F2a tromethamine efficiency were compared with those of salt were given to sows and gilts as a single similar animals tied continuously during the intramuscular injection between the III th 420-day feeding period. There was little and 113th days of pregnancy, to induce difference between loose and tied animals in farrowing. Over the range of dosage (0.25- average daily gain (ADO) or feed efficiency 2.0 mg/lO kg body weight), parturition was (1.08 and 1.02 kg ADO, and 6.7 and 6.8 kg induced in 70% of 41 animals. Mean time to feed/kg gain) when an all-concentrate diet the start of farrowing was 27.0 h :i:: 4.2 was fed. When the steers were fed a concen- (S.D.). The only apparent difference between trate ration to which 40% ground high- treatments was a lower proportion (43%) of quality alfalfa was added, ADO was 1.04 kg successfully induced parturitions in pigs for loose-housed but only 0.94 kg for tied treated on the III th day. Pigs in which steers; feed efficiency also declined, to 8.71 parturition was not induced commenced and 9.51 kg feed/kg gain for loose and tied farrowing 2-6 days after the injection. In a steers. control group the average length of gestation was 116 days. Parturition, lactation, and Dairy Cattle growth of piglets were normal. Dry matter content, density, and losses of ensiled corn. A tower silo 9.1 m in diam and RUMINANT NUTRITION 24.4 m high was filled in 3 consecutive yr with corn at different dry matter contents (28, Beef Cattle 33, and 45%). The density of the settled Economic systems of beef production in the silage was much higher when dry matter 3 Northern Claybelt. At Kapuskasing, Ont., five content was low (880 kg/m ) than when 3 groups of Shorthorn cows bred to Limousin material was drier (560 kg/m ). The quantity sires to calve in the spring were wintered in of dry matter stored was the same each year, an insulated, unheated barn. All groups were around 410 tonnes (t). Dry matter losses were fed grass silage treated with formic acid at low each year, ranging from 8.8% for the the daily rate of 1.7 kg dry matter/IOO kg silage ensiled at 33% dry matter to 13.6% for initial weight. During the summer one group the silage ensiled at 45% dry matter. These of cows and their calves remained confined larger losses were probably caused by heat- in the barn and the cows were full-fed grass ing of the silage, which apparently occurred silage treated with formic acid; the other even if the silos were emptied fairly rapidly four groups were assigned to four pasture (at least 15 cm/day). The amount of liquid treatments. All groups of calves were weaned runoff was significant in only one silage, but in late September. the low losses of dry matter observed that The average daily weight changes of the year (9.2%) indicate that effluent is not confined animals from June 4 to weaning always the main cause of dry matter loss. ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 123 Ratios of corn to alfalfa silage in rations This result suggests that, under the conditions for lactating cows. Alfalfa was cut at the bud of this experiment, lysine was limiting but stage and ensiled with 90% formic acid at 3.7 methionine was not. kg/t. The silage was fed to cows in various Amino acid synthesis in rumen bacteria. combinations with corn silage, to comprise 0, Mixed rumen microorganisms, maintained in 33,67, or 100%of the forage dry matter. The continuous culture, readily incorporated la- protein contents of the rations were equalized beled HCO) and acetate into amino acids. by addition of a concentrate mixture that Labeled propionate, in contrast, was used complemented the protein content of the only for biosynthesis of isoleucine and failed forages fed. Dry matter consumption of all to label other amino acids to any significant rations was the same; however, milk produc- extent. In these mixed (symbiotic) cultures, tion definitely tended to increase as quantities forward citrate cycle reactions only pro- of alfalfa silage in the ration increased. Daily ceeded as far as 2-oxoglutarate. 14C distri- milk yield was 17.5, 18.7, 19.7, and 20.1 kg bution in amino acids clearly showed that for cows on diets containing 0, 33, 67, and 2-oxoglutarate was not oxidized further by 100% alfalfa silage. The quantities of protein citrate cycle enzymes. Acetate was carboxyl- supplied in the concentrate mixture were 25, ated to pyruvate, which was then carboxyl- 20, 14, and 8% for the four diets in the same ated to oxalacetate, which in turn was order; this indicates the financial benefits converted to aspartic acid. Evidence was also from judicious use of legumes as forages. obtained that propionate was carboxylated to Hormone assays. Antibodies were made to 2-ketobutyrate, isovalerate to 2-ketoiso- the hormones prolactin, triiodothyronine, caproate, phenylacetate and hydroxyphenyl- and thyroxine, as well as precipitating anti- acetate to the corresponding phenyl- and bodies for double antibody radioimmunoas- hydroxyphenyl pyruvic acids, and succinate say. Purified hormones were labeled with to 2-oxoglutarate. Of the amino acid precur- radioactive iodine, and radioimmunoassay sors investigated, only 3-hydroxypyruvate, techniques for the detection of these hor- the precursor of serine, appeared to be mones have been developed. synthesized through an oxidative step, that is, 3-phosphoglyceric acid to 3-phosphohy- Response to intravenous infusion of lysine, droxypyruvic acid. Most 2-keto precursors of methionine, and carnitine. Four lactating amino acids in these organisms appear to be Holstein cows were each infused intra- formed through reductive carboxylation of venously for periods of 10 days with solu- the precursor acid. tions of L-Iysine (15 g/day), L-Iysine plus D,L- methionine (15 + 10 g/ day), D,L-carnitine Urease activity in rumen bacteria. Unlike (20 g/day), or saline. The cows were fed a Jack-bean urease, rumen urease has never basic ration of 2 kg chopped hay, corn silage been purified successfully because of the ad lib., and a concentrate mixture (16.5% extremely unstable nature of the enzyme. crude protein) at I kg/3 kg milk. Infusion Rumen urease was successfully solubilized in treatment had no effect on intake of corn stable form. When all the steps were carried silage, yield and composition of milk, or out in the presence of 50 mm of Cleland's digestibility of the ration. The efficiencies reagent, about 25% of the yield of solubilized with which dietary protein was converted to enzyme was purified, with a specific activity milk protein were 38.4, 38.6, 36.6, and of 1200- 1500 JL moles urea hydrolyzed/mg 37.8%, and nitrogen balances were 6, -2, 8, protein per h. This purification is 300- to 350- and 5 g/day for cows that received the fold better than that obtained in the bacterial saline, lysine, lysine plus methionine, and suspension. A procedure was developed for carnitine treatments. Infusion of carnitine the detection of urease activity on polyacryl- resulted in a greater concentration of carni- amid~ gels. It was found by this procedure tine in the milk than did other treatments; that the molecular weight of rumen urease is however, it had no apparent effect on the much lower than that of Jack-bean urease. plasma levels of amino acids, even methio- Further, the results indicate that only one nine and lysine, which are known precursors type of urease (or ureases with identical of this compound. Infusion of methionine electrophoretic mobilities and molecular was reflected by an increase in plasma levels weights) is produced in the rumen, although of methionine, but infusion of lysine elicited many organisms are known to produce the only a slight increase in plasma lysine levels. enzyme. 124 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Sheep and possibly S-T changes. These results do not support the suggestion that notching in Intensive rearing of lambs. A total of 1,230 the QRS complex is a sensitive indicator of lambs were weaned from milk replacer with essential-fatty-acid deficiency. Preliminary an overall ADG of 253 g. Overall mortality studies with rats fed diets containing rape- while on milk replacer was 10.7%. Lambs fed seed oil suggest that the capacity of vesicular milk replacer containing 24% fat had ADG tissue to produce prostaglandin- E2 is and survival rates equal to, or better than, impaired. those fed milk replacer containing 30% fat. In post-weaning experiments, lambs on a daily light regimen of 18 h light: 6 h dark Pollution gained more rapidly than those on 10 h light: 14 h dark. When vitamin D levels, trace Nutritive value of silage with liquid ma- mineral supplements, or Ca:P ratios were nure. Two digestibility trials were conducted adjusted, the incidence of crooked legs with sheep to determine the nutritive value of among animals in the intensive sheep pro- ensiled mixtures of chopped hay and liquid duction system was not greatly reduced, if at manure (LM) from ruminants or poultry. A all. However, when Ca:P ratio was adjusted basic mixture consisting of 24% hay, 46% from I: I to 2: I there was a tendency toward water, and 30% LM was stored in laboratory- higher ADG. sized silos (400 kg capacity), alone (treatment I), or with 45 kg molasses (treatment 2), or Nutritional Value of Rapeseed Oil with 45 kg molasses plus 0.45 kg brewer's Triglycerides were isolated from oil of the yeast (treatment 3). In the first trial with rape (Brassica campestris) cultivar Span by ruminant LM, more silage spoiled in treat- molecular. distillation and adsorption chro- ment I than in the other treatments; how'- matography. These triglycerides contained ever, the addition of molasses resulted in an no measurable sterol contamination, as apparent loss of nitrogen during fermenta- judged by thin-layer and gas-liquid chroma- tion. For treatments I, 2, and 3, the protein tography. Male rats fed the triglyceride contents were 14.7, 12.0, and 8.5% and the fractions for 16 wk developed necrotic and apparent protein digestibilities were 64, 54, fibrotic lesions in the hearts identical with and 44%. In the second trial with poultry those found in rats fed the fully refined LM, spoilage was minimal in all treatments. rapeseed oil from which the triglycerides For treatments I, 2, and 3, the protein were isolated. Thus, the pathogenicity of contents were 16.9, 13.9, and 14.9% and the rapeseed oil can apparently be attributed to apparent protein digestibilities were 64, 59.4, the triglycerides and not to any other trace and 62.7%. Dry matter intakes were greater constituent(s) of the oil. with ruminant LM than with poultry LM in The nutritional, biochemical, and histo- silage mixtures, but protein digestibility and pathological properties of oil from two new nitrogen balance were more favorable with Brassica campestris cultivars, Zephyr (0.6% poultry LM. erucic acid) and Field Tower (1.8% erucic acid), were studied. Sixty-five percent of rats Salmonella sp. in drainage streams and fed Zephyr and 75% of rats fed Tower manures. Bacteriological laboratories of En- showed evidence of myocardial necrosis and vironment Canada conducted a search for fibrosis at 16 wk. Salmonella sp. in selected water and feces In a number of experiments it has been samples at the Institute's Greenbelt Farm. observed that male rats fed fully refined No Salmonella sp. were isolated from 133 rapeseed oil containing low (0.6%), interme- feces samples (72 from cattle, 25 from sheep, diate (5%), or high (23%) erucic acid levels 22 from hens, and 14 from migratory Can- developed symptoms similar to those de- ada geese). One-litre aliquots of 12 out of 18 scribed in the case of an essential-fa tty-acid water samples from two drainage stream deficiency. Electrocardiogram recordings systems were shown to contain Salmonella were made with rats fed a 5% or 20% corn oil sp.; 45 isolates were identified biochemically diet, a 20% rapeseed oil diet, or a diet and serologically. It was postulated that without fat (essential fatty acids). Many of native animal and bird populations in the the tracings showed evidence of QRS drainage area were the probable source of changes, such as deep Q-waves, inverted T, these enteric pathogens. ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 125 TRACE ELEMENTS AND major metabolite found after a 5-h incuba- PESTICIDES tion was positively identified as 'Y-pentacy- clochlorohexane. At least eight other metab- olites in the pentane extract were tentatively Pesticide Residues and Metabolism identified. Other unidentified metabolites which remained in the aqueous phase are Methoxychlor. The metabolism of me- being investigated further. thoxychlor in poultry is being studied with the use of ring-labeled 14C-methoxychlor. To Trace Elements produce residues in eggs, laying hens were Nutritional muscular dystrophy. It has been fed a diet containing 100 ppm methoxychlor. established that an effective procedure for Radioactive materials in excreta were sepa- preventing nutritional muscular dystrophy rated into four fractions by solvent extrac- (NMD) in young ruminants is to include tion, and the hexane extract was separated selenium and vitamin E in the mineral again by column chromatography with use of premix fed to the dams during pregnancy. several solvent mixtures, followed by thin- Results obtained in 1974 showed that addi- layer chromatography. The extract contained tion of selenium at either 15 or 30 ppm to the mainly non-metabolized methoxychlor and mineral mixture fed to beef cattle without the dihydroxylated metabolite, with traces of vitamin E supplementation did not com- other metabolites. The identity of metab- pletely prevent NMD. olites in the other fractions of excreta, eggs, and tissues is being investigated further. Selenium deficiency and reproduction. A collaborative experiment was conducted with Preliminary in vitro studies have indicated the Animal Diseases Research Institute on the presence of an enzyme in chicken liver the effect of selenium deficiency in ewes on microsomes which degrades methoxychlor to the ovulation rate, occurrence of early em- hydroxylated compounds. No metabolites bryonic death, and lambing percentage. It were extractable by hexane. Metabolites in was found that selenium deficiency did not the aqueous phase included two major com- impair reproductive performance per se. The ponents tentatively identified as the monohy- number of normal embryos and the percent- droxylated and dihydroxylated metabolites. age loss of potential embryos were actually Six minor components were present in trace slightly higher for the selenium-supple- amounts and have not yet been identified. mented group. Atrazine. In conjunction with the Chemis- Effect of selenium on methionine metab- try and Biology Research Institute, studies olism in rumen of sheep. Intraruminally were continued on the metabolism of atra- administered methionine labeled with 14C zine in laying hens fed 100 ppm atrazine in and 3'S was incorporated into bacterial and their diet. Neither atrazine nor hydroxyatra- protozoal proteins as intact methionine and zine was detected in eggs, but both were as its metabolites, mainly cystine. In the identified in excreta. Two other compounds bacterial fraction, the peak of methionine had previously been detected in eggs from incorporation occurred 2 h after administra- control hens as well as in eggs and excreta tion of the radioisotopes. More radioactivity from treated hens. Additional experiments was incorporated in the rumen bacteria and revealed that these were not derived from tissues of selenium-supplemented sheep than atrazine, although it had been found pre- selenium-deficient ones. viously that their retention times were similar Gastrointestinal metabolism of trace ele- to those of the dealkylated metabolites. ments. Zinc, manganese, selenite, and sele- Investigations in this area are continuing. nate were all found to be secreted into the gastrointestinal tract of chicks, mainly in the Lindane. In conjunction with the Chemis- duodenum. Zinc, selenite, and selenate were try and Biology Research Institute, in vitro predominantly protein-bound in the duode- studies on the metabolism of lindane were nal mucosa whereas manganese occurred resumed. An enzyme, probably a dehydro- free. Bile contained elevated levels of man- genase, which rapidly metabolizes the insec- ganese and zinc, and may carry substantial ticide was shown to be present in the soluble quantities of these elements to the gastroin- fraction of chicken liver homogenates. The testinal tract by this means. 126 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 PUBLICAnONS Research Gowe, R. S., Barr, G. R., and Peters, H. F. 1974. A multi-disciplinary approach to the develop- Aitken, J. R., Dickerson, G. E., and Gowe, R. S. ment of intensive animal systems for Canada. 1973. Effect of intake and source of protein on Proc. Br. Soc. Anim. Prod. 3:69-83. laying performance of seven strains under single and double cage housing. Poult. Sci. Grunder, A. A. 1974. Interrelationships of cellular 52:2127-2134. physiology and endocrinology with genetics. Part 3. Mitochondrial heterosis. Poult. Sci. Atwal, A. S., and Sauer, F. D. 1974. Enzymes of 53:1306-1314. pyruvate and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxyla- Grunder, A. A., Spencer, J. L., Robertson, A., tion in rumen bacteria. Can. J. Anim. Sci. Speckmann, G. W., and Gowe, R. S. 1974. 54:595-603. Resistance to Marek's disease observed among Buckley, D. J., and Hunsaker, W. G. 1974. A sire families and inbred lines. J. Poult. Sci. telemetry system for automatically recording 15:167-175. copulation in sheep. Med. & BioI. Eng. Hidiroglou, M., and Jenkins, K. J. 1974. Fate of 12:837-842. 75Se-selcnomethionine in the gastrointestinal tract of sheep. Pages 574-577 in W. G. Erfie, J. D., Fisher, L. J., and Sauer, F. D. 1974. Hoekstra, J. W. Suttie, H. E. Ganther, and W. Interrelationships between blood metabolites Mertz, cds. Trace element metabolism in and an evaluation of their use as criteria of animals. University Park Press, Baltimore, energy status of cows in early lactation. Can. J. Md. Anim. Sci. 54:293-303. Hidiroglou, M., and Jenkins, K. J. 1974. Infiuence Erfie, J. D., Sauer, F. D., and Fisher, L. J. 1974. de la defaunation sur l'utilisation de la seleno- Interrelationships between milk carnitine and methionine chez Ie mouton. Ann. BioI. Anim. blood and milk components and tissue carni- Biochim. Biophys. 14:157-165. tine in normal and ketotic cows. J. Dairy Sci. 57:671-676. Hidiroglou, M., Jenkins, K. J., and Knippel, J. E. 1974. Metabolism of selenomethionine in the Fisher, L. J., Lessard, J. R., and Lodge, G. A. 1974. rumen. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:325-330. Evaluation of whole crop oat silage as a basal forage for lactating cows. Can.J. Anim. Sci. Jenkins, K. J., Hidiroglou, M., Wauthy, J. M., and 54: 169-175. Proulx, J. E. 1974. Prevention of nutritional muscular dystrophy in calves and lambs by Foster, T. S. 1974. Physiological and biological selenium and vitamin E additions to the effects of pesticide residues in poultry. Residue maternal mineral supplement. Can. J. Anim. Rev. 51:69-121. Sci. 54:49-60. Friend, D. W. 1974. Effect on the performance of Jordan, W. A., Lister, E. E., Wauthy, J. M., and pigs from birth to market weight of 'ldding Comeau, J. E. 1973. Voluntary roughage fat to the lactation diet of their dams. J. Anim. intake by nonpregnant and pregnant or lactat- Sci. 39: 1073-1081. ing beef cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 53:733-738. Friend, D. W., and Grunder, A. A. 1973. Serum Kelly, P. A., Robertson, H. A., and Friesen, H. G. esterase activity of Yorkshire gilts at puberty. 1974. Temporal pattern of placental lactogen Can. J. Anim. Sci. 53:695-696. and progesterone secretion in the sheep. Na- ture (London) 248:435-437. Gavora, J. S., Grunder, A. A., Spencer, J. L., King, G. J., and Robertson, H. A. 1974. A two Gowe, R. S., Robertson, A., and Speckmann, injection schedule with prostaglandin F for G. W. 1974. An assessment of effects of 2 the regulation of the ovulatory cycle of cattle. vaccination on genetic resistance to Marek's Theriogenology I: 123-128. disease. Poult. Sci. 53:889.897. Lee, A. J. 1974. Month, year, and herd effects on Gavora, J. S., Spencer, J. L., Grunder, A. A., age adjustment of first lactation milk yield. J. Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1974. Dairy Sci. 57:332-338. Genetic resistance to Marek's Disease (MD): Response of strains and inbred lines to chal- Mahadevan, S., and Sauer, F. D. 1974. Effects of lenge with JM -V tumor cells or the BC-I trypsin, phospholipases, and membrane-im- isolate of MD virus. Proc. 15th World's Poult. permeable reagents on the uptake of palmitic Congr., New Orleans, Aug. 11-16. pp. 255- acid by isolated rat liver cells. Arch. Biochem. 257. Biophys.164:185-193. ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 127 Peters, H. F., and Heaney, D. P. 1974. Factors Miscellaneous influencing the growth of lambs reared artifi- cially or with their dams. Can. J. Anim. Sci. Barr, G. R., and Hackett, A. J. 1974. The potential 54:9-18. for livestock improvement in Canada - Dairy. Agrologist 3(5):11-12. Peters, H. F., and Heaney, D. P. 1974. Heterosis, breed-of-sire and breed-of-dam effects on Fisher, L. J. 1974. Magnesium needs of ruminants. growth rates of lambs reared artificially or Proc. 10th Annu. Univ. Guelph Nutr. Conf. with their dams. Cari. 1. Anim. Sci. 54: 19-22. for Feed Manuf. Can. Feed Manuf. Assoc., Richmond Hill, Ont., Apr. 23-24. pp. 51-55. Proudfoot, F. G., and Gowe, R. S. 1974. The influence of an increasing photoperiod, a Fisher, L. J. 1974. Influence of feeding system, modified natural daylength and feed restric- digestibility of ration and proportion of con- tion during the rearing period on the perform- centrate consumed on the quantity and quality ance of five S.C.W.L. genotypes. Poult. Sci. of excreta voided by lactating cows. Proc. 53:518-528. Cornell Conf. Processing and Management of Agric. Wastes, Cornell Univ., Ithaca, N.Y., Robertson, H. A. 1974. Changes in the concentra- Mar. 25-27. pp. 283-290. tion of unconjugated oestrone, oestradiol-1701 and oestradiol-I 7,8 in the maternal plasma of Fisher, L. J. 1974. Predicting output of manure for the pregnant cow in relation to the initiation storage. Calcul de la production de fumier a of parturition and lactation. J. Reprod. Ferti!. entreposer. Canadex 410.27. 36:1-7. Fisher, L. J. 1974. Incorporation of manure in livestock feeds. Canadex 400.50. L'addition Robertson, H. A., and King: G. J. 1974. Plasma de fumier dans les aliments du betai!. Canadex concentrations of progesterone, oestrone, ocs- 420.60. tradiol-17,8 and of oestrone sulphate in the pig at implantation, during pregnancy and at Fisher, L. J., and Erfle, J. D. 1974. Response of parturition. J. Reprod. Ferti!. 40:133-141. lactating cows to intravenous infusion of L-lysine, L-lysine plus D,L-methionine or D,L- Sarkar, N. K. 1974. Alanine and aspartate amino- carnitine.1. Dairy Sci. 57:632 (Abstr.). transferase activities in serum and various subcellular fractions from the liver of different Fisher, L. 1., and Fowler, B. D. 1974. Effects of species. Int. J. Biochem. 5:375-381. stage of maturity on the nutrient content of cereals as monitored by in vitro parameters. Sarkar, N. K. 1974. The effects of changing Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:723 (Abstr.). potassium and magnesium ion concentrations during isolation of liver post-mitochondrial Fisher, L. J., and Ibrahim, E. A. 1974. Comparison supernates on their amino acid incorporating of ammonium adipate, Starea or urea as a activities and polysome content. Int. J. Bio- source of nitrogen in dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. chem.5:687-692. 57:633 (Abstr.). Spencer, 1. L., Gavora, 1. S., Grunder, A. A., Fisher, L. J., and Ibrahim, E. A. 1974. Preliminary Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1974. assessment of the nutritive potential for rumi- Immunization against Marek's disease: Influ- nants of ensiled mixtures of liquid manure ence of strain of chickens, maternal antibody, and chopped hay. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:723 and type of vaccine. Avian Dis. 18:33-44. (Abstr.). Tsang, C. P. W. 1974. Changes in plasma levels of Fisher, L. J., and Lister, E. E. 1974. Feeding whey estrone sulfate and estrone in the pregnant to ruminants. L'alimentation des ruminants ewe around parturition. Steroids 23:855-868. avec du petit lait. Canadex 401.50. Turnbull, J. E., and Hickman, C. G. 1974. Ventila- Fisher, L. J., and Lister, E. E. 1974. The inclusion tion of dairy barns with porous ceiling inlet of whey in rations for ruminants. Proc. Whey systems. J. Agric. Eng. 16:91-95. Utilization Symp., Food Res. Inst., Res. Branch, and Dairy Div., Prod. & Mark. Vandenheuvel, F. A. 1974. Gas-liquid chromato- Branch, Agric. Can., Ottawa, June 22-28. pp. graphic studies of reactions and structural 23-30. relationships of steroids. Part I. Positions 3, II and 17 in the androstane series. J. Chro- Gavora, J. S., Grunder, A. A., Spencer, J. L., matogr. 96:47-78. Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1974. Genetic relationship between resistance to Walton, P., and Robertson, H. A. 1974. Reproduc- Marek's disease and production traits. Lien tive performance of Finnish Landrace ewes genetique entre la resistance a la maladie mated twice yearly. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:35- Marek et les caracteres de production. Ca- 40. nadex 451.660. 128 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 j Gavora, 1. S., and Merritt, E. S. 1973. Genetic Lister, E. E., and Emmons, D. B. 1974. Protein:en- differences in response of meat-type chickens ergy ratios in calf milk replacer diets. Proc. to vaccination for Marek's disease. Can. J. 10th Annu. Univ. Guelph Nutr. Conf. for Genet. Cyto!. 15:657 (AbstL). Feed Manuf. Can. Feed Manuf. Assoc., Rich- mond Hill, ant., Apr. 23-24. pp. 83-88. Gavora, J. S., Spencer, J. L., Grunder, A. A., and Robertson, A. 1973. Effect of host genotype Lister, E. E., and Emmons, D. B. 1974. Gel on Marek's disease tumors (JM-V). Poult. Sci. formation as a quality index of calf milk 52:2031 (AbstL) replacers. Proc. 19th Int. Dairy Congr., New Delhi, India, Dec. 2-6. IE 120 (Abstr.). Heaney, D. P., and Lodge, G. A. 1974. Energy metabolism during late pregnancy in the ewe. McLaughlin, G. R., Peters, H. F., Wells, G. A., Proc. 6th Symp. Energy Metabolism of Farm Denniss, R. H., O'Brien, G. A., and Adams, D. Animals, EULAssoc. Anim. Prod. Pub!' NO.4, M. 1974. The potential for livestock im- pp.123-126. provement in Canada - Sheep. Agrologist 3(5): 18-21. Heaney, D. P., Lodge, G. A., Peters, H. F., and Merritt, E. S. 1974. Geese. Pages 484-499 in O. A. Robertson, H. A. 1974. Sheep production program. Can. Wool Grower 44(2):5, 13. Hanke, J. L. Skinner, and J. H. Florea, cds. American poultry history 1823-1973. Am. Heaney, D. P., and Peters, H. F. 1974. Large scale Poult. Hist. Soc. Madison, Wis. artificial rearing of lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 39:55- Nagai, J., Hickman, C. G., and Barr, G. R. 1974. 56 (AbstL). Selection for single and multiple traits in mice. Hickman, C. G. 1974. Genetic and phenotypic Proc. 1st World Congr. on Genetics Applied trends for production and age on Canadian to Livestock Production, Madrid, Spain. pp. Holsteins. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:717 (AbstL). 533-539. Hurnick, J. F., King, G. J., and Robertson, H. A. Nagai, J., Hickman, C. G., Barr, G. R., and 1974. Estrus and related behaviour in postpar- Emsley, J. A. B. 1974. Crossfostering used in tum cows. J. Anim. Sci. 39:968 (AbstL). selection of mice. Genetics 77:S47 (AbstL). Reid, W. S., Buckley, D. J., and Hunt, J. 1974. A Ibrahim, E. A., and Lister, E. E. 1974. Complete digital instrument for egg shape index mea- diets for Holstein steers, either continuously surement. Eng. Res. Serv., Agric. Can., Con- tied or loose-housed and fed individually by trib. No. 325. 14 pp. electronic gates. J. Dairy Sci. 57:629 (AbstL). Robertson, H. A., King, G. J., and Elliot, J. I. 1974. King, G. J., Hurnik, J. F., and Robertson, H. A. Induction of parturition in the pig. J. Anim. 1974. Postpartum ovulations and estrus in free Sci. 39:994 (Abstr). and tied cows. J. Anim. Sci. 39:990 (AbstL). Sauer, F. D., Kramer, J. K. G., Friend, D. W., Kramer, J. K. G., Hulan, H. W., Mahadevan, S., Mahadevan, S., Hulan, H. W., and Corner, A. Sauer, F. D., and Corner, A. H. 1974. Nutri- H. 1974. Nutritional and biochemical effects tional properties of Brassica campestris vaL of feeding high levels of rapeseed oils to rats Span and its fractions when fed to rats. Am. and swine. Proc. Int. Conf. of Rapeseed Oil Chem. Soc. 47th Fall Meet., Philadelphia, Assoc., Giessen, W. Germany, Abstr. 85. Pa. Abstr. 188. Spencer, J. L., Gavora, J. S., Grunder, A. A., Lentz, W. E., and Gowe, R. S. 1974. Changes in Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1973. genetic parameters of White Leghorn strains Marek's disease: Influence of vaccination and under long-term selection. Poult. Sci. 53: 1947 strain of chickens on JM-V tumors. J. Am. (Abstr.). Vet. Med. Assoc. 163: 1200-120 I (Abstr.). Lentz, W. E., and Gowe, R. S. 1974. Effect of Spencer, J. L., Gavora, 1. S., Grunder, A. A., dubbing on laying house performance in Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1974. several strains of White Leghorns. Poult. Sci. Influence of strain of chickens and vaccination 53: 1947 (Abstr.). with turkey herpes virus on development of transmissible lymphoid tumor of Olson. J. Lister, E. E. 1974. Corn silage: concentrate ratios Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 165:740 (Abstr.). for Holstein-Friesian steers slaughtered at three different liveweights. Can. J. Anim. Sci. Spencer, J. L., Gavora, J. S., Grunder, A. A., 54:724 (Abstr.). Robertson, A., and Speckmann, G. W. 1974. Immunity induced by vaccination against Lister, E. E., and Emmons, D. B. 1974. Skim milk Marek's disease. Proc. 23rd West. Poult. Dis. quality and energy: protein ratios in calf milk Conf. and 8th Poult. Health Symp., Davis, replacer diets. J. Dairy Sci. 57:650 (Abstr.). Calif. pp. 18-19. ANIMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 129 Biosystematics Research Institute Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF D. F. HARDWICK, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director G. A. MULLIGAN, B.Sc. Assistant Director D. R.OLIVER, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Assistant Director M. B. TRUDEL Administrative Officer M. KHAN (Mrs.), B.Sc., M.L.S. Librarian, Botany N. B. SUSSMANN(Mrs.), B.A., M.L.S. Librarian, Entomology J. E. H. MARTIN Head, National Identification Service Cultivated Crops B. R. BAUM, M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Tamarix, Aveneae W. G. DaRE, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Gramineae, Bromus R. J. MOORE, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Buddleia, Caragana, Medicago E. SMALL, B.A., B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD. Cannabis, Daucus Noxious and Native Plants G. A. MULLIGAN, B.Sc. Head of Section; Weeds, Cruciferae I. J. BASSETT,B.A. Anemophilous groups, palynology B. BOIVIN, L.Sc., B.A., Ph.D., F.R.S.C. Canadian flora W. J. CODY, B.A. Curator of Vascular Plant Herbarium; Flora of continental Northwest Territories, ferns C. FRANKTON,I B.Sc.,Ph.D. Polygonaceae J. McNEILL, B.Sc., PhD. Weeds, Caryophyllaceae Aquatic Biology, Hemiptera, and Nematology D. R. OLIVER, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Diptera: Chironomidae BIOSYSTEMATICSRESEARCH INSTITUTE 131 R. V. ANDERSON, B.A., M.S., Ph.D. Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae, Tylenchorhynchidae, Aphelenchoidea K. G. A. HAMILTON, B.S.A., ~.Sc., Ph.D. Homoptera: Cicadellidae Hemiptera: Corixidae L. A. KELTON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Hemiptera: Miridae, Anthocoridae R. H. MULVEY, B.Sc., M.S. Nematoda: Heteroderidae, Tylenchidae W. R. RICHARDS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Homoptera: Aphidoidea, Coccoidea, Psyllidae. Coli em bola, Psocoptera, Thysanoptera L.-Y. Wu (Miss), B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Nematoda: Criconematidae, Paratylenchidae Coleoptera, Siphonaptera, and Arachnida D. E. BRIGHT, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Head of Section; Coleoptera: Scolytidae E. C. BECKER, B.S., M.S., PhD. Coleoptera: Elateridae J. M. CAMPBELL, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Coleoptera: Staphylinidae, Alleculidae C. D. DONDALE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Arachnida: Araneida, Opiliones G. P. HOLLAND, B.A., M.A., D.Sc., F.R.S.C. Siphonaptera E. E. LINDQUIST, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Arachnida: Acarina A. SMETANA, M.U.Dr., Cando SC. bioI. Coleoptera: aquatic families, Staphylinidae I. M. SMITH, B.Sc., Ph.D. Arachnida: Acarina Diptera R. V. PETERSON, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Head of Section; Simuliidae, Nycteribiidae J. A. DOWNES, B.Sc. Ceratopogonidae R. A. ELLIS,I B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Mosquitoes J. F. McALPINE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Lonchaeidae, Chamaemyiidae G. E. SHEWELL, B.Sc., M.Sc. Lauxaniidae, Calliphoridae H. J. TESKEY, B.Sc., M.S.A., Ph.D. Tabanidae, Diptera larvae J. R. VOCKEROTH,B.A., M.A., D.PhiJ. Syrphidae, Scatophagidae D. M. WOOD, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Tachinidae, Culicidae Experimental Taxonomy J. W. ARNOLD, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Hematology, morphology J. R. BYERS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology, electron microscopy C. F. HINKS, B.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology, endocrinology B. N. A. HUDSON (Miss), B.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology, chemotaxonomy R. MATSUDA, B.A., Ph.D., D.Sc. Morphology, systematics of Hemiptera 132 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 E. H. SALKELD (Miss), B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Physiology, histochemistry A. WILKES,I B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetics Hymenoptera J. R. BARRON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Ichneumonidae, Braconidae: Trogostidae C. C. LOAN, B.A., M.S., Ph.D. Ichneumonidae, Braconidae: Euphorinae L. MASNER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Proctotrupoidea, Bethyloidea, Evanioidea, Sphecoidea W. R. M. MASON, B.Sc., Ph.D. Braconidae O. PECK,I B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chalcidoidea G. S. WALLEY,' B.S.A., M.S. Ichneumonidae C. M. YOSHIMOTO,2B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chalcidoidea, Cynipoidea Lepidoptera and Trichoptera W. C. MCGUFFIN,2 B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Lepidoptera: Geometridae S. A. ALLYSON (Miss), B.Sc. Lepidoptera: larvae J. D. LAFONTAINE, B.A. Lepidoptera: Noctuidae E. G. MUNROE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.S.C. Lepidoptera: Pyralidae A. MUTUURA, B.Sc., Ph.D. Lepidoptera: Pyralidae F. SCHMID, Lie. es. Sc. Nat., D. es Sc. Nat. Trichoptera Biodegrading Fungi K. A. PIROZYNSKI, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.P.P., Ph.D. Head of Section; Pyrenomycetes including Fungi Imperfecti R. ARNOLD (Mrs.), B.A., M.Sc. Pyrenomycetes on woody plants J. H. GINNS, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Wood-inhabiting Hymenomycetes S. J. HUGHES, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.Sc., F.L.S., F.R.S.C. Fungi Imperfecti, Hyphomycetes R. MACRAE (Miss), I B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Polyporaceae, Tremellales, Hydnaceae D. W. MALLOCH, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Agaricales M. K. NOBLES (Miss),' B.A., M.A., Ph.D., F.R.S.C. Wood-inhabiting Hyphomycetes L., K. WERESUB (Miss), B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Thelephoraceae and Hydnaceae Plant Disease Fungi D. J. S. BARR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Phycomycetes 1. L. CONNERS,I B.A., M.A. Monumental compilations of descriptions of genera of fungi M. P. CORLETT, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Pyrenomycetes M. E. ELLIOTT (Miss), B.A. Discomycetes BIOSYSTEMATICSRESEARCHINSTITUTE 133 I J. A. PARMELEE, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Curator of Mycological Herbarium; Uredinales and other parasitic fungi D. B. O. SAVILE,I B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.S.C. Uredinales R. A. SHOEMAKER,B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Pyrenomycetes Departures R. Roy Administrative Officer Resigned October 1974 D. B. O. SAVILE, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.S.C. Uredinales Retired July 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS G. A. BRADLEY, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Hymenopterous parasites Environment Canada I 2Honorary Research Associate. Seconded from Environment Canada. 134 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION During the year a special effort was made to realign Institute activities with systematic studies of the north temperate fauna and flora. Particular emphasis was placed on research on organisms of economic importance. The Blosystematics Research Institute provides a National Identification Service for Canada on fungi, vascular plants, insects, arachnids, and nematodes. To meet this responsibility, the Institute conducts research on various aspects of biosystematics and maintains custody of the National Mycological Herbarium, the Agriculture Canada Vascular Plant Herbarium, and the Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids, and Nematodes. The Mycology Section of the Institute was reorganized into two new sections: Biodegrading Fungi and Plant Disease Fungi. The new titles reflect better the programs of our mycologists. The terms of the following three Section Heads terminated during 1974: Dr. J. F. McAlpine (Diptera), Dr. E. H. Salkeld (Experimental Taxonomy), and Dr. R. A. Shoemaker (Plant Disease Fungi). Reprints of research publications are available from the authors. Correspondence should be addressed to Director, Biosystematics Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. KIA OC6. D. F. Hardwick Director THE NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION identified, their sources, and the distribution SERVICE within the group. The demand for identification of material • continued at a high rate. During the year, COLLECTIONS 1532 shipments of material containing more The holdings of Institute collections in- than 211,800 specimens were received for creased by some 360,000 specimens of identification. The amount of material from nematodes, arthropods, plants, and fungi Agriculture Canada continued to increase; during the year. Staff members collected more than 53,380 specimens were received more than 210,000 specimens, about 100,000 from the research stations (25% of the total specimens were donated, and the rest were submissions). Environment Canada was the bought. The accessions in the Natjonal principal user of the service, submitting Mycological Herbarium total 194,800 speci- 10 1,400 specimens (50%), a considerable mens and the holdings of the National decrease due to a dwindling of the Macken- Culture Collection are 11,600 cultures, of zie River pipeline survey. The amount of which 900 have been successfully lyophilized material from Canadian universities contin- for long-term storage. The W. L. Gordon ued as in previous years with 25,300 speci- Mycological Collection of over 7000 speci- mens received (II %). More material was mens with an extensive card file was transfer- submitted by amateurs, private individuals, red to the Institute from the Research hospitals, and health units with some 5000 Station, Winnipeg, Man. Donations to the specimens received from across Canada. collection included 275 cultures of Nidulari- Agencies outside Canada submitted 21,880 aceae (bird's-nest fungi) from Dr. H. J. specimens, an increase over previous years. Brodie, University of Alberta, and a large More than 184,700 specimens of nematodes, collection (611 specimens) of wood-rotting arthropods, plants, and fungi were identified fungi (Theleophoraceae and Hydnaceae) and returned. Most of the insect material was from northern India by Dr. S. S. Rattan, from the Mackenzie River Pipeline Survey, Panjab University, India. which is nearing completion. The accompa- Incorporation of material into the collec- nying tables show the number of specimens tion continued: 284,000 specimens of insects, BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 135 arachnids, and nematodes; 5400 vascular Number of plants identified. Nov. I. 1973 - Oct. 31, 1974 plants; 2900 fungi; and 300 cultures. Loans from the Collections to scientists throughout Canada the world totaled 205 shipments comprising Agricult ure Canada 1,063 44,600 insects and arachnids, 531 specimens Environment Canada I,R36 of fungi, and 6834 herbarium sheets of Other federal departments 714 vascular plants. Provincial departments 574 Industry 7 FIELD STUDIES, FAUNAL Universities 435 SURVEYS, AND MUSEUM VISITS Private inquiries H05 USA Field studies were conducted by 32 officers Universities 46 for about 70 man-weeks in various parts of Canada and USA with the main concentra- Other countries 747 tion of effort in Ontario and Western Can- Total 6,227 ada. Dr. S. J. Hughes spent 9 wk in Recife, Brazil, collecting and studying types. The most noteworthy collections were 20,000 Coleoptera from southwestern USA and British Columbia, 4000 Lepidoptera (cut- worm moth survey) from the west coast of RESEARCH Canada and USA, 15,000 pieces of amber from Alberta, 10,000 Homoptera and 35,000 Biodegrading Fungi Acarina from southern Ontario, and 3000 Lepidoptera and 5000 Hymenoptera from Taxonomy. The first detailed survey of the Maritime Provinces. Collections (1700 rhizina root rot in North America was carried herbarium sheets) of vascular plants were out and its geographic distribution, host made in various parts of Canada and 545 range, seasonal occurrence, and pathogenic- • mycological collections were made primarily ity were determined. A long-established and in Ontario and adjacent USA. much confused North American fungus was recognized as a new genus, Graphostroma Scientists from the Institute visited various Piroz., and comparisons were made with the museums, universities, and other institutions European Petrak, a species only to study type specimens, type species, and Xenotypa recently discovered in North America. An other representatives of groups on which unusual fungus imperfectus was isolated they are working. Two scientists visited from blueberries in Quebec. It was investi- major museums in Europe, nine visited U.S. gated jointly with researchers at the universi- museums and major collections at U.S. ties of Laval and Guelph and recognized as a universities, and eight visited collections at member of an undescribed genus. A popular Canadian universities and provincial muse- publication on the morphology, distribution, ums. occurrence, collection, and preparation of Many scientists and students from various morels in Canada was completed and will countries (Canada, USA, Australia, Chile, soon be available. Continuing studies on Brazil, Hawaii, Finland, Poland, Switzerland, sooty molds, using new and original morpho- and Scotland) visited the Institute Collections logical and ontogenetic approaches, resulted to study material. Some of our interesting in elucidation of Euantennaria Speg. with visitors included Dr. J. W. Carmichael, Antennatula Fr. and Hormisciomyces Bat. & University of Alberta, to study Hyphomy- Nasc. imperfect states, and the new species cetes; Mr. D. K. Mardon, University of Capnobotrys Hughes. Aberdeen, to study Siphonaptera of Austra- lia and New Guinea; Dr. Cleide Costa, Fungi Canadenses. Studies on native fungi Museo Sao Paulo, to study Elateridae; Dr. resulted in the addition to the series of a Donald Colless, CSIRO, Canberra, to study further 27 items, comprising biodegrading, Mycetophilidae; Mr. J. Klimaszewski, Wro- mycorrhizal, and parasitic species, and in- claw University, Poland, to study Staphylini- cluding a new genus, Connersia Malloch. dae. 136 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 ttl Number of insects, arachnids, and nematodes identified, Nov. 1,1973 - Oct. 31,1974 <5 - Total 10,155 88,836 3,430 6,936 17,476 6,591 555 27,759 2,873 291 2,710 9,891 177,503 W --l Number of mycological collections and cultures identified. Nov. 1.1973 - Oct. 31, 1974 w 00 ~ ~ ~ ~ 0;;" ~ ~ ~ 2 2 2 0 2 0;; ..c ~ u " u ~ ~ u ">, "u ">, ">, 0;;" ~ >, "U 0;;" 0"'" ..c E 0 E c u E 0 0;;" ""u E 0 oj ">:; 0 .~ E "U C 0 C ~ ~ ..c>. c oj u ~ 0;; oj ~ >, -a >, ~ ..c 00 >, ;2 ~ "'Z ..c "~ :::l " 0 Agriculture Canada 18 27 I 10 I 3 18 40 29 13 80 31 52 12 II 8 256 98 Environment Canada 2 92 31 5 I 6 14 3 5 II 7 2 121 58 Other federal departments 3 2 10 I 2 I I 7 13 Provincial departments I 3 2 I 2 2 4 7 Universities 35 61 19 2 13 1I 5 II I 18 6 9 17 179 29 Ottawa Civic Hospital Private inquiries 208 9 - 5 I 13 i5 - 8 2 II 261 II USA Government departments 56 5 4 61 4 ;<: Universities I I 5 I 2 5 2 I 15 3 rn rn'" Other - - - 12 - 12 :J> ;<: n Other countries 16 17 5 9 I 17 12 2 69 10 :I: cc Total 265 265 32 57 2 6 67 92 40 29 81 37 131 30 43 31 II 986233 ;<: :J> Total identifications of collections and cultures Z 1,219 n :I: * The term collection is used to designate a sample of a fungus population. The sample consists of an indefinite number of individuals, ;<: rn ranging from a few in larger fungi to several thousands in microfungi. The term collection is used in contradistinction to specimen, which "0 0 in zoology and phanerogamic botany is the equivalent of an individual. ;<: t The term culture denotes a living fungus population aseptically cultivated on various substrates under different conditions, usually to ;0"""" ....,..,. obtain identifiable structures or different states in the life cycle . This name honors I. L. Conners, one of the Dang. alone can cause the disease. A joint pioneers of systematic mycology in Canada study with J. T. Slykhuis, Research Station, and a builder of the National Mycological Ottawa, on wheat spindle streak mosaic, a Herbarium. virus thought to be fungus transmitted, has shown that four species of zoosporic fungi Other activities. Three important theoreti- and five Pythium spp. are abundant in soils in cal contributions were formulated: a new which winter wheat has been grown. Ultra- point of view on the genetic makeup of structural studies on zoospores have shown a basidiomycetes (including biodegrading and basis for reclassifying the Chytridiales on mycorrhizal fungi as well as the cultivated zoospore type. mushroom) by postulating that spores may contain two different but noncomplementary Fungi Canadenses. As a contribution to the nuclei; a hypothesis dealing with fundamen- continuing series Fungi Canadenses, 23 na- tal evolutionary advances in plant life by tive species have been described. These fungi postulating that land plants arose and con- include 14 Basidiomycetes, 2 Coelomycetes, tinue to exist as symbiotic systems involving 6 Ascomycetes, and I Phycomycete. mycorrhizal fungi; consideration of an aspect of the controversial Art. 59 of the Interna- Other activities. Work was completed on a tional code of botanical nomenclature in contributory chapter on airborne fungus order to eliminate a long-standing source of spores for An atlas of airborne pollen aller- misunderstanding. gens. Twelve genera in the major fungus groups have been described with comments Plant Disease Fungi on their allergenic potential, period and Ascomycetes. The fifteen species in the duration of spore dispersal, and illustrated genus Ciborinia were considered in the with comparative plates of other fungi. critical examination of the six species of A staining method for host-parasite inter- Ciborinia that occur in Canada. This study relationship studies was developed. This comprises examination of the tissue anatomy method, which employs orseillin BB and of sclerotia and apothecia and cultural crystal violet, differentiates host cytoplasm, investigation and production of apothecia nuclei, cell walls, and fungal mycelium. It is under artificial conditions. The species are equally effective on paraffin sections, cryostat host specific to Erythronium, Trillium, Viola, sections, and squash. mounts. Populus, and Salix and include such patho- gens as black rib of willows (c. foliicola Aquatic Biology, Hemiptera, and (Cash & Davidson) Whetz.) and ink spot Nematology disease of poplar (c. whetzelii (Seav.) Seav.). Handbooks. Fifteen genera representing 43 A completed ultrastructural study of Ventu- species were analyzed for a handbook of the ria inaequalis (Cke.) Wint. on crab apple Anthocoridae (Hemiptera) of Canada and described conidium ontogeny and subcuticu- Alaska. For the handbook of prairie Miridae lar host-parasite interrelationship. Generic (Hemiptera) 150 illustrations have been concepts were revised for anum ber of completed. Keys, illustrated descriptions, genera of parasites of shrubs and trees, such distribution, and plant affiliations have been as Aglaospora, Massaria (= Saccothecium), completed for the Hoplolaimidae and Tylen- Spilobolus, and Splanchnonema. In coopera- chorhynchidae (Nematoda) in preparation tion with J. D. Smith, Research Station, for a handbook. Work was begun on a Saskatoon, Sask., Pithomyces chartarum handbook of the Cercopidae (Homoptera) of (Berk. & Curt.) M. B. Ellis was described Canada. from bromegrass stubble in Saskatchewan; this fungus produces the hepatotoxin spo- Aquatic insects. Preliminary research on ridesmin, the cause of liver damage and the life habits of water mites indicates that facial eczema of sheep. midges (Chironomidae) are their principal host group. Fifty-two genera of Chironomi- Phycomycetes. A joint study with W. G. dae were found to be parasitized. Kemp, Research Station, Vineland Station, Ont., on the carrot rusty root problem in the Hemiptera. The revision of the economi- Bradford Marsh, Ont., has shown it is un- cally important plant bugs of the genus likely that either Pythium sulcatum Pratt & Lygus in North America includes notes on Mitchell or Olpidium brassicae (Woron.) distribution, polychromatism, dimorphism, BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 139 and biology of 35 species and habitus illus- of the systematic relationship of the Het- trations of 34 species. Generic reviews of the erocheylidae to other families was com- leafhopper tribes Macropsini, Magnentiini pleted; a radical ttansfer of this group to a (new tribe), and Aphrodini resulted in 7 new position next to the Tarsonemina is proposed. genera, 14 new species, and 3 new nearctic Some problems preventing the export of records. The leafhopper subfamily Euryme- Canadian-grown apples to South Africa, linae and the tribes of the Aphrodinae were because of mite pests that occur in Canada redefined. A host index containing 2400 but not abroad, were investigated. A review species of aphids that have been described survey of the phytophagous mite species in since 1935 and 1500 host listings was apple-growing regions across Canada was completed. coordinated and begun. Research projects on the eriophyid mites associated with poma- Nematology. Illustrated keys and descrip- ceous and prunaceous trees, and on selected tions of the plant parasitic genera of Canada, eriophyid genera associated with conifers, the species of Paratylenchidae, and the were initiated. Taxonomic groupings of genera and species of parasitic mermithids of spiders in alfalfa fields in California were the Mackenzie River system are being pre- studied. pared. The male characters are emphasized, with analysis of their variability under Cana- Coleoptera. Considerable progress was dian conditions. The scanning electron micro- made toward the completion of a revision of scope is being used in the identification and the staphylinid subfamily Tachyporinae; classification of pathotypes of the cyst- more than half the genera have been revised forming nematodes and its results applied in and a paper on the difficult genus Sepedophi- the taxonomy of root-knot nematodes. Ius is half finished. A revision of the family Collaboration with other agencies. A collec- Alleculidae of Chile was completed. Sixty- tion of 45,000 insects and other arthropods eight species, twenty of them new to science, from the National Capital area was identi- in the scolytid genus Pityophthorus were fied for the National Museum of Natural treated, with twenty-three new synonyms Science, Ottawa. A Ph.D. thesis by A. Sopo- discovered and all type species revised; the nis on Orthocladius (s.s.) (Chironomidae) was accumulation of distributional and biological completed and a postgraduate program with data is continuing; the study is now about P. Pehtla on chironomid - water mite rela- one-third complete. Substantial progress was tionships was begun under the supervision of made on a revision of the hydrophilid an Institute scientist. Cooperative studies on subfamily Sphaeridiinae with all but one the aquatic insects and nematodes of the large genus treated; one new tribe and two Mackenzie River system were carried out new genera were erected; several old prob- with Environment Canada. Cooperative lems in nomenclature and taxonomy of studies of variation in root-knot, root-lesion, many, mostly introduced, species were and gall-forming nematodes were begun clarified. with research stations at Harrow, Vineland Station, and Saskatoon and with institutes in Faunistics. Spider fauna in the Mer Bleue Holland and England. sphagnum bog near Ottawa was investigated. About 75 species were found, though only 51 Coleoptera, Siphonaptera, and Arachnida could be identified from available literature. Handbooks. Keys, illustrations, and de- Collaboration with other agencies. System- scriptions for 114 species of the spider atic and biological studies of parasitengone families Thomisidae and Philodromidae of mites associated with insects in Eastern Canada were prepared. Work on the illustra- Canada by two students (1. Robillard and P. tions and distributional data for a handbook Watson) at Carleton University, Ottawa, and of fleas of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland a taxonomic study on staphylinid tribes continued. Work on a handbook on the beetle family Elateridae of Canada and Gymnusini and Deinopsini by a visiting graduate student (1. Klimaszewski) from Alaska was begun. Wroclaw University, Poland, were super- Arachnida. A comprehensive review of the vised by three Institute scientists. A course on nomenclatural and taxonomic problems of biogeography was presented at Carleton digamasellid mites was completed. A review University, Ottawa, by an Institute scientist. 140 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Diptera Other research. Studies of lance flies (Lon- chaeidae) of the world continued; catalogs of Handbooks. During 1974, the majority of the Oriental, Ethiopian, and Neotropical .research time was spent on activities directly species were prepared, and two papers on related to, or closely associated with, the Oriental species were completed. Two papers preparation of a Manual of the families and are being prepared on larvae of an antho- genera of North American Diptera. Steady myiid fly (Anthomyiidae) and two chloropid progress was achieved with both the text and flies (Chloropidae) that destroy seed heads of the illustrations. Chapters on nine families bromegrass. Description of new genera of were received, bringing the total number of lauxaniid flies (Lauxaniidae) based on al- chapters to 51 manuscripts, which is about ready described species is continuing. half of the complete text. Of about 2000 required figures, 1444 illustrations have been prepared by the artist. Copies of the manu- Experimental Taxonomy scripts and illustrations have been combined to form a working mock-up of the manual. Biosystematics of Euxoa. The assessment Also, a revised key to the genera of Platype- of species limits in this genus by biological zidae and a key to the genera of Syrphidae and physiological studies continued to be were completed, as were substantial portions emphasized. Much of the work centered of the generic keys for the Mycetophilidae, around our laboratory-reared stocks of Asilidae, Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae, and Euxoa campestris (Grote) and E. declarata Tachinidae. Another handbook on Diptera (Walker) and their hybrids. No external larvae that are found under the bark of trees features were found to distinguish the species was completed, and a revision of the tribes at the larval stage, but two internal ones were and genera of Canadian blow flies was highly significant: the passive form of blood nearly finished. cells of one class, the plasmatocytes, trans- formed to a simple dimension factor; and the Fossils. Thirty thousand pieces of amber number of neurosecretory cells in the body were collected and over 500 fossil insect segments. In the hybrid larvae these internal specimens of numerous families were discov- features usually resemble those of the male ered. The first fossil of the biting midge parent, but are less distinctive. Eight species genus Leptoconops was found in this amber, and a new fossil species of Plecia, which is of Euxoa are now in culture in our labora- tory, and hybridization and mating selection the oldest known member of the Bibionidae, was described. tests are being carried out to test the validity of four species from the comosa group, Biting flies. A new name for a subgeneric collected during the summer in southern homonym in the genus Simulium has been Saskatchewan and Alberta. Detailed descrip- proposed, and a manuscript on the black flies tions were made of the immature stages of E. of Iceland was completed. The description of basalis (Grote), which will be helpful in a new genus of black flies and a revision of preparing similar descriptions of other spe- the subgenera Twinnia and Gymnopais of the cies. A new tracheal organ from larvae in genus Prosimulium are nearing completion. several families of Lepidoptera was de- Descriptions of larvae and pupae of five scribed. This organ usually occurs in larvae species of horse flies are being prepared. known to be unpalatable and it seems to Rearing programs for horse flies and tree- have the capacity to concentrate materials hole species of Culicoides were very from the blood and to expel them at each successful. molt. Parasites and predators. Analytical tables Scattergrams based on discriminant analy- for adults and larvae have been prepared for sis of male genetalic measurements for both about 250 species of flesh flies (Sarco- the laboratory-reared parent stocks of E. phagidae). Good progress was made on a campestris and E. declarata deviated some- revision of aphid-feeding syrphids of the what from those of field-collected moths, but genera Trichopsomyia and Epistrophe. A showed the same degree of difference monograph of forty species of robber flies between the species. Scattergrams of hybrid (Asilidae) in seven genera is in press, and two measurements occupied an intermediate po- papers on bat flies (Streblidae and Nycteribi- sition, but were skewed toward the male idae) were completed. parent species. Similar results were found in BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 141 LI electrophoretic studies, where canonical anal- specimens were all conspecific. A new Nearc- ysis of the migration distances of esterase tic genus, Stejfanolampus (Perilampidae), isozymes showed the species to be far apart, was described, and the parasites of the horn whereas those of the hybrids were intermedi- fly were reviewed. ate but usually closer to those of the male parent. Scelionidae. Specimens representing two sibling species of Gryon, egg parasites of Biosystematics of Tabanidae. The esterase blood-sucking Reduviidae, were described. patterns of several populations of adults of Atylotus thoracicus (Hine) taken from widely Lepidoptera and Trichoptera separated areas showed remarkable homoge- neity, typical of inbred populations. How- Handbooks. Two handbooks were pre- ever, a single population of Hybomitra typhus pared in 1974; one is on the cutworm moths (Whitney) occurred in two morphological of Ontario and Quebec and the other deals forms, and one form had at least four. with the lepidopterous leafminers of temper- esterase phenotypes. ate North America. Both publications are in the final editorial stage. Hymenoptera Part III of the Guide to the Geometridae of Canada is in preparation. A handbook on the Braconidae. The Haliday species of Mi- genera of Canadian Trichoptera was started. croctonus, parasites of weevils, were re- viewed. Two new species of Microctonus Taxonomy. The genera of the Polygram- were described, one from South America and modes group of Pyraustinae were studied. one from England. The European species of Revision of the conifer pests of the genus Leiophron, parasites of plant bugs, were Dioryctria was continued. A study is in reviewed, and 31 new Nearctic species were progress of the larvae of 13 species of the described. A compilation was made of all beet webworm genus Loxostege. known records of incidence of parasitism by The larvae and male genital characters for Euphorinae in the Belleville area. Six new a higher classification of Microlepidoptera species of/tpanteles that parasitize microlepi- were investigated. The larva of the very dopterous larvae of spruce and fir were primitive genus Epimastyria was discovered described. An evaluation of the generic and is being studied and compared with entities within the tribe Brachistini was other Micropterygidae. made; a new genus was described, changes in synonymy were indicated, and all Nearctic Studies of several species groups of the species were assigned to correct generic cutworm genus Euxoa, including punctigera position. (Walker) and mimallonis (Grote), were com- pleted. Ichneumonidae. An account of the entire About 15 taxa of Trichoptera have been collection of Hymenoptera in the Provancher described and drawn. A small collection of collections at Universite Laval and a detailed Trichoptera from Buthan, India, was studied. study of Provancher's 546 species of Ichneu- monidae were completed. A compilation of Cultivated Crops parasites of forest Lepidoptera in Canada representing the subfamilies Metopiinae and Oats. Research aimed at automatic identi- Pimplinae was made. fication of cultivars has reached a break- through with the use of inflorescence spec- Chalcidoidea. Cretaceous fossils from Ca- trography. A new classification of species of nadian amber representing three families oats (wild and cultivated Avena) based on were studied; four new subfamilies, seven new data, numerical techniques, and on genera, and ten new species were described. information theory has been completed. Our Specimens representing a new species of aim is to develop a system that will include Ooencyrtus, reared from the elm spanworm, various principles that may be applied in the were described. Cultures of Chrysocharis identification of small grain cultivars with laricinellae (Ratzeburg), parasitic on the the aid of a computer. larch casebearer, were obtained from various countries and reared and crossed to deter- Wild-rice. A start has been made on mine specificity. It was found that the updating the Branch publication Wild-rice. 142 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 ------_.-._---- Bromegrass. Various species of bromegrass bracken crosiers as fiddle heads was were collected in Western Canada. Revision- suggested. ary studies were initiated that include com- Taxonomy. Taxonomic studies were car- patibility trials and comparison with nomen- ried out on 10 species of Draba, 3 species of clatural types. Suaeda, and 22 species of Chenopodium. Alfalfa. A biosystematic study of the genus Seven species of Draba are c1osely'related: Medicago (family Leguminosae) was begun. D. jiadnizensis Wulfen (n = 8); D. lactea Study of species of the Section Falcago, the Adams (n = 24); D. lonchocmpa Rydberg (n group of perennial species that includes the = 8); D. nivalis Liljebl (n = 8); D. palan- forage species, is in progress. deriana Kjellman (n = ?); D. porsildii G. A. Mulligan (n = 16); and D. subcapitata Cannabis. Publications summarizing pre- Simmons (n = 8). D. jiadnizensis, D. loncho- vious research on Cannabis were completed. carpa, and D. nivalis are diploids, each with A paper on this subject was presented with two homologous sets of eight chromosomes the Cooley Award by the American Society that are partly homologous with sets of the of Plant Taxonomists. This is the first time other two species. D. porsildii contains two this recognition has been awarded to a sets of 16 chromosomes, each with two member of the Department. completely homologous genomes, and each Carrot. About 100 wild and 300 cultivar genome from both sets of 16 is partly populations of carrot were grown outdoors to homologous with either of the genomes in obtain materials for study. Cultivated stocks the other set. All four genomes of D. porsildii included both the familiar orange types and are partly homologous with each genome of the purple (anthocyanin) types common in D. jiadnizensis, D. lonchocarpa, and D. Asia from which the orange types are nivalis. Indument characteristics are diagnos- thought to be derived. Characteristics of the tic in taxonomic studies of Draba species. collected populations are being assessed for These and other characteristics are being the~r taxonomic importance. utilized to develop a comprehensive key to the large Draba complex of Canada and Noxious and Native Plants Alaska. Examination of the seed coats of 22 species of goosefoot, several of which are Weed biology. Biological studies of three perennial hoary cresses were published. weedy in Canada, showed distinct sculptur- These weeds are particularly abundant in the ing patterns not previously recognized. These Prairie Provinces and in the interior of British patterns are useful in taxonomic studies of Columbia. Two of the hoary cresses were this group. introduced into Canada about 1910 as impu- Other activities. The problem of represent- rities in Turkestan alfalfa. Similar studies ing within-OTU character variability in were carried out on wild mustard, three numerical taxonomy has been considered, ragweeds, and bracken. It was concluded and the limitations of existing methods that bracken caused red water disease in explored. A new method, the character-state cattle and carcinogenicity in mice and rats. frequency procedure, which can readily be This information was useful to the Depart- incorporated into existing programs, has ment of Health and Welfare when the use of been developed and its operation described. PUBLICATIONS Research Anderson, R. V. 1973. Morphology and description toda: Hoplolaimidae), their identifying char- of Helicotylenchus crassatus n. sp. (Nematoda: acteristics and descriptions of threc new spe- Hoplolaimidae) from Eastern Canada. Can. J. cies. Can.J. Zoo!. 52:1365-1381. Zoo!. 51:1195-1200. Arnold, J. W. 1974. Chap. V. The hcmocytes of Anderson, R. V. 1974. Canadian species of the insects. Pages 201-254 in Physiology of In- genus Helicotylenchus Steiner, 1945 (Nema- secta. Edited by Rockstein, Academic Press. BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 143 Arnold, J. W., and Sohi, S. S. 1974. Hemocytes of inJu/a, No. 52. Hughes, S. J. Cordana pau- Ma/acosoma disstria Hiibner (Lepidoptera: ciseptata, No. 34. Hughes, S. J., and Illman, Lasiocampidae): morphology of the cells in W. I. Sporidesmium brachypus, No. 57; Spo- fresh blood and after cultivation in vitro. Can. ridesmium hormiscioides, No. 58; Spo- J. Zool. 52:481.485. ridesmium /arvalUm, No. 59; Sporidesmium Jolieu/atum, No. 60. Kokko, E. G., and Shoe- Arnold, R. H., and Carter, 1. C. 1974. Fusicoceum maker, R. A. Therrya Juckelii, No. 48; Col/e- e/aeagni, the cause of a canker and dieback of totrichum coccodes, No. 51. Malloch, D. Tri- Russian olive, redescribed and redisposed to ch%ma Ju/vum, No. 31; Connersia ri/stonii, the genus Phomopsis. Mycologia 66: 191-197. No. 32; Ty/opilus rubrobrunneus, No. 44; Barr, D. J. S. 1973. Rhizophydium graminis Sphaeronaemel/a he/vel/ae, No. 53; E/euthero- (Chytridiales): morphology, host range, and myces subu/atus, No. 55. Parmelee, J. A. temperature effect. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. Gymnosporangium connersii, No. 28; Til/etia 53: 191-193. controversa, No. 33; Gymnosporangium Jus- cum, No. 43. Parmelee, J. A., and Elliot!, M. Bassett, I. J., Crompton, C. W., and Woodland, D. E. Pi/eo/aria brevipes, No. 50. Pirozynski, K. W. 1974. The family Urticaceae in Canada. A. Eutryblidiel/a sabina, No. II; P/eiochaeta Can. J. Bot. 52:503-516. setosa, No. 12; Marssonina brunnea, No. 13; Marssonina castagnei, No. 14; Marssonina Baum, B. R. 1974. Typification of Linnaean species populi, No. 15; Botryosphaeria rhodorae, No. of oats, Avena. Taxon 23:579-583. 21; Cercospora handelii, No. 22; Ramu/aria Baum, B. R. 1974. Article 36 and numerical coa/escens, No. 23. Savile, D. B. O. Puccinia classification. Taxon 23:652-653. urbanis, No. 18; Puccinia parnassiae, No. 19; Phragmidium potentil/ae, No. 41; Puccinia Baum, B. R. 1974. Classification of the oat species codyi, No. 46; Puccinia ho/boellii, No. 47; (Avena, Poaceae) using various taximetric Phragmidium Jusiforme var. novi-borea/e, No. methods and an information-theoretic model. 54,; Puccinia canadensis, No. 56. Savile, D. B. Can. J. Bot. 52:2241-2262. 0., and Parmelee, J. A. Uromyces punctatus, Baum, B. R., and Hadland, V. E. 1973. A scanning No. 24; Uromyces phacaejrigidae, No. 25; electron microscopic study of epicuticular Uromyces /apponicus, No. 26 a,b. Shoemaker, waxes of glumes in Avena magna, A. murphyi, R. A. Gaeumannomyces graminis, No. 37. and A. sterilis. Can. J. Bot. 51 :2381-2383. Weresub, L. K. Papu/aspora sepedonioides, No. 27; Amy/ocorticium canadense, No. 45. Becker, E. C. 1973. A European species of Me/ano- tus now established at Baltimore, Maryland Byers, J. R., and Hinks, C. F. 1973. The surface (Coleoptera: Elateridae). Proc. Entomol. Soc. sculpturing of the integument of lepidopterous Wash. 75:454-458. larvae and its adaptive significance. Can. J. Zoo I. 51:1171-1179. Becker, E. C. 1973. A new species of Ctenicera from southern California and are-evaluation Campbell, J. M. 1973. New species and records of of the differences between the nearctic species neotropical termitophilous Staphylinidae I. of Esthesopus and Horistonotus (Coleoptera: Subtribe Timeparthenina. Pap. Avulsos Zool. Elateridae). Can. Entomol. 105: 1529-1534. (Sao Paulo) 27:83.94. Becker, E. C. 1974. Designation of lectotypes for Campbell, J. M. 1974. A new species of Mi- 13 species of Coleoptera described by Couper cropep/us (Coleoptera: Micropeplidae) from in 1864 and 1865. Ann. Entomol. Soc. Que. Oregon. Can. Entomol. 106:465-466. 19:62-73. Campbell, J. M. 1974. Observations on some Becker, E. C. 1974. Revision of the Nearctic species Scarabaeoidea in the Colombian Sierra Ne- of Athous (Coleoptera: Elateridae) east of the vade De Santa Marta. Coleopt. Bull. 28: 109- Rocky Mountains. Can. Entomol. 106:711- 114. 758. Campbell, J. M. 1974. A new species of Oxyporus Biosystematics Research Institute. 1974. Fungi (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) from Mexico with Canadenses. Arnold, R. H. Cucurbitaria staph- comments on Oxyporus e/egans Leconte. Cole- uta, No. 17; Me/andothis caricis, No. 30. Barr, opt. Bull. 28:155-157. D. J. S. Rhizophydium granu/osporum, No. 29. Campbell, J. M. 1974. Lectotype designation for Corlett, M. Co/eroa chaetomium, No. 20; Tachinomorphus grandis (Solsky) (Coleoptera: Venturia inaequalis, No. 35; Venturia pirina, Staphylinidae). Coleopt. Bull. 28: 158. No. 36; Didymel/a app/anata, No. 49. Elliott, M. E. Monilinia Jructico/a, No. 38. Ginns, J. Chong, J., and Barr, D. J. S. 1974. Ultrastructure of Rhizina undu/ata, No. 16; Discina macro- the zoospores of Entoph~yctis confervae-g/om- spora, No. 39; Discina /eucoxantha, No. 40; eratae, Rhizophydium patel/arium and Cate- Schizophyl/um commune, No. 42; Gyromitra naria anguillu/ae. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1197-1204. 144 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 I -~ Cody, W. J., Boivin, B., and Scotter, G. W. 1974. Kelton, L. A. 1973. Two new species of Lygus Loise/euria procumbens (L.) Desv. Alpine from North America, and a note on the status Azalea, in Alberta. Can. Field Nat. 88:229- of Lygus abroniae (Heteroptera: Miridae). 239. Can. Entomol. 105: 1545-1548. Corlett, M., and Elliott, M. E. 1974. The ascus apex Kelton, L. A. 1973. A new species of Semium of Ciboria acerina. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1459-1463. (Heteroptera: Miridae) from Mexico, with new records on distribution for two other Davis, G. R. F., and Sosulski, F. W. 1973. Protein species. Can. Entomol. 105: 1583-1584. nutrition of Tenebrio molitor L. XVI. Effects of dietary protein concentration of larvae of race Kelton, L. A. 1973. Knightomiris new genus, for F. Arch. Int. Physiol. Biochim. 81 :661-665. Lygus distinctus (Heteroptera: Miridae). Can. Entomol. 105:1417-1420. DeLong, D. M., and Hamilton, K. G. A. 1974. The genus Amblysel/us (Homoptera: Cicadellidae): Kelton, L. A. 1974. On the status of seven nearctic a key to the known species, with descriptions species currently included in the genus Lygus of eight new species. Can. Entomol. 106:841- Hahn (Heteroptera: Miridae). Can. Entomol. 849. 106:377-380. Downes, J. A. 1974. Sugar feeding by the larva of Lafontaine, 1. D. 1974. A new species of Copto- Chrysopa (Neuroptera). Can. Entomol. disca (Heliozelidae) from Mississippi on far- 106:121-125. kleberry (Vaccinium arboreum). 1. Lepid. Soc. 28: 126-130. Elliott, M. E., and Kaufer!, M. 1974. Peziza badia and Peziza badio-con/usa. Can. J. Bot. 52:467- Lafontaine, J. D. 1974. A new species of Euxoa 472. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) from western United States. Can. Entomol. 106:651-654. Ellis, R. A., and Wood, D. M. 1974. First Cana- dian record of Corethrel/abrake/eyi (Diptera: Lafontaine, J. D. 1974. A synopsis of the redimic- Chaoboridae). Can. Entomol. 106:221-222. uta group of the genus Euxoa Hbn. (Lepidop- tera: Noctuidae) with a computer analysis of Findlay, J. N., and Baum, B. R. 1974. The nomen- genitalic characters. Can. Entomol. 106:409- clatural implications of the taxonomy of 421. Danthonia in Canada. Can. 1. Bot. 52: 1573- 1582. Lafontaine, J. D. 1974. The Punctigera group of the genus Euxoa (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Gerhart, S., Barr, D. J. S., and Morita, H. K. 1974. with descriptions of two new species. Can. Principal wall carbohydrates in Ph/ycto- Entomol. 106:1233-1240. chytrium arcticum and Rhizophydium patel/ar- ium (Chytridiales). Mycologia 66: 107-113. Lindquist, E. E. 1974. Nomenclatural status and authorship of some family-group names in the Ginns, J. H. 1974. Rhizina root rot: severity and Eriophyoidea (Acarina: Prostigmata). Can. distribution in British Columbia. Can. J. For. Entomol. 106:209-212. Res. 4: 143-146. Ginns, J. H. 1974. Secondarily homothallic Hyme- Loan, C. C. 1973. Parasitism of adult Notoxus Henz. (Coleoptera: Anthicidae) by nomycetes: several examples of bipolarity are anchora (Cress.) (Hymenoptera: Bra- reinterpreted as being tetrapolar. Can. J. Bot. Syrrhizus agi/is 52:2097-2110. conidae). Proc. Entomol. Soc. ant. 103:76. Gremmen, J., and Parmelee, 1. A. 1973. Micro- Loan, C. C. 1974. Microctonus apiophaga, new fungi collected in 1868 in the Canadian Rocky species, (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Euphori- Mountains and adjacent trench. Can. For. nae) a parasite of adult Apion weevils in Servo Inf. Rep. NOR-X-44: 1-33. Britain (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Proc. En- tomol. Soc. Wash. 76: 186-189. Gressitt, J. L., and Yoshimoto, C. M. 1974. Insects dispersal studies in Northern Alaska. Pac. Loan, C. C. 1974. The European species of Leioph- Insects 16: 11-30. ron Nees and Peristenus Foerster (Hymenop- tera: Braconidae, Euphorinae). Trans. R. En- Hinks, C. F., and Byers, J. R. 1973. Characters for tomol. Soc. Lond. 126:207-238. determining the sex of cutworms and other noctuid larvae (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Can. Loan, C. c., and Lloyd, D. C. 1974. Description J. Zoo I. 51:1235-1241. and field biology of Microctonus hyperodae Loan, n. sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Eu- Hughes, S. J. 1974. New Zealand Fungi 22. phorinae) a parasite of Hyperodes bonariensis Euantennaria with Antennatu/a and Hormisci- in South America (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). omyces states. N.Z. J. Bot. 12:299-356. Entomophaga 19:7-12. BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 145 Mason, W. R. M. 1973. Recognition of Zemiotes Mulvey, R. H., and Anderson, R. V. 1974. Descrip- (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Proc. Entomol. tions of plant-parasitic nematodes. Heterodera Soc. Wash. 75:213.215. trifolii. Commonw. Inst. Helminth. Set 4, #46. Mason, W. R. M. 1974. A generic synopsis of Brachistini (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and Munroe, D. D. 1974. The systematics, phylogeny, recognition of the name Charmon Haliday. and zoogeography of Symmerus Walker and Proc. Entomol. Soc. Wash. 76:235-246. Austra/osymmeru.1Freeman (Diptera: Myceto- philidae: Ditomyiinae). Mem. Entomol. Soc. Mason, W. R. M. 1974. An endemic subspecies of Can. No. 92: 183 pp. Echthromorpha agrestoria on Easter Island Munroe, E. 1974. New Pyralidae (Lepidoptera) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae). Can. Ento- from the Papuan Region. III. Can. Entomol. mol. 106:935-936. 106:21-30. Mason, W. R. M. 1974. The Apante/es species Munroe, E. 1974. Three new genera and four new (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) attacking Lepi- species of Pyralidae (Lepidoptera) from South doptera in the micro-habitat of the spruce America. Can. Entomol. 106:11-20. bud worm (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Can. Entomol. 106:1087-1102. Munroe, E. 1974. New genera, species and generic transfers of neotropical Odontiinae (Lepidop- McAlpine, J. F. 1974. The Lonchaeidae (Diptera) tera: Pyralidae). Can. Entomol. 105:127-137. described by Bigot. Can. Entomol. 106:777- Munroe, E. 1974. Transfer of Cyba/omia angusta/is 780. Dognin to Udea Guenee, with description of a McNeill, J. 1973. Flora Europaea notulae system at- related new species (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). icae ad floram europaeam spectantes. Note on Can. Entomol. 106: 139-142. Solidago L. Bot. J. Linn. Soc. 67:279-280. Munroe, E. 1974. A new Noctueliopsis from Texas (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae: Odontiinae). Can. McNeill, J. 1974. IOPB chromosome number Entomol. 106:655-658. reports 45. In Love, A., ed. Taxon 23:619-624. Munroe, E. 1974. Pyralidae of the Third Archbold McNeill, 1. M., and Bassett, I. J. 1974. Pollen Expedition. I. Subfamily Odontiinae (Lepi- morphology and the infrageneric classification doptera). Tijdschr. Entomol. 117:27-37. of Minuartia (Caryophyllaceae). Can. J. Bot. 52: 1225-1231. Munroe, E. G. 1974. In Dominick, R. B., et al. The moths of America north of Mexico. Fasc. Moore, R. J., and Frankton, C. 1974. The Cirsium 13.IC, Pyraloidea (in Part) - Subfamily arizonicum complex of the southwestern Evcrgestinae. United States. Can. J. Bot. 52:543-551. Mutuura, A., and Munroe, E. 1974. A new genus Moore, R. J., and Frankton, C. 1974. The thistles related to Dioryctria Zeller (Lepidoptera: of Canada. Can. Dep. Agric. Res. Branch Pyralidae: Phycitinae), with definition of an Monogr. 7. additional species group in Dioryctria. Can. Entomol. 106:937-940. Mulligan, G. A. 1974. Confusion in the names of Nag Raj, T. R., and Hughes, S. J. 1974. New three Draba species of the arctic: D. adamsii, Zealand fungi. 21. C/w/ara (Corda) Ra- D. oblongata, and D. corymbosa. Can. J. Bot. benhorst. N.Z. J. Bot. 12:115-129. 52:791-793. Ohira, H., and Becker, E. C. 1973. Elateridae Mulligan, G. A. 1974. Cytotaxonomic studies of (Coleoptera) from the Canadian Nepal Expe- Draba nivalis and its close allies in Canada dition (1967). 6. Description of two new and Alaska. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1793-180 I. species of Aeteniceromorphus of the subfamily Ctenicerinae. Orient. Insects 7:563-566. Mulligan, G. A., and Cody, W. J. 1974. IOPB chromosome number Reports 43. In Love, A., Ohira, H., and Becker, E. C. 1973. Elateridae ed. Taxon 23: 193.196. (Coleoptera) from the Canadian Nepal Expe- dition (1967). 5. Records and descriptions of Mulligan, G. A., and Findlay, J. N. 1974. The Paraca/ais, Compso/acon, Meristhus, Pectoeera biology of Canadian weeds. 3. Cardaria and Oetoeryptus species. Orient. Insects 7:461. draba, C. cha/epensis, and C. pubeseens. Can. J. 469. Plant Sci. 54: 149-160. Ohira, H., and Becker, E. C. 1974. Elateridae Mulvey, R. H. 1974. Cone-top morphology of the (Coleoptera) from the Canadian Nepal Expe- white females and cysts of the genus Heterod- dition (1967). 7. Descriptions of three new era (subgenus Heterodera), a cyst-forming species of Anchastus, Proeraerus, and Megap- nematode. Can. J. Zool. 52:77-81. enthes. Orient. Insects 8:385-390. 146 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Ouellette, G. B., and Pirozynski, K. A. 1974. Small, E. 1973. Xeromorphy in plants as a possible Reassessment of Tympanis based on types of basis for migration between arid and nutri- ascospore germination within asci. Can. J. Bot. tionally-deficient environments. Bot. Not. 52:1889-1911. 126: 534-539. Parmelee, 1. A. 1973. Puccinia allii (DC.) Rud. on Smetana, A. 1973. Revision of the tribe Quediini garlic - an interception.-Can. Plant Dis. Surv. of America north of Mexico (Coleoptera: 43:147-149. Staphylinidae). Supplementum 2. Can. Ento- mo!. 105:1421.1434. Peck, O. 1974. Chaleidoid (Hymenoptera) parasites of the horn fly, Haemalobia irrilans (Diptera: Smetana, A. 1974. Revision of the genus Cym- Muscidae), in Alberta and elsewhere in Can- biodyla Bcd. (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae). ada. Can. Entomo!. 106:473-477. Mem. Entomo!. Soc. Can. No. 93: 1/3 pp. Peck, O. 1974. Nearctic records of two European Smith, J. D., and Shoemaker, R. A. 1974. Didy- species of Pteromalidae (Hymenoptera: Chal- mella feslucae and its imperfect state, Ph/eo- cidoidea). Can. Entomo!. 106:623-625. spora idahoensis, on Fesluca species in western North America. Can. 1. Bot. 52:2061-2074. Peck, O. 1974. Sleifanolampus, a new genus for Perilampus salicelum (Chaleidoidea) and its Ullrich, W. G., and Campbell, J. M. 1974. A nearctic distribution. Can. Entomo!. 106:555- revision of the apterus-group of the genus 558. Tachinus Gravenhorst (Coleoptera: Staphylin- idae). Can. Entomo!. 106:627-644. Peterson, B. V., and HUrka, K. 1974. Ten new species of bat flies of the genus Trichobius Wein, R. W., Hettinger, L. R., Janz, A. J., and (Diptera: Streblidae). Can. Entomo!. Cody, W. J. 1974. Vascular plant range exten- 106: 1049-1066. sions in the northern Yukon Territory and northwestern Mackenzie District, Canada. Pirozynski, K. A. 1974. Anlipodium, a new genus Can. Field Nat. 88:57-66. of Hyphomycetes. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1143-1146. Weresub, L. K., Malloch, D., and Pirozynski, K. A. Pirozynski, K. A. 1974. Xenolypa Petrak and 1974. Response to Hawksworth & Sutton's Graphoslroma gen. nov., segregates from Dia- proposals for Art. 59. Taxon 23:569-578. trypaceae. Can. J. Bot. 52:2129-2135. Wilkinson, C. 1974. Numerical classification: some Richards, W. R. 1973. A review of Phyllaphis, with questions answered. Can. Entomo!. 106:449- a description of a new species from Ontario 464. (Homoptera: Aphididae). Can. Entomo!. 105: 1573-1581. Wood, D. M. 1974. A new species of Masislylum in the nearctic region (Diptera: Tachinidae). Savile, D. B. O. 1973. Revisions of the microcyclic Can. Entomo!. 106: 175-178. Puccinia species on Saxifragaceae. Can. J. Bot. 51 :2347-2370. Wood, D. M. 1974. Notes on Allophorocera with a Savile, D. B. O. 1973. Vegetative distinctions in description of a new species (Diptera: Tachini- Canadian species of Milella and Tiare/la. Can. dae) from Finland. Can. Entomo!. 106:667- Field Nat. 87:460-462. 671. Savile, D. B. O. 1974. Orphanomyces, a new genus Wu, L.-Y. 1974. Paralylenchus robusluS n. sp. of cypericolous smuts. Can. J. Bot. 52:341- (Paratylenchinae: Nematoda) from forest soil 343. in Ontario. Can. J. Zoo!. 52: 1423-1425. Savile, D. B. O. 1974. Some new or poorly known Yeargan, K. V., and Dondale, C. D. 1974. The rusts of Brassicaceae. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1501- spider fauna of alfalfa fields in northern 1507. California. Ann. Entomo!. Soc. Am. 67:681- 682. Schmid, F. 1973. A propos d'hybridisme naturel chez les ornithoptl~res (Lepidoptera: Papilioni- Yoshimoto, C. M. 1973. A new Nearctic Derosle- dae). Tijdschr. Entomo!. 116: 161-169. nus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidac) parasitic on Neplicula (Lepidoptera: Nepticulidae) in Schmid, F. 1973. Deux cas de gynandromorphisme North America. Can. Entomo!. 105: 1053- chez les ornithopteres (Lepidoptera, Papilioni- 1057. dae). Can. Entomo!. 105: 1549-1551. Yoshimoto: C. M. 1973. Revision of the genus Shoemaker, R. A., LeClair, P. M., and Smith, J. D. Chrysocharis Forster (subgenus Chrysocharis s. 1974. Some parasites of Bromus inermis and str.) (Eulophidae: Chaleidoidea) of America airborne spores trapped over bromegrass north of Mexico. Can. Entomo!. 105: 1377- crops. Can. J. Bot. 52:2415-2421. 1405. BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE 147 Miscellaneous Mason, W. R. M. 1974. Shipping alcohol collec- tions in plastic bags. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Arnold, J. W. 1974. Hemocytes: Insects. In Biology Wash. 76:229-230. Data Book, 2nd cd. Vol. III. F.A.S.E.B., Bethesda, Maryland. 1913-1917. Moore, R. J. 1974. Index to plant chromosome numbers for 1972. Regnum Veg. 91:1-108. Arnold, R. H., and Straby, A. E. 1973. Phomopis elaeagni on Russian olive (Elaeagnus angusti- Munroe, E. 1974. Hard decisions ahead for Can- folia), in Canada. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. ada's biological scientists. Sci. Forum 37. 53:183-186. V.7(1). Cody, W. J., and Krivda, W. 1974. Carex maritima Small, E. 1974. What about glazing with perma- Gunn., an adventive sedge at The Pas, Mani- nent plastics. Can. Florist, Greenhouse & Nursery 59, No. 16. toba. Blue Jay 32:25-26. Small, E. 1974. Eco-physiological adaptations in Downes, J. A. 1974. Recording the changing Biota. peat bog plants. Am. J. Bot. 61 :64. Reprinted from Science (Wash. D.C.) 186:819. Small, E. 1974. The systematics of Cannabis. Am. J. Bot. 61:50. Frankton, c., and Mulligan, G. A. 1974. Les mauvaises herbes du Canada. Ministere de Small, E. 1974. American law and the species I'Agriculture du Canada. Publ. 948. 218 pp. problem in Cannabis. Microgram 7: 131.132. 148 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Chemistry and Biology Research Institute Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF J. W. ROUATT, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Acting Director M. G. BOTTEN (Mrs.) Administrative Officer Agricultural Microbiology L. R. BARRAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cell membrane biochemistry C. MADHOSINGH, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Enzymology of pathogenic fungi R. W. MILLER, B.S., Ph.D. Fungal metabolism and enzymology E. A. PETERSON, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Rhizosphere fungi R. B. PRINGLE, B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD., F.A.A.A.S. Host-specific toxins J. W. ROUATT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Rhizosphere bacteria and culture collection E. F. SCHNEIDER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Rest period and dormancy I. L. STEVENSON, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Cytology and physiology Biochemistry of Plant Cell Differentiation R. M. BEHKI, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant cell transformation S. M. LESLEY, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Plant cell hybridization; anther culture Environmental Chemistry R. GREENHALGH, B.Sc., Ph.D. Organophosphorus insecticides M. IHNAT, B.Sc., Ph.D. Inorganic chemistry S. U. KHAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Herbicides W. D. MARSHALL, B.Sc., Ph.D. Fungicides; analytical methods J. G. SAHA, B.Sc., M.Sc. (Tech.), Ph.D. Organochlorine and carbamate insecticides J. C. YOUNG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Analytical organic chemistry CHEMISTRYAND BIOLOGYRESEARCHINSTITUTE 149 L Winterhardiness C. J. ANDREWS, B.Sc., Ph.D. Winter survival of seed F. D. H. MACDOWALL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Frost damage; chloroplast membrane M. K. POMEROY, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Frost resistance; biochemistry and cytology D. SIMINOVITCH,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., Ph.D., Frost hardiness; lipids and F.R.S.C. membrane J. C. SIROIS, B.A., B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Growth regulators Host-Parasite Relationships L. N. CHIYKOWSKI,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Leafhopper-transmitted viruses Y. C. PALIWAL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Transmission by aphids and microscopic vectors R. C. SINHA, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D., D.Sc. Virus and mycoplasma vector relationships Agrometeorology Research and Service W. BAIER, Diplomlandwirt, Dr. agr., M.Sc. Head; Agrometeorology R. L. DESJARDINS, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Micrometeorology S. N. EDEY, B.Sc. Climatology H. N. HAYHOE, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Biomathematics C. E. OUELLET, B.A., B.Sc.A., M.Sc. Ecoclimatology and plant survival W. K. SLY, B.A. Applications G. D. V. WILLIAMS, B.S.A., M.A. Agroclimatology Analytical Chemistry Services D. A. SHEARER, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., F.C.I.C. Head R. GREENHALGH, B.Sc., Ph.D. Advisor; Instrumentation Centre Electron Microscope Centre G. H. HAGGIS, B.Sc., Ph.D. Head J. BRONSKILL(Miss), B.A., Ph.D. Postal service Y. C. PALIWAL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Advisor Departure G. FLEISCHMANN,B.A., M.A., Ph.D. DiIector Appointed Director-General Policy and Program Development Directorate Environmental Management Service Department of the Environment, July 1974 150 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council postdoctorate fellows. 1974-75 H. R. DAVIDSON. B.Sc., Ph.D. Agrometeorology J. SINGH, B.Sc., Ph.D. Winterhardiness; biochemistry CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 151 INTRODUCTION The research programs of the Chemistry and Biology Research Institute emphasize winter survival of plants, reduction of plant diseases, genetic modification of plant cells, chemical methodology in the area of pesticide residues as well as other organic and inorganic systems, and application of crop-weather data to agriculture. The services provided to other Research Branch establishments include a facility for analytical chemistry determinations, expertise in new and complex instrumentation, electron microscopy facilities, and the processing, interpretation, and application of meteorological data to agricultural problems. This report highlights our progress in research and analytical services during 1974. Detailed information and reprints of published papers are available on request from the Chemistry and Biology Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, OntoKIA OC6. J. W. Rouatt Acting Director AGRICULTURAL MICROBIOLOGY broad electron-dense band around the periphery. Role of Sterols in Control and Survival of Fusarium oxysporum Studies of Cell Transport in Fusarium sulphureum Hydroxymethy Igiutaryl-CoA red uctase Conidia of Fusarium sulphureum Schlecht. (HMGCoA reductase), a key rate-limiting grown on potato sucrose agar accumulate enzyme in sterol biosynthesis, has been leucine and glutamic acid to give a concen- identified in Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. tration gradient of 200-500 versus the exter- The enzyme is more abundant and more nal amino acid concentration. Optimum stable than the same enzyme in yeast or rat's glutamate uptake occurred at pH 4.5 and liver. Several natural inhibitors of the en- 30°C, with a K value of I X 10-5 M. zyme have been isolated from the fungus as m Optimum leucine uptake occurred at pH 7.5 well as from other sources. These inhibitors and 30DC, with a K value of 5 X 10-6 M. control the rate of sterol biosynthesis. m Both amino acids are accumulated through The optimal temperature for the greatest permeases of broad overlapping specificities. production of both the sterol and the enzyme was 15°C using Fries medium, with cultural Lipid and Membrane Research temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Lipid metabolism in Fusarium spp. was Maximum production of sterol and investigated to determine the effects of HMGCoA reductase occurred after 32 h in growth temperature on the composition of culture. membrane and storage lipids of hyphal cells. Formation of Chlamydospores in Fusarium Effects of temperature on both phospholipid composition and fatty acid unsaturation were During the conversion of conidial cells to striking when hyphae were grown between chlamydospores, new lipid bodies are 15 and 37°C. At higher temperatures oleic formed in the cytoplasm within the mem- acid was the predominant fatty acid residue, branes of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). and at lower temperatures linoleic and linole- The first recognizable change in ER is the nic acids were greatly elevated in all lipid formation of small dilated sections. These classes. However, the change in the storage sections subsequently increase in size and lipids was less pronounced than that in change from irregular to spherical in shape. membrane phospholipids. Throughout this period the membranes sur- In the phospholipid components from rounding the bodies are clearly defined. hyphae grown at 37°C, phosphatidylcholine When the chlamydospore itself is fully comprised 42% of hyphal membrane phos- developed, the membrane is not readily phorus incorporation and phosphatidyletha- defined in most lipid bodies but appears as a nolamine accounted for 23%. At 15°C, the 152 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 pattern was reversed. Gross alterations in medium. When oxygen was restricted, victox- membrane properties that arise from this inine was produced, but when it was plentiful change are now being investigated. helminthosporal was formed. Enzymes of Fungal Pathogens BIOCHEMISTRY OF PLANT CELL Dihydro-orotate dehydrogenase was puri- DIFFERENTIATION fied to homogeneity from fungi and shown to be linked to quinones, not to NAD as for Cell Transformation some bacteria. This key enzyme of pyrimi- dine biosynthesis has a high molecular Integration of large amounts of exoge- weight (300 000 daltons) and is a lipopro- nously supplied bacterial DNA into plant tein. The enzyme was inactivated by certain cells to introduce genetic modification is still surface-active agents but activated by others. controversial. A system designed to obtain A naturally occurring lipid inhibitor is being unambiguous results was used to differentiate isolated and will be characterized as a between integration of labeled DNA and possible control agent for fungal pathogens. reutilization of breakdown products of la- beled DNA. The procedure involved the Root Rot of Cereal Crops uptake of radioactive DNA by Chlamydomo- nas reinhardi cells and the subsequent analy- Preconditioning of different isolates of sis of total host cell DNA by molecular Helminthosporium sativum Pamm., King & sieving on Sepharose. Combined with the Bakke with specific amino acids altered their technique of cesium chloride density-gradi- growth and sporulation characteristics in ent centrifugation, the DNA species, e.g., artificial culture and markedly reduced their chloroplast, nuclear, and hybrid DNA, could pathogenicity to wheat seedlings. Amino acid be separated according to their various conditioning also affected the sensitivity of densities. The minimal uptake of exogenous H. sativum conidia to soil fungistasis. Re- DNA by these cells was about 0.02%. Even peated subculturing on a medium containing such a small amount can be very significant histidine, proline, serine, or methionine biologically if it is genetically stable. tended to increase fungistatic sensitivity; Maximal degradation and minimal utili- similar subculturing on a medium containing zation of labeled thymidine previously found arginine rendered the isolates less sensitive to in sugar cane cells (1973 Report) was also soil fungistasis than were the nonconditioned present in cultured carrot, potato, and control cultures. Exudates and extracts from soybean cells. Thymidine degradation seri- the roots of wheat seedlings generally coun- ously limits the production of labeled plant teracted the influence of soil fungistasis as DNA of high specific activity for use in indicated by a marked increase in conidial transformation experiments. It can also lead germination, but the degree of counteraction to erroneous interpretation of radioauto- varied among the H. sativum cultures and graphic results when this commonly used appeared to depend on the specific amino precursor is employed in studies of synthesis acid used for preconditioning. Root exudates of plant cell DNA. Of the various inhibitors and extracts from a wheat variety susceptible tested for ability to arrest thymidine degra- to root rot were more effective in overcoming dation, fluorodeoxyuridine, 5-fluorouracil, soil fungistasis than those from a more diazouracil, and diazouridine gave promising resistant variety. results over a short incubation period but In a pathological and biochemical study of were not effective on prolonged incubation the etiology of the root rot disease of wheat because of breakdown of inhibitor. caused by H. sativum, ISO isolates of the causal' organism were examined for toxin Haploid Plants by Anther Culture production in culture and phytopathogenicity In the continuing search for a variety of in the greenhouse. None of the isolates Solanum tuberosum L. from which haploid produced any significant amount of toxin, plants can be produced, anthers of S. stoloni- nor were any of them particularly virulent in jerum and S. acaule were tested under a the greenhouse experiments. variety of conditions without success. The type of toxin produced by H. sativum Because lack of success with S. tuberosum varied with the oxygen tension of the culture using common techniques appears to be CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 153 universal, biochemical interference with nor- orange peel extracts resulted in the identifi- mal pollen development to force the forma- cation of carvone and four other compounds tion of haploid plants in this species will now that are attractants. be tried. Honey bee pheromones. The amounts of Protoplasts in Plant Cells (E)-9-oxo-2-decenoic acid and (E)-9-hy- droxy-2-decenoic acid present in Asian queen Conditions for protoplast formation both bees were determined in connection with the from mesophyll cells of leaf tissue and chemotaxonomy of different Apis species. immature pollen cells of S. tuberosum and Extracts from the Asian queens were attract- from suspension-cultured cells of carrot were ive to North American worker bees. determined. These cells are now being used 'in studies of differentiation under various Organic acids in tobacco. A method for conditions. determining the organic acid content of tobacco leaves was developed. Because dia- zomethane was found to catalyze transesteri- ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY fication, ethyl esters could therefore be formed as artifacts when ethereal diazometh- Inorganic ane prepared from ethanolic KOH was used. Selenium in biological samples. A commer- Pesticides. A study on the behavior of cial, resistively heated graphite furnace was pesticides and herbicides in organic soils, evaluated for use with atomic absorption done in collaboration with the Research spectrophotometry to determine nanogram Station, Saint-Jean, Que., and the Soil Re- quantities of selenium in biological samples. search Institute, Ottawa, Ont., showed a Samples were digested in acid and 5-p,1 marked increase in the bacterial activity of aliquots were injected into the furnace. soil treated with carbofuran. This increased Incorporation of Ni at 5 mg/ml substantially activity was not evident when carbofuran improved sensitivity and precision. Matrix and linuron were applied. interferences varied with the sample and In collaboration with other research sta- method of pretreatment. For successful anal- tions, analytical methods for determining yses, the element must be separated from the malathion in lettuce and apples; ethephon in matrix by reduction-precipitation with ascor- apples; atrazine in water, chicken eggs, feces, bic acid and redissolved in acid before and tissues; and fenitrothion in apples were determination. developed and evaluated. Analysis of chromium. The application of Organochlorine insecticides. Studies on the 14 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry metabolism of cis- and trans- C-chlordane to the determination of chromium in biolog- in carrots and soil were completed. Both cis- ical matrices was investigated. Interference and trans-chlordane were readily absorbed from 31 elements, normally present in a by carrots but were not degraded into other 14 sample matrix, was evaluated by using simu- products. In soil, cis- and trans- C-chlordane lated sample solutions in four commonly showed little indication of degradation. used digestion acids. Recovery studies in air- The metabolism of cis- and trans-14C- acetylene and nitrous oxide - acetylene chlordane in rabbits has also been studied. flames indicated that enhancement or de- \ Seven metabolites isolated from the urine pression of the signal varied with the flame were identified. used, flame stoichiometry, and burner height. Work on the metabolism of 14C-carbathiin The nitrous oxide - acetylene flame was in pheasants was completed. More than 70% more effective in reducing interelement inter- of the orally administered 14C-carbathiin was ferences and was proposed for use in chro- excreted in the urine and feces within 7 days. mium analyses. Carbathiin sulfoxide, carbathiin sulfone, and hydroxycarbathiin were identified among the Attractants for honey bee workers. At- metabolites found in the feces and urine. tempts were made to identify the volatile constituents of pollen, which are attractive to Organophosphorus insecticides. Both gas worker bees. An active fraction collected chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatog- from pollen was observed to have the odor raphy (LC) were used to determine impuri- of orange oil. Subsequent investigation of ties in technical-grade fenitrothion (> 95% 154 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 pure). Because both bis-fenitrothion and quantitated by GC, using a short column (38 S-methyl-bis-fenitrothion were not detected cm) and on-column injections. Extraction by GC, LC was the preferred method. studies were made with various solvent Considerable variation was found in the systems before the method was applied to fenitrothion content of nine commercial field-treated samples. products analyzed; S-methyl-fenitrothion Hydroxyatrazine, the main metabolite of was the most common impurity. atrazine in corn, is formed by a glutathione- Chemical derivatization was studied as a catalyzed reaction. A method for the simulta- means of confirming pesticide and herbicide neous determination of hydroxyatrazine and residues. Alkylation of organophosphorus atrazine was developed and used to follow and carbamate insecticides, triazine, and urea the uptake and metabolism of these com- herbicides that have an NH moiety by pounds by chickens given atrazine-fortified sodium hydride - methyl iodide - dimethyl feed. sulfoxide gave derivatives with GC charac- Fungicides. Two transformation products teristics superior to those of the parent of benomyl, 3-butyl-s-triazino[ I ,2-a]benzim- compounds. The procedure was applied to idazole-2,4( IH,3H)-dione (STB) and 2-(S- samples of crude extracts of soil, plant, and butylureido )benzimidazole (BUB), were syn- blood and shown to be capable of confirming thesized and derivatized by alkylation. These the identity of residues at levels of 0.02 ppm. derivatives are readily quantified by Gc. An analytical method sensitive to 0.02 Attempts to convert benomyl to methyl-STB ppm was developed for determining Mesurol by treatment with sodium hydride - methyl (ChemAgro Corp.) in blueberries. Mesurol iodide in dioxane were only partly successful was separated from its sulfoxide and sulfone (40% yield), whereas methyl-2 - benzimida- by silica gel chromatography and quantitated zole carbamate (MBC) gave a dimethyl by Gc. A small-scale study of blueberries derivative in a 65% yield. No hydrolysis of treated with 143 g/ha (16 oz/ac) showed benomyl to MBC was observed under the that Mesurol disappeared rapidly; less than reaction conditions employed. 0.02 ppm was found after 24 days. Carbathiin and its major metabolites, the The isolation of 14C-methyl-glutathione sulfoxide and sulfone, are readily separated and de-methyl-fenitrothion after treatment from one another and from co extractives of of pine seeds with labeled fenitrothion wheat and soil by LC. All the compounds indicates that a glutathione alkyltransferase could be analyzed in nanogram amounts system is present in the seed embryo. with an ultraviolet detector. Herbicides. A GC method for the determi- nation of diquat and paraquat residues in soil was developed. Soil was extracted with 18 N WINTERHARDINESS H S0 , and the extract was hydrogenated in 2 4 Environmental Factors Associated With the presence of Adam's catalyst. Recoveries Cold Hardiness of the two herbicides from soils fortified at 0.1 and 0.05 ppm were between 84 and 95%. Cold-hardened seedlings of winter wheat Hydrogenation of acid extracts from organic were killed when totally encased in ice for 3 soil required more catalyst per gram of soil wk at -IDC; when partially encased in ice, than did extracts from mineral soil. The pH the seedlings survived even after 6 wk. of the soil extract did not affect the recovery Survival of plants encased in ice for I wk was of herbicide residues from field-treated sam- reduced at an ice temperature of below _3°C. ples. Alternate freezing and thawing increased the The persistence and movement of survival of plants encased in ice. Barley was paraquat in orchard soil (Fox sandy loam) the least tolerant of ice, and a hardy winter were examined. Although growth of oat rye was more tolerant than any of the winter plants was not affected, chemical analysis wheats tested. That plants partially encased indicated virtually no loss of the herbicide in ice survive longer than plants totally from soil during the summer months. The encased in ice may explain the irregular residue levels present did not appear to pose winterkill of cereals in the field. any danger to crops grown on treated soil. Prolonged exposure of seedlings of winter Linuron undergoes rapid thermal decom- wheat to freezing temperatures well above position above 170°C. The herbicide was the lethal temperature did not result in CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 155 significant damage, but injury increased oxygen-reductant complex that is capable of markedly as the temperature approached the causing oxidative damage. A class of rea- killing point. High levels of cold hardiness gents that selectively reacts with 02 - was were induced rapidly when seedlings of developed, which could provide protection winter wheat were grown for several days at during the hardening process. 15°C during the day and lOoC during the Electron spin resonance spectroscopy was night, before they were exposed to hardening used to study the effect of varying the lipid conditions that included diurnal freezing. composition of wheat mitochondria and Cold-acclimated winter wheat and winter chloroplasts. Their structural properties were barley demonstrated a capacity to reharden compared by intercalation of spin probes. quickly after partial hardening. When grown at 2°C, the lipid portion of mitochondrial membranes became more Changes in Membrane Lipid during fluid, whereas the thylakoid membranes of Hardening chloroplasts did not. Therefore, at low tem- The question of whether lipids of tree cells perature chloroplast membranes possessed a increase in unsaturation during cold harden- much more ordered bilayer structure, but ing has been finally resolved. No significant showed less change in fluidity, than mito- difference in the degree of unsaturation of chondria did. the fatty acids of the total lipids or the An unidentified soluble protein, distingu- phospholipids was found between unhardy ished as a new band on polyacrylamide summer tree cells and extremely hardy electrophoretic gels, was detected in chloro- winter cells. Development of extreme hardi- plasts from leaves of spring and winter ness in tree cells is therefore not associated wheat and rye during cold hardening. with increased unsaturation of cell or mem- brane lipids. However, extreme hardening of Estimation of DNA tree cells is still observed to be accompanied A reliable chemical method for the deter- by increased cell membrane substance as mination of DNA in plants was developed reflected in increased phospholipids. Aug- and found applicable to a wide variety of mentation of membranes must therefore still tissues. The method is based on fluorimetry be viewed as a likely factor in hardening. and is free from interference by phenolic and New phospholipids for new membrane sub- other compounds. Because the amount of stance are apparently synthesized at the DNA per cell is constant, estimation of DNA expense of the neutral lipids in the cell. levels in a plant sample enables chemical Linolenic acid biosynthesis was stimulated changes in plant material during hardening uniformly to produce increased unsaturation to be expressed in terms of unit number of of membrane lipids in four wheat cultivars of cells. differing hardiness grown at low tempera- ture. Increased unsaturation of membrane Isolation of Membranes from Tree Bark lipids in wheat cannot, therefore, be related Cells directly to the hardening process, but is rather a response to low-temperature growth. Membrane fractions with potassium-stim- ulated ATPase activity and mem brane-vesi- Chloroplast Membranes cle-forming properties were isolated from hardy and nonhardy tree cells. In direct Cell membranes and mitochondria in all confirmation of other evidence pointing to cultivars of cold-adapted wheat seedlings augmentation of protoplasm and protoplas- have elevated levels of unsaturated fatty mic membranes during hardening of tree acids. In this condition, the cells are suscepti- cells, more of these membrane fractions were ble to peroxidation promoted by toxic pro- isolated from winter-hardy tree cells than ducts of aerobic metabolism such as superox- from nonhardy ones. ide anion (02 -) and singlet excited-state molecular oxygen. Studies showed that these Mitochondrial Respiration species arose primarily through chloroplastic photoautoxidation when isolated chloroplasts The effect of nucleotides and inhibitors on were illuminated. Although protective en- respiration of isolated wheat mitochondria zymes are present in chloroplasts and mito- was studied. All dinucleotides stimulated chondria, 02 is apparently formed in an oxygen consumption and induced respiratory 156 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 control when added during state-4 respira- Sparkle. Field tests suggested that the im,i- tion, subsequent to addition and exhaustion dence of green petal disease depends not of ADP. These results and those obtained only upon the susceptibility of the cultivar to with various respiratory inhibitors suggest CPA but also on the attractiveness of the that dinucleotides, other than ADP, can cultivar to the insect vector. participate in the energy conversion processes Mycoplasma-like organisms were purified of the mitochondria, probably via transphos- from aster plants, Callistephus chinensis phorylation reactions. Nees, affected with clover phyllody disease. Sections of pellets from purified preparations Growth Regulators showed organisms similar to those ob.served The growth-promoting effect of scopoletin in earlier sections of infected plants. When depends on its ability to control the catab- healthy aster leafhoppers were injected with olism of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) in plant purified preparations and the injected insects tissues. Inhibition of the peroxidase-cata- tested in groups of 10 per plant for their lyzed oxidation of IAA by scopoletin is ability to transmit CPA to aster seedlings, 5 caused by the preferential reactivity of out of 50 plants became infected. peroxidase compounds I, II, and III with the Aster Yellows Disease coumarin derivative. By isolating and identi- fying the primary products of oxidation of An isolate of celery-infecting aster yellows, \ scopoletin, we established the mechanism of maintained in the greenhouse for approx- the reaction and demonstrated the cooxida- imately 14 yr, underwent a change in trans- tion of scopoletin with IAA. missibility by the aster leafhopper. When the above isolate (0) and a similar isolate newly Dormoats obtained from the field (G) were compared, Dark, moist storage induced a secondary isolate 0 was transmitted one-third to one- dormancy in dormoat seeds. Field data from half less readily than isolate G when insects several years indicated that this treatment were given access feeds in the nymphal stage. reduced fall germination and increased When insects were allowed to acquire as threefold the spring germination of the fall- adults, transmission of isolate 0 by the males planted seed. Seed that underwent secondary was negligible, whereas females transmitted dormancy germinated less readily at low isolate 0 one-third to two-thirds less readily temperature than did seed with primary than isolate G, depending on the length of dormancy. Secondary dormancy was broken the access feed. by mild freezing temperatures. Wheat Striate Mosaic Virus The minimum concentration of purified HOST -PARASITE RELATIONSHIPS virus that could be detected serologically by precipitin ring and tube tests was 15.6 I-tgl Clover Phyllody Agent ml, but a viral concentration of at least 1000 The leafhopper Aphrodes bicinctus I-tglml was needed to obtain a positive (Schrank) was found to be an efficient vector reaction in the agar gel double-diffusion test. of the clover phyllody agent (CPA). High The times needed to determine these titers percentages of insects, especially nymphs, under optimum conditions were 90 min, 18 h, can acquire CPA during relatively short and 4-5 days for ring, tube, and agar gel access to clover. Female insects survive for tests, respectively. A precipitin ring - time sever~1months and continue to transmit CPA test was developed that could determine the somewhat erratically until shortly before amount of virus in samples of unknown death. Because A. bicinctus is polyphagous, it concentration within a few minutes with a can acquire CPA from and transmit it to percentage error of only 1.65. many cultivated and wild plant species. Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus Nine strawberry cultivars were tested in the greenhouse for their reaction to CPA A bentonite flocculation technique adapted transmitted by A. bicinctus, and all were for detecting small quantities of barley found susceptible. Percentage infection yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) was not sensitive ranged from a low of 5% in the Kentville enough to detect virus in small samples from selection K64-462 to 36% in the cultivar plants and aphids. The highly sensitive latex CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 157 agglutination technique was standardized for Model Development BYDV, and purified virus was detected to Ecosystem asseSsment. A flux meter that concentrations of 0.2 JL g/m!. Virus infection could also be detected with this technique in uses storage bins to accumulate heat, water vapor, and CO was built and is being tested. lO-g samples from oat plants but not in 2 samples from the aphid vector. In cooperation with the Engineering Re- search Service, a climate-controlled cabinet with six microenvironment chambers was Ryegrass Mosaic Virus constructed. Light intensity can be varied over a wide range. The photosynthetic capac- Ryegrass mosaic virus (RMV) particles ity and transpiration rate of two varieties of and lamellar inclusions were abundant in spring wheat, Opal and the Mexican Siete rye grass leaves but were localized to meso- Cerros, grown both indoors and outdoors, phyll and epidermal tissue. In mesophyll were measured in the chamber at several cells, virus occurred in membrane-bound light intensities and temperatures for several circular sacs, embedded sometimes in callose stages of growth. Functional relationships near plasmodesmata. Cytopathological between rate of growth and selected environ- changes in the cells infected by RMV in- mental factors were found for most stages cluded formation of plugs or extensive cell and are being used to test crop-simulation wall deposits in and around the plasmodes- models. mata. These plant responses apparently restrict cell-to-cell movement of virus. Ab- Management operations. A model using normalities and degeneration in chloroplasts, parameters for moisture loss and uptake by mitochondria, and golgi were also observed. plant material and the rates of moisture Viral protein and RNA were analyzed to movement by convection and diffusion characterize the virus. through the swath was constructed for field drying of forages. Galerkin finite-element methods were developed to analyze this model and other similar models involving AGROMETEOROLOGY RESEARCH nonlinear parabolic differential equations. AND SERVICE Agrometeorological Analysis Climatic resources. Photothermal resources Agroclimatic Data for barley indicate that the climatically most favored 5% of our farmland is located in Local, national, and inter'national coopera- census divisions that contain half our urban tion in programs to collect, verify, and population. This land is therefore subject to distribute agrometeorological and biological loss because of urban and other develop- data continued. Emphasis on international ment. Climatic cooling affects crop produc- programs increased because of the critical tion substantially. Estimates showed that situation in global food production and barley that would normally mature in 94% of distribution. Phenological data on eight a l20-km2 area near Beaverlodge, Alta., varieties of wheat grown under standardized would only mature in 2% of this area if the experimental conditions and corresponding climate were 3°C cooler. weather records were obtained for another year. This information, along with that from Regional cereal yields. Research to im- the other eight participating countries, will be prove the model used to predict prairie cereal used to develop and test crop-simulation yields for Canada from weather data contin- models and to determine their application in ued. Methods were developed to map the agroclimatic surveys. There was also cooper- predictions using the SYMAP computer- ation with the World Meteorological Organi- mapping program. zation in a second global experiment to Soil moisture. The Versatile Soil Moisture establish standard conditions for exposing Budget is fully operational and is widely used minimum thermometers near the ground. At in Canada and abroad. From feedback from 43 sites across Canada, agricultural research users and our tests against measurements, establishments continued their cooperation in further improvements were made regarding collection of soil moisture data in the spring the downward movement of internal water and fal!' as a function of soil types. The computer 158 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 program was improved by adding summaries zonation mapping. Additional extension ser- of observed and estimated values for days vices, particularly regarding soil moisture, when observations were available and con- soil temperature, and field workday probabil- verting estimated soil moisture for zones ity estimations, were provided to agricultural (used in the computations) to soil moisture researchers in the Department and in other for depth (used in the measurements). Users agencies and organizations. can now check the estimates directly with the original soil moisture measurements ob- Data-processing support. The data-process- tained, for example, from the National Soil ing support provided to research establish- Moisture Network. ments in the Department and to other user agencies has increased significantly as a Water-deficit maps for Roseau River Val- result of last year's reorganization. Data ley. Weather-based irrigation scheduling was archive development has continued, and used to classify land capability. The soils of research stations at Beaverlodge, Lethbridge, the Roseau River Valley in southeastern and Swift Current are being assisted in Manitoba and weather records at II climatic establishing local data archives. Model devel- stations for the 8-yr period 1965-72 were opment supporting research for winter in- selected to demonstrate the procedure. jury, soil moisture, and workday estimations Thirty-two manuscript maps of the area were has continued. Service analyses have been prepared and forwarded to the Lands Direc- processed for CANFARM, Research Branch, torate, Department of the Environment. Economics Branch, provincial departments, Averages for 8 yr showed that water deficits and other user agencies. Program packages varied from less than 15 em (6 in.) on the for the estimation of day-length, soil mois- heavy soils of the area to more than 36 em ture, crop-development rate, and evaporation (14 in.) on the sandy soils. This study stressed were distributed on request to research that reasonable approximations of the water- establishments, universities, government, and holding capacities in the rooting zones of consulting agencies. crops are necessary if soil aridity is to be assessed reliably enough for use in soil- capability studies. ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY Soil moisture reserves on the prairies. Data SERVICES on soils, climate, crops, and cropping proce-' , The Analytical Chemistry Services section, dures were used to estimate water reserves in comprising five analytical units, has contin- the soil under dryland conditions for 12 ued to conduct analyses for research scien- localities in the Prairie Provinces for each tists throughout the Branch. year between 1941 and 1970. Under a fallow - crop (wheat) - fallow rotation, estimates Technological Services Unit and were made at various stages of crop develop- Microanalytical Laboratory ment for soils with capacities of 18 and 29 cm (7 and II in.) of water in the rooting zone During the fiscal year 1973-74, 32 195 for planting dates of May I and May 20. samples were analyzed, an increase of 2Y2% over the previous year. Approximately half Agrometeorological Services of these were for Institutes and Services. Methods for determining acid detergent fiber Predictions of prairie crop yield. During and lignin were introduced. June and July prairie yields of wheat, oats, and barley were estimated from weather Instrumentation Centre data and reported weekly to officials on the Canadian Wheat Board, in Statistics Canada, Installation of a Finnigan GC/MS/Data and in the Department of Industry, Trade Acquisition instrument has greatly increased and Commerce. Computer programs are the ability of the Centre to run mass spectra. being transferred to enable the Wheat Board During the two quarters April to September to make their own predictions. 1974,833 mass spectra were produced, more than were done in the whole year prior to the Advisory services. Through short exchange acquisition of the instrument. Most of the visits, advice was given to the Agronomic analyses were for pesticides and their metab- Institute of Campinas, Brazil, on agroclimatic olites, and a data bank that now contains 260 CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 159 standard spectra has been started. The Du- ELECTRON MICROSCOPE R0nt mass spectrometer was adapted so that CENTRE 5N analyses could be carried out routinely. A critical-point dryer to prepare samples Amino Acid Analysis Laboratory such as pollen grains, insect larvae, and cells in culture for scanning electron microscopy Acquisition of the new Beckman 121 M was added to the centre's facilities. This amino acid analyzer increased the output of technique is generally simpler and more the laboratory dramatically. During the year, satisfactory than freeze-drying, although 1684 samples were processed, more than sometimes it is useful to compare results twice the number of the previous year. obtained by the two different methods. Samples sent through the Postal Service Pesticide Residue Service for examination have included virus prepara- tions from Harrow, Ont.; cuttings from apple During the fiscal year 1973-74, 266 sam- trees suspected of mycoplasmal infection ples were analyzed, which was a substantial from Kelowna, B.C.; clover from Alberta; increase over the previous year. Several apple maggot, apple fruit, and leaf surfaces organochlorine, organophosphorus, and car- from Vineland, Ont.; and wheat seeds from bamate compounds were included. Winnipeg, Man. PUBLICA nONS Research Barran, L. R., Daoust, J. Y., Labelle, J. L., Martin, W. G., and Schneider, H. 1974. Differential Allen, L. H., Desjardins, R. L., and Lemon, E. R. effects of visible light on active transport in E. 1974. Line source CO2 release: I. Field experi- coli. Biochem. & Biophys. Res. Commun. ment. Agron. J. 66:609-615. 56:522-528. Andrews, C. J., and Burrows, V. D. 1974. Increas- Behki, R. M., and Lurquin, P. F. 1974. Effect of ing winter survival of dormoat seeds by a myxin on the biosynthesis and degradation of treatment inducing secondary dormancy. Can. chloroplast and nuclear DNA of Chlamydomo- J. Plant Sci. 54:565-571. nas reinhardi. Plant Sci. Lett. 3:419-429. Andrews, C. J., Pomeroy, M. K., and de la Roche, I. A. 1974. Changes in cold hardiness of Bodnaryk, R. P., Bronskill, J. F., and Fetterly, J. R. overwintering winter wheat. Can. 1. Plant Sci. 1974. Membrane bound y -glutamyl transpep- 54:9-15. tidase and its role in phenylalanine absorp- tion-reabsorption in the larva of Musca do- Andrews, C. J., Pomeroy, M. K., and de la Roche, mes/ica. J. Insect Physiol. 20: 167-181. I. A. 1974. The influence of light and diurnal freezing temperature on the cold hardiness of Bond, E. F., Beresford, D., and Haggis, G. H. winter wheat seedlings. Can. 1. Bot. 52:2539- 1974. Improved cathodoluminescence micros- 2546. copy. J. Microsc. 100:271-282. Baier, W. 1974. Crop water balance for Canada. Burrage, R. H., and Saha, J. G. 1974. Lindane Appendix III, Chapter II. The climate of residues in wheat, oat, and barley plants and Canada and Alaska by F. Kenneth Hare and grain grown from treated seed. J. Environ. John E. Hay. Pages 178-187 in R. A. Bryson Entomol. 3: 194-195. and F. K. Hare, eds. World survey of climatol- ogy, Vol. II. Climate of North America. Elsevier Scientific Publishing Co., Amsterdam. Chiykowski, L. N. 1974. Additional host plants of clover phyllody in Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. Balba, M. H., and Saha, 1. G. 1974. Degradation 54:755-763. of metacil by the ascorbic acid oxidation system. Bull. Environ. Contam. & Toxicol. Cochrane, W. P., and Greenhalgh, R. 1974. Some II: 193-200. response characteristics of the electrolyte con- ductivity detector in the pyrolytic mode and Balba, M. H., and Saha, J. G. 1974. Metabolism of the sulphur mode of the flame photometric 14 lindane- C by wheat plants grown from detector. Int. J. Environ. Anal. Chern. 3: 195- treated seed. Environ. Lett. 7: 181-194. 212. 160 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 L---- _ Daoust, J. Y., Giroux, J., Barran, L. R., Schneider, Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of bipyridylium H., and Martin, W. G. 1974. Some effects of herbicides by humic acid. J. Environ. Qual. visible light on E. coli. J. Bacteriol. 120:799- 3:202-206. 802. Khan, S. U. 1974. Determination of diquat and Desjardins, R. L. 1974. A technique to measure paraquat residues in soil by gas chromatogra- CO2 exchange under field conditions. Int. J. phy. J. Agric. & Food Chern. 22:863-867. Biometeorol. 18:76-83. Khan, S. U., and Mazurkewich, R. 1974. Adsorp- Desjardins, R. L., and Lemon, E. R. 1974. Limita- tion of linuron on humic acid. Soil Sci. tions of an eddy correlation technique for the 118:339-343. determination of the carbon dioxide and sensible heat fluxes. Boundary-Layer Mete- Knight, B. W., Mitton, G. D., Davidson, H. R., orol. 5:475-488. and Fensom, D. S. 1974. Micro-injection of 14C and other tracers into' isolated phloem Gates, L. F., and Bronskill, J. F. 1974. Viruses of strands of Heracleum. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1491- clovers and alfalfa in Essex County, Ontario, 1970-73. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:95-100. 1499. Greenhalgh, R., and Cochrane, W. P. 1974. Opti- Macdowall, F. D. H. 1974. Growth kinetics of misation of the sulphur phosphorus emission Marquis wheat. VI. Genetic dependence and detector and comparison with the electrolytic winter hardening. Can. J. Bot. 52: 151-157. conductivity detector to some sulphur-contain- ing insecticides and herbicides. Int. J. Environ. Macdowall, F. D. H. 1974. Importance of soil in Anal. Chern. 3:213-228. the absorption of ozone by a crop. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:239-240. Hayhoe, H. N. 1974. Shunting effect on resistance measurements in visceral smooth muscle tis- Macdowall, F. D. H., and Buchanan, G. W. 1974. sue. J. Theor. BioI. 46:295-305. Estimation of the water of hydration in wintering wheat leaves by proton magnetic Hayhoe, H. N., and Baier, W. 1974. Markov chain resonance. Can. J. Biochem. 52:652-654. model for sequences of field workdays. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54: 137-148. Madhosingh, c., and Ginns, J. 1974. Serological relationships between Fornes fraxinophilus Hayhoe, H. N., and Jackson, L. P. 1974. Weather and F. ellisianus. Can. J. Microbiol. 20: 1399- effects on hay drying rates. Can. J. Plant Sci. 1401. 54:479-484. Ihnat, M. 1974. Collaborative study of a fluoro- Madhosingh, c., Migicovsky, B. B., and Wood, I. metric method for determining selenium in M. 1974. Inhibition of yeast hy- foods. J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chern. 57:373-378. droxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase by rat liver mitochondrial preparation. FEBS Lett. Ihnat, M. 1974. Fluorometric determination of 46:20-22. selenium in foods. J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chern. 57:368-372. Madhosingh, c., and Sundberg, L. 1974. Purifica- tion and properties of tyrosinase inhibitor Ihnat, M., and Westerby, R. J. 1974. Application from mushroom. FEBS Lett'. 50: 156-158. of flameless atomization to the atomic absorp- tion determination of selenium in biological Miller, R. W., de la Roche, I. A., and Pomeroy, M. samples. Anal. Lett. 7:257.265. K. 1974. Structural and functional responses of wheat mitochondrial membranes to growth Iyer, V. N., Iyer, R. V., Palchoudhury, S. R., at low temperature. Plant Physiol. 53:426-433. Becker, S., and Stevenson, I. L. 1974. An aspect of the physiology of strains carrying A Nagaich, B. B., and Sinha, R. C. 1974. Eastern and B mutation. Mol. & Gen. Genet. 133: 111- wheat striate: a new viral disease. Plant Dis. 122. Rep. 58:968-970. Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of 2,4-D from Olthof, •. H. A., Potter, J. W., and Peterson, E. A. aqueous solution by an organo-clay complex. 1974. Relationship between population densi- Environ. Sci. & Technol. 8:236-238. ties of Heterodera schachtii and losses in Khan, S. U. 1974. Humic substances reactions vegetable crops in Ontario. Phytopathology involving bipyridylium herbicides in soil and 64:549-554. aquatic environments. Residue Rev. 52: 1-26. Paliwal, Y. C. 1974. Some properties and thrip Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of linuron by transmission of tomato spotted wilt virus in montmorillonite. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54:235-237. Canada. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1177-1182. CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 161 L Paliwal, Y. c., and Kim, W. K. 1974. Scanning Timonin, M. I., Peterson, E. A., and Rouatt, J. W. electron microscopy of differentiating and 1974. Effects of amino acids and substances non-differentiating uredosporelings of wheat from wheat roots on the soil-borne plant rust fungus (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) on pathogen Cochlioholus sativus. Soil Sci. an artificial substrate. Tissue & Cell 6:391-397. 118:180-185. Pomeroy, M. K. 1974. Studies on the respiratory Whelan, E. D. P., Haggis. G. H .. Ford, E. J., and properties of mitochondria isolated from de- Dronzek, B. 1974. Scanning electron micros- veloping winter wheat seedlings. Plant Phys- copy of meiotic chromosomes of plant in situ. iol. 53:653-657. Can. 1. Bot. 52: 1438-1440. Purkayastha, R. 1974. Simultaneous determination Whelan, E. D. P., Haggis, G. H., and Ford, E. J. of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2,4,5-tri- 1974. Scanning electron microscopy of the chlorophenoxyacetie acid, and 2-methoxy-3,6- callose wall and intenneiocyte connection in dichlorobenzoic acid in soil and water by gas angiosperms. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1215c1218. chromatography with electron capture detec- Wilcox, J. c., and Sly, W. K. 1974. Ratio between tor. J. Agric. & Food Chem. 22:453-457. evapotranspiration from Iysimeters and evapo- ration from small eva pori meters using 2- and Rorke, M. A., Gardner, D. R., and Greenhalgh, R. 3-hour periods of measurement. Can. J. Plant 1974. Lethality and behavioural symptoms Sci. 54: 559-564. produced by some organophosphorus com- pounds in the snail (Helix aspersa). Bull. Williams, G. D. V. 1974. Deriving a biophotother- Environ. Contam. & Toxicol. I 1:417-424. mal time scale for barley. Int. J. Biometeorol. 18:57-69. Saha, 1. G., and Sumner, A. K. 1974. The fate of lindane-14C in wheat flour under normal con- Williams, G. D. V. 1974. Physical frontiers of dition of bread making. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & crops: the example for growing barley to Technol. J. 7: 10 1-104. maturity in Canada. Pages 79-92 in R. G. Ironside, V. B. Proudfoot, E. N. Shannon, and Schneider, E. F., and Seaman, W. L. 1974. Devel- C. J. Tracie, cds. Frontier settlement. Univer- opment of conidial chlamydospores of Fusar- sity of Alberta Studies in Geography, Mono- ium sulphureum in distilled water. Can. J. graph I. Microbiol. 20:247-254. Miscellaneous Schneider, E. F., and Seaman, W. L. 1974. Devel- opment of cellular body during differentiation Andrews, C. J., and Pomeroy, M. K. 1974. of conidial chlamydospores in Fusarium. Can. Changes in cold hardiness and survival of J. Microbiol. 20: 1205-1211. winter wheats during ice immersion. Plant Physiol. Abstr. 53:30. Sehgal, O. P., and Sinha, R. C. 1974. Characteris- Baier, W. 1974. Selected local, Canadian and tics of a nucleoproteinaceous subviral entity resulting from partial degradation of southern global agrometeorology programs in progress. bean mosaic virus. Virology 59:499-508. Misc. Bull. 3. Agrometeorology Research and Service, CBRI, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa. Sinclair, T. R., Desjardins, R. L., and Lemon, E. R. 43 p. 1974. Analysis of sampling errors with trav- Baier, W. 1974. The challenge to agricultural ersing radiation sensors in corn canopies. meteorology. WMO Bulletin 23:221-224. Agron. J. 66:214-217. Baier, W., and Russelo, D. A. 1974. Agrometeoro- Sinha, R. C. 1974. Purification of mycoplasma-like logical Data Bank. Can. Agric. 19( I):3-5. organisms from China aster plants affected with clover phyllody. Phytopathology Barran, L. R., Daoust, J. Y., Schneider, H., and 64:1156-1158. Martin, W. G. 1974. Differential photody- namic effects on active transport in E. coli. Sinha, R. C. 1974. Applications of fluorescent Fed. Proc. Abstr. 33: 1251. antibody technique in detecting virus antigens in plants and vector insects. Pages 99-107 in S. Chiykowski, L. N. 1974. Yellows diseases and R. Raychaudhuri and J. P. Verma, cds. Cur- vectors. In Les Mycoplasmes/Mycoplasmas, rent trends in plant pathology. Parnassus INSERM 33:291-298. Publishing Co., New Delhi. Edey, S. N. 1974. Climatic conditions in tobacco growing areas. The Lighter 44( I ):44-45; Thottappilly, G., and Sinha, R. C. 1974. Serolog- (2):48-49; (3):46-47; (4):44-45. ical analysis of antigens related to wheat striate mosaic virus in Endria inimica. Acta Haggis, G. H., cd. 1974. Introduction to molecular Virol. 18:358-361. biology. 2nd cd. Longman Group Ltd. 410 p. 162 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Hallett, D. J., Greenhalgh, R., Weinberger, P., and Schneider, E. F., Barran, 1. R., Wood, P. J., Prasad, R. 1974. Formation of metabolites in Seaman, W. 1., de la Roche, I. A., Madho- Pinus strobus and their detection by gas singh, c., and Miller, R. W. 1974. Cell wall chromatography and mass spectrometry. Rep. composition of Fusarium sulphureum. Proe. No. CC-4-78 CCRI Forestry Service, Depart- Can. Fed. BioI. Sci. Abstr. 17:60. ment of the Environment, Canada. Ihnat, M. 1974. Analysis of trace metals in agricul- Schneider, H., Daoust, 1. Y., Barran, 1. R., and tural materials. Can. Agric. 19(2): 18-20. Martin, W. G. 1974. Selective and differential Lesley, S. M., Maretzki, A., and Nickell, 1. 1974. photodynamic effects on E. coli membrane and The incorporation of 14C_ and 3H-labelled their inhibition. Int. Congr. Radiat. Res. thymidine by sugarcane cells in suspension culture. 3rd International Congress of Plant Abstr. 5:22. Tissue and Cell Culture, Leicester, England. Abstr. No. 104. Sly, W. K., and Coligado, M. C. 1974. Agrocli- Linzon, S. N., Heck, W. W., and Macdowall, F. D. matic maps for Canada. Derived data: mois- H. 1974. The effects of photochemical ox- ture and critical temperatures ncar freezing. idants on vegetation. Chapter 4. In The effects Tech. Bull. 81. Agrometeorology Research and of photochemical smog. NRC Associate Com- Service, Agriculture Canada. 31 p. mittee on Scientific Criteria for Environmental Quality. Wilcox, 1. c., and Sly, W. K. 1974. A weather- Russelo, D., Edey, S. N., And Godfrey, J. 1974. based irrigation scheduling procedure. Tech. Selected tables and conversions used in agro- meteorology and related fields. Can. Dep. Bull. 83. Agrometeorology Research and Ser- Agric. Publ. 1522.275 p. vice, Agriculture Canada. 23 p. CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 163 Food Research Institute Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF J. HOLME, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Director J. JOANISSE Administrative Officer Food Chemistry I. R. SIDDIQUI, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., D.Sc., F.R.I.e. Section Head; Carbohydrates A. B. DURKEE, B.Sc., M.Sc. Phenolics V. R. HARWALKAR,I B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Milk proteins M. KALAB, M.Sc., Ph.D. Milk proteins A. PAQUET, M.Sc., Ph.D. Lipids, organic synthesis P. J. WOOD, B.Sc., Ph.D. Carbohydrates e. G. ZARKADAS,B.S.A., M;Sc., Ph.D. Meat proteins Food Processing D. B. EMMONS, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Section Head; Dairy science J. D. JONES, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.I.e. Ra peseed processes Vi. A. MCGUGAN, B.S.A., Ph.D. Flavor chemistry H. W. MODLER, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Whey utilization D. PATON, B.Sc., Ph.D. Cereal technology e. J. RANDALL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Meat technology R. J. WASIK, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cereal chemistry Food Microbiology J. A. ELLIOTT,2 B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Section Head; Food bacteriology R. P. SINHA, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Starter culture genetics A. R. YATES, B.S.A., Ph.D. Dairy microbiology Research Services M. R. SAHASRABUDHE,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Section Head; Food quality E. LARMOND, (Mrs.), B.Sc. Sensory evaluation W. J. MULLIN, Ph.D. Analytical methodology FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE 165 L A. C. NUNES, B.Sc. Food quality J. R. QUINN, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Protein functionality Departure M. E. McKILLICAN (Miss), B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Lipids Retired July 1974 VISITING SCIENTIST F. BENDER, D. Ingr. Chern. Chemistry of sulfur compounds, Research Associate Oilseed program I 2Returned after transfer of work at The Netherlands Institute for Dairy Research, Ede, The Netherlands. Returned after term as Acting Coordinator (Foods). 166 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION The programs of the Food Research Institute primarily concern research (or the development of optimum uses for Canadian agricultural raw materials as food. Because the Institute must continually identify those areas of research that have the highest priority, its aim is to enhance communication and collaboration with all sectors engaged in food science and technology. Such cooperation is important in planning appropriate research and development projects to meet these priorities, and to maximize the human and physical resources available for conducting these tasks. Much of our total 1974 research and development program has included both short- and long-term projects arising directly from these external interactions. The long-range research programs are continually being reassessed to ensure their pertinence to the overall objectives of Agriculture Canada. During 1974 significant reorganization of the Institute was effected and some new administrative procedures were introduced, upon the appointment of the new Director. These changes were facilitated by excellent cooperation from the staff. The Institute is exploring new means of informing the community of objectives and results of its work, and expects that such will be found in 1975. During the year, Dr. Mary E. McKillican retired from the Public Service after a long and productive career in lipid chemistry research. The Institute welcomed the arrival of Dr. Alenka Paquet and Dr. John Mullin to its staff during the year. Reprints of the papers listed at the end of this chapter and.further details about research projects are available upon request by writing to: Food Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Onto KIA OC6. John Holme Director OILSEEDS extraction of oil from the seed before it is washed for detoxification, and definition of Processing Rapeseed and Mustard Seed heat treatments required for inactivation of During 1974 the Institute was asked to myrosinase. Progress to date reveals a feasi- produce large quantities of various rapeseed ble approach that is similar to the traditional fractions for studies conducted elsewhere in soy processes of industry. Technical prob- Canada. These preparations were usually lems in inactivating myrosinase without used in animal-feeding studies involving insolubilizing all protein persist and are comparisons of nondetoxified and detoxified under study. materials. Rapeseed fractions were detoxified Close collaboration with the Health Pro- by a recently modified technique, originally tection Branch, Department of National developed by the Institute, whereby the split Health and Welfare, in defining criteria for seed was washed with hot water; the new acceptability of the rapeseed fractions for process was published this year. When this human consumption has been established. process was applied to the new low-gluco- Preliminary studies indicate that the above sinolate variety of rapeseed, Tower, meal processes are also applicable to the prepara- and protein concentrates containing up to tion of protein concentrates from mustard 65% protein and less than 30 ppm of gluco- seed, and these fractions are included in sinolates could be prepared. As indicated in various toxicity evaluations under way in previous reports, uncertainties in analysis of collaboration with the University of Toronto the toxic compounds persist; in 1974, there- and the Health Protection Branch. fore, the Institute initiated a new project to develop improved methodology for these Phenolic Constituents of Rapeseed critical analyses. A survey of the hydrolyzable phenolic Development of an alternate procedure acids in Brassica and Sinapis oil seeds was for detoxification began this year. The submitted for publication. Study of the method involves front-end dehulling and tannins of dehulled rapeseed and mustard FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE 167 led to detection of a previously unknown Some of the drug- and phage-resistant mu- polyphenol that yields pigments on treatment tants remained stable for a year. with alcoholic-mineral acid at room tempera- ture and resembles anthocyanidins. This Milk Quality tannin is markedly different from the seed Psychotrophic organisms, which are mostly coat tannins of B. campestris. gram-negative, nonsporing rods, grow pro- fusely in many commercial milk supplies. Carbohydrates of Rapeseed Some of these organisms produce heat-stable During 1974 this program continued with proteolytic enzymes that can continue to characterization of two acidic polysaccha- degrade protein both during processing and rides obtained from the oxalate-soluble in the finished product. Studies showed that acidic polysaccharide complex - pectin frac- proteolysis occurred when selected organisms tion. The acidic polysaccharide complex were grown in milk. This process could be from rapeseed appears to be similar to that significant in decreasing the yield and possi- of soybean, although detailed comparisons bly the quality of cheese because the hydro- require much more information. The rape- lyzed proteins remain soluble and are lost in seed complex belongs to a group of pectinic the whey. Studies will continue on commer- acid type polysaccharides containing an cial milk supplies in 1975. unusually high proportion of neutral sugars. Quality Criteria for Canadian Cheddar The residue obtained after oxalate extrac- tion of the rapeseed meal was used to Cheese prepare hemicellulose and cellulose fractions, An extensive study of the chemical, physi- now also under study. The fractions con- cal, microbiological, and flavor characteris- tained considerable amounts of protein. tics of many commercially prepared samples of Cheddar cheese was completed. The data Full-fat Soy Beverage Powder are being analyzed in order to define criteria In cooperation with the Canadian Hunger for evaluating this cheese objectively and for Foundation, a process for preparing a dried describing its uniqueness and suitability as a full-fat soy beverage powder was developed. specialty cheese. Variations in the processing steps required to Flavor of Cheddar Cheese inactivate enzymes and antinutritive factors, to remove soy flavor, and to achieve required A study of the origin of the fruity flavor redispersibility of the protein, fat, and car- defect in Cheddar cheese was completed. bohydrate constituents of the soy were The defect is clearly produced by high levels thoroughly evaluated and optimized to meet of ethyl butyrate and hexanoate, accompa- the requirements and facilities of the host nied by ethyl alcohol ..When cultured in skim country, Sri Lanka. milk with added ethanol, organisms isolated from fruity cheese produced high levels of these esters. A paper relating the study to the DAIRY PRODUCTS commercial significance of this defect has been published. Genetics of Starter Culture Bacteria Pyrazines, important flavor constituents in A comprehensive study of the genetics of foods, were detected in Cheddar cheese starter culture bacteria (Streptococcus lactis volatiles. Characterization of these com- and S. cremoris) is under way. The search for pounds is under way, and their relationship suitable marker genes revealed a close rela- to the nutty flavor of Cheddar is being tionship between sensitivity to some antibiot- investigated. ics and susceptibility to certain bacterio- Duing 1974 initial studies on whey flavor phages. The relationships with other econom- were begun to assess the extent to which the ically important characteristics are under Institute will enter this area of research in study. Electron microscopy studies revealed 1975. that extrachromosomal DNA exists in the Rennet Replacements form of four distinctly different ring-shaped plasmids. The genes for drug resistance and In collaboration with industry, the Univer- phage resistance may be on the same plas- sity of Guelph, and regulatory agencies, mid, thus accounting for the close linkage. several enzyme systems were evaluated for 168 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 efficacy as replacements for rennet. Bovi.ne Whey Utilization pepsin was thoroughly evaluated, and studIes In cooperation with the Dairy Division of will continue on the defects shown by thIS Agriculture Canada, a symposium on whey enzyme in yield. An enzyme system from utilization was organized and conducted. All Mucor miehei was recommended for ap- aspects of the subject were presented by a proval as a rennet replacement, and approval variety of invited speakers, and the Proceed- for a previously recommended product from ings were prepared. Mucor pusillus was obtained. Experimental work on the thermal coag- ulation of whey proteins under acidic condi- Gelation of Milk Products tions has produced whey protein concentrates that possess higher solubility, greater water- Several previously studied aspects of heat- binding capacity, lighter color, and increased induced gelation of milk proteins were ability to form smooth-textured gels upon published. During 1974 electron microscopy reconstitution than do available commercial was again used to try to detect sulfur m products. Pilot plant facilities for preparing gelled proteins, but the results are stIll these products were introduced at the InstI- unreliable. Possible interferences with the tute and are being employed to assess the derivatization of the SH groups are being technical and economic feasibility of these studied. processes. The development of the structure of Ched- dar cheese through transitions of the casein micelles is being characterized by electron MEATS microscopy. The particular stage at which the In response to increased priority given by individual identity of the casein micelles is the Department to meat research, the pro- lost is being detailed, and the relationship of gram of the Institute was strengthened and the appearance of the mass to other rheolog- several new projects were introduced. ical characteristics will be established. The spatial distribution of micelles in longitudinal Role of Constituents in Comminuted and transverse sections of the laminar struc- Meats ture of pile curd has been described. Formulations and processing conditions In collaboration with The Netherlands for wiener preparation in the laboratory and Institute for Dairy Research (NIZO), the the pilot plant were chosen, and data on the mechanism of age-thickening of milk treated role of meat constituents in comminuted at ultra-high temperatures was studied. Data meat products were collected. Products con- pertaining to the hypothesis that degradation taining various levels of several meat constIt- products arising from reSIdual proteolytIc uents were produced to show the effects of action were the principal cause of the gelling substituting protein and fat upon yield, did not support this theory. The alterations stability, texture, and sensory characteristics that arise in many physical characteristics of of the wieners. Meat protein constituents the heated milk were described, and several were pretreated by heating or drying to factors previously believed to be important reveal the effect upon wieners of modifying causes of gelling were shown to be noncriti- the physical characteristics of the meat cal. Oxidation-reduction reactions have been protein. Such studies are leading to ":lore implicated and will form the main basis for detailed examination of protem fractlOns further studies. isolated from the meat muscle constituents An additional project conducted at NIZO and of the effects of various treatments on concerned the development of tests for the ability of these proteins to produce stability of milk during heat treatment. The emulsification and water binding incommi- results revealed that pH, agitation, and nuted meats. By altering the kinds of fat in charge of the casein micelles were not wieners, the importance of the physical dominant factors affecting the coagulation of characteristics of the. fat in forming the meat the milk. Electron microscopy revealed that emulsion and in maintaining its stability the casein micelles in these gelled products during processing was demonstrated. are physically attached to form aggregates The effects on emulsion formation and and are not linked by filamentous compo- stability produced by substituting various nents seen in other dairy products. plant proteins for meat in wieners are also 169 FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE being determined. Attempts to relate these being borne out. Other agronomic factors, effects to the physical properties of the such as location of growth, appear to inhibit various plant proteins are being made. The the inherent enzyme activity. This inhibition importance of solubility and prior heat may be the factor allowing the extraction of treatment has been recognized. Reproducible highly viscose gums. techniques for emulsion and wiener prepara- Differences in the starch fraction of high- tion were developed, which allowed a corre- protein varieties from those in normal varie- lation between objective textured assessment ties and in other cereals have prompted and sensory evaluation to be established. extensive studies to characterize the starch A survey of research done on the use of and determine its potential in several food nitrosamine in curing meat was completed, and nonfood uses. Data indicate that the and recommendations were made for specific starch of high-protein oats behaves more like research projects in this area. Development high amylopectin starch and produces gels of of a method for analysis of nitrite at levels to greater clarity, diminished brittleness, and I ppm was initiated, a procedure that will be improved freeze-thaw stability than the important when studying the fate of nitrite in normal cereal starches do. curing and assessing potential nitrite Both wet and dry methods of fractionating replacements. oats have been attempted. No significant shifts of protein content between fractions Amino Acid Analysis have as yet been observed. Wet milling The procedure referred to in previous procedures appear inferior because the high reports for analysis of methylated amino viscosity of slurries caused by gums renders acids in meat protein hydrolysates was com- centrifugation difficult, and the high volumes pleted and published. During 1974 addi- of water required lessen economic feasibility. tional studies to simplify and shorten the Procedures to overcome these problems are procedure were undertaken. The method has now being studied. been applied to several nonmeat protein Wet fractionation procedures in the lab- sources, wiener emulsions, and wieners, and oratory have provided protein and starch the data are being tabulated to determine fractions that retain considerable quantities whether the method is capable of analyzing of lipid (20% and up to 2%, respectively). for meat in mixtures of meat and plant Studies to characterize the fractions indicate protein. that their physical properties are being affected significantly by these lipids. A new Effects of Rigor Mortis on Beef Muscle project was initiated in 1974 to characterize oat lipids and to determine the nature and The tedious task of isolating pure proteins extent of their interaction with proteins and from meat muscle obtained at various stages starch. Comparative data on lipid composi- of rigor continues. Characterization of these tion of normal and high-protein oat varieties species, including determination of myosin- are being collected. to-actin ratios and contents of methylated The variable, but interesting, occurrence of amino acids in each, is under way. An initial high-viscosity gums in oats also led to the study of the denaturation of actin was initiation of research to characterize them completed in collaboration with Dr. C. C. and to determine the enzymic reactions that Bigelow of Memorial University. control the physical properties of these materials. Comparisons of chemical composi- tion of these gums with the glucans of barley CEREALS AND FIELD CROPS are being developed. A significant project in the cereals program Oats concerns a study of the extrusion cooking of A significant expansion of the research on cereals and their components. An extensively high-protein oats was undertaken in 1974, modified Brabender extruder was employed based on several interesting characteristics to develop a quantitative picture of the revealed in preliminary studies and men- gelatinization of cornstarch under various tioned in the previous Annual Report of the operating parameters of extrusion. The char- Institute. The correlation between high- acteristics of various "states of gelatini- protein content and absence of f3 -I ,3-gluca- zation" are also being employed to compare nase activity in high-protein varieties is not the effects of extrusion conditions on various 170 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 starches, and to identify the effects of other produced by such heat treatments are under constituents (lipids, salts, protein, other addi- study. tives) on the gelatinization of starch in Buckwheat cereal-based food products normally pre- pared by such processes. A broad study of several characteristics of this crop was completed and will be pub- Durum Wheat lished in 1975. Previously reported dry Plans for an international study of the milling procedures that produced a fraction quality characteristics of durum wheats were containing 40% protein were compared with finalized, and the kinds of data expected are air classification techniques that do not being analyzed by statistical methods to produce significant protein shifts. Wet frac- develop a treatment for the results that will tionation procedures were also employed to be obtained in 1976-77. yield protein concentrates, protein isolates, The study of the characteristics of durum and starch fractions. The emulsification and wheat that account for good spaghetti quality water-binding properties of these fractions, has led to a detailed examination of the as determined by various functionality tests, gluten protein mass and its constituents. The and their behavior in actual prototype foods proteins and glutenin subunits from a variety such as soba, bread, biscuits, and wieners of durum wheat varieties were fractionated were compared with other protein sources. and characterized by gel filtration and elec- Buckwheat protein was observed to behave trophoresis. The results will be correlated. well in comminuted meat emulsions. The with spaghetti quality using objective and starch of buckwheat appears to be resistant sensory evaluation procedures performed at to chemical gelatinization when compared the Grain Research Laboratory in Winnipeg with starches of cereal origin. and at the Institute. Field Beans The effects produced by processing durum wheat semolina to pasta and cooking the A collaborative study concerning off-flavor pasta for consumption on the properties of development in beans during storage and the gluten proteins are also under investi- distribution was undertaken this year. The gation. The rather mild time-temperature role of the Food Research Institute is to conditions of pasta drying do not appear to define the effects of storage conditions on alter markedly the gluten solubilities or mold growth and off-flavor appearance, to molecular weigbt distributions. The cooking identify the molds that grow under these of pasta, which requires heating for up to 15 conditions, and to determine the conditions min at 98°C, does cause marked reduction of of storage required to prevent such changes. the solubility of gluten proteins in various Sensory evaluation techniques will be utilized solvents. The changes in protein properties for flavor recognition. PUBLICAnONS Research Amantea, G. F., Kason, C. M., Nakai, S., Bragg, Collins-Thompson, D. L., Chang. P. c., Davidson, D. B., and Emmons, D. B. 1974. Preparation C. M., Larmond, E., and Pivnick, H. 1974. of ferric whey protein by heating. Can. Inst. Effect of nitrite and storage temperature on Food Sci. & Techno!. J. 7: 199-202. the organoleptic quality and toxinogenesis by Clostridium botulinum in vacuum-packaged Belzile, R. J., Poliquin, L. S., and Jones, J. D. 1974. side bacon. 1. Food Sci. 39:607-609. Nutritive value of rapeseed flour for mink: effects on live performance, nutrient utili- Crete, R., Voisey, P. W., Bernier, R., and Larmond, zation, thyroid function and pelt quality. Can. E. 1974. A new technique for evaluating 1. Anim. Sci. 54:639-644. changes in onion firmness during storage and a comparison with sensory measurements. Bushuk, W., and Wasik, R. J. 1974. Studies of Hortic. Sci. 9:223-225. glutenins. V. Non additional preparative methods. Cereal Chern. 51 :641-647. FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE 171 Elliott, J. A., Emmons, D. B., and Yates, A. R. McKillican, M. E., and Larose, 1. A. G. 1974. 1974. The influence of the bacterial quality of Study of free and bound lipids of Brassica milk on the properties of dairy products. A campestris, var. yellow sarson. Lipids 9:455- review. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & Techno!. J. 460. 7:32-39. Paton, D. 1974. The effects of chemical modifica- Fejer, S. 0., Johnston, F. B., Hammill, M. M., and tion on the pasting characteristics of a high- Gillespie, B. J. A. 1974. Inheritance of chemi- protein oat flou~ (Hinoat). Cereal Chern. cal constituents of apple fruit and leaf in sets 51 :641-647. of diallel crosses. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:843- 845. Quinn, J. R., Boisvert, J. G. A., and Wood, I. 1974. Semi-automated ninhydrin assay of Kjeldahl Gorrill, A. D. L., Jones, J. D., and Nicholson, J. W. nitrogen. Ana!. Biochem. 58:609-614. G. 1974. The nutritional value and trypsin inhibitor content of processed soybeans for Siddiqui, I. R., and Wood, P. J. 1974. Structural lamb milk replacers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. investigation of oxalate-soluble rapeseed 54:337-346. (Brassica campestris) polysaccharides. Car- bohydr. Res. 36:35-44. Gorrill, A. D. L., Walker, D. M., and Jones, J. D. 1974. Rapeseed protein sources and amino Voisey, P. W., and Larmond, E. 1974. Examina- acid supplementation of diets for weaning tion of factors affecting performance of the rats. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:659-667. Warner-Bratzler meat shear test. Can. Inst. Gorrill, A. D. L., Walker, D. M., Jones, J. D., and Food Sci. & Techno!. J. 7:243-249. Nicholson, J. W. G. 1974. Rapeseed protein Voisey, P. W., and Larmond, E. 1974. Some and amino acid supplements in milk replacers observations on texture test cell interchange- for lambs; their effects on nutrient digestion ability. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & Techno!. 1. and nitrogen retention. Can. 1. Anim. Sci. 7:16-21. 54:611-617. Gorrill, A. D. L., Cameron, C. D. T., Comeau, J. Wood, P. J., and Siddiqui, I. R. 1974. Characteris- E., Nicholson, J. W. G., and Larmond, E. ation of boronic esters of arabinose and 1974. Comparison of milk replacers or ewe xylose. Carbohydr. Res. 32:97-104. milk, with or without solid feed, on lamb Wood, P. J., and Siddiqui, I. R. 1974. Synthesis, performance and meat quality. Can. J. Anim. and P.M.R. and mass spectra of some boronic Sci. 54: 149-155. esters of carbohydrates. Carbohydr. Res. Hosono, A., Elliott, J. A., and McGugan, W. A. 36:247-256. 1974. Production of ethyl esters by some lactic Yates, A. R. 1974. The occurrence of Byssochlamys acid and psychrotrophic bacteria. J. Dairy Sci. sp. molds in Ontario. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & 57:535-539. Techno!. J. 7:148-150. Kalab, M., and Emmons, D. B. 1974. Milk gel structure. III. Microstructure of skim milk Miscellaneous powder and gels as related to the drying procedure. Milchwissenschaft 29:585-589. Holme, J. 1974. Food research and development in Canada. Food in Can. 34(12): 15-18. Kalab, M., and Harwalkar, V. R. 1974. Milk gel structure. II. Relation between firmness and Larmond, E. 1974. Sensory evaluation. Pages 787- ultrastructure of heat-induced skim-milk gels 793 in Food encyclopedia of food technology. containing 40-60% total solids. J. Dairy Res. Avi Publishing Co. 41 :131-135. Modler, H. W., Emmons, D. B., and Holme, J. Marshall, S., and Wasik, R. J. 1974. Gelatinization 1974. Pollution abatement, rising disposal of starch during cooking of spaghetti. Cereal costs spur research into new uses for whey. Chern. 51:146-147. Mod. Dairy 53(10):20-23. 172 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Soil Research Institute Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF J. S. CLARK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director Administrative Officer R. PORTEOUS Soil Resource Inventory Soil correlation - national J. H. DAY, B.S.A., M.S.A. J. DUMANSKI, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil data bank B. KLOOSTERMAN,B.S.A., Ph.D. Soil data bank Agronomic interpretations P. G. LAJOIE, B.A., M.S.A., M.Sc. Pollution and land use E. M. MACDoNALD, B.Sc. A. R. MACK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Remote sensing J. A. McKEAGUE, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil classification and genesis Soil correlation - eastern region J. L. NOWLAND, B.A., M.Sc. Soil correlation - western region J. A. SHIELDS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. G. WILSON, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.I.e. Engineering interpretations Newfoundland Soil Survey Unit (St. John's) P. K. HERINGA, B.Sc., M.Sc. Head of Unit Maritimes Soil Survey U nit (Truro) G. J. BEKE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Unit, N.S. J. I. MACDoUGALL, B.Sc., B.Sc. (Agr.) Head of Unit, P.E.1. K. K. LANGMAJD, B.Sc., M.Sc. Head of Unit, N.B. e. WANG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader Ontario Soil Survey Unit (Guelph) e. J. ACTON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Unit B. H. CAMERON, B.Sc. (Agr.) Party leader J. E. GILLESPIE, B.S.A., M.S.A. Party leader E. W. PRESANT, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader G. J. WALL, B.S.A., Ph.D. Party leader 173 SOIL RESEARCHINSTITUTE Manitoba Soil Survey Unit (Winnipeg) R. E. SMITH, B.S.A., M.Sc. Head of Unit W. MICHALYNA, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader C. TARNOCAI, B.S.F., M.S. Northern soils H. VELDHUIS, Ing. Party leader Saskatchewan Soil Survey Unit (Saskatoon) D. F. ACTON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Unit K. W. AYRES, B.S.A. , Party leader A. K. BALLANTYNE,B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader L. S. CROSSON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Remote sensing W. K. JANZEN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader H. P. W. ROSTAD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader H. B. STONEHOUSE,B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader Alberta Soil Survey Unit (Edmonton) W. W. PETTAPIECE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Acting Head of Unit G. M. COEN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader P. H. CROWN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader A. A. KJEARSGAARD, B.Sc. Party leader S. S. KOCAOGLU, B.S. Party leader T. W. PETERS, B.Sc., M.Sc. Agronomic interpretations British Columbia Soil Survey Unit (Vancouver) T. M. LORD, B.S.A. Acting Head of Unit L. FARSTAD, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader A. J. GREEN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader J. I. SNEDDON,I B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader K. VALENTINE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Party leader W. WATT, B.S.A. Party leader Cartography J. H. DAY, B.S.A., M.S.A. Supervising Officer J. G. ROBERTS Cartographic Supervisor Water and Nutrient Transport in Soils D. R. CAMERON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Modelling C. G. KOWALENKO, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Nitrogen cycle W. J. STAPLE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil water movement G. C. Topp, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Soil water movement 174 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Nutrient and Waste Management in Soils M. D. WEBBER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Sludge-soil interactions K. C. Iv ARSON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbial processes A. J. MACLEAN, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. Metals and fertilizers S. S. SINGH, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Metals reactions F. J. SOWDEN, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Nitrogen Organic Soils M. LEVESQUE, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Organic soil characterization S. P. MATHUR, B.Se., Assoc. I.A.R.I., Ph.D. Biochemistry H. MORITA, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Organic soil chemistry Active Fraction and Soil Behavior G. J. Ross, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Mineralogy and weathering D. S. GAMBLE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Metal ion - organic reactions H. KODAMA, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.Sc. Clay mineralogy M. SCHNITZER, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D., Soil humic compounds F.C.S.S.S. Departures J. GAYNOR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Waste disposal in soils Transferred to Research Station, Harrow, Ont., March 1974 D. SUDOM, B.S.A., M.Sc. Nfld. Soil Survey Resigned March 1974 R. C. TURNER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ionic equilibria in soils Retired Dec. 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council PostdoC/orate Fellows J. D. ADSHEAD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Clay mineralogy M. WAINWRIGHT, B.Sc., Ph.D. Soil microbiology CIDA Research Fellow from the University of the West Indies at St. Augustine, Trinidad S. M. GRIFFITH, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Humic acid chemistry ISeconded to the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs. SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 175 INTRODUCTION The main purpose of the Soil Research Institute is to develop and interpret an inventory of the soil resources of Canada. This task requires soil survey to obtain the basic inventory information; in-depth research into various aspects of soils to improve understanding of soil properties and behavior; interpretive research to apply the basic knowledge of soils to the solution of problems in use and management of the soil resource; development and application of a computer-based soil information system; and cartography to display soil resource information in map form. Progress was made in 1974 in all aspects of this continuing program. The Soil Survey Units in all provinces have responded to growing demands for soil information by carrying out a number of special projects in addition to the regular survey programs. Research on the interpretation of soil resource information was intensified. The characterization and classification of soils of northern Canada were improved. Progress was made in defining interactions among heavy metals, soils, and plants, and clarifying the nature of soil humus and the weathering processes of clay minerals. Digitizing of basic soil maps made the production of interpretive maps much more efficient. Reprints of publications listed are available from the authors. Correspondence should be addressed to: Soil Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. KIAOC6. J. A. McKeague Acting Director SOIL RESOURCE INVENTORY example, in British Columbia where the provincial soil survey staff numbers about 20, The Soil Resource Inventory Program two of the senior federal pedologists were includes personnel of the soil survey units assigned to correlation as a major function in throughout Canada and a group at head- order to improve consistency of soil mapping quarters of the Soil Research Institute (SRI) and classification throughout the province. in Ottawa concerned with correlation, re- Interpretive research is essential if soil survey search, and related functions. Soil survey information is to be applied effectively to units in all provinces were united in 1974 land-use planning and management, and through administration by the SRI, Ottawa. federal personnel are becoming increasingly This arrangement should improve coordina- involved in this role. tion of the work and increase flexibility. As Pilot studies on land evaluation for agri- examples of such flexibility, in 1974 Dr. J. I. culture started in Saskatchewan in 1974. The Sneddon, British Columbia Unit of SRI, was basic idea of land evaluation is to assemble, seconded to the Department of Indian and synthesize, and interpret information from Northern Affairs to work on land settlement several disciplines pertaining to land. This policy in the Yukon and Northwest Territo- makes it possible to assess the productive ries, and Dr. L. S. Crosson, Saskatchewan potential of the land under given manage- Unit of SRI, was seconded to the Canada ment practices and to predict the probable Center for Remote Sensing to work for 3 economic returns from it. The process also months on crop identification from satellite provides a system for evaluating land use imagery. alternatives in economic terms. Pedologists, Demands for soil survey information and agronomists, climatologists, and economists its interpretation for many purposes were cooperate in the project, and the soil data heavy throughout Canada in 1974. Most of bank, CanSIS, is an essential tool. Expansion the provinces hired additional pedologists to of this work is anticipated in the years ahead work cooperatively with the federal staff on as demands on good land intensify. projects of high priority. This placed increas- Progress was made in several aspects of ing demands on the federal units to fulfil interpretation of soil resource information. correlation and research roles in addition to Reports on potential agricultural productivity continuing the basic inventory work. For of soils of the Atlantic Provinces, Ontario, 176 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 apart soils that have permafrost within 1 m and Quebec were completed and small-scale of the surface. Various kinds of Cryosolic (l: 1,000,000) agricultural capability maps of soils were characterized in detail and con- Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario were cepts of their genesis were. developed. Field prepared. Engineering, recreation, and for- and laboratory studies in Winnipeg and estry interpretations were improved through Ottawa on the soil water regime produced cooperative work with specialists in these improved methods of measuring soil hydrau- fields. lic conductivity and a clearer understanding Quality control of soil survey was im- of relationships among water table level, soil proved through further emphasis on correla- properties, and redox potential. Information tion, the development of a system of land- on the distribution of volcanic ash in British form classification, and improvements in the Columbia was summarized and its effect on standardization of soil analysis. The require- soil properties at three sites was determined. ments of CanSIS necessitate art increased Fragipans of several soils in Nova Scotia degree of uniformity of data collection and were characterized and evidence from scan- coding throughout the country. A national ning electron microscopy suggested that clay meeting of the Canada Soil Survey Commit- bridges between sand and silt grains might tee in Ottawa, and workshops on organic be responsible for their coherence. An inter- soils in Winnipeg and on landforms in British stratified kaolinite-montmorillonite was Columbia and Alberta, contributed toward identified in a soil from the Yukon. unification of concepts and operations. The soil data and description files of Soil Survey CanSIS were revised completely and the digitizing of soil maps began. This process The Canada Soil Survey is a cooperative facilitates the production of interpretive program involving federal and provincial maps. About 1,600 descriptions of soils and agencies. During 1974, about 8.1 million ha sites were coded by the soil survey units and were surveyed at the reconnaissance level, about 1,200 of these were put into the 67 000 ha at the detailed level, 23.8 million system. Parks Canada and the Government ha at the exploratory level, and 11.1 million of Manitoba are planning to contribute ha for agricultural capability (see Table). Soil resources and to use CanSIS as a manage- survey activities by province are summarized ment system for natural resource data from below. . areas being surveyed under their auspices. Research continued on the usefulness of Newfoundland. Soil mapping at a scale of remotely sensed imagery for identifying 1:250,000 was nearly completed in the areas terrain features and land use. In the coopera- of Port aux Basques and Stephenville, was in tive U.S. - Canadian spring wheat project, progress in the Codroy Valley and Cormack ground truth data were obtained from 16 test areas, and started for the Botwood map areas for which multiband aerial photogra- sheet. phy and ERTS-l imagery were available. Prince Edward Island. In the detailed Accuracy of identification of crops from the resurvey of Prince Edward Island 77 000 ha imagery depended upon several factors, were mapped in 1974. Progress was made in including the stage of maturity of the crop, rating the suitabilities of soils for various but it was high under favorable conditions. crops and a study of soil erosion continued. Other tests of crop identification from ERTS imagery were made in Kent County, Ont., Nova Scotia. The survey of Colchester where fields of corn, wheat, and soybeans County continued and the mapping legend were identified. The best date for identifying was revised. Studies started on ortstein and these crops depended upon the soil on which turbated soils. the crops were grown. In southern Alberta, New Brunswick. Surveys proceeded in the fields of winter wheat were identified on areas of Richibucto-Rogersville, St. John ERTS imagery in late June and early July River Islands, and Maugerville-Sheffield. with 100% accuracy. Summerfallow fields in The field mapping of the Minto-Chipman- the area were readily identified unless they Harcourt area was checked and a draft of the were covered with straw, weeds, or volunteer Madawaska report was completed. Soil sur- grain crops. vey data were interpreted for agriculture, In soil genesis and classification, a new order, Cryosolic soils, was established to set forestry, and overall planning purposes. 177 SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE ::::; AREA SURVEYED IN 1974 AND TOTAL AREA SURVEYED 00 Survey type B.C. Alta. Sask. Man. Ont. Que. N.B. N.S. P.E.1. Nfld. NWT & YT Total Soil surveys - thousands of hectares New surveys' Reconn. 1974 5.840 - 121 78 152 6,191 Total 47,974 19,069 28,252 18.975 15,156 7,404 4,594 5,300 595 1,266 3,708 152,293 Detailed 1974 67 - 67 Total 108 52 17 177 Exploratory 1974 2,308 14,575 405 6,478 23,766 Total 2,631 42,429 10,931 6,045 5,686 22,267 1,649 31,417 123,055 Resurveys' Reconn. 1974 733 491 405 54 1,683 Total 4,536 15,551 19,133 46 476 334 28 527 40,631 Detailed 1974 122 227 101 77 527 Total 366 1,635 2,079 1,040 621 23 482 - 6,246 ;0 m C/l m Canada Land Inventory - thousands of hectares » ;0 Agriculture () :r: New 1974 6,690 2,024 945 - 9,659 ;0 Total 44,504 45,344 36,003 19,348 20,914 30,249 7,119 5,300 566 »'" 2.927 3,530 215,804 z () Reassessed 1974 773 529 152 1,454 :r: ;0 Total 4,012 1,757 756 332 152 7,009 m -0 0 ;0 -; 'Reconnaissance at scale I :50,000 to 1: 126,720; detailed at scale of less than I :50,000; and exploratory at :0 scale greater than I: 125,000. ..,.-J that widespread mortality of red pine more Quebec. Field work was completed by the than 25 to 30 yr old was occurring on provincial group in Dorchester County, lle Melanic Brunisol soils because of excessive d'Orieans, and I1e-aux-Coudres, and contin- accumulation of Ca and Mg in the surface ued in Temiscouata, Charlevoix, and the area comprising Arthabaska, Wolfe, Frontenac, horizons. Megantic, and Beauce. In the exploratory Soil erosion studies began on areas in biophysical survey of the James Bay region several physiographic regions under various by the Canadian Forestry Service, 14.6 land-use practices in southern Ontario. The million ha were mapped. Universal Soil Loss Equation was used for Ontario climatic conditions to compute po- Ontario. Soil surveys were conducted tential losses from agricultural land caused mainly in the southern counties, because by sheet erosion. Initial computations indi- intensive land-use pressures exist in this area cated that annual losses by sheet erosion and existing information on soils is inade- ranged from 0 to 20 t/ha in southern quate for making decisions on present or Ontario. The magnitude of stream bank future land use. Soil surveys were in progress erosion was also under study to clarify the in Middlesex County and the regional munic- origin of sediments in stream water. Equi- ipalities of Haldimand-Norfolk and Ot- libria between stream water, suspended tawa-Carleton. A detailed scale was selected sediments, and bottom sediments were exam- because this will provide the information on ined to evaluate the effect of sediments on physical resources required for making deci- stream water quality. sions on agricultural, urban, and recreational uses of lands, and for choosing land for Manitoba. Results of the study of soils of waste disposal. Ad hoc soil surveys were the Morden-Winkler area were published. conducted along part of the Lake Temagami Reports and maps were in press for the study shoreline in northeastern Ontario to deter- on Organic soils in the map areas of the mine the suitability of the area for further Roseau River Basin, Red Rose - Washow recreational development, and to assess the Bay, and Ste. Rose du Lac. Reports and impact of development on environmental maps were in preparation for the areas of conditions of the region. A detailed soil Virden, Winnipeg Region, and Waterhen, survey was conducted on the Holland Marsh and preliminary or interim reports and maps in southwestern Ontario to provide informa- for areas of Cormorant Lake, Wekusko, tion for development of a more equitable Norway House, and Cross Lake. Surveys of system of taxation based on the productive Grand Rapids, The Pas, Swan Lake, and potential of the soil. The latter two projects Pointe du Bois are at various stages of were funded by sources other than Agricul- completion. ture Canada. A biophysical survey started in northern Research conducted by personnel of the Manitoba; this project will include all areas survey unit provides the data needed- to of the province not covered by standard improve the interpretability of soil survey reconnaissance survey. Approximately 2.3 information, and to assess the effects of soil million ha were surveyed in 1974. and landscape characteristics and agricul- Research in support of inventories in- tural land-use practices on environmental cluded evaluation of remote sensing tech- quality. niques, chemistry and morphology of imper- A study was in progress to establish indices fectly and poorly drained soils, characteri- for rating soil series according to their zation of Cryosolic soils and Organic soils, productive capacity for forestry. Plantations and development of a biophysical system of of red pine in southern Ontario were first land classification for Manitoba. chosen for the study, in which growth data Saskatchewan. Correlation of soil mapping from trees 25 to 40 yr of age were related to and sample collection were completed in the the physical, chemical, and morphological Swift Current map area and maps were properties of soils. Productivity indices of being compiled. Several new soil associations these soils ranged from a low value of 40 to a were established during the survey and soils high of 80 on a 100-point scale. During 1974 apparently developed in loessial sediments the study was extended to include soils of were distinguished from those on lacustrine eastern and northern Ontario. Further re- deposits. Results from a 3-yr study of wheat search associated with this project indicated 179 SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE -----~------~~--., and forage productivity on one of the domi- relation to Canada Land Inventory capability nant soils were summarized for inclusion in classes, and development of improved meth- the final report. ods of map and report presentation. T. W. At the request of the Parks Branch, work Peters spent 2 months with a CIDA project in began on a biophysical land classification of Indonesia and W. W. Pettapiece was on a Prince Albert National Park. It will provide transfer of work to the SRI, Ottawa until information on surficial deposits, soils, land- July. forms, and vegetation, so that these resources can be used and managed properly as a park. British Columbia. Soil surveys continued in Areas delineated by photo interpretation the following areas: Ominica-Parsnip, Peace were checked by traverses on foot to provide River, south Vancouver Island and Gulf ground truth. Six sites were established to Islands, Manson River, East Kootenay, monitor air and soil temperatures, precipita- Ashcroft, Kluskus, Queen Charlotte Islands, tion, and soil water. and Stikine. Ratings of agricultural and forestry capability were revised for some 2.8 Research continued on the evaluation of million ha in the Fort George area and 2.2 salt contamination in areas around potash million ha in the Cariboo area. mines and on naturally occurring salinity. Contamination from salt dust is minimal An integrated program of soil correlation except very close to the source. Fluctuations was in progress; it involves SRI, the British of soil salinity occur naturally in the agricul- Columbia Department of Agriculture tural area as a result of short-term climatic (BCDA), and the Resource and Analysis changes. Groundwater quality and levels are Unit of the British Columbia Environmental being monitored in saline areas. and Land Use Committee secretariat (ELUC). A general soil map of British A program to evaluate the relationship of Columbia at a scale of I: 1,000,000 was in site quality to the nutrient content in foliage preparation. of jack pine, black spruce, white spruce, and trembling aspen continued in cooperation Research was carried out on interpreta- with the Forestry Branch. The softwood tions of soils information for various pur- species were shown to be deficient in Nand P poses. The pedology unit was involved in a and on the borderline of deficiency in K, Ca, joint project with the Pulp and Paper Re- and Mg. Variations in yield from sites that search Institute, ELUC, BCDA, and three differed in quality could be attributed, in private forest companies to assess the effects part, to differences in clay content and of highlead logging on soil properties and availability of nutrients. soil erosion. A study of the impact of forest Eight sites were mapped and sampled in management practices on Lithic soils in the detail to determine the relationship among Nimpkish area of northern Vancouver Island position in the landscape, soil morphology, was completed. Contributions were made to field studies and committee work on engi- and soil chemical and physical properties. Such information is required for accurate soil neering aspects of soils, land planning, and waste water treatment in several areas. One mapping and for land appraisal and assess- ment. such project, a biophysical evaluation of a rural subdivision in the Peace River, orig- H. B. Stonehouse carried out a soil survey inated through the ELUC secretariat. A map in Tanzania as part of a CIDA project. and report of the 265 ha surveyed were used Alberta. The Alberta survey program, by planners to formulate guidelines for land which integrates federal and provincial per- use. A cooperative study with ELUC was sonnel, ranged from reconnaissance surveys undertaken to evaluate slumping hazard and in areas of limited access south of the Peace its effect on the recreation potential of the River country to very detailed surveys for Williams Lake Reservoir. urban and parks planning, mainly in the A project was undertaken at the request of Calgary region. National Parks surveys con- the Analyses Unit of the secretariat to tinued; those of Yoho, B.C., and Elk Island suggest suitable remote sensing techniques were nearly completed and a 5-yr program for the acquisition of natural resource data in with Canadian Forestry Service started in northern British Columbia at a scale of Banff and Jasper Parks. Research included a I: 1,000,000; the project also included tests of pilot survey of a county at a scale of personal visual abilities in mapping accuracy I: 30,000, remote sensing, crop yield in for staff members of ELUC. All members of 180 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 I i Use Activities (PLUARG). The objective was the Vancouver Pedology Unit were tested for to obtain data on the inputs of pollutants into acuity, stereopsis, phorias, and color vision. the Great Lakes drainage system from agri- The accuracy of mapping by individuals on cultural activities. The approach taken was to four different types of photography was identify 'agricultural regions' within which measured and appreciable individual differ- representative watersheds could be selected ences were noted. for study. Agricultural regions were defined Yukon and Northwest Territories. An ex- as regions of similar soils, in the same tensive biophysical survey of approximately climatic zone, and with an identifiable agri- 6.5 million ha in the Boothia Peninsula cultural land use or combination of land uses. region of the Northwest Territories was To identify these regions the following completed in cooperation with the Geolog- projects were carried out by SRI and ERS: ical Survey of Canada. Ground truth was classification of soils according to potential obtained on landforms, ground ice, soils, and for pollutant transfer and preparation of vegetation, and significant climatic regions or maps; a land use inventory consisting of a ecoregions were identified. Pedological cartographic presentation of data from the studies and tests were conducted on the 1971 Census of Agriculture by a computer suitability of the tentative classification of mapping technique (SYMAP); a livestock Cryosolic soils. operations inventory and investigation to Assessments were made of the agricultural identify the major sources of livestock wastes capabilities of soils in the Mills Lake and in southern Ontario and to estimate their Whitehorse areas, for the Department of potential for contamination of rivers and Indian and Northern Affairs. lakes; identification of agricultural regions Cartography. The Section completed draft- and selection of possible representative ing nine soil and miscellaneous maps for watersheds; and preparation of land-use federal and provincial soil surveys. These maps for the watersheds selected by the were published together with II maps held Agricultural Sub-Committee, Task C, PLU- over from 1973, for a total of 20. Approx- ARG. A joint SRI-ERS report on these imately 40 other soil and resource maps were activities was prepared. at various production stages at the end of 1974. A simultaneous process of scribing and digitizing soil lines and symbols for CanSIS ORGANIC SOILS and map publication was introduced late in A new program was set up to improve the the year and will become the standard conservation and use of the organic soil production method in 1975. resources of Canada, especially in areas near There were 173 capability maps published centers of population. Organic soils occupy for the Canada Land Inventory, Department an estimated 10% of the land area of Canada of the Environment; 212 were cartographi- and their potential has not been developed. cally complete but awaited translation of Early research focused on improving area descriptions, and 300 capability maps knowledge of the causes and control of were at various production stages. subsidence of Organic soils, characterizing Reproduction services were also provided their properties in relation to botanical on request to other institutes, agencies, and composition, and investigating the interac- branches within the Department on a cost tions of microbes and pesticides in them. The recovery basis. Some work was done for program involves cooperation with the Re- other departments under reciprocal search Station at Saint-Jean, Que. agreements. Three extensive peat deposits in southern Great Lakes Watershed Study Quebec were partly surveyed and classified as dominantly Terric and Limno subgroups As part of Agriculture Canada's contri- of Mesisols. The phenolic content of pyro- bution to implementation of the Great Lakes phosphate extracts of Organic soils was Water Quality Programme, the Soil Research Institute (SRI) and Engineering Research studied. The inordinate persistence of even biodeg- Service (ERS) helped to develop and imple- radable pesticides in soil, and the influence ment the study for the agricultural portion of of humus content on the extent of their the Task C study, International Reference retention, suggest that a portion of certain Group on Great Lakes Pollution from Land 181 SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE ------, pesticides added to soil is incorporated into for a range of weather, soil, and tillage soil humus. An examination of this possibility conditions. Field tests of the proced ures through chemical methods of degrading started. natural humic materials from treated soils is Research was undertaken on the nitrogen difficult because of the nature of soil humus. cycle under the climatic conditions of Eastern The approach evolved for this program Canada, and on the transport of nitrate, showed that methoxychlor was incorporated ammonium, and chloride under saturated into a model 'humic' material synthesized by conditions. A simple model of nitrogen and the fungus Aspergillus versicolor through water transport in soil was developed, and forces stronger than those of physical ad- testing of the model began. sorption. This humic material was depolym- erized through degradation by the fairy ring fungus, Marasmius oreades, which resulted in release of the methoxychlor; this demon- NUTRIENT AND WASTE strated an actual case of incorporation. Such MANAGEMENT incorporation was also indicated when 14C_ The purpose of the nutrient and waste methoxychlor was apparently held in a management program is to carry out research polymer synthesized from hydroquinone. that will lead to more effective use and The biodegradation approach is now being management of fertilizers, manures, and used in situ in organic and mineral soils wastes, so as to avoid pollution of the amended with labeled and unlabeled pesti- environment resulting from agricultural prac- cides. Microorganisms capable of utilizing tices and the disposal of wastes on soil. humic materials may thus be useful in determining the nature of pesticide retention In a laboratory study of nitrogen transfor- by soil humus. mations in a soil in which the clay was largely vermiculite, about 40% of the ammonium added in liquid manure or as ammonium sulfate was fixed on the clay minerals. A part WATER AND NUTRIENT of this fixed ammonium was nitrified after TRANSPORT the exchangeable ammonium but in general The purpose of the water and nutrient it acted as a 'slow-release' nitrogen fertilizer, transport program is to develop models of resistant to nitrification and leaching. the soil-solution system that can be used to Nutrient levels in groundwater and tile predict quantities and rates of movement of drain effluent from a farm where moderately plant nutrients and water in soil. The re- high levels of fertilizers and liquid manure search, which involves in-depth work in soil were used were not excessively high except in physics and applied mathematics, has appli- water from depths of 4.5 and 6 m in a sandy cation to practical matters such as the addi- manure disposal area where nitrogen had tion of fertilizers and wastes to soil to been added at 1340 kg/ha annually. In this enhance crop production without polluting case nitrate nitrogen was found in the water surface and ground water. at concentrations up to 88 fL g ml. The development or testing of methods to The amounts of Zn extracted from several measure soil hydrologic properties continued. amended soils with 0.005 M DTPA, I M The air-entry permeameter for measuring MgCI2, and 0.0 I M CaCl2 were highly hydraulic conductivity was modified and correlated with the concentrations of Zn in found satisfactory for a number of field soils. the plants. Addition of phosphate to the soils A modification of Penman's equation for tended to decrease the amounts of Zn in corn predicting potential evaporation was pub- and lettuce but almost invariably increased lished; it provided the upper boundary the extractability of Zn from the soils. The condition for computing evaporation from concentrations of Hg in several plant species soil. The equation was combined with tended to be lower in the edible portion Richards' equation for water movement (fruit, grain, or roots) than in the remainder through soil so that evaporation losses could of the plants. The retention of Hg in soils be computed when either meteorological 9r against volatilization was increased markedly soil conditions were limiting factors. The by the presence of organic matter and by method should provide estimates of moisture addition of flowers of sulfur. Related studies changes at different depths in the soil profile were carried out on extractable metals and 182 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 their uptake by plants in acid mine tailings than by tetrahedral or octahedral location of with various amendments. charge; in contrast, interlayer hydration was Studies on the degradation of sewage influenced more"l'by charge location, being sludge in soils and the extractability of sludge greater in the case of octahedral charge metals from soils are being funded under location. The presence of small amounts of provisions of the Canada-Ontario Agree- aluminum (400 meq/ 100 g, 80% neutralized) ment on Great Lakes Water Quality. Anaer- eliminated nearly all the exchange capacity obically digested sewage sludges contain of dioctahedral vermiculites and resulted in some easily degradable organic constituents. the formation of some gibbsite; the OH:AI Approximately one-fifth of the carbon from ratio of the adsorbed AI(OH)x was less than each sludge tested evolved to carbon dioxide 2 and it was strongly adsorbed as its solubil- within 25 days when four sludges were ity was less than that of gibbsite. incubated with soil. All sludges increased the The solubility product of gibbsite was amounts of extractable metals in soils; hence, determined at three temperatures and found use of sludge in agriculture involves a risk of to be 10-34.45 at 15°C' 10-3396 at 25°C- and metal pollution of soils. 10-3352 at 35°C. A ge~eral equation f~r the A study of the reactions of phosphate in solubility product of gibbsite at different clay systems approximating acid soils showed temperatures is log Ksp = -6. HO12.303 RT that an interlayer hydroxy aluminum phos- +C. phate, with a chemical composition similar to that of variscite, formed in acid montmoril- The chemistry of humic and fulvic acids lonite. Heating to 50°C made the interlayer extracted from soils developed under widely material disappear and variscite form as a differing pedological and climatic environ- discrete phase. ments was investigated by a variety of degradative procedures, including oxidation in acid and alkaline solutions as well as ACTIVE FRACTION AND SOIL hydrolysis in base, acid, and water. Main BEHAVIOR types of degradation products, with max- imum yields in parentheses, were: aliphatic The purpose of the program on the active acids (12%); phenolic acids (15%); and fraction and soil behavior is to determine the benzenecarboxylic acids (19%). Biologically nature and transformations of the active derived n-C and n-C fatty acids consti- fraction (clay and organic matter) of soils 16 18 tuted the bulk of the aliphatic compounds; and its influence on soil behavior and re- most of the fatty acids appeared to be sponse to management. The active fraction esterified to OH groups of phenolic constitu- has a major influence on the physical condi- ents. Since about half of the degradation tions and strength of soils and their capacity products were lost during the extensive to hold water and retain nutrients. fractionation and purification procedures A rather simple 'intensity-factor' method employed, the three types of products men- was developed for making quantitative esti- tioned above accounted for practically all the mates of the amounts of clay minerals in weight of the starting materials. Recent soils, and the method was applied success- advances in instrumental analysis (especially fully to the analysis of some soil clays. the gas chromatography - mass spectrometry Laboratory weathering experiments pro- system) have provided, for the first time, duced the following findings. A partial powerful tools for the qualitative and quanti- structural disturbance by oxidation of ferrous tative analysis of humic 'building blocks.' iron or by dehydration (structural water) was However, much remains to be learned on essential for the transformation of chlorite how these combine and what types of struc- into vermiculite. Particle size was one impor- tural arrangements are produced. tant factor influencing the type of layer sequence in an interstratified structure during An experimental method which avoids the alteration of mica to vermiculite. Selectiv- biodegradation of samples was developed ity of Kover Ca in weathering micas was for measuring the MnIl - fulvic acid com- influenced more by inclination of OH dipoles plexing equilibrium. SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 183 PUBLICAnONS Research Knapik, L. J., and Coen. G. M. 1974. Detailed soil survey of the Mount Revelstoke summit area. Ballantyne, A. K. 1974. The movement of salts and Alberta Inst. Pedo!' Pub!' M-74-3. Edmonton, the effect on cereal yields resulting from the Alta. application of potassium refinery dust to the soil surface. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:45-51. Knapik, L. J., Scotter, G. W., and Pettapiece, W. W. 1973. Alpine soil and plant community Clark, R. V., and Mack, A. R. 1974. Effects of relationships of the Sunshine area, Banff growing barley continuously on yields. chemi- National Park. Arct. & Alp. Res. 5(3):A 16 1- cal constituents, and disease prevalence. Can. A170. J. Plant Sci. 54:307-314. Kodama, H., and Ross, G. J. 1973. Structural Coen, G. M. 1973. Soil survey and interpretation changes accompanying potassium exchange in procedures in mountainous Waterton Lakes clay size muscovite. Proc. 1972 lnt. Clay ConL National Park, Canada. Geoderma 10:75-86. 2:481-491. Crosson, L. S., and Protz, R. 1974. A quantitative Kodama, H., and Schnitzer, M. 1974. Further comparison of two closely related soil map- investigations on fulvic acid-Cu2+ -montmoril- ping units. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:7-14. lonite interactions. Clays & Clay Miner. 22:107-110. Crosson, L. S., and Protz, R. 1974. Better soil maps with orthophotos. 1. Soil & Water Conserv. Kodama, H., and Schnitzer, M. 1974. Adsorption 29:135-137. of fulvic acid by non-expanding clay minerals. Trans. 10th lnt. Congr. Soil Sci. pp. 51-56. DeKimpe, C. R., and McKeague, J. A. 1974. Micromorphological, physical, and chemical Kodama, H., Ross, G. J., Iiyama, J. T., and Robert, properties of a Podzolic soil with fragipan. J. L. 1974. Effect of layer charge location on Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54:29-38. potassium exchange and hydration of micas. Am. Miner. 59:491-495. DeKimpe, C. R., McKeague, 1. A., and Topp, G. C. 1974. Soil properties in relation to water Lajoie, P. G. 1974. Les coulees d'argile des basses regime at a site near Quebec City. Can. J. Soil terrasses de l'Outaouais, du Saint-Laurent et Sci. 54:427-446. du Saguenay. Rev. Geogr. Montreal 28:419- 428. Evans, J. G., and Valentine, K. W. G. 1974. Ecological changes induced by Prehistoric Levesque, M. 1974. Selenium distribution in Cana- Man at Pitstone,. Buckinghamshire. J. Ar- dian soil profiles. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:63-68. chaeo!. Sci. I: 343-3 51. Levesque, M. 1974. Some aspects of selenium Foscolos, A. E., and Kodama, H. 1974. Diagenesis relationships in Eastern Canadian soils and of clay minerals from Lower Cretaceous plants. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:205-214. shales of northeastern British Columbia. Clays & Clay Miner. 22:319-335. Levesque, M. 1974. Relationship of sulfur and selenium in some Canadian soil profiles. Can. Gerhart, S., Barr, D. J. S., and Morita, H. K. 1974. J. Soil Sci. 54:333-335. Principal wall carbohydrates in Phlycto- chytrium arcticum and Rhizophydium patellar- Mack, A. R., and Wallen, V. R. 1974. Effects of ium (Chytridiales). Mycologia 66: 107- 113. various field levels of soil temperature and soil moisture on the growth of beans infected with Hoyt, P. B., and Webber, M. D. 1974. Rapid bacterial blight. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54: 149-158. measurement of plant-available aluminum and manganese in acid Canadian soils. Can. J. MacLean, A. J. 1974. Mercury in plants and Soil Sci. 54:53-61. retention of mercury by soils in relation to properties and added sulfur. Can. J. Soil Sci. Ivarson, K. C. 1974. Comparative survival and 54:287-292. decomposing ability of four fungi isolated from leaf litter at low temperatures. Can. J. MacLean, A. J. 1974. Effect of soil properties and Soil Sci. 54:245-253. amendments on the availability of zinc in soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:369-378. Kloosterman, 8., Norgren, R. R., and Sharp, W. R. 1974. Computer-assisted color separation for Mathur, S. P. 1974. Phthalate esters in the environ- the production of thematic maps. Can. Surv. ment: Pollutants or natural products? J. En- 28:31-36. viron. Qua!. 3:189-197. 184 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Mathur, S. P. 1974. Respirometric evidence of the Schnitzer, M., and Skinner, S. 1. M. 1974. The utilization of Di-octyl and Bi-2-ethylhexyl peracetic acid oxidation of humic substances. phthalate plasticizers. 1. Environ. Qual. 3:207- Soil Sci. 118:322-331. 209. Schnitzer, M., Sowden, F. 1., and Ivarson, K. C McKeague, 1. A., and Kloosterman, B. 1974. 1974. Reactions of humic substances with Mercury levels. in horizons of 65 soils in amino acids. Soil BioI. Biochem. 6:401-407. Canada. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54:503-507. Simmons, M. 1., and Nowland, 1. L. 1974. Map- Miller, R. W., Sirois, 1. C, and Morita, H. 1974. ping soils for domestic waste disposal. Proc. The reactions of coumarin with horseradish Int. ConL on Land for Waste Management, peroxidase. Plant Physiol. 54:694-698. Ottawa, pp. 37-45. Morita, H. 1974. Persilylation of phenolic ketones. Singh, S. S. 1974. The solubility product of 1. Chromatogr. 10 I: 189-192. gibbsite at 15°, 25°, and 35°C Soil Sci. Soc. Neyroud, 1. A., and Schnitzer, M. 1974. The Am. Proc. 38:415-417. exhaustive alkaline cupric oxide oxidation of Smith, R. E.,.Michalyna, W., and Wilson, G. 1973. humic acid and fulvic acid. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc.38:907-913. Soils of the Morden-Winkler area. Agric. Can.-Manitoba Dep. Agric. Soil Surv. Rep. Neyroud, 1. A., and Schnitzer, M. 1974. The No. 18. Winnipeg, Man. 117 pp. chemistry of high molecular weight fulvic acid Sowden, F. 1., and Ivarson, K. C 1974. Effect of fractions. Can. 1. Chem. 52:4123-4132. temperature on changes in the nitrogenous Nowland, 1. L., and MacDougall, 1. 1. 1973. Soil constituents of mixed forest litters during survey of Cumberland County, Nova Scotia. decomposition after inoculation with various N.S.SoiISurv.Rep.No.17.133pp. microbial cultures. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54:387- 394. Petta piece, W. W. 1974. A hummocky permafrost soil from the subarctic of northwestern Can- Staple, W. 1. 1974. Modified Penman equation to ada and some influence of fire. Can. 1. Soil Sci. provide the upper boundary condition in 54:343-355. computing evaporation from soil. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 38:837-839. Pettapiece, W. W., and Zoltai, S. C 1974. Soil environments in the Western Canadian Wang, C, Nowland, 1. L., and Kodama, H. 1974. Subarctic. Quaternary Environ. Symp., York Properties of two fragipan soils in Nova University - Atkinson College Georgr. Scotia including scanning electron micro- Monogr. Ser. 5:279-292. Toronto, Ont. graphs. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54: 159-170. Rayment, A. F., and Heringa, P. K. 1974. The Webber, M. D., McKeague, 1. A., Raad, A. T., influence of initial and maintenance fertilizers DeKimpe, CR., Wang, C, Haluschak, P., on the growth and ecology of grass-clover Stonehouse, H. B., Pettapiece, W. W., Os- mixtures on a Newfoundland peat soil. Proc. borne, V. E., and Green, A. 1. 1974. A 4th Int. Peat Congr. 4: 111-120. comparison among nine Canadian laboratories of dithionite-, oxalate-, and pyro-phosphate- Ross, G. 1., and Kodama, H. 1974. Experimental extractable Fe and Al in soils. Can. 1. Soil Sci. transformation of a chlorite into a vermiculite. 54:293-298. Clays & Clay Miner. 22:205-211. Webber, M. D. 1974. Atomic absorption measure- Ross, G. 1., and Rich, C 1. 1974. Effect of ments of AI in plant digests and neutral salt oxidation and reduction of K exchange in extracts of soils. Can. 1. Soil Sci. 54:81-87. biotite. Clays & Clay Miner. 22:335-360. Wells, R. E., and Heringa, P. K. 1974. Soil survey Schnitzer, M. 1974. Alkaline cupric-oxide oxidation of Gander-Gambo area. Nfld. Soil Surv. Rep. of a methylated fulvic acid. Soil BioI. Bio- No. I. Agric. Can., Ottawa. 52 pp. chem.6:1-6. Wilson, G. 1974. Accurate measurement of dis- Schnitzer, M. 1974. The methylation of humic placement. Can. Geotech.l. II :306-309. substances. Soil Sci. 117:94-102. Zoltai, S. C, and Pettapiece, W. W. 1974. Tree Schnitzer, M. 1974. Investigations on the chemical distribution on perennially frozen earth hum- structure of humic substances by gas chroma- mocks. Arct. & Alp. Res. 6{4):403-411. tography - mass spectrometry. Trans. 10th Int. Congr. Soil Sci. pp. 294-30 i. Zoltai, S. C, and Tarnocai, C 1974. Soils and vegetation of hummocky terrain. Environmen- Schnitzer, M., and Skinner, S. 1. M. 1974. The low tal-Social Comm., Northern Pipelines, Task temperature oxidation of humic substances. Force on Northern Oil Development, Rep. Can. 1. Chem. 52: 1072-1080. No. 74-5. Ottawa. SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 185 Miscellaneous Kjearsgaard, A. A., ed. 1974. Annual report, Alberta Institute of Pedology. Univ. Alta., Acton, C. J. 1974. Session summary - Climate, Edmonton, Alta. vegetation, and soils as factors in waste disposal, ineluding special problems in the Kloosterman, B. 1974. CanSIS: Digitizing proce- north. Proc. 1nt. Conf. on Land for Waste dure for data input to the cartographic file Management, Ottawa, pp. 57-59. (2nd rev.). Agric. Can. 10 pp. Coen, G. M., and Holland, W. D. 1974. Soils Kloosterman, B., and Brandon, S. E., cds. 1974. descriptions of Waterton Lakes National Park CanS IS: Documentation of input system of - Appendix D. Alberta Inst. Pedol. No. 5-73- the cartographic file. Agric. Can., Ottawa. 75 33. Edmonton, Alta. pp. Coote, D. R., MacDonald, E. M., and Wall, G. J. Lord, T. M. 1974. Soils of the Rose Prairie - 1974. Agricultural land uses, livestock and Blueberry River area, Peace River District, soils of the Canadian Great Lakes Basin. B.C. Interim Soil Rep. No. 17. 21 pp. Agric. Can., Ottawa. Lord, T., and Sneddon, J. I. 1974. Soil survey in Crosson, L. S., Peet, F. G., and Wacker, A. G. wildlife management. Can. Agric. 19( I):22- 1974. Soils and agricultural crop studies in the 23. Dark Brown soil zone of Saskatchewan using ERTS-A data. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Remote Lord, T. M., and Luckhurst, A. J. 1974. Alpine soils Sensing, Guelph, Ont., pp. 583-592. and plant communities of a stone sheep Crown, P. H., and Pawluk, S. 1974. Spectral habitat in northeastern British Columbia. signatures of selected soils in the Edmonton- Northwest Sci. 48:38-51. Vegreville area. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Remote Mack, A. R., and Bowren, K. E. 1974. Crop Sensing, Guelph, Ont. pp. 450-462. identification and acreage estimates from Crown, P. H., and Kocaog1u, S. S. 1974. Land-use airborne and satellite multi-band photography conflicts in Alberta: Agriculture vs. urban of north-eastern Saskatchewan. Proc. 2nd development. Univ. Alta. Agric. Bull. (25):3-5. Can. Symp. Remote Sensing, Guelph, Ont., pp.I23-133. Day, 1. H., ed. 1974. Proceedings of the 10th Meeting, Can. Soil Surv. Comm., Ottawa, MacLean, A. J., and Hare, F. R. 1974. Manures Ont., April 23-26, 1974. 107 pp. and compost. Publ. 878, Agric. Can., Ottawa. Day, 1. H., ed. 1974. Proceedings of the Organic Manitoba Soil Survey Staff. 1974. Revision of Soil Landform Workshop, Canada Soil Survey Chapter 3, Soils, pp. 24-91 in Principles & Committee, Winnipeg, Man. June 3-7, 1974. Practices of Commercial Farming. Faculty of Day, J. H., and Kloosterman, B., eds. 1974. Agriculture, Univ. Man., Winnipeg, Man. CanSIS: Canadian soil names file, 1974. Agric. Mills, G. F., Hopkins, L. A., and Smith, R. E. 1974. Can., Ottawa. Inventory and assessment for agriculture of Dumanski, J., and Kloosterman, B. 1974. Proposi- the organic soils of the Roseau River Basin. tions for discussion. Compte Rendu Provisoire Canada-Manitoba Soil Survey, Winnipeg, de la Reunion 27 mars, 1974 sur Ie Reseau de Man. Mimeo. 174 pp. Traitement des Donnees de sols, Agence de Peet, F. G., Mack, A. R., and Crosson, L. S. 1974. Cooperation Culturelle et Technique, Paris. 17 Developments in the methods for automatic pp. estimation of crop production from ERTS and Dumanski, J., and Kloosterman, B., eds. 1974. Soil supporting data. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Re- site coding scheme for data input to thc soil mote Sensing, Guelph, Ont., pp. 565-571. data file of the Canada Soil Information System (CanSIS), 4th rev. Agric. Can., Ot- Peet, F. G., Mack, A. R., and Crosson, L. S. 1973. tawa. 150 pp. Affine transformations from aerial photos to computer compatible tapes. Proc. 3rd ERTS-I Dumanski, J., and Kloosterman, B., eds. 1974. Symp., Washington, D.C., pp. 1719-1724. Coding scheme for data input to thc agricul- tural small-plot subfile of the performance/ Phi1potts, L., Mack, A. R., and Peet, F. G. 1974. management file: Canada Soil Information Automations of winter wheat identification in System (CanS IS), 1st rev. Agric. Can., Ottawa. southwestern Ontario from 1973 airborne and 66 pp. satellite imagery. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Re- mote Sensing, Guelph, Ont., pp. 593-605. Gaynor, 1. D., and Webber, M. D. 1974. Land disposal of sewage sludge: A concern for trace Presant, E. W. 1974. Report on soils of the Basotu metal pollution of agricultural soils. Agrologist Wheat Farm, Tanzania. Can. Int. Dev. 3 :25-26. Agency, Ottawa. 186 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Presant, E. W. 1974. Report on soils of selected Tarnocai, C. 1974. Exploratory study of Northern areas near Arusha and Monduli. Tanzania. Manitoba and Southern Keewatin, N.W.T. Can. Int. Dev. Agency, Ottawa. Canada-Manitoba Soil Survey, Winnipeg, Protz, R., and Crosson, L. S. 1973. Soil terrain Man. Mimeo. 100 pp. mapping by stereorthophotos for urban devel- Tarnocai, C., and Thie, J. 1974. Permafrost and opment. Proc. Natl. Conf. on Urban Eng. remote sensing. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Remote Terrain Problems, Toronto, Ont. pp. 66-73. Sensing, Guelph, Ont., pp. 437-447. Rowe, J. S., Bergsteinsson, J. L., Padbury, G. A., Tarnocai, c., and Thie, J. 1974. Application of and Hermesh, R. 1974. Fire studies in the remote sensing to permafrost studies. Can. Mackenzie Valley. Dep. Indian and Northern Centre for Remote Sensing, Tech. Pap. No. Aff. Publ. No. QS-l 567-000-EE-Al, Ottawa. 74-6. Shields, J. A., Dumanski, 1., and Kloosterman, B. Thie, J., Tarnocai, c., Mills, G. F., and Kristof, S. 1974. Visual causes of land degradation in T. 1974. A rapid resource inventory for Can- Canada. Page 28 in A World Assessment of ada's north by means of satellite and airborne Soil Degradation. Rep. U.N. Environ. Prog. remote sensing. Proc. 2nd Can. Symp. Remote Meet., Rome. June 10-14, 1974. Sensing, Guelph, pp. 199-215. Singh, S. S. 1974. Addendum to report, Spartan Webber, M. D., and Gaynor, J. D. 1974. Extract- apple breakdown in Okanagen Valley, B.C., able metals in mixtures of soil and sewage 1973. Eight tables, pp. 38-45. Agric. Can., sludge. Sludge Handling and Disposal Semi- Ottawa. Mimeo. nar, Sept. 18-19, Toronto. SOIL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 187 Research Institute London, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF Administration E. Y. SPENCER, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.C.I.e. Director M. VAN YSSELSTEIN,B.Sc. Administrative Officer V. NATHAN (Mrs.), B.Sc., M.L.S. Librarian Herbicides and Growth Regulators T. T. LEE, B.Sc., Ph.D. Plant biochemistry and tissue culture W. H. MINSHALL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant physiology E. B. ROSLYCKY, B.S., M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbiology Mode of Action of Selected and Potential Insect-control Agents W. CHEFURKA, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biochemistry E. J. BOND, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Fumigation: toxicology B: E. BROWN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Neurochemistry T. DUMAS, D.e.E., M.Sc. Analytical chemistry e. L. HANNAY, B.S.A., Ph.D. Electron microscopy: cytology R. M. KRUPKA, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Biochemistry D. G. R. McLEOD, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Physiology T. NAGAI, M.E., M.Sc., D.Sc. Neurophysiology J. R. ROBINSON, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D., F.e.I.e. Chemistry: radioisotopes A. N. STARRATT, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.e.I.e. Chemistry: attractants and repellents A. VARDANIS,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biochemistry Soil Insecticide Behavior e. R. HARRIS, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Insect toxicology B. T. BOWMAN, B.S.A., Ph.D. Soil physical chemistry R. A. CHAPMAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Analytical organic chemistry RESEARCHINSTITUTE,LONDON, ONT. 189 J. R. W. MILES, B.Sc. Analytical chemistry H. H. SVEC, Dip!. Agr. Applied entomology A. D. TOMLIN, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide ecology e. M. Tv, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbiology Mode of Action of Selected and Potential Plant-pathogen Control Agents E. W. B. WARD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology: phytoalexins and toxins . D. M. M[LLER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biophysical chemistry: fungicide selectivity L. T. R[CHARDSON, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Plant pathology: fungicides A. STOESSL, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.C.I.e. Organic chemistry: phytoalexins and toxins G. D. THORN, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D., F.e.I.e. Organic chemistry: fungicides G. A. WHITE, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biochemistry: fungicides VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council postdoctorate fellows D. R. JONES, B.Sc., Ph.D., 1973-74 Plant pathology J. H. TOLMAN, B.Sc., Ph.D., 1973-74 Entomology: toxicology Graduate students K. P. KASH[, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., 1970-74 Fumigation J. FVNG, B.Sc., M.Sc., 1971-74 Biophysics: selective transport S. HARUN, B.Sc., 1974- Biophysics: selective transport G. B. K[NOSHITA, B.Sc., M.Sc., 1974- Entomology: toxicology M. S. SHAROM, B.Sc., M.Sc., 1974- Chemistry: toxicology R. LAS HERAS, Licenciate, 1974- Biochemistry [90 RESEARCHBRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION The highlights of the Institute's research activities for 1974 are summarized here. The activities include studies on the mode of action and use of toxicants (fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides); the search for new target sites; and the isolation and characterization of biologically active material such as phytoalexins, insect neurotransmitters, and insect attractants and repellents that may have potential for use in crop protection. The study of these materials and sites and their utilization often requires a multidisciplinary approach and cooperation within our own institute and with other establishments in the Branch and elsewhere. The current pressure to replace persistent pesticides has made even more important the search for alternative pesticidal materials and the development of more effective integrated control programs for minimizing any deleterious effect on the environment. This report and reprints of publications are available on request from the Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, University Sub Post Office, London, Onto N6A 5B7. E. Y. Spencer Director PLANT PESTS for determining the effect of drugs, hor- mones, and their analogues on the morpho- Mode of Action of Selected and Potential logical changes in the insect, especially those Insect-control Agents leading to its death. Activity was concerned with gaining more The new neurotransmitter substance proc- information on the mode of action of se- tolin, found in several species of insects, has lected insect-control agents in order to use been identified as a penta peptide and its them more effectively and with searching for identity has been confirmed by synthesis. new target sites for potential insect control. Several analogues were synthesized; all the In the former, further examination of DDT analogues showed weaker activity and no and several biodegradable analogues showed antagonistic activity. Proctolin is highl~ 9 them to be strong inhibitors of mitochondrial active, initiating contraction at 10- to 10- respiration. DDT seems to be primarily an M, and has a broader role than was pre- viously anticipated. energy-transfer inhibitor, which would ac- count for its inhibition of anion translocation. Insect pheromones and attractants are expected to play an important role in the After a decomposition product of the systemic fungicide benomyl was shown to be development of pest-monitoring techniques, thereby improving the effective use of insecti- an inhibitor of cholinesterase, another sys- temic fungicide, thiabendazole, was studied cides and reducing the amount required. In this program, an electrophysiological method and shown to have a weak reversible anti- cholinesterase activity and to be much less was developed that recorded a characteristic response (electroantenogram) that was more toxic to earthworms than benomyl. The precise in measuring the two isomers of the enzyme glutathione transferase, which plays sex pheromone of the European corn borer an important role in the detoxification of than were previous methods. This method many inhibitors including certain organo- was also used in evaluating the interaction of phosphorus insecticides, was shown to have mixtures and related materials that were an extensive range of substrates. A potent synthesized. The preliminary results empha- inhibitor of this enzyme has been designed size the critical nature of the appropriate and an analytical method has been devel- mixture of isomers for the strain in a particu- oped for measuring the significance of the lar location. In collaboration with the Re- enzyme in the detoxification of isomers of search Station, Vineland Station, Ont., phero- some organovinyl phosphate insecticides. mone caps for monitoring the codling moth Cytological investigations were continued were analyzed and losses were correlated on the European corn borer to find a basis with locality and temperature. A mixture of RESEARCH INSTITUTE, LONDON, ONT. 191 , , The investigation of phytoalexin produc- by the addition of a nitrogen source such as tion in Solanum melongena has shown rela- urea or potassium nitrate. tionships with other Solanaceae (potatoes, In the study of herbicide-microftora inter- tomatoes, tobacco), and continuing work action, recommended concentrations of linu- with Datura indicates that compounds from ron applied to soil not previously treated had this plant also fit into the same biogenetic no detrimental effect on test plants, whereas scheme. The principal phytoalexin, lubimin, linuron applied to heat-sterilized soil or soil was isolated and a structure, correcting a exposed to Yorlex (Nor-Am Agricultural previous one, proposed. Work having broad Products Ltd.) considerably affected plant implications is continuing on a study to growth. The inhibition, however, was not formulate a general theory covering stress always correlated with linuron concentration. compounds in solanaceous plants. By stepwise mutation with ultraviolet light, a Ultrastructural studies of resistant and bacterial isolate has been made that is susceptible interactions between pepper cells sensitive to low concentrations of linuron and and pathogens have shown profound differ- thus shows promise as a basis for a bioassay ences. Some of these differences have been method. correlated with capsidiol production in resist- ant interactions and it seems that capsidiol is probably produced fast enough to account ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY for resistance. A monitoring system has been set up to search the current literature for Management of Pesticides reports on fungal and plant toxins that concern agriculture. The activities of this program include Because the chitin of the fungal cell wall is determining the extent of pesticide residues unique, its biosynthesis is being investigated in soils, plants, and agricultural watersheds in the search for new target sites. Conditions as a result of agricultural use of pesticides for protoplast formation from Neurospora and developing more efficient methods of crassa have been found, and the regenerative pesticide management that will result in more sequence can be followed by phase contrast effective pest control with a minimum of microscopy and uptake of fluorescent dye. environmental contamination. The watershed studies were carried out in cooperation with the International Joint WEEDS Commission Task Force C sub watershed program. Water samples were collected at Herbicides and Plant Growth Regulators intervals from some established and some Previous work has shown that plant new areas in southwestern Ontario. Analyses growth as affected by 2,4-D and other for pesticides showed that transport of DDT growth regulators was correlated with spe- and atrazine was not proportional from the cific isoenzymes, and the enzymes associated tributary to the whole system. Concentrations with the membrane fraction have different of insecticides in the waters were low in parts characteristics from the soluble enzymes. per trillion, consistent with earlier findings. Efforts are being made to improve the The study at the Holland Marsh was contin- technique of isolating plant plasma mem- ued with analyses for insecticide residues in brane in order to better explain the effect of soil, water, sediment, and fish. DDT in fish certain herbicides and insecticides on plant from the drainage ditch exceeded 5 ppm but growth. fish from Cook Bay contained less than 0.25 In the translocation of soil-applied her- ppm. bicides such as atrazine, it has been generally To determine if there was a residue from assumed that translocation occurs in the the use of protect ant fungicides, various transpiration stream to the shoots of the crops growing on three different soils in plants. However, it was shown that rather southwestern Ontario were checked for resi- than just passing through the xylem vessels dues of dithiocarbamate and its breakdown of the stem and petiole to the leaf blade, the products ethylene thiourea (ETU) and ethyl- herbicide accumulated extensively in the ene thiuram monosulfide (ETM) and of stems and petioles. The herbicide seems to captan and phaltan. Only muck soils from follow a pathway similar to that for calcium the Holland Marsh showed any residue of and strontium. Transpiration was stimulated dithiocarbamate, whereas ETU and ETM 194 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 were not found. Only a vineyard showed any technique using the sex pheromone looks phaltan residue, whereas captan was absent. promising. Good progress was made in the joint Two programs aimed at developing more program with the Department of Environ- effective methods of pesticide management mental Biology, University of Guelph, to are in progress. In one program degree-days determine the feasibility of controlling the are being used to improve the timing of spray onion maggot utilizing the sterile-male tech- applications, and in the other a sex phero- nique. The mass-rearing technique was im- mone is being used to predict numbers of proved to boost production. A study of the adult corn borers present. From the three use of a chemisterilant rather than radiation localities in southwestern Ontario that were to induce sterilization gave promising results. studied using the degree-day information for At the small Keswick Marsh, where over 6 precise timing, effective control was obtained million sterilized flies were released, assess- with carbaryl at London. Although the size ments showed very little damage to the of populations in the investigations at the onions, whereas damage was severe in the other two locations presented problems, the control area. PUBLICA nONS Research Krupka, R. M. 1974. Methanesulfonyl fluoride Birnbaum, G. 1., Stoessl, A., Grover, S. H., and inactivation of acetylcholinesterase in the Stothers, J. B. 1974. The complete stereostruc- presence of substrates and reversible inhib- itors. Biochim. & Biophys. Acta 370: 197-207 . . ture of capsidiol. X-ray analysis and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance of eremophilane Krupka, R. M. 1974. On the anti-cholinesterase derivatives having trans-vicinal methyl groups. activity of benomyl. Pestic. Sci. 5:211-216. Can. J. Chern. 52(6):993-1005. Krupka, R. M., Hastings, F. L., Main, A. R., and Buckley, D. J., and McLeod, D. G. R. 1974. An Iverson, F. 1974. Nitrophenyl acetate hydroly- inexpensive digital temperature integrator. sis by acetylcholinesterase. A correction. J. IEEE Trans. Instrum. Meas. IM-23(3):245- 246. Agric. & Food Chern. 22(6): 1150. Dumas, T, and Bond, E. J. 1974. Separation of Krupka, R. M., and Hellenbrand, K. 1974. Specific phosphine from odour-producing impurities. versus non-specific interactions of mammalian 1. Stored Prod. Res. 10:67-68. and insect acetylcholinesterase with substrates and reversible inhibitors. Biochim. & Biophys. Elliott, J. M., Marks, C. F., and Tu, C. M. 1974. Acta 370:208-215. Effects of the nematicides DO and mocap on soil nitrogen, soil microflora, populations of Lee, T T. 1974. Cytokinin control in subcellular Pratylenchus penetrans and flue-cured tobacco. localization of indoleacetic acid oxidase and Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:801-809. peroxidase. Phytochemistry 13:2445-2453. Gilman, A. P., and Vardanis, A. 1974. Carbofuran. Nagai, T, and Graham, W. G. 1974. Insect Comparative toxicity and metabolism in the visceral muscle. Fine structure of the proc- worms Lumbricus .terrestris L. and Eisenia todeal muscle fibres. J. Insect Physiol. joetida S. J. Agric. & Food Chern. 22:625-628. 20: 1999-2013. Hellenbrand, K., and Krupka, R. M. 1974. The pH Starratt, A. N., and Loschiavo, S. R. 1974. The dependence of an insect (Musca domestica) production of aphidicolin by Nigrospora acetylcholinesterase. Compo Biochem. & Phys- sphaerica. Can. J. Microbiol. 20(3):416-417. iol. 47,B:271-278. Stoessl, A., Rock, G., and Fisch, M. H. 1974. An Higgins, V. J., Stoessl, A:, and Heath, M. C. 1974. efficient synthesis of orchinol and other orchid Conversion of phaseollin to phaseollinisofla- phenanthrenes. Chern. Ind. (Lond.), Sept. van by Stemphylium botryosum. Phytopathol- 703-704. ogy 64(1): 105- 107. I Stoessl, A., Stothers, J. B., and Ward, E. W. B. Jones, D. R., Graham, W. G., and Ward, E. W. B. 1974. Lubimin: A phytoalexin of several 1974. Ultrastructural changes in pepper cells in Solanaceae. Structure revision and biogenetic a compatible interaction with Phytophthora relationships. J. Chern. Soc. Chern. Commun. capsici. Phytopathology 64(8): 1084-1090. 709-710. RESEARCH INSTITUTE, LONDON, ONT. 195 Thompson, A. R., and Sans, W. W. 1974. Effects Miscellaneous of soil insecticides in southwestern Ontario on non-target invertebrates: Earthworms in pas- Harris, C. R. 1974. The state of entomology in ture. Environ. Entomol. 3(2):305-308. Canada. Bull. Entoniol. Soc. Can. 6: 144- 146. Harris, C. R. 1974. Ontario Pesticides Advisory Tomlin, A. D., and Gore, F. L. 1974. Effects of six Committee. Review of the control of Japanese insecticides and a fungicide on the number beetles in Canada. and biomass of earthworms in pasture. Bull. Environ. Contam. & Toxicol. 12(4):487-492. Harris, C. R. 1974. Ontario Pesticides Advisory Committee. Review of soil insects in Ontario, Ward, E. W. B., Unwin, C. H., and Stoessl, A. 1900-73. 1973. Postinfectional inhibitors from plants. VII. Tolerance of capsidiol by fungal patho- Harris, C. R. 1974. Ontario Pesticides Advisory gens of pepper fruit. Can. J. Bot. 51:2327- Committee. Review of research programs 2332. funded by OPAC, 1973. 196 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Engineering Research Service Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF C. G. E. DOWNING, B.E., M.Sc., F.A.S.A.E., Director F.E.I.C., F.C.S.A.E. K. B. MITCHELL Administration Development and Advisory Section J. E. TURNBULL, B.S.A., M.S.A. Head of Section; Structures M. FELDMAN, B.E., M.Sc. Mechanization F. R. HORE, B.S.A., M.S. Water resources H. A. JACKSON, B.Sc. (Eng.), M.Sc. Storage structures K. W. LIEVERS, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Systems analysis P. A. PHILLIPS, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Waste management J. A. MUNROE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Livestock structures Research Service Section P. W. VOISEY, M.I., Mech.E. Head of Section; Instrumentation E. J. BRACH, D.E.E., Dip.Mil.Electronics Electronics D. J. BUCKLEY, RE., M.Sc. Electronics W. S. REID, RSc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Mechanical G. E. TIMBERS, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Food process engineering Technical and Scientific Information Section G. F. MONTGOMERY, B.Sc. (Agr.) Head of Section Departure J. H. HUTT, B.Sc. (Eng.), M.Sc. Systems analysis Resigned November 1974 ENGINEERING RESEARCHSERVICE 197 INTRODUCTION Thirty-eight contracts were established this year as we continued to phase in the new national program on development, research, and evaluation of agricultural mechanization (DREAM). The projects contracted were those given the highest priority among proposals submitted from the various regions in Canada; total expenditure was $400,000. The contracts support basic research and development work as well as evaluation of equipment and measurement of performance data. Contractors include universities, provincial government departments, industrial concerns, and independent organizations. Major areas of work that have been contracted include soil tillage, grain seeding and harvesting, mechanization of fruit and vegetable operations, forage harvesting equipment, waste and energy, farmstead equipment, and control of weeds. Significant technology transfer was achieved through the preparation and distribution of 22 sets of plans and 75 leaflets by the Canada Plan Service, and through revision of the Canadi(ln Codefor Farm Buildings. Technical consultations at national and international levels and the development of a number of instruments and items of equipment for research have contributed to transfer of research and technology. This report summarizes developments in 1974. Additional information and copies of the publications listed may be obtained by writing to Engineering Research Service, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. KIA OC6. C. G. E. Downing Director DEVELOPMENT AND ADVISORY A simulation analysis was expanded to include five systems for handling forage Developmental Research (wilted silage, giant bales, regular bales, chopped hay in a drying hay tower, and The Service continued to contribute man- stacks). Simulation and analysis of western power and equipment for research on forage grain harvesting and handling systems con- harvesting by various systems at the Re- tinued. search Station, Melfort, Sask., but some planning and engineering activities con- Measurements and experience on injection cerned with feeding were taken over by the of liquid manure between rows of growing station's engineer. Hay for filling the hay corn at the Greenbelt Farm of the Animal tower was chopped to a longer length than Research Institute (ARI) led to preparation previously; this solved some problems of of a proposal for a front-mounted injector. dustiness and instability but adversely af- The suggested design could eliminate many fected the distributor, so that filling was of the disadvantages of injectors now availa- slower. ' ble for work in corn. Construction of a Data were collected for one season on the prototype will be requested on a contract to be issued through the Department of Supply drying rate at various cutting widths of hay harvested with a self-propelled windrower and Services. and conditioner. After comparable curing Data were obtained over 3 yr on corn periods and identical weather, the hay in silage losses and capacity of concrete tower swaths 2.4 m (8 ft) wide was about 3-5% silos 9 X 24 m (30 X. 80 ft) in size at the drier than that in 4.9-m (16-ft) swaths. ARI Greenbelt Farm. The data indicate that More information was gathered on the dry matter capacity is not dependent on the effect of the type of crop and its moisture moisture content of silage, and confirm that content on big-package systems (stacks, giant the table that relates silage densities to depth, bales), as compared with silage and tradi- published in the Canadian Code for Farm tional bale systems. Three types of stackers Buildings (1970), gives a reasonable estimate were used to gain more experience of the of tower silo capacity. In 1974, the experi- losses caused by rain and wind. ment was extended to include storage losses 198 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 and densities in large horizontal silos, with Canada Plan Service and without mechanical packing. Studies on porous ceiling ventilation, The Canada Plan Service (CPS) Design started previously at Ottawa and Norman- Center, in cooperation with the Information din, Que., were extended to include a free- Division and committees of provincial exten- stall barn for beef cows at Kapuskasing, sion engineers, prepared and distributed 22 Ont.; during the winter at Kapuskasing, barn new sets of plans and 75 catalog leaflets. The temperature and humidity were controlfed CPS plans and literature updated were adequately when outside temperatures were mainly in the series on beef, dairy, sheep, as low as -29°e. A small NRC thermosi- and special structures; a particular aim was phon-type ventilation heat exchanger in a to replace the old bound catalog with new poultry building at the ARI Greenbelt Farm loose-leaf leaflets. reclaimed about 7 kW heat energy from the A 3-day course in CPS drafting standards exhaust air, giving improved cold weather and illustrative techniques was presented to ventilation. four provincial design draftsmen (two from Ontario and two from Nova Scotia). One Designs and prefabrication procedures 2-day seminar outlining Code requirements were developed for structural ceiling dia- and CPS structural design methods was phragms made of plywood or sheet steel. presented to extension engineers from Al- The diaphragms are intended to resist wind- berta and British Columbia, and a 3-day storm forces on long rectangular farm build- seminar on controlled environment for ani- ings such as caged chicken layer units and hog finishing barns. mal production buildings was presented to the extension engineers from the government The Farm Building Standards Committee of Ontario and Ontario Hydro. completed revisions for the Canadian Code for Farm Buildings (1975). A second edition of the Canada Animal Waste Management RESEARCH SERVICE Guide was published; new material included manure storages from the Canada Plan Equipment for Mechanization of Field Service. and Laboratory Experiments A Canadian Government Specifications Board standard was developed for heavy- A table to convert pounds per bushel to kilograms per hectolitre was prepared for duty corrugated plastic tubing used for reporting cereal plot data in metric units. subsurface disposal of domestic sewage effluent. Preliminary results from a long-term Drying rooms were designed to handle grain samples. Apparatus was designed to apply study of field drainage at the Research slurry treatments to seed. A hand-pushed Station, Harrow, Ont., and other research precision fertilizer dispenser was developed. results on the structural performance of plastic drainage tubing were used in develop- The 0yjord bulk feeder was evaluated for ing this standard. applymg fertilizer and the Craftsman seed divider was tested in experimental plot Systems engineering analysis of alternative seeder applications. The Oregon plot systems for handling dairy cattle manure thresher was modified to process forage confirmed the computer methods used but samples. A Hege cereal combine was revealed the need for better input informa- adapted and tested for harvesting soybean tion. On-farm data were gathered on the way test plots. dairy free-stall manure is handled; barn A photosynthesis chamber was constructed scraping time for a 140-cow herd averaged to maintain the environment of six individual 0.77 h/day, whereas loading and field plants at a selected temperature in the range spreading of I-yr manure Rroduction, of 1.5-24.0°C while CO levels are moni- amounting to 2143 m3 (76,680 ft\ required 2 tored. A chamber, based on an upright 120 man-hours. freezer, was developed to test instruments at The program for measurement of runoff temperatures ranging from -20 to 27°C and from feedlots and manure storage in Ontario controlled within ::I::0.2°e. A portable dis- continued. Pollution potential from applica- penser was assembled to supply precise tions of manure to land was further evalu- quantities of water to control humidity in ated at sites on the ARI Greenbelt Farm and tobacco curing chambers; water supply pres- Central Experimental Farm. sure was used to operate the mechanism. A ENGINEERING RESEARCH SERVICE 199 table oscillating at 0-5 cycles/min was made in the development of instrumental assembled to agitate capsules containing techniques to identify cultivars of oat seed. pupae and their liquid diet. Ground seeds are exposed to radiant energy at a wavelength of 2400 angstroms, which Mechanization Applied to Crop and causes the sample to fluoresce. Spectral 'Animal Production analysis of the emitted energy in the 3000- to A seeder to plant narrow beds of "mini- SOOO-angstrom wave band was found to carrots" was developed to increase harvest- discriminate between six common oat ing efficiency and yield of this crop, and the cultivars. 0yjord seeder was adapted for operation in Processing and Quality Measurement horticultural nurseries. A six-row belt-type lifter for tree nursery stock was completed An instrument was developed to measure and evaluated, and use of waste from wood eggshell roughness by pneumatic techniques, pulp processing as a mulch for nurseries was to eliminate human errors when this quality examined. factor is judged. Methods of monitoring egg A system for harvesting and handling weight standards were examined and a single-row whole-plant tobacco was devel- special scale was developed, but it was oped and tested. The system minimizes concluded that commercial top-loading bal- manpower requirements in this normally ances provide the best results. Factors that labor-intensive operation; the plant is cut, affect the measurement of eggshell deforma- chopped, and elevated to a bulk bin, which is tion to predict eggshell strength were mea- then placed in a standard kiln or forms the sured and equations were developed to kiln for curing the tobacco. Methods of improve the accuracy of predictions by this drying whole-plant chopped tobacco in both empirical test. laboratory and commercial quantities were Attempts were made to cut peaches by evaluated, and a sugar cane cutter was tested high-pressure water jet and laser, and the and found useful for sorting the tobacco water jet was found to have potential appli- after curing. Systems for producing homoge- cation in processing fruits and vegetables. nized sheet tobacco were examined and a Systems were formulated for bruise detection pilot plant system was proposed. and coring of apples. Maple sap and cran- A harvest aid was developed to improve berry juice were concentrated by reverse efficiency in harvesting apples for the fresh osmosis and the process was found to be market. The apples are placed in bulk bins, suitable for commercial applications. The which are elevated, transported through the effect of storage on firmness of onions and picking platform, and unloaded mechani- the influence of variety on firmness of cally. Preliminary trials showed that about a tomatoes were measured. 50% greater volume of apples was harvested An instrument was developed to measure per man-hour with this system than by the the pressability of grapes. Friction between conventional method with ladders. The ma- the test samples and the surfaces of texture- chine is also being used as an aid in pruning test cells was found to have a significant fruit trees. effect on the readings obtained. A simplified Systems were developed to record the rate instrument was constructed for measuring of milk flow from individual cows in the the creep behavior of cheese, which gives an milking parlor. Two kinds were made, one indication of firmness. Cohesiveness of gel- with use of a photoelectric detector and the type products was measured by a new other a capacitance probe. Means of identi- instrument that uses penetration to record fying cattle were surveyed and recommenda- rupture characteristics. A meat tenderness tions made for Canadian conditions. Equip- tester was constructed that enables samples ment for pumping cattle rumen to relieve to be tested rapidly. The Warner-Bratzler bloat and grain overload was tested and meat shear test was analyzed and the conclu- improved. sions, supported experimentally, show that the meat is subjected to tension, not shear. Instrumentation An objective method was developed to A new instrument for detecting catalase measure textural characteristics of wieners activity was evaluated to determine its func- and results were found to agree with sensory tional reliability. A major breakthrough was evaluations. 200 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Methods of drying mushrooms were tested ducted to locate related research and availa- and an optimum process was recommended. The vapor pressure and moisture equilibria ble information. Support was also provided of rapeseed were established to provide basic for development and advisory programs data for the design of processing systems. within this esta blishment. The centrifuge used to measure the moisture- inbibing properties of flour was further Improved classification and indexing improved. Tests showed that readings from this instrument vary for a number of reasons schemes are being developed to provide and the method is useful only for preliminary better access to the section's collection of screening tests because it is not very accurate: A means was developed to record the energy agricultural engineering documents. Many used to operate any labor~tory extruder. items can now be located either by key word or by general subject classification. TECHNICAL AND SCIENTIFIC INFORMA TION A compilation of agricultural engineering The new program of agricultural mechani- research and development projects being zation has created new demands for back- conducted in Canada was updated and ground information, and searches were con- published as ERDA Supplement no. 7. PUBLICA TIONS Research Buckley, D. J., and Trottier, R. 1974. An accurate integrator with analog output for use with Brach, E. J. 1974. Remote sensing: History and digital data loggers. Agric. Meteoro!. 13:87- objectives. Proc. Symp. In!. Fed. Automatic 89. Control, Saskatoon, Sask. pp. 1-14. Crete, R., Voisey, P. W., Bernier, R., and Larmond, Brach, E. J. 1974. Measurement of agricultural E. 1974. A new technique for evaluating crops by remote spectral techniques. Proc. 3rd changes in onion firmness and a comparison Annu. Conf. Remote Sensing of Earth Re- with sensory measurements. Hortic. Sci. sources, Tullahoma, Tenn. 3:297-318. 9:223-225. Brach, E. J., and S!. Amour, G. 1974. Hardware Emmons, D. B., Beckett, D., Timbers, G. E., and and software interface of a spectrophotometer Campbell, D. 1974. Analysis of skim milk system to a PDP- I I digital computer. Trans. powder for moisture. Proc. In!. Congr. Dairy Ins!. Electr. & Electron. Eng. IM-23(l):28-32. Sci., Delhi, India. pp. 523-524. Brach, E. 1., Voisey, P. W., and Poirier, P. 1974. Electronic integrator to measure environmen- Evans, G. c., deMan, J. M., Rasper, V., and tal characteristics. Agric. Meteoro!. 13: 169- Voisey, P. W. 1974. An improved dough 179. extensigraph. J. Can. Ins!. Food Sci. Techno!' 7:263-268. Buckley, D. J., and Hunsaker, W. G. 1974. A telemetry system for automatically recording Evans, G. c., deMan, J. M., and Voisey, P. W. copulation in sheep. Med. Bio!. Eng. 12:837- 1974. Study of the mixing behaviour of some 842. foods using an electronic recording mixer. J. Can. Ins!. Food Sci. Techno!. 7:175-177. Buckley, D. J., and McLeod, D. G. R. 1974. An inexpensive digital temperature integrator. Jackson, H. A. 1974. Moisture accumulation within Trans. Inst. Electr. & Electron. Eng. IM- and adhesion of sprayed rigid polyurethane 23:245-246. insulation. J. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng. 16:33-37. ENGINEERING RESEARCH SERVICE 201 Pearson, A. M., deMan, J. M., Voisey, P. W., and Voisey, P. W., and Kilborn, R. H. 1974. An Biggs, D. A. 1974. Effect of composition and electronic recording Grain Research Labora- temperature on the scooping qualities of ice tory mixer. Cereal Chern. 51 :841-848. cream. J. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. 7:230- 231. Voisey, P. W., and Larmond, E. 1974. Examina- tion of factors affecting performance of the Phillips, P. A., and Ogilvie, J. R. 1974. Modelling Warner-Bratzler meat shear test. J. Can. Inst. short-term minimum aerobic processing of Food Sci. Techno!. 7:243-249. swine manure. J. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng. 16:86- Voisey, P. W., and Larmond, E. 1974. Some 90. observations on texture test cell interchange- Reid, W. S., and Betteridge, K. J. 1974. A versatile ability. J. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. 7: 16- large animal operating facility. Vet. Rec. 95:7- 21. II. Voisey, P. W., Larmond, E., and Stark, R. 1974. Reid, W. S., and Buckley, D. J. 1974. A laser light Sensory and instrumental measurement of source seed counter. J. Agric. Eng. Res. French fry limpness. Am. Potato J. 51 :78-89. 19:265-269. Voisey, P. W., and Reid, W. S. 1974. Effect of friction on the performance of texture test Reid, W. S., and Downey, R. K. 1974. A multi- cells. J. Texture Stud. 5:239-248. oriface rapeseed counter. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:215-217. Voisey, P. W., and Walker, E. K. 1974. Evaluation of a new technique for measuring compress- Reid, W. S., and Stark, R. 1974. Design and ibility of cigarettes. Tob. Sci. 18: 154-156. development of a batch fluidized bed freezer and fluidized bed dryer for diced food pro- Walker, E. K., and Voisey, P. W. 1974. Influence ducts. 1. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. 7:236- of moisture levels on the filling value of cut 242. tobacco. Tob. Sci. 18:37-39. Timbers, G. E. 1974. Frozen particulate liquid Walker, E. K., and Voisey, P. W. 1974. Measure- products. J. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. ment of cigarette firmness and the relationship 7:68-71. of cigarette firmness to filling value of the cut tobacco. Tob. Sci. 18:128-131. Timbers, G. E., Kitson, J. A., Hocking, R. P., and Wright, H. S. 1974. Pilot plant production of Wilner, J., and Brach, E. J. 1974. Hardiness of fruit aroma concentrates. Proc. 4th Int. Congr. roots in relation to shoots of container-grown Food Sci. Techno!., Madrid, Spain. 15 pp. plants by an electric method. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:281-289. Turnbull, J. E., and Hickman, C. G. 1974. Ventilia- tion of dairy barns with porous ceiling inlet Miscellaneous systems. Part I. J. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng. 16:91-95. Bernier, R., and Hergert, G. 1973. Effet de la densite de population sur Ie rendement et la Voisey, P. W. 1974. Measurement of pea tender- qualite des mini-carottes. Resume des re- ness. 6. An observation on pea tenderometer cherches en cultures fruitieres et maraicheres, performance in relation to standardization. J. Station de Recherches, St-Jean, Que. 2:78. Texture Stud. 5:51-59. Brach, E. J. 1974. Development of techniques and Voisey, P. W., and Buckley, D. 1. 1974. A system equipment to measure optical characteristics for recording deformations in texture tests. 1. of agricultural plants and products. Eng. Res. Texture Stud. 5:61-75. Servo Rep. 6842-1. 31 pp. Voisey, P. W., and Buckley, D. J. 1974. Apparatus Buckley, D. J. 1974. Evaluation of the catalasime- for routine measurement of food deformation ter electronics. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7424. 7 in texture tests at low deformation rates. J. pp. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. 7: 162-165. Engineering Research Service. 1974. Current agri- cultural engineering research and development Voisey, P. W., and Hunt, J. R. 1974. Measurement projects in Canada - 1974. ERDA Supp!. 7. of eggshell strength. J. Texture Stud. 5: 135- 29 pp. 182. Engineering Research Service. 1974. Eggs, onions Voisey, P. W., Kamill, B. S., Evans, G., and and Lord Kelvin. Instrum. App!. Dig. Day- deMan, J. M. 1974. A dynamometer instru- tronic Corp., Dayton, Ohio. Ser. 800(4): 1-2. ment for measurement of textural characteris- tics of foods. J. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Techno!. Feldman, M. 1974. Rapeseed swathing problems. 7:250-253. Canadex 149.51. 202 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Feldman, M., and Coates, W. 1974. 1973 Melfort Hergert, G. B., and Walker, E. K. 1974. Investi- forage project progress report. Eng. Res. Serv. gations of a method for whole plant harvest Rep. 7020-434. 10 pp. of flue-cured tobacco. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7311-1. 16 pp. Feldman, M., and Reed, W. B. 1974. Distribution of wild oat seeds during cereal crop swathing Hergert, G. B., and Wright, G. R. 1974. Applica- and combining. Pap. 74-303. Annu. ConI'. tion of l/lyjord seeding system to horticultural Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Que. 10 pp. nurseries. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7233-4. 7 pp. Feldman, M., and Robertson, J. A. 1974. Compari- Hore, F. R. 1974. Animal manure and the environ- son of forage quantity and quality using ment. Proc. Soc. Can. 7th Symp. on Waste silage, chopped hay, stacker and bale systems Recycling and the Environment, Ottawa. pp. in Saskatchewan. Pap. 74-302. Annu. ConI'. 95-97, 114. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Que. 12 pp. Horc, F. R. 1974. Development of a Canadian Feldman, M., and Thorlacius, S. O. 1974. Effect of standard for corrugated plastic drainage tub- moisture content on big package and baled ing. Int. Comm. Irrigation and Drainage. Bull. hay systems in Saskatchewan. Pap. 74-310. pp.88-89. Annu. ConI'. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Hore, F. R., ed. 1974. Newsletter NO.3. Can. Natl. Que. 17 pp. Comm. Irrigation and Drainage. 7 pp. Grunder, A. A., Gavora, J. S., Spencer, J. L., and Hore, F. R., ed. 1974. Canada animal waste Turnbull, J. E. 1974. Prevention of Marek's management guide. Guide canadien pour disease using a filtered air positive pressure l'usage des dechets d'origine animale. Agric. house. Abstr. 63rd Annu. ConI'. Poult. Sci. Can. Publ. 1534 (Rev.). 22 pp. Assoc., Morgantown, W. Va. 9 pp. Jackson, H. A., and Lessard, 1. R. 1974. Capacity Hergert, G. B. 1974. Apparatus for application of and losses in a 30' x 80' tower silo. Pap. 74- slurry treatments to seed. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 204. Annu. ConI'. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. 6413.3 pp. Foy, Que. 7 pp. Hergert, G. B. 1974. Hand pushed precision fertil- Larkin, B. S., Turnbull, 1. E., and Gowe, R. S. izer dispenser. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7233-5. 5 1974. A thermosiphon heat exchanger for use pp. in animal shelters. Pap. 74-210. Annu. ConI'. Hergert, G. B. 1974. Evaluation of the Craftsman Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Que. 16 pp. divider for applications on experimental plot MacLean, A. J., and Hore, F. R. 1974. Manures seeders. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7233-2. 5 pp. and compost. Agric. Can. Publ. 868 (Rev.). 14 Hergert, G. B. 1974. Evaluation of the l/lyjord bulk pp. feeder for fertilizer experiments. Eng. Res. Phillips, P. A. 1974. Construction costs of Canada Servo Rep. 7233-3. 7 pp. Plan Service bulk manure storages. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 6805-466. 19 pp. Hergert, G. B., and Bernier, R. 1974. Mechani- zation of baby carrot production. Eng. Res. Phillips, P. A. 1974. Liquid fraction removal from Servo Rep. 7302-7. II pp. . bulk manure storages. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7405-454. 16 pp. Hergert, G. B., and Bernier, R. 1974. Mecanisation de la production des mini-carrottes. Servo Phillips, P. A., Lievers, K. W., and Hutt, J. H. Rech. Tech. Rapp. 7302-7. 11 pp. 1974. Critical path analysis of dairy manure handling cost. Pap. 74-220. Annu. ConI'. Can. Hergert, G. B., and DeVries, H. H. 1974. Mechani- Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Que. 17 pp. cal details of a belt type nursery stock lifter. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 6721-2. 14 pp. Quick, G. R., and Montgomery, G. F. 1974. Bibliography on combines and grain harvest- Hergert, G. B., and Morgan, P. T. L. 1974. Metric ing. Spec. Publ. Am. Soc. Agric. Eng. 84 pp. conversion. Pounds per bushel to kilograms per hectolitre. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7410. I p. Reid, W. S. 1974. Seed counters aid research. Can. Agric.19(1):24-27. Hergert, G. B., and Robertson, R. W. 1974. Evaluation of the Oregon plot thresher for Reid, W. S. 1974. Report on problems of im- threshing forage samples. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. provement in beef cattle marking. Eng. Res. 6915.9 pp. Servo Rep. 7407. 22 pp. Hergert, G. B., and Walker, E. K. 1974. Whole Reid, W. S. 1974. Bibliography on fluidized bed plant harvest of flue-cured tobacco. Lighter freezing and drying. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 44( 4): 17-21. 6905.13 pp. ENGINEERING RESEARCH SERVICE 203 Thuns, G. H. K., and Feldman, M. 1974. Obser- Turnbull, J. E. 1974. Systems for feeding whey to vations on the construction and utilization of livestock. Whey Utilization Symp., Ottawa. hay towers in central Europe. Pap. 74-203. Food Res. Inst. 5 pp. Annu. Conf. Can. Soc. Agric. Eng., Ste. Foy, Que. 8 pp. Turnbull, J. E. 1974. Manure handling systems that control odor. Systemes d'evacuation du fumier Timbers, G. E. 1973. Peeling of tomatoes for enrayant les odeurs. Canadex 725. canning. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7213. 17 pp. Turnbull, J. E. 1974. Manure handling systems Timbers, G. E. 1973. High quality cranberry juice which control odor. Proc. 2nd Int. Farm concentration using reverse osmosis. Eng. Res. Management Congr., Guelph, Ont. 13 pp. Servo Rep. 7224. 16 pp. Turnbull, J. E., and Jackson, H. A. 1974. Procedure Timbers, G. E. 1974. Bibliography of recent for design of plywood diaphragm ceilings for publications on freon and cryogenic freezing farm buildings. Structural Design Seminar. of foods. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7029. 8 pp. Eng. Res. Servo Banff, Alta. 13 pp. Timbers, G. E. 1974. Cryogenic and freon freezing Turnbull, J. E., and Metzger, 1. 1974. External ring of food. Food in Canada 34(3):26-30. foundation for tower silos. Conv. Natl. Silo Assoc., Toronto. 4 pp. Timbers, G. E. 1974. Some comments on water jet and laser cutting of peaches. Eng. Res. Serv. Voisey, P. W. 1974. New concept in harvesting Rep. 7427. 7 pp. flue-cured tobacco. Lighter 44(4): 15-16. Timbers, G. E., and Hocking, R. P. 1974. Vapour Voisey, P. W. 1974. Design details of the Ottawa pressure and moisture equilibria in rapeseed. pea tenderometer. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 6820- Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7142-2. 37 pp. 8.39 pp. Timbers, G. E., Hocking, R. P., and Stark, R. 1974. Voisey, P. W. 1974. Readout stability of the Preliminary concentration of maple sap using Ottawa pea tenderometer. Eng. Res. Servo reverse osmosis. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7328. 13 Rep. 6820-9. 8 pp. pp. Voisey, P. W., and Larmond, E. 1974. Sensory and Timbers, G. E., and Robertson, G. D. 1974. objective evaluation of cooked spaghetti tex- Mushroom drying. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7417. ture. Proc. Can. Ita!' Durum Symp., Winnipeg. 14pp. 27 pp. Timbers, G. E., Walker, E. K., and Robertson, G. Voisey, P. W., Morgan, 1., and Balke, K. M. 1974. D. 1974. Tobacco drying - A report on Summary of projects and publications to 1974. several laboratory drying methods. Eng. Res. Eng. Res. Servo Rep. 7400. (Rev. issue 7400A). Servo Rep. 7120.10 pp. 162 pp. 204 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Ornamentals Research Service Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF A. CHAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director Administration J. S. ANDERSON Chief of Section B. W. JABLONSKI,B.L.A. Landscape Architect Ornamentals Research J. M. MOLNAR, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Chief of Section; Floriculture A. T. BOLTON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pathology of ornamental plants T. BURNETT, B.S.A., Ph.D. Entomology of ornamental plants C. CHONG, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Nursery research W. E. CORDUKES, B.Sc., M.Sc. Turfgrass E. V. PARUPS, M.S.A., Ph.D. Physiology of ornamental plants F. J. SVIDDA (Miss), Ph.D. . Ornamental plant breeding Departure J. WILNER, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Frost hardiness and nursery Retired May 1974 research ORNAMENTALSRESEARCHSERVICE 205 INTRODUCTION During 1974 the recruiting for a team to work on ornamental plants was completed. This is the first time in the history of the Department that researchers on floriculture, nursery, and turf have been brought together with the full-time cooperation of a plant pathologist and an entomologist. During the year, good progress was made in identifying the major problems, and projects were started to solve them. Evaluation of ornamental plants continued in the Arboretum and Botanic Gardens. The vacancy created by the retirement of the curator slowed down the overall program. Correspondence should be addressed: Director, Ornamentals Research Service, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. KIA OC6. Allan Chan Director ORNAMENTAL PLANTS nearly all aborted before they were fully developed. During the fall of 1974, the Floriculture plants were given supplementary light of Promising mutations of the Rieger begonia 18.6 Ix (200 ft-c) for 16 hi day. Under this and the rose cv. Forever Yours were induced regime Regina again remained vegetative, by X radiation. Two mutants were obtained but Orchid initiated buds that continued to from Begonia elatior cv. Renaissance after develop into normal flowers. irradiation with 3000 R. Rose cuttings ex- posed to 1500 R prod uced several color Tissue Culture mutations of Forever Yours. The more Callus cultures of tissue of Cyclamen promising mutations are being increased and persicum Mill. established on solid media evaluated for flower production and quality. grew rapidly and after 2 mo started to Cultural experiments on cyclamens showed differentiate root and shoot initials. However that when they were grown at 18-21°C (65- the tissue did not develop into plantlets. 70°F), they flowered earlier without signifi- Meristem cultures of cultivars of Begonia cant reduction of quality and tolerated warm elatior Reiger were also established on both temperatures longer than plants grown at solid and liquid mediums. The meristems 13-16° (55-60°F). Enrichment of the green- grew rapidly, especially in the liquid medi- house atmosphere with CO enhanced 2 ums, and within 90 days plantlets with growth at the early stages of plant develop- massive roots and shoots developed. The ment. small plantlets were then transferred to solid Gerberas grown in a soil temperature of mediums in culture jars. Contamination at 24°C (75°F) increased in yield by 23% and this stage was extremely high, and attempts flowered 10 days earlier than plants grown in to reduce it by sterilizing the small plantlets a soil temperature of 18°C (65°F). Diseases were harmful to the tissue. Several alternate caused by soil-borne organisms were not procedures are being investigated to reduce observed on plants grown at the higher the high mortality rate of the begonia temperature, whereas plants grown at the plantlets. lower temperature were affected by Pythium and Rhizoctonia. Physiology of Ornamental Plants Freesia grown under supplementary light for 16 hlday started to flower 3 wk earlier The experimental compound 2,3-dihydro- and had about 30% more flowers per plant 5,6-diphenyl-I,4-oxathiin shows promise as a and more florets per stem than plants grown dis budding agent for standard chrysanthe- under natural day lengths in winter. mums. Spray treatment did not remove all Alstroemeria plants were grown under lateral buds, but it reduced the number that natural short-day conditions in the fall of must be removed manually. Timing, dosage, 1973 without supplementary light. Under and varietal differences were major factors. this regime cv. Regina remained vegetative, The use of benzyl isothiocyanate and other whereas Orchid initiated flower buds that isothiocyanates as additives to other floral 206 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 preservative components increased signifi- the best of the 27 multiflora double group. cantly the vase life of cut carnations. This There were 160 cultivars in the grandiflora preservative activity appears to be related to single group with Rose Perfection and Sugar the antimicrobial and ethylene synthesis Daddy rating highest, and F1oriday, Happi- inhibiting activities of the isothiocyanates. ness, Midnight Star, Pink Cameo, and Pink Effects of the cut-flower preservative Magic second. Of the 34 grandiflora doubles Flower Care varied significantly during the Blue Crown and Valentine were the best two. different stages of the production-market- Carnival Mixed and Extra Dwarf Beauty ing-consumer cycle. The vase life of cut roses Crimson were the top rated in Phlox drum- was extended the longest when the preserv- mondii Hook., and Dwarf Mixed and P. ative was used during the home consumer nana compacta cv. Fireball were second. period. During the wholesale and retail marketing periods extension in vase life was Turf shorter. The effects of the preservative were lowest during the immediate postharvest Isobutylidene diurea as a turf fertilizer. period. When the preservative was used Isobutylidene diurea (I.B.D.U.), an organic during the wholesale and the home consumer condensation product of urea and isobutyral- periods, the final size of the flowers in- dehyde (31-0-0), was tested as a slow-release creased. A regression equation was used to fertilizer for turf. In the greenhouse, the N calculate vase life at any concentration of content of tissue of Fylking Kentucky blue- preservative used. grass was higher during the first 30 days when grown at 19°C than at 10°C on Up- Ornamental Plant Breeding lands sand and Grenville loam. However, Weigela cv. Purpurea was selfed and after 30 days, the N content of tissue grown crossed with Centennial and Dropmore Pink. at these temperatures was quite similar. After Selfing of Purpurea yielded 22 seedlings with 3 mo, the N content and total dry matter of mainly purple foliage and 8 low-growing plant tissue resulting from I.B.D. U. treat- seedlings. The cross Purpurea X Centennial ments were higher than those resulting from provided 22 seedlings with predominantly applications of ammonium nitrate. Applica- purple foliage but only one low-growing tions of the fertilizer broadcast directly on seedling. The cross Purpurea X Dropmore turf were as effective for growth as similar Pink produced 20 seedlings with chiefly rates incorporated initially with the soil. In purple foliage and 3 low-growing seedlings. both field and greenhouse experiments, a The segregation of these characters is com- visible response was shown to particle size of plex. Purple foliage seems to be partly applied I.B.D. U.: the larger the particle, the dominant. Modifying factors mask the segre- greater the response. In the field, at compara- gation of growth habit. ble rates of N, P, and K, turf quality and growth were similar to slow-release 10-6-4 in Evaluation of Annual Plants 1972 and superior in 1973 and 1974. The trials this year focused on garden Persistence of native plant ecotypes as turf geraniums, Pelargonium hortorum Bailey (42 grasses. In 1965 some 35 native Kentucky cultivars were grown from cuttings and 50 bluegrass and fescue ecotypes were sprigged from seed), petunias (356 cultivars), and as turf grasses in a lawn, in order to study Phlox drummondii Hook. (21 cultivars). their establishment and persistency. The Geranium cv. Quest grown from cuttings lawn was mowed regularly but received only scored the highest rating, and Eleanor and minimal fertilization and supplementary Sincerity were second. Sprinter was the best watering. By 1974, two selections of Festuca of the geraniums grown from seed, closely longifolia Thuill., six of creeping red fescue, followed by three Carefree's, Deep Salmon, and seven of the Kentucky bluegrasses were Bright Pink, and Crimson. still persisting vigorously. Thus many. of our Because of weather favorable to Botrytis, native ecotypes could be used for general the petunia cultivars with high resistance to purpose turf, particularly at low levels of the disease scored well. Of the 121 multiflora management. Some of the fescue lines have singles Plum Dandy, Groovy, Swissair Im- since been used to formulate the cvs. Dur- proved, and Resisto Rose-Pink were the best. lawn and Carlawn, introductions of the Lavender Delight and White Empress were Canada Department of Agriculture. ORNAMENTALS RESEARCH SERVICE 207 Entomology resistant to high concentrations of benomyl in laboratory assays. In these assays, several Development of a control program for the other isolates were not completely controlled twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae by this fungicide. The' fungicide captan Koch, through the manipulation of its preda- completely controlled the B. cinerea strain tor, Amblyseius fallacis (Garman), was con- isolated from geranium, but several tolerant tinued. Because previous studies indicated colonies developed when a spore suspension that the frequent addition of small numbers of the isolate from begonia was planted on a of predators to the natural prey population medium containing high concentrations of might be effective in reducing prey abun- this chemical. Investigations are continuing in dance, the propagation of self-sustaining order to determine if resistance to fungicides colonies of A. fallacis on a nonpest food was is genetically acquired or exists because of a investigated. One method of propagation large number of physiological strains of the depended on constructing a food chain in fungus already present in nature. which A. fallacis fed on the mite Tarsonemus confusus (Ewing), which, in turn, fed on a Persistence of Pythium in Artificial mold propagated on an agar medium. When Growing Mediums the food chain was based either on the molds In artificial soilless mediums made up of Trichoderma spp. or Cladosporium spp. prop- various proportions of vermiculite, peat, and agated on a potato-dextrose medium, A. Turface, plus nutrients, Pythium splendens fallacis was reared through a complete life Braun persisted longer and produced more cycle on a culture of the predator maintained severe damage to rooted geranium cuttings for 2 mo. than when the cuttings were grown in a sterile sand-soil-peat mixture. Results were Diseases of Ornamental Plants obtained by planting artificially inoculated Tolerance for fungicide in Botrytis cinerea geranium cuttings in the various mediums Pers. Damage caused by B. cinerea in out- and allowing the disease to cause complete door beds of several ornamental plants was necrosis. Healthy geranium cuttings were severe in the Ottawa region in 1974. Applica- replanted in the same mediums at weekly tions of the systemic fungicide benomyl did intervals for 6 wk. Sufficient viable spores not control the disease. Isolation of the still remained in the artificial mediums after fungus from several hosts including begonia, 6 wk to cause severe root rot. In the sand- geranium, snapdragon, marigold, viola, and soil-peat mixture only slight stunting occur- zinnia yielded two cultures (one from bego- red in healthy cuttings planted after 5 and 6 nia and the other from geranium) completely wk. 208 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 PUBLICA nONS Research Bible, B., and Chong, C 1974. Mulching to Bolton, A. T. 1974. Effects of three virus diseases increase earliness, yield, and quality of vegeta- and their combinations on fruit yield of bles. Macdonald ColI. J. 35(1):5-9. strawberries. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:271-275. Burnett, T. 1974. Pest control. Pages 139-150 in Cole, T. J. 1974. Penstemon smallii. Bull. Am. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Penstemon Soc. No. XXXII. Chong, C, and Bible, B. 1974. Variation in the thiocyanate content of radish plants during Parups, E. V. 1974. Chemical modification of ontogeny. J. Am. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 99: 159-162. ethylene responses in plants. ISHS Sympo- sium: postharvest physiology. Pages 143-158 Chong, C., and Bible, B. 1974. Relationship in Acta Hortic. between top/root ratio and thiocyanate con- tent in roots of radishes and turnips. Hort- Science 9:230-231. Svejda, F. 1974. New hybrids of roses. Hortic. Sci. Chong, C, and Taper, C D. 1974. Influence of (Abstr.) 9(3), Sect. 2 (No. 74). light intensity on sorbitol metabolism, growth, and chlorophyll content of Malus tissue cul- Svejda, F. 1974. Development of new types of tures. Ann. Bot. 38:359-362. roses that combine winterhardiness with re- Chong, C, and Taper, C. D. 1974. Malus tissue montance and resistance to black spot, Diplo- cultures. II. Sorbitol metabolism and carbon carpon rosae Wolf, and to mildew, nutrition. Can. J. Bot. 52:2361-2364. Sphaerotheca pannosa (Wallr. ex Fr.) Lev. Proc. XIX Int. Hortic. Congr. Warsaw Molnar, J. M. 1974. Photoperiodic response of I,B:873. Begonia X hiemalis cv. Rieger. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:277-280. Svejda, F. 1974. Breeding winterhardy roses for Svejda, F. 1974. Reproductive capacity of F, Canadian gardens. Proc. XIX Int. Hortic. hybrids from Rosa rugosa and Rosa chinensis Congr. Warsaw I,B:825. cultivars. Euphytica 23:641-645. Miscellaneous Parups, E. V. 1974. Preservatives for cut blooms. Bible, B., and Chong, C 1974. Effect of osmotic Pages 84-87 in The Can. Rose. Annu. pressure and sulfur nutrition on the content of thiocyanate goiterogen in radish tissues. Hort- Svejda, F. 1974. Canadian hybridized roses. Pages Science 9:298-299 (Abstract). 29-34 in The Can. Rose Annu. ORNAMENTALS RESEARCH SERVICE 209 Statistical Research Service Ottawa, Ontario PROFESSIONAL STAFF L. P. LEFKOVITCH, B.Sc. Director M. R. BINNS, M.A., Dip. Stat. Head of Biometrics Section; Design of experiments, sampling D. J. CLARK,' B.S.A. Senior programmer R. CORMIER,' B.Sc., M.Math. Systems and programming L. M. A. FRANCIS,' B.A. Systems and programming J. D. HOBBS,' B.Sc. Systems and programming P. Y. JUI, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetics, design and analysis C. S. LIN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Quantitative genetics P. M. MORSE (Mrs.), M.A. Bioassay, design of experiments K. R. PRICE, B.Sc., M.Math. Design and analysis of experiments, systems analysis G. P. POUSHINSKY,' B.Sc. Systems and programming S. PURI,2 B.A., M.A., M.Sc. Quality control D. T. SPURR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Quantitative genetics, design and analysis B. K. THOMPSON, B.Sc., M.Math., Ph.D. Genetics, design and analysis J. TSANG (Mrs.),' B.Sc. Systems and programming C. J. WILLIAMS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Genetics, design and analysis Departures c. S. SHIH, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Design of experiments, crop-loss Transferred to Health and studies Welfare September, 1974 D. L. PAULHUS,' B.Sc. Systems and programming Resigned D. R. PERRON,' Systems and programming Resigned STATISTICALRESEARCHSERVICE 211 VISITING SCIENTIST K. V. MARDIA Consultant University of Leeds, England ~Finance and Administration Branch, Data Processing Division. Production and Marketing Branch Statistician. 212 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION In 1974, the Statistical Research Service provided advice and assistance on some J 60 problems in the design of experiments and the analysis an~ interpretation of experimental data. Some advice was also given on nonstatistical mathematics. An increasing amount of time is being spent on the review of scientific papers, either before submission for publication or at the request of editors. All too often, review shows either that analysis of the data is inappropriate and inferences are consequently unjustifiable, or that their analysis is incomplete, which makes extra work necessary in subsequent studies. Cooperation with other scientists in the Research Branch has continued to be close; because statisticians have been placed in several research stations, some of the problems sent to the unit have been more unusual than hitherto. The library of computer programs has been further enlarged; programs have been added for the multiple regression of several dependent variables simultaneously on a predictor set; for multivariate analysis of variance for complete blocks; for factor analysis by unweighted least squares, generalized least squares, and maximum likelihood; for contour mapping; for two- and three-stage least squares; for the estimation of parameters in quantal bioassay when the number of objects exposed is a random variable, either Poisson or negative binomial; and for simple, partial, and total rank correlations. Subprograms of mathematical or statistical interest now available include Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization, singular value decomposition, and linear least squares regression with non-negativity constraints on the parameters. Existing routines continue to be improved as they are noted in publications or as newly recognized pathological situations arise. For more information, correspondence should be addressed to: Director, Statistical Research Service, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Room E266, Sir John Carling Building, Ottawa, Ont. KIA OC5. L. P. Lefkovitch Director Plant Science A procedure developed to help potato other flowers, "Flower Care" (developed by growers anticipate outbreaks of late blight CDA) was shown to be superior to its involves the use of a computer program, competitors. Its effectiveness also increased BLIGHTCAST, obtained from Pennsylvania with increasing concentration. State University and subsequently modified. The use of a compact design in a hill- Meteorological data are fed into the pro- spacing experiment on corn provided esti- gram, which then gives a recommendation to mates of optimal combinations of spacing spray or not to spray. It was used successfully and number of plants per hill. The theory of in the Thunder Bay region, where farmers these compact designs was further developed reported the required meteorological data by to give tests of homogeneity of variance for telephone and received the computed recom- plots of different size and shape. mendation only minutes later. A separate program is being developed to simulate the A new, easier, and faster laboratory spread and decline of late blight in potatoes method for estimating available aluminum and to predict yield loss and relative gain and magnesium in soils produced values under various schedules of fungicide applica- closely related to the concentrations in plant tion. Although the model used seems entirely tissues, and also to the ratio of the yields of adequate for anyone year, it appears neces- barley, rape, and buckwheat on unlimed and sary to incorporate measures of year-to-year limed soils. This method can be used to variability into this program to develop it determine the potential response of a soil to further as a predictive tool. an application of lime. Other investigations on soil types and on plant uptake included In a comparative experiment on products studies of the relationships among soil min- used to extend the bloom life of cut roses and eraI levels, lime requirements, and yields; STATISTICAL RESEARCH SERVICE 213 determination of a linear relationship Ultrasonic measurements were poorly corre- between pesticide concentration and soil lated with the corresponding carcass mea- absorption that discriminates between soil surement but quite highly correlated with types; analysis of an experiment to compare total muscle and muscle-to-bone ratio. observers' abilities to interpret aerial photo- Data on the effect of various rations on graphs in terms of soil types; and analysis to development of the reprod uctive tract of compare levels of boron in the soil and in prepubertal gilts were analyzed. Other plant tissue. studies of swine nutrition included feeding Much collaborative work was undertaken trials to evaluate field peas as a protein with agrometeorologists, involving in-depth source in swine rations, and experiments to discussions of and comparisons among pre- estimate the effects of feeding high levels of diction equations, especially for cereal yield, corn oil on the maternal performance of soil moisture, and soil temperature. sows. Inbreeding coefficients were computed Many comparative and breeding experi- for 21,000 pigs from 10 generations, in a ments were designed and analyzed. They swine selection experiment. included field tests of tobacco varieties and Analyses of data from a poultry experi- curing methods; diallel cross experiments on ment showed that adult roosters were a blueberries; studies to compare oil content suitable alternative to chicks as experimental and chemical composition of rapeseed varie- animals for estimating the metabolizable ties; nutrition experiments on pigs fed rape- energy in various poultry rations. The preci- seed; breeding trials for grain corn, silage sion and reliability of a machine for measur- corn, and soybeans; a forage harvesting ing the shape index of eggs were calculated experiment to compare drying rates; trials of in terms of variance components. The ma- fungicides for ornamental plants; and studies chine is more precise than previous methods, of the relationship between nematode counts the major source of variation now being and tomato yields. differences in the shape of eggs and not the variation among observers. In other studies, Animal Science regression methods were used to find an Analyses of variance and covariance were eq uation to predict fracture force from applied to data from numerous studies of various characteristics of eggs, and also to ruminant nutrition, including a series of predict eggshell thickness from pressure experiments on the effects of selenium intake measurements. Other poultry studies con- on growth and metabolism, and work on the cerned the intake of calcium supplements effects of various rations on the carcass from various sources and with differing quality of dairy beef. Other data were textures; the influence of age and season on analyzed from experiments on mineral me- egg weight; and the effect of vaccination on tabolism in ruminants. In one experiment, the the incidence of Marek's disease. results of chemical analyses of hair from the experimental cattle were used to determine Food Science whether dietary mineral levels were ade- quate. Statistical advice was given on the Advice was given on the design and design of a large-scale experiment to study analysis of sensory evaluation experiments. pasture management in cow-calf operations, An experiment for consumer testing of meat, and also on the analysis of data from an aged and cooked in various ways, was unbalanced diallel cross experiment with designed so that the statistical analysis can sheep. eliminate carryover effects from one tasting The effect of early weaning of lambs on to the next. their growth rate and the interaction of age Oat'! from scaled preference and ranking at weaning with breed, sex, age of dam, litter tests on cheeses made with two kinds of size, and year were estimated from a long- enzyme were examined and found unsuitable term experiment. Estimates of genetic pa- for statistical analysis; a more appropriate rameters were also obtained from this study. experiment was designed. Another experi- Regression techniques were used to predict ment compared bovine pepsin with calf total muscle and muscle-to-bone ratio from rennet used in cheese making at an industrial carcass traits measured both ultrasonically on scale; different factories prepared these the live animal and directly from the carcass. cheeses. The experiment demonstrated some 214 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 statistically significant but small differences Experiments to examine the relationship in several aspects of the cheeses. between the attractiveness of queen bees and the success of a hive did not yield a real Bioassay association; a better measure of attract- iveness will be sought. Collaborative work continued on the bio- A theoretical study was made of the use of assay of bluetongue virus, by a plaque sequential methods to estimate the mean of a neutralization method. The disadvantages of negative binomial distribution, a frequent low control counts were demonstrated and problem in insect ecology. It indicated that experiments were carried out to establish an these methods can provide equal precision optimal range. Further variability studies with less field work than previously required. showed differences between successive ali- quots, perhaps attributable to surface ten- Numerical Taxonomy sion; the experimental techniques were modi- fied accordingly. An accepted method of Theoretical studies on techniques of non- analysis for cross-reaction data was found to hierarchical, non-disjoint classification have give a biased estimate of variance, and to led to the implementation of an efficient yield misleading estimates of symmetrical algorithm, and to the measurement of the differences. After the method had been results of clustering in a loss function frame- modified, different degrees of relatedness work. The extension of the latter results to were found among six strains of the virus. hierarchical disjoint techniques is under investigation. The analysis of the data from a long-term study involving dilution assays of denitrifiers In collaboration with the Biosystematics in soil was made more flexible, and more Research Institute, formulas were sought to thorough, by adaptation of one of the U1).it's express the relative values of hierarchical standard programs instead of using tables classifications on the basis of their general restricted to particular designs. More efficient shape, independent of the actual taxa in- designs for future experiments were volved. Attempts to achieve this by reference to an "ideal" tree were found to depend too suggested. heavily on distance concepts. A statistic Ecology based mainly on the number of branches at each node is being adapted to reflect asym- A study of the sex ratio of the European metry and to give consistent results when red mite showed that this value varied nonessential nodes are excluded. significantly from orchard to orchard, and Canonical analysis was very useful in three from tree to tree within orchards, but was taxonomy problems. Classification of popu- dependent neither on the density of the mites lations of Cannabis sativa L. into groups, nor on the variety of apples. such as wild versus cultivated or intoxicant Data for a large study of predator-prey versus nonintoxicant plants, was only weakly interactions among mites have yet to suc- supported by a canonical analysis of their cumbto analysis. Cross-spectral analysis morphological aspects. Classification of birch failed, as did other analyses, because of the based on genetic considerations and geo- low counts of predators; attempts will now graphical locations across Canada was sus- be made to model the prey population and to tained by canonical analyses of several predict predator activity from the lack of fit. morphological traits. A great difference in An attempt was made to relate the number nonspecific esterase isozymes between the of moths caught at night to the phase of the cutworms Euxoa campestris (Grote) and E. moon and to various measures of tempera- dec/arata (Walker) was confirmed by canoni- ture and humidity. The results showed that cal analysis of the band patterns. Interest- the phase of the moon was an unsatisfactory ingly, the canonical axis of the hybrid of the measure of the amount of light and was two species revealed a reciprocal difference unimportant as a predictor. However, various between them. candidate summaries of both temperature An improved method using geometric and humidity were equally satisfactory as techniques was proposed to estimate the predictors and served to explain some of the number of pores on a pollen grain from differences in catches as well as among the microscopic observations of part of the grain. traps. The half-widths of oat seeds were analyzed 215 STATISTICAL RESEARCH SERVICE to determine whether this character could be Data on several species of the family used to distinguish among various cultivars, Chironomidae were analyzed in terms of and also whether this character depends on geographical and temporal differences, and the breeding status of the cultivar and on the environment in which it is grown. The results revealed local temporal .differences of the so far obtained seem promising. same order as geographical ones. PUBLICAnONS Research M iscellaneou s Binns, M. R. 1974. Approximating the negative Binns, M. R. I974. A sequential counting proce- binomial via the positive binomial. Techno- dure for estimating the total number of metrics 16:323-324. randomly distributed individuals. Tech. Rep. 82, Dep. Statistics, Stanford Univ., Stanford, Binns, M. R. 1974. A double sampling procedure to Calif. control the variance in net weight acceptance sampling. Technometrics 16:539-544. James, W. c., Shih, C. S., and Call beck, L. C. 1973. Survey of fungicide spraying practice for potato late blight in Prince Edward Island, 1972. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 161-166. 216 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Brandon, Manitoba PROFESSIONAL STAFF W. N. MACNAUGHTON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director A. W. STRACHAN Administrative Officer Animal Science J. H. STRAIN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Poultry genetics R. L. CUPLEF, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Meats physiology G. W. DYCK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Reproductive physiology I. GARNETT, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Swine genetics A. P. PILOSKI, B.S.A. Poultry production G. W. RAHNEFELD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Beef cattle genetics E. E. SWIERSTRA, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Reproductive physiology Plant Science R. I. HAMILTON, B.Sc., M.S.A., PhD. Head of Section; Corn physiology L. D. BAILEY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil-plant relationships K. W. CAMPBELL, B.Sc., Ph.D. Barley breeding P. N. P. CHOW, B.S.A., M.A., Ph.D. Weed physiology R. D. DRYDEN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Crop culture A. T. H. GROSS, B.S.A., M.Sc. Forage crops A. E. SMID, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant nutrition E. D. SPRATT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant nutrition R. I. WOLFE, B.S.A., B.D. Barley breeding RESEARCHSTATION,BRANDON, MAN. 217 INTRODUCTION This report is a brief description of research activities in 1974.Research in animal science emphasizes breeding and physiology of beef cattle, swine, and poultry; and in plant science, breeding, physiology and management, soil fertility and plant nutrition, cultural practice, and weed control. Dr. K. W. Campbell was appointed in December to increase efforts in barley breeding research. Mr. R. D. Dryden was appointed for a 2-yr term as Canadian Expert for the India Dryland Project at Hyderabad, India, and Dr. E. D. Spratt continued to serve as Canadian coordinator for the project. Only the highlights of research are presented in this report; for further information concerning details of work discussed or on related subjects, enquiries should be directed to: Research Station, Agriculture Canada, Box 610, Brandon, Man. R7A 5Z7. W. N. MacNaughton Director ANIMAL SCIENCE from all "exotic" X domestic heifers was 91.0% compared with 93.4% for calves from Beef Cattle the Hereford X Angus heifers. The exotic Performance of foreign X domestic hy- crossbred heifers tended to produce signifi- brids. Hybrids representing 10 breed com- cantly heavier calves at birth and weaning binations (Limousin, Simmental, and Charo- than the Hereford X Angus heifers. Sim- lais X Hereford, Angus, and Shorthorn, plus mental-sired heifers weaned heavier calves a Hereford X Angus cross as control) were than Charolais- and Limousin-sired heifers, evaluated as first-calf heifers in contrasting and heifers from Shorthorn dams weaned environments at Brandon, Man., and Leth- heavier calves than heifers from Hereford bridge (Manyberries), Alta. The heifers were and Angus dams. Evaluated on the basis of allocated to the project in 1971, 1972, and number and weight of calves weaned per 100 1973 and in each case produced their first heifers assigned for breeding, Hereford X calves at 2 yr of age. Red Angus and Angus heifers were marginally better than Beefmaster bulls were used for the matings the best of the exotic hybrids, and 10% better by artificial insemination over a 9-wk breed- than the Limousin-sired hybrids and the ing season each year. Estrus was detected on hybrids out of Hereford dams. Evaluated in average in 98% of the heifers, and 84% of terms of the weight of calf weaned as a these conceived to an average of 1.4 services percentage of the dam's weight at calving, per conception. No significant differences cow efficiency was 49.2% for the Hereford X were observed in detection or conception rate Angus heifers compared with a range of between breeds of sire, breeds of dam, or 45.9% (Charolais X Hereford) to 51.7% locations. (Simmental X Shorthorn) for the exotic Gestation averaged 282 days for all heif- hybrids. ers and ranged between 280.4 and 283.8 days for specific hybrid combinations. In Calves sired by Red Angus bulls were less 1972 and 1973, 801 calves were born; 57% subject to calving difficulty, early mortality, of the males and 80% of the females had and weakness than those sired by Beefmas- unassisted births. Sex of calf influenced ters, but they weighed about 40% less at calving ease, and births of 14% of the males birth. Differences attributable to the two and 4% of the females were recorded as environments were negligible. For their difficult (including four by Caesarean sec- second, third, and fourth calvings, the same tion). hybrid cows are being mated to Limousin, Pre- and early post-natal mortality was Simmental, Charolais, and Chianina bulls by higher among males than females (5.0 vs. restricted randomization to avoid backcross- 3.6%), as was the occurrence of weak calves ing, so that their productivity as mature cows (4.9 vs. 1.1%). Survival to weaning for calves can be evaluated and compared. 218 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Effect of rate of chilling on muscle quality. intervals. There were smaller semen volumes Left and right sides of 27 carcasses from (\61 vs. 195 m2' fewer spermatozoa/ml (99 crossbred steers were chilled at two tempera- vs. 221 x 10), and fewer spermatozoa/ 9 tures (0.6 vs. 7.2°C) to evaluate the rate of ejaculate (I\.2 vs. 32.\ X 10 ) for ejaculates decrease in muscle temperature and the rate collected on the 24-h schedule than on the of muscle glycolysis. Temperature and pH 72-h one. The percentages of motile sperma- readings were obtained 45 min after tozoa were similar (76 vs. 80%) for both slaughter, at six 4-h intervals, and 48 and 72 collection schedules. h post mortem. Muscle samples for shear Primiparous Yorkshire sows were artifi- tests and taste panel evaluation were pre- cially inseminated on the 2nd day of stand- pared and frozen 96 h post mortem. Internal ing estrus with 100 ml of the semen (diluted muscle temperature decreased more slowly with an egg-yolk, citrate, and catalase ex- 9 and pH decreased more rapidly at the higher tender), containing 2.5 X 10 motile sperma- chilling temperature (7.2°C). Steaks from the tozoa. Insemination took place at the first sides chilled at the higher temperature were estrus (83 sows) or second estrus (94 sows) rated significantly higher (P = 0.0 \) for after weaning and the sows were killed 24 to tenderness and flavor and were favored over 26 days after breeding. Fertility data of sows their paired counterparts 80% of the time. inseminated with semen collected at intervals Tenderness was the major reason for prefer- of 24 h (84 sows) and 72 h (93 sows) were: ence in 7\% of the samples, whereas flavor conception rate 83 vs. 70% (P < 0.05), litter was the main reason in \5% and juiciness in size 9.9 vs. 10.0, and embryonic survival (live \4%. There was no significant difference in embryos/no. of corpora lutea X 100) 73 vs. the juiciness of steaks from sides chilled at 76%. The among-boar correlation of concep- either temperature. tion rate and embryonic survival was 0.85 (P < 0.05). The ovulation rate of sows averaged Swine 13.5 and 14.8 ova on first and second Effect of selection on reproduction and postweaning estrus. Ovulation rate was early mortality. Litter size at birth and higher (P < 0.05) in sows that did not weaning was unaffected by selection for conceive than in sows that did (16.5 vs. 13.5). ?- postweaning average daily gain over \2 Response to selection. In a Lacombe swine generations of swine. Genetic gains of 0.\5 population after 11 generations of recurrent and 0.16 kg/generation were realized in the mass selection for postweaning average daily selected and crossbred groups (the latter gain, the predicted response to selection was sired by males from the selected population). 0.241 :l: 0.023, the observed response 0.128 Correlated responses for preweaning average :l: 0.0\6, the estimated heritability 0.327 :l: daily gain (0.004\ and 0.0043 kg/day per 0.031, and the realized heritability 0.173 :l: generation) were realized in the selected and 0.021. The estimate of observed response crossbred populations. Length of gestation was 0.53 of predicted response. showed a small but significant regression (b One major aspect of the study was the = 0.1) in the random-bred control and relative effect of selection in the Lacombe crossbred groups. With few exceptions, the population on performance of the crossbred selected population had more stillbirths and progeny, when males from the selected deaths attributable to the sow and other population were mated with Yorkshire fe- causes of preweaning mortality. For the males from a random-bred control popula- selected, control, and crossbred populations tion. Regressions of performance on time the data were: stillbirths, 7.3, 3.2, and 1.9%; were 0.0116 :l: 0.0014 for the Lacombes and deaths attributable to the sow, 6.7, 4.1, and 0.0065 :l: 0.0011 for the Lacombe X York- 4.7%; and other causes, 9.2, 4.6, and 3.7%. shire crossbreds (P < 0.01 in both cases). Regression analysis showed no time-depen- This indicates additive gene action, and dent change in mortality, which indicates that improvement in the crossbred progeny can selection did not adversely affect this trait. be obtained by selection in the parent popu- Effect of ejaculation frequency on semen lation. This is verified by comparison of the characteristics, conceptio.n rate, and embry- expected progress (0.0629 :l: 0.0272) and onic survival. In a changeover experiment, observed progress (0.0710 :l: 0.0119) in the semen was collected from 18 Yorkshire boars cross based on selection in the Lacombe (average age 13.5 mo) at 24- and 72-h population. RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN. 219 Poultry loam soils than under conditions of high moisture deficits and on sandy soils. Urea Dwarf versus normal broiler breeders. No was a better source of N than NH NO for difference was found in egg production to 4 J promoting growth, quality, and nutrien.t 329 days of age between half-sib normal uptake on sandy soils, but on clay and loam (DW) and dwarf (dw) broiler breeders soils .the two sources of N were equal. When housed in floor pens (48 vs. 47%). Dwarfs in only the two better sources of N were cages produced at a lower rate (40%). compared, bromegrass and crested wheat- Whether in floor pens or in cages, dwarfs grass responded better to NH NO , whereas consumed much less feed per dozen eggs 4 J Russian wild ryegrass and timothy responded than their normal half-sisters (3.35 vs. 4.30 better to urea. With the two poorer sources, kg). There was little difference in the age at the hay species (bromegrass and timothy) which they attained 50% production, al- responded better to solution N, whereas the though the dwarfs tended to commence pasture species (Russian wild ryegrass and laying earlier. crested wheatgrass) responded better to At 8 wk of age, female offspring from SCU. matings of a normal commercial male with normal and dwarf half-sib females grew at Protein and mineral composition of the similar rates (1704 and 1713 g) and had feed four grasses decreased progressively through conversion rates of 2.46 and 2.53 kg/kg of four harvests taken at monthly intervals from body weight. Males from the normal X June 6. The largest and most rapid decrease normal matings differed slightly from those occurred in the hay species, in which protein from normal X dwarf matings in growth was reduced by 50% between June 6 and July rate (2165 vs. 2092 g) but were similar in 6, compared with 40% in the pasture species. feed conversion (2.30 vs. 2.33 kg/kg of body wt). Yield and protein content of grasses and legumes with nitrogen, sulfur, and micronutri- ents. No yield response was obtained when micronutrients were applied to grasses and PLANT SCIENCE legumes. Annual application of S increased Forage Crops the yield and protein content of alfalfa, and annual applications of Sand N increased Yield, chemical cOmpOSitIOn,and growth yield and protein content of legumes and response to sources of fertilizer nitrogen. legume-grass mixtures. Annual applications of N in the early spring to bromegrass and timothy (hay species) and Nitrogen status of the soil under crop and to Russian wild ryegrass and crested wheat- fallow. Soil temperature, rainfall, and plant grass (pasture species) increased and pro- growth directly affect the N status of the soil longed vegetative growth; increased protein, during the growing period. Before growth phosphorus, potassium, and other minerals in started in spring and after it ceased in the the plants; and produced faster regrowth fall, soil temperature and moisture were the after harvest. Urea and NH4NOJ were better most important influences. When soil mois- sources of N than solution N (50% urea and ture was at field capacity, warm temperatures 50% NH4NOJ) and sulfur-coated urea resulted in formation of NOJ--N. When the (SCU), in terms of the quantity and quality soil was saturated by rain NOJ--N was of forage produced. When N was applied at leached, and when it remained saturated for 134.4 kg/ha as urea or NH4NOJ, vegetative 24 h or more, denitrification probably af- growth was prolonged 10 days, and dry fected the N status most, particularly at soil matter accumulation (DMA) averaged 40% temperatures above 15°C. Below 15°C, im- on July 6 (second harvest) compared with mobilization of NOJ--N was more important 48% for unfertilized controls and 45.6% for than denitrification. Under cropping, uptake forages that received solution Nand SCU. of soil N by plants tended to modify these The four species were ranked in decreasing processes. However, in the early stages of order of DMA as crested wheatgrass, Rus- growth N might become unavailable to crops sian wild ryegrass, bromegrass, and timothy. because of leaching, denitrification, immobi- All N sources were more effective in lization, or a combination of these processes. promoting growth and nutrient uptake under After harvest or at the soft-dough stage (in adequate moisture regimes and on clay or cereals), NOJ--N began to increase in the soil 220 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 at a rate dependent on soil temperature and Soybean production. Preliminary trials soil moisture. were continued to evaluate the potential of Oilseed Crops soybeans on the eastern prairies. Breeder lines from Ottawa, Guelph, and Harrow, Nutrient requirements of fababeans. In a Ont., Morden, Man., and St. Paul, Minn., preliminary study, fababeans responded to were planted on May 27 and harvesting application of fertilizer that supplied K at commenced in late August. Severai lines rates up to 200 kg/ha. There was a small reached full maturity with less than 1,800 response to P at 9 kg/ha, but the plants used heat units (from time of emergence to 15% only a small part of the inorganic P applied kernel moisture). All entries in the U.S. and on one soil yields decreased with P at 18 Department of Agriculture 00 regional trial kg/ha. When SO/--S was less than 5 ppm in reached maturity successfully and yielded on the top 15 cm of soil, plants responded to average 1.36 t/ha. The lines varied widely in application of S at 20-40 kg/ha. There was determinate habit of growth, height of pods, response to molybdenum applied as a foliar flowering date, plant height at maturity, spray (0.5 kg Mo/ha) and to copper applied shattering, and branching. Studies with rhi- as a soil additive (10 or 20 kg Cu/ha). zobium cultures as they affect nodulation and Addition of N resulted in decreased yields yield gave inconclusive results. and poor or absent nodulation. Weed control in fababeans and lentils. Effects of residual phosphorus and micro- Preplant incorporation of trifluralin at 0.83 nutrients on yield and composition of flax. kg/ha gave excellent control of grassy weeds When flax was grown on a Waskada clay in fababeans and resulted in yields that were loam and on a Carroll clay, straw and seed threefold those of the untreated control. yields increased as soil P increased to 10 ppm Barban at 0.35 kg/ha and triallate at 1.68 (as determined with 0.5 M NaHC03). As P kg/ha provided good control of wild oats but levels increased from 10 to 18 ppm, concen- were less effective against green foxtail, and trations of Zn in plant tissue at the dough lower yields were obtained. stage became marginal « 20 ppm) and HOE 23408 at 2.24 kg/ha and EPTC at those of Cu became deficient 6 ppm). « 3.36 kg/ha controlled wild oats and green However, yields did not increase after appli- foxtail and doubled the yield of lentils over cations of nonchelated Fe, Mn, and Zn at 4 those from untreated plots. kg/ha and Cu at I kg/ha. In the growth chamber, on the Waskada Weed control in rape. Five dinitroanilines soil, flax yields at 50% bloom increased from at 1.4 kg/ha were incorporated into the top 0.48 to 0.57 g/plant when P was applied at 7.5 cm of soil as preplant herbicides for the 50 kg/ha and to 0.77 g/plant with P at 50 control of wild oats and green foxtail in rape. kg/ha, Zn at 12 kg/ha, and Cu at 3 kg/ha. In Triallate controlled wild oats only but flu- other tests, application of Zn at 10 and 20 chloralin, CGA 10832 (Ciba-Geigy Agricul- kg/ha, as ZnS04 and as Zn chelate, tended to tural Chemicals), trifluralin, and dinitramine reduce yields of flax seed and straw. gave excellent control of both weeds. Dini- Weed control in fl{LX. AC 92553 (Cyan- tramine impaired germination of rape and amid of Canada Ltd.) at 1.65 kg/ha and yields were reduced. HOE 23408 at 1.1 kg/ EPTC at 3.36 kg/ha as preplant incorpora- ha gave excellent control of both common tions gave excellent control of wild oats and \ weeds, and rape yielded 60% more than on green foxtail and produced a significant untreated plots. increase of 31 % in yield of flax. Asulam at Cereal Crops 1.12 kg/ha and in combination with other herbicides gave good control of grassy weeds Barley breeding. Emphasis continues on but suppressed flax growth slightly. The improved yield, agronomic excellence, and detrimental effects of MCPA in asulam disease resistance in six-row malting and mixtures for wild oats in flax were less severe feed barleys. Some advanced lines with good than previously noted. HOE 23408 (Cana- malting characteristics continued to perform dian Hoechst Ltd.) at 0.84 and 1.68 kg/ha well despite adverse conditions. One line and asulam at 1.12 kg/ha increased flax out yielded Bonanza by 13%. A selection yields 13 to 30% over those from untreated from this line, which is resistant to stem rust, plots. loose smut (old races), and Septoria, has a RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN. 221 yellow aleurone and will be tested further in for previous years, mainly because of a lack 1975. of maturity (percentage kernel moisture) and Two feed barley selections continued to low test weight in grain hybrids. Dry matter perform well in advanced tests and one yield of silage corn was also affected but to a out yielded Bonanza by 15%. Work continued lesser degree; average test yields were 7.1 on lin<;s that contain high levels of amylopec- t/ha although the goal was 11.2 t/ha. How- tin and lysine, and several crosses and lines ever, despite the abnormal year some genetic contain the Un, Un 8, or Yalki genes for material produced a grain yield of 4.08 t/ha resistance to loose smut. Two genetic marker and test weight of 72 kg/hI. Shelterbelts stocks have been isolated, each with at least continued to be advantageous at Indian one gene on each chromosome. One stock Head, Sask., where silage yields were 7.3 carries the dominant genes and the other the t/ha compared with 5.0 t/ha on exposed recessive alleles. sites; the 3-yr averages were 7.5 and 4.8 t/ha for sheltered and exposed sites. Solution nitrogen mixed with herbicides for wheat. Tank mixtures of solution N (28-0-0) Corn silage production was assessed in applied at four rates (0, 22, 45, and 67 kg/ economic terms in comparison with barley ha) in combination with barban, triallate, and was shown to be the better at various and WL 2976\ (Shell Canada Ltd.), each at levels of production, values of barley grain, three concentrations, were compatible except and animal performance. that the mixtures of barban with solution N Effect of macro- and micro-nutrients on caused leaf burn at first. All herbicides gave yield and composition of corn. Despite low good control of wild oats and resulted in levels of 6 to 8 ppm P (0.5 M NaHC0 ) in wheat yield increases of 6-18%. Solution N 3 Almassippi very fine sandy loam and in produced a 10% yield increase at 67 kg/ha Altona fine loam, yields of corn did not but no increase at other levels. increase with applications of 14 to 28 kg Granular N applied at seeding was prefer- P / ha. Concentrations of P in ear leaf tissue able for wheat and increased yields by 15%, from control plots, at tasseling, were high whereas solution N applied at the three-leaf (0.33 and 0.31 ppm for the two soils), which stage of growth increased yields by 8%. throws doubt on the validity of current soil Averaged over both formulations, N at 22, testing procedures for all soil types. Levels of 45, 67, and 90 kg/ha increased yields by 19, K in the two soils were high (150 and 148 37, 39, and 45%. ppm) and concentrations of K in the ear leaf Weed control in wheat and barley. HOE tissue were 2.41 and 2.19%. Concentrations 23408 at 0.84 to 2.24 kg/ha gave good of Zn in ear leaf tissue were marginal « 20 control of wild oats and green foxtail with ppm in both soils), and although application resultant yield increases in wheat and barley. of Zn chelate at 0.63 kg Zn/ha increased Zn WL 29761 at 0.42 to l.12 kg/ha gave levels in plant tissue from 16 to 18 ppm and excellent control of wild oats in wheat and from 18 to 24 ppm on the two soils, it did not rates as low as 0.63 kg/ha equaled 1.4 kg/ha increase yields. Applications of Mn and Cu of benzoprop, a previously recommended fertilizers did not increase yields but concen- analogue for which timing of application is trations in leaf tissue were adequate (93 to critical. Of six mixtures tested, only bromox- 104 ppm Mn and 8.1 to Il.l ppm Cu). ynil with MCPA (0.42 kg/ha) and bentazon (0.42 kg/ha) could be mixed with HOE Weed control in corn. Preplant herbicides 23408 (1.l2 kg/ha) without weakening the incorporated in the soil provided reliable weed control properties or causing injury to control of wild oats, green foxtail, and barley. broad-leaved weeds. Yields three times those of untreated plots and even exceeding those Corn production. Heat unit (HU) accumu- of hand-weeded plots were obtained with lation from emergence to killing frost was S6176 (Gulf Oil Canada Ltd.) applied at 5.2 below normal (1,943 vs. 2,150 HU) because kg/ha. The other herbicides tested, EPTC at of delayed planting and slow germination. 3.4 to 4.5 kg/ha, butylate at 3.4 kg/ha, and Precipitation was lower than the long-term vernolate at 4.5 kg/ha, each mixed with a average (22.5 vs. 30.5 cm) and distribution protectant (R 25788; Stauffer Chern. Co.) was poor throughout the growing season. alone or with atrazine, controlled weeds well Yields in evaluation trials were lower than and produced ~ignificant increases in yield of 222 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 corn. These herbicides did not injure the and performance. The species is similar to corn. corn in its response to climate. None of the Sorghum production. In preliminary tests CIMMYT lines completed anthesis and set with sorghums, lines obtained from the seed, but some early experimental selections CIMMYT collection and from private com- such as X4004 and X4053 (Pride) achieved panies were evaluated for photosensitivity maturity. PUBLICATIONS Research Swierstra, E. E., Gebauer, M. R., and Pickett, B. W. 1974. Reproductive physiology of the Bailey, L. D. 1974. The effects of ammonium stallion: I. Spermatogenesis and testis compo- nitrate and urea on the release of non-ex- sition. J. Reprod. Fertil. 40: 113-123. changeable potassium by eight Eastern Prairie soils during continuous cropping in the green- Miscellaneous house. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:255-263. Bailey, L. D. 1974. The effect of nitrogen source on Chow, P. N. P. 1974. An improved toluene! the yield and chemical composition of four Triton-based liquid scintillation system for grasses. Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. counting 14C_Iabeled compounds at ambient Dep. Agric. pp. 180-193. temperature. Anal. Biochem. 60:322-328. Bailey, L. D. 1974. The effect of temperature and Dyck, G. W. 1974. Effects of a cold environment rhizosphere on denitrification in soils. Proc. and growth rate on reproductive efficiency in Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. Oep. Agric. pp. gilts. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:287-292. 132-143. Dyck, G. W. 1974. The effects of stage of preg- Baron, V., Shaykewich, C. F., and Hamilton, R. I. nancy, mating at the first and second estrus 1974. The corn growth unit in Manitoba. after weaning and level of feeding on fetal Proc. Can. Soc. Agron. p. 6. survival in sows. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:277- 285. Chow, P. N. P. 1974. Asulam mixtures in flax. Canadex 148.641. Gebauer, M. R., Pickett, B. W., and Swierstra, E. Chow, P. N. P. 1974. Asulam for green foxtail E. 1974. Reproductive physiology of the control. Res. Rep. Can. Weed Comm. (West. stallion. II. Daily production and output of Sect.), Regina, Sask. p. 435. sperm. J. Anim. Sci. 39:732-736. Chow, P. N. P. 1974. Weed control in corn - Gebauer, M. R., Pickett, B. W., and Swierstra, E. Summary. Res. Rep. Can. Weed Comm. E. 1974. Reproductive physiology of the (West. Sect.), Regina, Sask. p. 104. stallion. III. Extra-gonadal transit time and sperm reserves. J. Anim. Sci. 39:737-742. Chow, P. N. P. 1974. Comparative studies of Endaven and WI-29761 for wild oat control. Gebauer, M. R., Pickett, B. W., Voss, J. L., and Proc. 29th North Cent. Weed Conf., St. Paul, Swierstra, E. E. 1974. Reproductive physiol- Minn. pp. 45-46. ogy of the stallion: Daily sperm output and testicular measurements. J. Am. Vet. Med. Chow, P. N. P. 1974. Hoe-23408, a new herbicide Assoc. 165:711-713. for grass control in field control. Proc. 29th North Cent. Weed Conf., St. Paul, Minn. p. Smid, A. E., and Beauchamp, E. G. 1974. A leak- 38. proof sampling port in gas analyses studies. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 38:983-984. Dryden, R. O. 1974. Herbicides on corn, western tests, 1973. Canadex 111.641. Spratt, E. D. 1974. Effect of ammonium and nitrate forms of fertilizer-N and their time of Oyck, G. W. 1974. The effect of gonadotropins application on utilization of N by wheat. and steroids on reproduction in primiparous Agron. J. 66:57-61. sows. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54:733-734. (Abstr.). Swierstra, E. E. 1974. A comparison of regular Fredeen, H. T., Lawson, J. E., Newman, J. A., and ejaculation with sexual rest on semen charac- Rahnefeld, G. W. 1974. First-calf perform- teristics and reproductive organ weights in ance of foreign X domestic hybrid heifers. young boars. J. Anim. Sci. 39:575-581. Can. Oep. Agric. Publ. 1537. 14 p. RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN. 223 I Garnett, I., and Rahnefeld, G. W. 1974. Factors Smid, A. E. 1974. Distribution of K in corn leaves affecting reproductive performance and mor- as related to K nutrition, plant population, and tality in three lines in swine. Can. J. Anim. Sci. leaf anatomy. Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., 54:734. (Abstr.). Manit. Oep. Agric. pp. 229-233. Gross, A. T. H. 1974. Nitrogen on bromegrass for production efficiency. Can. Agric. 19(4):38-39. Smid, A. E., and Spratt, E. O. 1974. Yield and Hamilton, R. I., Tataryn, J. H., and Shaykewich, C. elemental composition of corn as influenced F. 1974. Corn development in a low heat unit region. Proc. Can. Soc. Agron. 55:348. by P, K, Mn, Zn, and Cu fertilizer. Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. Oep. Agric. pp. Laforge, A. J. J., and Hamilton, R. I. 1974. 170-179. Economics of growing and feeding corn silage in the Prairie Provinces. Can. Farm Econ. 9(5):9-17. Smid, A. E., and Spratt, E. O. 1974. Yield and Smid, A. E. 1974. Effect of temperature, organic elemental composition of flax as influenced by matter and soil conditioning on CO2 and residual P and P, Mn, Zn, and Cu fertilizer. nitrogenous gas production in a saturated soil. Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. Oep. Agric. Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. Oep. Agric. pp.213-218. pp. 144-152. Smid, A. E. 1974. Technique in chromatographic analysis of gases in soil and crop research. Wolfe, R. I. 1974. Conquest barley for late Proc. Manit. Soc. Soil Sci., Manit. Oep. Agric. planting. L'orge Conquest pour les semis pp.234-235. tardifs. Canadex 114.31. 224 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Morden, Manitoba PROFESSIONAL STAFF E. D .. PUTT,, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director D. G. DORRELL, B.S.A., M.Sc., PhD. Acting Director Special Crops Section E. O. KENASCHUK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Flax breeding S. T. ALI-KHAN,2 B.s.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pea breeding C. G. CAMPBELL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Buckwheat breeding W. O. CHUBB, B.Sc., D.Sc. Herbicides W. DEDIO, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Sunflower breeding, quality J. E. GIESBRECHT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Grain corn breeding G. H. GUBBELS, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Physiology and management J. A. HOES, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Oilseed crop pathology H. HUANG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Sunflower pathology R. C. ZIMMER, B.Sc., Ph.D. Pathology of peas Vegetable Crops Section B. B. CHUBEY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Quality W. A. RUSSELL, B.S.A. Potato breeding M. D. STAUFFER, B.SC. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D. • New crops E. D. P. WHELAN, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Sweet corn and cucumber breeding Ornamentals Section W. A. CUMMING, B.S.A., D.Sc. Head of Section; Ornamentals W. G. RONALD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ornamentals breeding Departure H. ENNS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Sunflower breeding Resigned September 30, 1974 RESEARCHSTATION,MORDEN, MAN. 225 VISITING SCIENTIST S. A. HOSMAN!, M.Sc. Legume crop management All-Indian Coordinated Research Project for Dryland Agriculture 'Seconded to Indo-Canadian Dryland Research Project, Hyderabad, India, from June 1974 to June 1975. 20n transfer of work to John Innes Institute, Norwich, England, from July 1973 to July 1974. 226 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION This report summarizes research in field, oilseed, vegetable, and new crops as well as ornamental horticulture at the Research Station, Morden, Man. Several cultivars were named and released in 1974: two chrysanthemums, Morden Everest and Morden Eldorado; a Physostegia, Morden Beauty; a large-seeded buckwheat, Mancan, developed specifically for the export market; and two cucumber hybrids, Earlimor and Alouette. A flax selection that is resistant to the new races of rust was identified and merits release. Other significant events included the establishment of cooperative projects between the corn program at Morden and several European corn breeders; joint projects on new crops with the Manitoba Department of Agriculture and the Manitoba Research Council; the secondment of Dr. E. D. Putt to CIDA for one year to advise on sunflower research and production in India; and the appointment of Dr. H. Huang, a plant pathologist, to strengthen studies of sunflower diseases. Additional information can be obtained from the Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 300 I, Morden, Man. ROG 110. D. Gordon Dorrell Acting Director FIELD CROPS rates of seeding. Yields decreased with each Buckwheat 2-wk delay in seeding date. Yields increased with higher rate of seeding in 1971, did not Breeding. Mancan, a large-seeded diploid differ in 1972, and increased at all seeding variety, previously designated as MB I, was rates up to 36 kg/ha in 1973. Seed size licensed in 1974. Three dwarf mutants have decreased with each delay in seeding but did been isolated, and inheritance and allelic not differ with seeding rate. studies are being conducted. Hull percent- Corn ages of advanced lines showed that those having larger seeds have a higher percentage Breeding. Over the past 3 yr, Morden groat. A test to determine the effects of cross- 7420 I averaged 22% higher grain yield and pollination between diploids and tetraploids 3.1 % lower moisture content at harvest than showed no detrimental effects from cross- the average of the controls. pollination. Several synthetics have been developed Disease. Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler that are expected to produce, by selection, was isolated from chlorotic leaf lesions and inbreds with greater resistance to stalk rot Cochliobolus sativus (Ito & Kurib.) Drechsl. and better early vigor. A cooperative pro- ex Dastur from tan stipplelike spots. A. gram has been arranged with several Euro- alternata was not pathogenic. However, C. pean breeders to exchange inbreds and sativus, which is also seed-borne, caused segregating material. Heterozygous material stipple spot. A foliage disease, caused by from Morden will be sent to Europe to select Botrytis sp., appeared late in the season after for resistance to stalk rot and for early vigor. wet weather. This disease was widespread in Selection for these traits appears to be more research plots at Morden and Portage la readily accomplished under the European Prairie, Man., and in commercial fields. climate. European material will be grown at Although the disease usually did not reduce Morden to select for adaption to our climate. yields, one large increase plot showed about Disease. Root rot in young plants was a 50% reduction in seed yield. common occurrence, which killed many Management. The cultivars Tokyo and plants during the dry, hot weather in July. Tempest were sown on three dates (at the The excessive moisture in spring is believed beginning, middle, and end of June) and at to have favored the development of this four rates (9, 18, 36, 72 kg/ha) in a 3-yr disease. study. Lodging was higher in Tempest than Management. Tillering corn hybrids grown in Tokyo and it usually decreased with higher at lower populations (50,000 plants/ha) RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN. 227 yielded more total dry matter than did OILSEED CROPS nontillering types. At higher populations, the yield of the tillering types showed no advan- Flax tage because tillering was severely Breeding. The release of F.P. 597, an suppressed. experimental line developed at Morden as a replacement for the rust-susceptible Red- wood 65, is planned. In 2 yr of tests in Field Peas Western Canada, F.P. 597 was very similar to Redwood 65 in all agronomic and quality Breeding. MP 803, a selection from the characteristics, but had resistance to the new cross 7585-58 x PI 162567, out yielded rust races 370 and 371. The rust resistance of Century by about 15% in cooperative tests in F.P. 597 is derived from Raja, one of its 1974. A green-seeded pea introduction that parents. yielded about 30% more than Triumph in C.r. 2776, an experimental line developed preliminary tests was identified. by the Agricultural Research Service of the USDA that will be licensed in the USA in 1975, was tested for the first time in the Diseases. Viability of Ascochyta spp. path- cooperative test. In comparison with Linott, ogenic on peas was assessed over 16 mo at this line was slightly later in maturity, lower several temperatures from -15 to 35°C. A. in seed yield, equal in oil content, and pinodella L.K. Jones remained viable at superior in oil quality. c.r. 2776 is very well higher temperatures longer than did A. adapted to late seeding and has the same pin odes L.K. Jones or A. pisi Lib. All the gene (L6) for rust resistance as Linott. species remained viable at -15°C. After 5 yr Disease. In 1974, flax rust caused little buried in soil, foliage infected by A. pinodes damage to the susceptible and widely had decomposed to such an extent that it was planted varieties Noralta and Redwood 65. impossible to recover the organism. In tests Hot, dry weather in June and July largely of 144 pea introductions for disease reaction arrested the development and spread of the to A. pin odes, only one line showed appre- rust pathogen. Whereas only light infections ciably more resistance (18%) than Century. occurred in southern Manitoba, rust was Mycological and pathological studies of common in the Dunsmore-Eston-Kindersley triangle in Saskatchewan, particularly on the Ascochyta isolates that were pathogenic to variety Norland. Rust was, however, more peas indicated that A. pinodes was the species widespread at the beginning of the crop year present in Manitoba. The isolates that fitted 1975 than at the beginning of 1974. Race into the A. pin odella category were more 370 that attacks the N' resistance gene virulent on fababean epicotyl than those of occurred again, but the new races 371 and A. pinodes or A. pisi. 372 that have combined virulence to the L and N' genes predominated. These races of Management. In a 3-yr study, Delwiche wider virulence are probably hybrid products from recombination and segregation involv- Scotch Green was sown on two dates and ing races 300, 370, and others. When inocu- harvested five times at weekly intervals. lated with race 371, many commercial seed Greenness of the seed cotyledons usually lots of Linott imported from the USA con- decreased with delay in harvest, whereas tained 5.1-100% rust-susceptible plants. Reg- protein content did not change. Yield and istered and most Certified seed lots were of seed size were decreased by delay in seeding standard quality and contained not more date and by early harvest. Tests conducted than 2% rust-susceptible plants. for 5 yr on date of seeding involving Cen- Management. Linott, Noralta, and Nored tury, Trapper, and Delwiche Scotch Green were grown for 3 yr at 100, 250, 400, 550, showed that early seeding in May gave 700, 850, and 1000 plants/m2 with N added higher yields. Although protein content in at 0, 67, and 134 kg/ha. In 1971, Linott late-seeded peas was high, total protein flowered earlier than Noralta and Nored, production per hectare was significantly was shorter, earlier maturing, and higher higher in early seeded peas. yielding. Linott also had a higher seed: straw 228 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 ratio, which it maintained at the high levels the 150 hybrids obtained from crosses of of N, whereas the other varieties declined inbred lines on sterile Krasnodarets out- sharply. The yields of Linott and Noralta yielded Krasnodarets, and the oil content in increased at the four lowest plant densities most of these was from 48 to 50%, compared (to 550 plants/m\ but Nored showed little with 45% in Krasnodarets. The maturity in response, possibly due to its more extensive 30-40% of these lines was similar to tillering at the low plant densities. In 1972, Krasnodarets. applications of N had no significant effects, Disease. Row spacing has been found (0 probably due to the shortage of soil moisture. be a factor that can reduce yield losses Yields increased at the three lowest plant 2 caused by sclerotinia root rot. Seed yield was densities (to 400 plants/m ). In 1973, Linott lodged during an early storm but recovered, higher and disease infestation lower at a row spacing of 60 cm than at spacings of either whereas Noralta and Nored lodged during a 30 cm or 90 cm. Incidence of sclerotinia root later storm and did not recover. Stage of maturity appeared to have been a critical rot in 5645 plants of unselected Peredovik averaged 32%, whereas 4888 plants of prog- factor. Lodging increased at increased plant enies from selections averaged 16%. The densities and greatly reduced seed yields. possibility of breeding for resistance to root Quality. The amount of oil extracted from rot appears encouraging. flax seed by pressure varied from 47% of the total oil in Redwing to 54% in Redwood 65. Weed control. Two new dinitroaniline The moisture content of the seed had consid- herbicides, f1uchloralin (BAS' 3921; BASF erable effect on the amount of oil extracted, Canada Ltd.) and profluraline (CGA-10832; which varied from 48% in samples stored in Ciba-Geigy Canada Ltd.), applied as pre- cool seed storage to 70% in samples that had plant treatments at 1.4 kg/ha gave the same been oven-dried at 70°C. control as trifluralin at 1.12 kg/ha on a clay loam soil. Studies on weed competition Herbicide susceptibility. Stem protein was indicated that, when sunflowers are grown increased and leaf protein was decreased in with wide row spacings, the major portion of six lines of flax treated with MCPA. Al- the competition can be attributed to the though the lines known to be susceptible weeds growing between the rows in the first appeared to have suffered a greater decrease 4-6 wk after seeding. in leaf protein after treatment, the results were too variable to measure differences between lines. In field tests, the content and VEGETABLE CROPS composition of oil from weed-free flax treated with several common herbicides were Cucumbers modified by herbicide treatment. Under weed-free conditions, the yield of oil per Breeding. Two gynoecious pickling-cucum- hectare from seven varieties and lines was ber hybrids bred at Morden showed promise reduced by treatment with a combination of in once-over commercial harvest and in tests MCPA (estamine formulation) at 0.84 kg/ha at various sites in Canada and the USA. They and dalapon at 1.12 kg/ha. have been released as Earlimor and Alouette. Two new radiation-induced seedling mark- Sunflowers ers, yellow cotyledon, yc-2, and revolute Breeding. Two new introductions from the cotyledon, rc, were shown to be monogenic, USSR performed well in cooperative tests. recess\ve mutations, which segregated inde- Saliut was similar to Krasnodarets but pendently. There was no evidence of linkage showed a slightly higher seed yield and oil between yc-2 and seven other plant content. Woschod, which matured late, had characters. the highest oil content, 45.8%, compared with Potatoes 43.3% in Krasnodarets, and produced the highest oil yield in Western Canada. Several Breeding. Two selections, F60075 and single-cross hybrids showed potential in FS6222, which set tubers relatively early in increasing sunflower production. Two hy- the season, showed promise for earlier har- brids involving Morden male sterile lines and vest of potatoes for chipping immediately a French fertility restorer out yielded the after harvest. Also, these selections can be control varieties by 20-30%. Two-thirds of harvested for t4e early fresh market at the RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN. 229 same time as Warba and for processing beans, or lentils grown at three locations. much earlier than Norchip. Seeding after the first week of June drasti- Several cultivars, selected because they cally reduced yields. Evidence was obtained make light-colored chips directly from stor- that preplant-incorporated treatments with age at 4.4°C, have been intercrossed. Seed- dinitroanaline herbicides are well tolerated lings will be selected to produce a chipping by beans, lentils, and lathyrus. cultivar that may be stored at temperatures Diseases. Lathyrus, lentils, and lupine below those at which the silver scurf disease accessions were diseased by soil-borne fungi. proliferates. Lupinus angustifolia L. showed two wilt-type Progeny from 4n X 2n crosses involving symptoms and the incidence varied with row Solanum tuberosum L. cultivars and diploids spacing. Rhizoctonia was readily isolated (s. tuberosum L. S. phureja Juz. & Buk. x from diseased lathyrus plants, whereas both hybrids) have been intercrossed and back- Rhizoctonia and Cylindrocarpon were found crossed to S. tuberosum cultivars. The mat- on diseased lentil plants. ings were mainly at the 4n level and fertility was reasonably good. Essential Oils Quality. Firmness of french fry strips was Evaluation. Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare increased by 56% for Norland and 51% for Mill.; sage, Salvia officinalis L.; summer Netted Gem potatoes by holding them in hot savory, Satureja hortensis L.; basil, Ocimum water (60°C) for I h. basilicum L.; and coriander, Coriandrum sativum L., appear to have potential as Sweet Corn essential oil plants for Western Canada. Breeding. Of 62 Morden hybrids selected Management. Pilot production of commer- in 1973, three for the fresh market that are as cial dill carried out in cooperation with early as or earlier than North Star and six for Manitoba Research Council and Manitoba processing that are earlier than NK51036, departments of Agriculture, and Industry the standard hybrid, are being tested further. and Commerce was successful. Oil quality Of 155 new hybrids, 14 comparable to North was excellent (30-42% Carvone) and yields Star and 23 comparable to or earlier than up to 93.0 kg/ha were obtained. Trifluralin NK51036 are being evaluated further. and certain experimental dinitroanaline com- pounds were tolerated by dill. Monarda, NEW CROPS Monarda fistulosa L. var. menthaefolia (Gra- ham), was readily propagated in mist cham- Carbohydrate Crops bers and grew well when transplanted into the field. Several experimental herbicides Evaluation. Many variations in tuber mor- including the dinitroanalines and Hoe-23408 phology and inulin content were observed were tolerated by the crop. among new lines of Jerusalem artichoke, Helianthus tuberosus L. Preliminary analysis of tuber pulp after extraction of inulin ORNAMENTALS indicated good protein quality and content (26.8-28.1 %). Breeding Management. Yields of tubers were in- Three new hardy perennial cultivars have creased when the size of seed pieces and been described and named for release plant spacings were increased. However, through the Canadian Ornamental Plant treatment with captan, application of high Foundation. Chrysanthemum 'Morden Ever- rates of trifluralin, and low fertility reduced est' grows 3.0-3.9 dm high and 4.6-6.1 dm yields when soil moisture was low. In cooper- wide; profuse double white flowers, 7.5 cm ation with the Manitoba Department of in diam, bloom from mid-September. Chry- Agriculture, conventional field equipment for santhemum 'Morden Eldorado' grows 3.0- potatoes was assessed and found satisfactory. 4.6 dm high and 4.0-5.1 dm wide; flowers are bright yellow, 7.5 cm in diam, and bloom Protein Crops from early September. Physostegia 'Morden Management. Highest yields were obtained Beauty' (a first-generation hybrid of Physo- with 15-cm row spacing, although plant stegia virginiana Benth. 'Summer Glow' X height did not increase in mung beans, azuki P. formosior (Lunell) Rydb.) bears dark 230 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 I green lustrous foliage and grows 7.6-12.2 Arboretum and Evaluation dm high. The numerous inflated tubular Restructuring of arboretum plantings flowers, borne through August, are violet neared completion with the preparation of a with a lighter throat marked with dark veins. new planting block for conifers. A cumula- It has performed well under dry conditions tive survival and hardiness report for 595 and should also thrive in moist sites, where taxa grown by nine cooperators in the Prairie its parents grow naturally. Regional Trial was completed and is availa- ble on request. The first shipment of shade Discovery of self-compatible genotypes in trees was sent to the Parks Departments of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. has en- Edmonton, Regina, and Winnipeg, the coop- abled selfing of this usually outcrossing erators in the Prairie Regional Shade Tree species. A preliminary assessment of inbreed- Evaluation Program. This program includes ing depression indicates greatly reduced seed 19 genera and 42 species, the largest groups germination, vigor, and flowering in both the consisting of Fraxinus (ash) and TWa (bass- first- and second-generation inbreds. Thus, wood). Two cultivars, Monarda 'Neepawa' alternate selfing and outcrossing appear and Syringa 'Miss Canada', released in 1974 essential to retain vigor during uniform line received Merit Awards from the Western Canadian Society for Horticulture. development in this hexaploid crop. Propagation Five native rose species have been identi- fied as sources of peonin, one of three Japanese elm, Ulmus japonica(Rehd.) anthocyanins associated with red flower color Sarg., a hardy introduction from northeast in roses. A new combination of the pigments Asia, is similar in growth form to American peonin, cyanin, and pelargonin was found in elm, U. americana L., but differs in its reported resistance to Dutch elm disease. IO seedlings derived from native prairie rose, Superior selections of Japanese elm, which in Rosa arkansana Porter, crossed with scarlet the past have been graft incompatible with hybrid tea cultivars. Several new shades of American elm, were successfully propagated flower now appear possible by recombining using seedling rootstocks of Siberian elm, U. peonin with the cyanin and pelargonin of pumila L. Seedlings of TWa X jiavescens A. existing hybrid tea cultivars. 'Dropmore', a hybrid of T. americana L. and T. cordata Mill., were vigorous, hardy, and Promising selections from breeding pro- nearly as uniform as seedlings of either grams that are in advanced tests include parental species. Because seed of the hybrid ornamental sunflowers, shade trees, roses, cultivar germinated more readily than T. double-flowered hawthorns, late flowering americana, and seedlings were more vigorous lilacs, garden chrysanthemums, and hardy than T. cordata, they will be valuable as columnar aspen hybrids. rootstocks for basswood selections. PUBLICAnONS Research Ali-Khan, S. T. 1973. Effect of row spacing and Dorrell, D. G. 1974. Vegetative propagation of flax seeding rate on yield of buckwheat. Agron. J. by stem cuttings. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54: 197- 65:914-915. 20 I. Ali-Khan, S. T., Zimmer, R. C, and Kenaschuk, E. Gubbels, G. H. 1974. Growth of corn seedlings O. 1973. Reaction of pea introductions to under low temperatures as affected by geno- Ascochyta foot rot and powdery mildew. Can. type, seed size, total oil, and fatty acid content Plant Dis. Surv. 53:155-156. of the seed. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:425-426. Gubbels, G. H., and Klassen, R. 1974. An efficient Chubey, B. B., and Dorrell, D. G. 1974. Jerusalem sprayer for small plots. Can. J. Plant Sci. artichoke, a potential fructose crop for the 54:437-438. prairies. Can. Inst. Food Sci. & Techno!. J. 7:98-100. RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN. 231 Ronald, W. G., Lenz, L. M., and Cumming, W. A. Cumming, W. A. 1974. Hardy plants with poten- 1973. Biosystematics of the genus Populus L. tial for the central high plains. Part II. Proc. I. Distribution and morphology of native Colo. Nursery & Shade Tree Conf. 2: 14-21. Manitoba species and variants. Can. J. Bot. 51 :2431-2442. Cumming, W. A. 1974. Prairie regional (Zonation) trials for woody ornamentals. Morden Re- Ronald, W. G., Lenz, L. M., and Cumming, W. A. search Station, Rep. M-20 I. 1973. Biosystematics of the genus Populus L. Cumming, W. A. 1974. Merit awards. The 1974 II. Chemotaxonomy, phenology, fertility, and Prairie Garden. pp. 112-113. segregates of native Manitoba species and variants. Can. J. Bot. 51 :2443-2450. Cumming, W. A. 1974. The development of new tree species and cultivars for the prairies. Proc. Ronald, W. G., and Steele, J. W. 1974. Biosyste- 25th Annu. Meet. Can. Chap. Int. Shade Tree matics of the genus Populus L. III. Naturally Conf. pp. 15-19. occurring Manitoba hybrids of introduced P. X petrowskyana Schneid. with native P. del- Dorrell, D. G. 1973. Flaxseed research in Canada. toides Marsh. var. occidenta/is Rydb. and P. Abstr. Fette Seifen Anstrichm. 75:627. balsamifera L. Can. 1. Bot. 52: 1883-1887. Dorrell, D. G. 1973. Influence of genotype and Whelan, E. D. P. 1974. Discontinuities in the environment on the color of linseed oil. Proc. callose wall, intermeiocyte connections, and 43rd Annu. Flax Inst. U.S. pp. 6-7. cytomixis in angiosperm meiocytes. Can. 1. Enns, H. 1974. Early seeding of ~unflowers. Ca- Bot. 52:1219-1224. nadex 145.22. Whelan, E. D. P., Haggis, G. H., and Ford, E. 1. Hoes, J. A. 1973. Sclerotinia sc/erotiorum and its 1974. Scanning electron microscopy of the diseases. Proc. Manit. Agron. Conf., Dec. 11- callose wall and intermeiocyte connection in 12, 1973, Wi~nipeg, Man., pp. 105-107. angiosperms. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1215-1218. Hoes, J. A., and Kenaschuk, E. O. 1973. New race Whelan, E. D. P., Haggis, G. H., Ford, E. J., and of flax rust. Une nouvelle race de rouille de lin. Dronzek, B. 1974. Scanning electron micros- Canadex 148.632. copy of meiotic chromosomes of plant in situ. Kenaschuk, E. 0., and Hoes, 1.A. 1973. A new and Can. J. Bot. 52: 1438-1440. dangerous flax rust, race 370, and the future Zimmer, D. E., and Hoes, J. A. 1974. Race 370, a of flax varieties. Proc. Manit. Agron. Conf., new and dangerous North American race of Dec. 11-12, 1973, Winnipeg, Man., pp. 88-91. flax rust. PlantDis. Rep. 58:311-313. Marshall, H. H. !974. Hardy shrub roses. The 1974 Prairie Garden. pp. 120-121. Zimmer, R. C. 1974. Chlorotic leaf spot, a new disease, occurring in 1972 on buckwheat in Marshall, H. H. 1974. Index seminum 1973. Manitoba. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:55-56. Research Station, Morden, Man. 14 pp. Miscellaneous Marshall, H. H. 1974. Propagating hardy roses by leaf-bud cuttings. Landscape Can. 11(5):6. Ali-Khan, S. T., and Chubey, B. B. 1974. Field pea Marshall, H. H., and Cumming, W. A. 1974. quality. Can. Agric. 19(4):35. Hedges for the Prairies. Can. Dep. Agric. Ali-Khan, S. T., Snoad, 8., and Arthur, A. E. 1973. Publ. 1153. Rev. Quantitative analysis of early root growth in Ronald, W. G., and Ascher, P. D. 1974. Incompat- peas. John Innes Inst. 64th Annu. Rep. pp. 28- ibility in the 'Golden Clarion' strain of Li/ium 30. X aure/ianense. Incompatibility Newsl. 4:61- 65. Chubey, B. B. 1973. Potential new crops and related problems. Proc. 6th Annu. Manit. Ronald, W. G., and Ascher, P. D. 1974. Self- Hortic. Counc. Meet. pp. 5-6. compatibility studies in Chrysanthemum. Annu. Rep. Ornamental Plant Breed. Comm. Chubey, B. B. 1973. What about Jerusalem arti- Am. Soc. Hortic. Sci. pp. 18-19. choke as a crop in Manitoba? Proc. 21 st Annu. Conv. Veg. Grow. Assoc. Manit. pp. 4-6. Ronald, W. G., and Ascher, P. D. 1974. Pollen- stylar incompatibility in Li/ium. Annu. Rep. Chubey, B. B. 1974. Preconditioning improves Ornamental Plant Breed. Comm. Am. Soc. potato chip color. Can. Agric. 19(4):23. Hortic. Sci. pp. 17-18. Cumming, W. A. 1974. Canadian lilac breeders Whelan, E. D. P. 1974. Cucumber hybrids: variety and their introductions. Proc. Int. Lilac Soc. description. Nouveau hybrides gynoiques 3(1):21-24. hiitifs de cornichons. Canadex 256.33. 232 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Whelan, E. D. P., Haggis, G. H., and Ford, E. J. Zimmer, D. E., and Hoes, J. A. 1973. Race 370, a 1973. Cytoplasmic channels and discontinui- new and virulent race of flax rust and its ties in the callose wall of angiosperm meio- implication. Proc. 43rd Annu. Flax Inst. U.S. cytes. Abstr. 13th Int. Genet. Congr. pp. 1-2. RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN. 233 Research Station Winnipeg, Manitoba PROFESSIONAL STAFF W. e. McDoNALD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director M. D. HAMILTON Administrative Officer Scientific Support K. D. OLIVER, B.A., B.L.S. Librarian W. ROMANOW, B.S.A., M.Sc. Scientific Liaison Officer Cereal Breeding Section K. W. BUCHANNON, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Barley breeding and genetics R. J. BAKER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Quantitative genetics V. M. BENDELOW, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Cereal chemistry D. BROWN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Oat breeding A. B. CAMPBELL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Common wheat breeding E. M. CZARNECKI, B.S.A. Common wheat breeding P. L. DYCK, B.S.A., M.Sc., PhD. Wheat genetics E. R. KERBER, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Wheat cytogenetics F. G. KOSMOLAK, B.Sc., Ph.D. Cereal chemistry D. LEISLE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Durum wheat breeding D. R. METCALFE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Barley breeding and genetics R. I. H. McKENZIE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Oat breeding and genetics Cereal Diseases Section R. ROHRINGER, Dr. sc. agr. Head of Section; Molecular biology of cereal rust A. W. CHIKO, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Viruses e. e. GILL, B.Sc., Ph.D. Viruses G. J. GREEN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Wheat stem rust D. E. HARDER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Oat crown rust W. K. KIM, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Molecular biology of cereal rust J. W. MARTENS, B.Sc., Ph.D. Oat stem rust J. T. MILLS,1 B.Sc., Ph.D., D.Le., F.L.S. Seed pathology; fungicides RESEARCHSTATION,WINNIPEG, MAN. 235 J. J. NIELSEN, Dr. sc. agr. Smuts D. J. SAMBORSKI,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Wheat leaf rust A. TEKAUZ, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Leaf diseases P. L. THOMAS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Microbial genetics, smuts I Cereal Crop Protection Section F. L. WATTERS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Storage pest control P. S. BARKER, I.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biology and control of stored grain pests B. BERCK, B.S.A., M.Sc., F.e.I.e. Fumigant chemistry M. BICKIS, B.Sc., M.Sc. Biometrics S. R. LOSCHIAVO, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Stored grain insect biology W. ROMANOW, B.S.A., M.Sc. Insect surveys and control R. N. SINHA, B.Sc., Ph.D. Ecology of granary insects, mites, and fungi L. B. SMITH, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Population dynamics P. H. WESTDAL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biology and control of field crop insects Integrated Pest Control Section W. J. TURNOCK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Ecology and population dynamics G. L. AYRE, B.S.A., M.Sc. Insect ecology R. P. BODNARYK, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Nutritional physiology G. K. BRACKEN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology and behavior G. E. BUCHER, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Insect pathology G. H. GERBER, B.S.A., Ph.D. Reproductive physiology B. M. HEGDEKAR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Reproductive biochemistry e. E. OSGOOD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Behavior and fecundity H. G. WYLIE, B.A., Ph.D. Host-parasite relations VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council postdoctorate fellows C. G. BAILEY, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Entomology A. CAMPBELL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Entomology K. MORTENSEN, B.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology Government of India fellowship N. B. SINGH, Ph.D., M.Sc. Entomology 236 RESEARCHBRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Associate N. K. HOWES, B.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology Graduate students F. A. KIEHN, B.S.A. Plant breeding P. L. SHOLBERG, B.Sc. Microbiology S. TAUTHONG, B.Sc. Entomology Ian transfer of work to the Agricultural University, Wageningen. Holland, August 1974 to August 1975. ,J RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN. 237 INTRODUCTION In 1974, the growing season at Winnipeg was not favorable for cereal trials and field experiments. A wet spring delayed seeding until the first week of June and a dry period followed, in which only 38 mm (1.5 inches) of rain fell from mid-June to mid-August. Research on cereal root rot was discontinued and Dr. Mills was reassigned to collaborate as a seed mycologist in studies on the ecology of pests associated with the deterioration of cereals and oilseeds in storage. He will spend August 1974 to July 1975 visiting laboratories in Europe and working with seed mycologists at Wageningen, Holland, to prepare for his new responsibilities. To improve quality screening services to plant breeders in Western Canada, a second cereal chemist was brought to the project. Dr. Kosmolak will be responsible mainly for service and research related to common and durum wheat. Further information on the research summarized in this report can be obtained from Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, 25 Dafoe Road, Winnipeg, Man. R3T2M9. W. C. McDonald Director BREEDING, GENETICS, AND for leaf rust resistance: Lr17, located' on CYTOGENETICS chromosome 2A, and Lrl4b. Two leaf-rust- resistant backcross lines, with Thatcher as the Common Wheat recurrent parent, were produced from the Further progress was made with backcross cultivar Terenzio; one has a gene that may be programs in which Neepawa is used as a the same as an allele at the Lr 3 locus, and the recurrent parent. One study, concerned with other gives a rust reaction pattern similar to leaf rust resistance, involved the use of four that of a Thatcher backcross line previously donors: RL 5404, which contributed a gene isolated, with resistance from the cultivar from Aegilops squarrosa L. for resistance in Lageadinho. the adult plant; Maria Escobar; Terenzio; A group of wheat cultivars highly resistant and EI Gaucho. Separate backcrossing pro- to stem rust were genetically analyzed. In all grams were followed by crosses and double of them resistance in the seedling stage could crosses in order to incorporate the four genes be attributed to known genes. Agent had a into a single derivative of Neepawa. The gene from Agropyron elongatum (Host) four-gene combination was achieved but the Beauv., Sr9d, and SrI 0; ESP 518/9 had as lines must be increased before any can be many as seven genes, Sr5, Sr6, Sr7a, Sr8, tested for yield. Several three-gene combina- Sr9b, Sr 17, and a gene that gives a type-2 tions were increased in the field and will be reaction found also in the cultivar Webster; tested for yield in 1975. Because of adverse Romany had Sr5, Sr6, Sr7a, Sr9b, and the linkage, one or more of the available com- Webster gene; Tama had Sr6, Sr8, and binations will have serious deficiencies. Other SrIO; and Bonny had Sr6 and SrI I. Neepawa backcross derivatives that were increased in 1974 have greater stem rust Good resistance to stem rust and leaf rust resistance, awns, larger head size, or posthar- was backcrossed into Marquis from the vest dormancy. tetraploid amphiploids Aegilops spt:ltoides A study was completed on the genetics of Tausch. x Triticum monococcum L. and A. leaf rust resistance in a group of cultivars. speltoides x T. aegilopoides (Link) Bal. Trintecino has three genes for resistance: Throughout the transfer, which involved up Lrl, Lrl4b, and a gene that gives a 2 + to seven backcrosses to Marquis, a strong infection type to a few races. A single gene association was noted between stem rust was backcrossed into Thatcher from the resistance, leaf rust resistance in the adult cultivar El Gaucho. Monosomic analysis plant, and the non-free threshing habit. The indicates that it is on chromosome 20, but problem with this material has been to obtain this must be verified. Rafaela has two genes resistant selections that are fully fertile, 238 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 meiotically stable, and free threshing. A few In a test of 21 highly rust-resistant lines lines of this type have now been isolated. with promising protein content, several ap- Seedlings of two New Zealand wheat proached Hinoat in protein content. Al- cultivars, Kopara and Arawa, were infected though these lines have rather low yields they with two virulent races of leaf rust that were mature very early, and this character, as well differentiated by their virulence on Pembina as their superior rust resistance, should make and Thatcher. When the cultivars were them very attractive for late planting, partic- infected with isolate 20-68, 18% more pus- ularly on the eastern prairies where rust is a tules per unit area and 41 % fewer spores per hazard. pustule occurred on Kopara than on Arawa. OT 195, a high yielding, stiff-strawed, Similar, though statistically nonsignificant, medium-early, naked oat strain, yielded differences were observed in the reaction to about 15% more than Vicar, our best naked isolate 156-64: 6% more pustules per unit oat cultivar, and closely approached the yield area and 20% fewer spores per pustule were of groats of Random, our highest yielding found on Kopara than on Arawa. Although common oat cultivar. Because of its strong both cultivars were susceptible to both races, straw, OT 195 should respond well to good quantitative differences were observed in the management. degree of infection and in the amount of A new dwarf oat was obtained by irradia- sporulation. tion of OT 184 with 1,150 rads of fast neutrons. This strain appears to have the In a study of the relationship of several yielding ability and kernel type of Harmon. quality characteristics to hardness in two The mutant is about 65% as tall as Harmon, spring wheat crosses, it was found that it is very stiff strawed, and no chromosomal hardness of wheat as measured by particle irregularities have been detected. size index was related to flour yield, mix- ograph peak height, farinograph absorption, Barley and, to a lesser extent, remix loaf volume. Several two-rowed lines with improved malting quality (fast modifying enzyme Durum Wheat system and high extract values), resistance to stem rust and net blotch, and desirable kernel The cultivar Macoun, developed jointly by type performed reasonably well in yield the durum wheat breeding programs at Swift trials. One of these lines will be advanced to Current, Sask., and at Winnipeg, was li- the 1975 Co-operative Test, and others will censed. It is comparable to Wascana in yield be advanced to the eastern prairie regional across Western Canada, has shorter, stronger trials. Earlier problems with deficiencies in straw, and is superior in test weight and kernel type, introduced through the use of quality. certain parents as sources of enzymes and A study of the cross Wascana x Quilafen, disease resistance, were overcome. segregating for semidwarf habit, showed Three six-rowed lines selected for high test very strong association of plant height with weight performed well in eastern prairie kernel shriveling. It was also determined that regional trials. Two of these, with test the semidwarf character was conditioned by weights comparable to those of two-rowed one recessive gene, and that pu bescent entries, out yielded the five control cultivars glumes were conditioned by one dominant and will be advanced to the Co-operative gene. Test. Progress was made in incorporating genes Oats for high lysine content into hulled and hull- less lines of both two-rowed and six-rowed Advanced generation lines, originating types. Progress was also made in improving from Rodney and Harmon types crossed the agronomic characteristics and yielding with strains that contained rust-resistance ability of hull-less two-rowed and six-rowed genes derived from Avena sterilis L., were lines intended for ,-!se as high-energy feed bulked and will be tested for yield in 1975. barleys. In addition to very good rust resistance, the In both two-rowed and six-rowed material, new crosses have some smut resistance de- crosses incorporating genes for resistance to rived from Markton and from A. sterilis. the new races of loose smut now prevalent on RESEARCH STATION. WINNIPEG, MAN. 239 the prames are in the second to fourth the Lr2 locus. This may be a random shift or generation. may reflect a 'change in the rust populations Techniques for screening barley hybrid on Mexican wheats, in which gene Lr2a has populations for malting quality were further been used during breeding. refined; autoanalyzer assays for amylase activities were improved; and a test for beta- Stem Rust of Oats glucan content and an index of malting and A major shift in race distribution was malt protease activities were developed. apparent from survey results after several years of relative stability. Several new races were identified that are virulent on oats with CEREAL RUSTS gene pgI3 and are distributed in both East- Stem Rust of Wheat ern and Western Canada. Initial screening of the original collection of oats from North An analysis of results obtained over 10 yr Africa and the Mediterranean basin to iden- by the Winnipeg formula method of race tify sources of stem rust resistance was identification revealed that, in recent years, completed. most changes in rust races caused an increase or decrease in virulence on a specific gene for Crown Rust of Oats host resistance. On single-gene differential cultivars, chronologically related differences A new system of differentiating crown rust in virulence between strains of standard rust races was developed. The general level of race 15B-IL form an evolutionary series of resistance in the standard set of differential single-step changes whereas differences in cultivars is high, and does not reflect the full virulence between strains of standard race range or various combinations of virulence groups 11-32, 17-29, and 56-125 do not. genes in the crown rust population. The Most changes were from avirulence to viru- standard cultivars were replaced by selected lence, or vice versa, but on cultivars with lines of better known genetic composition, resistance genes Sr7a and SrI I intermediate most of which contain single genes for virulence occurred, which suggests that the resistance to crown rust. All known resistance strains underwent more than one kind of genes of present or possible future interest in genetic change. There was no indication of the breeding program were included. an overall increase or decrease in the number In the 1974 survey there was a significant of virulence genes present, although viru- increase in the number of cultures virulent lence against genes Sr7a and Sr5 increased. against Pc40, although this gene is not used Random changes in virulence on specific in the Winnipeg breeding program. The two genes for host resistance seem to occur main resistance genes, Pc38 and Pc39, which frequently, probably as a result of mutations. are used in the Winnipeg breeding program, They permit the rust to overcome single-gene have retained good resistance although a resistance but they are not very effective in number of cultures have appeared that are overcoming complex resistance. The stability moderately virulent against gene Pc38. The of complex resistance in North America effectiveness of the other resistance genes suggests that other processes, capable of remained unchanged. producing a wider range of variability, do Further observations were made on the not occur frequently in nature. role of buckthorn in the development of crown rust in Manitoba. Although climatic Leaf Rust of Wheat conditions in 1974 were unfavorable for rust The late planting of wheat in 1974 and the development, heavy infections of oats occur- presence of considerable areas of leaf rust in red near buckthorn both in experimental the southern United States indicated that areas and in farm fields. Oats near buckthorn appreciable damage from leaf rust might became infected about I mo earlier than occur in wheat. However, very dry conditions those infected by inoculum from external during the summer delayed rust development sources, and their yield was reduced. and only trace to light infections occurred on Additional wild oat collections were ini- wheat in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Pre- tially screened for crown rust resistance. The liminary results from the leaf rust race survey more resistant lines of these and previously indicated a slightly increased level of viru- screened collections were carried through the lence on wheats with alleles for resistance at second phase of screening; additional crown 240 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 rust races were used and environmental system. This result was expected because race conditions were varied to assess resistance C24( I7) is virulent with respect to Sr6, and it further. Several lines appeared to be excel- showed that the extract was specific in its lent potential sources of resistance, and these interactions with genes. So were extracts are being phased into the crossing program from host-parasite complexes involving to determine whether new genes can be other genes for avirulence. isolated. Several lines also appeared to have temperature-sensitive or adult resistance, and genetic analysis of these has also started. OTHER CEREAL DISEASES Molecular Biology of Rust Resistance Smuts Haynaldia villosa Schur. and Secale silve- Recent investigations showed that ribonu- stre Host, two new hosts, were found to be cleic acid (RNA) is directly involved in the susceptible to loose smut of wheat, Ustilago resistant reaction of wheat to stem rust and tritici (Pers.) Rostr. The races of U. trifici that the active RNA shows specificity compa- virulent on species of Aegi!ops, Agropyron, rable to that of the whole host-parasite and Elymus were determined. Agropyron system. To determine whether the active scabriglume (Hark.) Par., A. semicostatum RNA was produced by the host or the (Steud.) Nees ex Bois., E. angustus Trin., and fungus, near-isogenic lines of the wheat E. canadensis L. were susceptible also to true cultivar Chinese Spring containing either loose smut of barley, U. nuda (Jens.) Rostr., gene Sr6 for resistance or gene sr6 for four new host records. These species are the susceptibility were infected with race CI7(56) first known common hosts for the loose smuts containing gene P6 for avirulence or with of wheat and barley. One of the above race C45(56A) containing gene p6 for viru- species, A.semicostatum, was susceptible also lence. Separate extracts from infected wheat to U. avenae (Pers.) Rostr., U. kolleri Wille, leaves, representing the four possible gene U. nigra Tapke, U. hordei (Pers.) Lagerh., combinations, were prepared and tested for and U. bullata Berk. in test inoculations. This activity by bioassay. Active extracts were grass species is thus a common host for the obtained from infected plants that repre- important Ustilago species from wheat, oats, sented the interactions of gene Sr6 or sr6 and barley, as well as for the ubiquitous U. with P6, but not from infected plants that bullata from grasses. represented the interactions of Sr6 or sr6 A technique to perform intraspecific with p6. These results showed that the crosses in U. nuda was developed and ap- genotype of the host was not important for plied to study the inheritance of buff spore production of the active RNA but that the color, and of virulence on the barley cultivar gene for avirulence was essential. The active Warrior. The buff spore color of an albino RNA thus appeared to be a product of the strain was recessive to the brown color of the gene for avirulence. wild type. Virulence on Warrior was also In earlier experiments, active extracts recessive. This virulence and that on the could not be obtained from Chinese Spring cultivar Titan were transferred from a wild- wheat that contained gene Sr5 for resistance, type strain into the buff strain. when it was infected with a race of stem rust The relationship was determined between that had gene P5 for avirulence. The lack of virulence on barley cultivars Lion and Plush activity was attributed to the limited fungal and the genes Uhv-j and Uhv-2 of covered development characteristic of this gene inter- smut, U. hordei. The virulence was caused by action. If the genotype of the host is not a single recessive gene, which was not linked important for production of the active RNA, to the other two genes. Combination of this it should be possible to obtain an active gene with Uhv-j was required for virulence extract from genotypically susceptible wheat on Vantage but not for virulence on leaves infected with a race such as C24( 17), Hannchen, nor with Uhv-2 for virulence on avirulent with respect to gene Sr5. An active Excelsior, nor with Uhv-I and Uhv-2 for extract was obtained from this host-parasite virulence on Himalaya. complex, which supports the conclusion that Tests of hybrids carrying Un8 show that the active RNA was produced by the aviru- this gene will be of value in breeding for lent pathogen. The extract was not active resistance to U. nuda. The use of cultivars when tested against Sr6 in the bioassay Trebi, Valkie, and Compana is limited RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN. 241 because a biotype virulent on these sources Johnson, were found in 63, 60, and II% of of resistance is present in the area. More than affected fields. Their distribution was wide- 100 other lines of barley, mainly from spread in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, but Ethiopia, are being screened for resistance. only one field with plants infected with tan spot and yellow leaf blotch was found in Foliage Diseases Alberta. Incidence of foliar disease was fairly light throughout the prairies in 1974. Cultures of Pyrenophora teres (Died.) Drechsl. that produced spot rather than net A set of cultural conditions that promote symptoms on inoculated plants were isolated disease development and a system for classi- from barley collected near Winnipeg. Spot- fying host resistance were developed for the type symptoms were similar to those of spot wheat leaf pathogen P. trichostoma. Plants in blotch caused by Cochliobolus sativus (Ito & the three- to four-leaf stage were dipped for Kurib.) Drechsl. ex Dastur. The cultivars 15 sec in inoculum suspensions consisting of Herta and Fergus, previously reported to be mycelium fragments from 2-wk-old cultures moderately resistant, were susceptible to both of P. trichostoma grown on 10% V8 juice types of isolates. At present, these two agar. After inoculation, samples were humid- cultivars account for almost all the two- ified for 6, 12, 24, and 48 h, and wheat rowed barley and about half the total barley cultivars were classified into reaction types crop grown in Manitoba. The resistant lines according to symptom development and the CI 5791 and BT 20 I retained their resistance percentage of leaf area infected after 7 days. to the isolate that produced typical net blotch Of the wheats tested, Glenlea was rated as but were less resistant to those that produced very susceptible, and symptoms appeared the spot-type symptom. after only 6 h humidification. None of the commonly grown cultivars tested were rated The range of symptom types produced by better than moderately susceptible. C. sativus on the leaves of 12 barley cultivars was examined and a system of classification Barley Stripe Mosaic into six symptom categories was developed. Betzes barley exhibited the most restricted Barley stripe mosaic (BSM) was detected symptom type, an irregularly shaped lesion in 41, 20, and 20% of the fields of two-rowed with little or no necrosis, 7-10 days after barley surveyed in southern Alberta, south- inoculation. Symptom type and total leaf western Saskatchewan, and southeastern area infected were used to compare the Manitoba. Disease was also detected in 10% cultural conditions that led to optimal disease of the fields of six-rowed barley surveyed in development in this host-parasite system. A southern Alberta but was not observed 24-h humidification period at 22°C and a elsewhere in this crop. At present, BSM is post-inoculation temperature of 15, 22, or believed to be most common in southern 30°C resulted in good symptom expression Alberta, where the average proportion of and differentiation. Betzes exhibited the most affected plants in surveyed fields of two- restricted lesion type under any of the rowed barley in 1974 was about 3%. cultural conditions used. The virion length distributions of each of The production of spermatia and protop- four strains of BSMV, designated C I, C2, C3, erithecia by cultures of P. teres was com- and C4 in Qrder of increasing severity of pared under various cultural conditions. symptoms in Black Hulless barley, were Spermatia were produced only at 10 and obtained from metal-shadowed, leaf-dip 15°C on V8 or Sachs agar medium with preparations before and after three succes- dialyzing membranes added to the agar sive transfers of each strain. Three main surfaces. Protoperithecia were formed at 10, virion components with normal lengths of 15, or 20°C on both growth media when 108, 125, and 148 nm were recognized. All dialysis membranes were incorporated. three virion components were consistently Field surveys were conducted to determine resolved in preparations of C4, but only the the prevalence and distribution of leaf- latter two components in preparations of C2 spotting diseases of wheat in the three Prairie and C3; the 125-nm component was most Provinces. Tan spot, causal agent Pyreno- common in all preparations of strains C2, C3, phora trichostoma (Fr.) Fckl., spot blotch, and C4. In preparations of CI, the 108-nm agent C. sativus, and yellow leaf blotch, component was most common and, although agent Septoria avenae Frank f. sp. triticea T. all three components were resolved at first, 242 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 only the 108- and 148-nm ones were resolved moderate for barley with isolate 7005, and after three successive transfers. The number, small for wheat with both isolates. For the normal length, and ratio of virion compo- three host-virus combinations where yield nents appear to be useful criteria for differ- reductions were large, seed yield per plant entiating and characterizing BSMV strains. decreased progressively as aphid numbers Transmission of BSMV through seed of increased. These responses to the levels of naturally infected wild oat plants was dem- infestation were supported by similar re- onstrated. Of the seedlings grown from seed sponses in several other characteristics mea- of seven of these plants, 22% were found to sured. be infected. Manual inoculation tests were Examination by electron microscope of oat conducted to assess the susceptibility of wild leaves inoculated with BYDV revealed the oats to isolates of BSMV from both barle'y presence of the following inclusions in and wild oats. Strains C I, C2, C3, and C4 phloem parenchyma, companion cells, and from barley each failed to infect wild oats, sieve elements: virus-like particles, slender whereas an isolate of BSMV from wild oats filaments, small vesicles containing fibrils, infected about 30% of the inoculated wild and an amorphous material. Cells with oat plants. The latter isolate was readily inclusions, presumed to be infected cells, transmitted from wild oats to barley but not were detected as early as 2 days after from barley back to wild oats. Wild oats inoculation. At 4 days, virus particles and were more susceptible to the isolates of filaments were observed in some mature BSMV from wild oats than were four culti- sieve elements. Early in the infection of the vars of commercial oats. cell, the nucleus became distorted and fila- ments resembling those associated with the Barley Yellow Dwarf virus particles in the cytoplasm appeared in A severe epidemic of barley yellow dwarf the nucleoplasm and nuclear pores. At 6 and virus (BYDV) occurred in an area of about II days, inclusions were seen in almost all 9.5 million ha (37,000 sq mi) in southern phloem cells. Passage of the virus particles Manitoba and southeastern Saskatchewan. and filaments from many of these cells into Aphid populations on cereals involving Rho- channels of translocation was suggested by palosiphum padi (Linnaeus), R. maidis the appearance of these inclusions in plas- (Fitch), Macrosiphum avenae (Fabricius), modesmata and in adjacent sieve elements. and Schizaphis graminum (Rondani) were exceptionally high. Thirty percent of R. Blue Dwarf of Oats maidis, 6% of S. graminum, and I% of R. padi sampled in the field near Winnipeg The cause of low or erratic transmission of transmitted BYDV to test plants. Three oat blue dwarf virus (OBDV) by individual strains of BYDV, one specific to R. maidis, leafhopper vectors was investigated in a one to R. padi, and one nonspecific, were series of tests in which the consistency of identified among the virus isolates from transmission to flax was used, because that cereals and aphids. The mean proportion of species is a good indicator host. In these tests diseased plants was 33% in 65 fields of only about half the leafhoppers transmitted barley examined, 9% in 38 fields of oats, and the virus. However, after the first transmis- 4% in 26 fields of wheat. Estimates indicated sion, presumably at the end of the preinfec- a loss of 6% of the potential yield of oats, tion period, most of the infective leafhoppers equivalent to 92,500 t (6 million bu). Losses transmitted OBDV consistently for up to 20 in barley were probably higher and also days to every plant exposed to them. This appeared to be significant in wheat. showed that flax was not resistant to OBDV A study was completed on the effect of and that transmission was not inhibite-d by concentration of BYDV inoculum on the .any vector-plant relationship. The consist- yield of wheat, oats, and barley. Each plant ency of transmission also suggested that the of these cereals was infested with I, 20, or retention period of the virus by the vector 100 individuals of R. padi carrying nonspe- was adequate and that the concentration and cific isolate 680 I or of R. maidis carrying release of virus were sufficient to infect plants isolate 7005 specific to R. maidis. Yield during the retention period. Nine cultivars reductions were large for oats with both each of wheat, oats, and barley were moder- isolates and for barley with isolate 6801, ately resistant to or tolerant of OBDV. Wheat RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN. 243 ______1 and oats appeared to be more resistant than Control barley. The rate of breakdown of malathion and bromophos on concrete surfaces that had various pH levels was determined by bioas- STORED PRODUCTS say; the rusty grain beetle and the red flour ENTOMOLOGY beetle were exposed for 24-h periods. The rusty grain beetle was generally more suscep- tible than the red flour beetle to both Surveys insecticides. When applied to concrete with a pH of 7 or 8.5, the effectiveness of bromo- Surveys of stored grain in Manitoba were phos wettable powder (WP) persisted for 32 continued on farms selected at random. Of days against the rusty grain beetle but only 190 farm structures, 41 % were infested with for 4 days against the red flour beetle. one or more species of insects. Numbers of Bromophos emulsifiable concentrate (EC) fungus beetles decreased from the previous was less effective than the WP formulation year, possibly reflecting the drier conditions and persisted for only 4 days against the of 1974. Infestations were highest in the rusty grain beetle. Application of malathion northern grain-growing areas of the prov- EC at 2.5 g/m2 was superior to application at ince. Infestations in wheat, oats, and barley I g/m2, but the effects lasted for only 2 days did not differ significantly. at pH 8.5 and I day at pH 10.0 when tested against the rusty grain beetle. Fresh concrete Biology has a pH of about 11.5, whereas the concrete floors of farm granaries 3-5 yr old have a pH Experiments on the energy budget of the of about 8.5. granary weevil indicated that 60% (or 75 cal) Rates of unassisted air movement in stored of a wheat kernel is required by the weevil grain under laboratory and field conditions for development from egg to adult under were determined with SF used as a gaseous optimum conditions. This contrasts with the 6 tracer. Downward, upward, and lateral air performance of the granary weevil in 54-kg flow within the microclimate of the intersti- grain bulks, maintained at 30°C, where tial atmosphere was measured in wheat, environmental factors did not allow the barley, oats, peas, flax, mustard seed, and insect to infest every kernel; after 6 mo of ra peseed stored in steel bins. As little as O. I infestation the grain showed an overall pi of SF could be detected by a gas chro- 18.5% weight loss, with pockets registering 6 matograph fitted with an NI63EC detector. up to 43.6% loss. After 6 mo the lesser grain Rates of air movement varied from 0.25 to borer had caused an overall weight loss of 2.0 em/min. Temperature gradients, invari- 37.7% in the grain bulk with a maximum loss ably present under field conditions, influ- of 90.5% in some pockets. In contrast, the enced the air flow profile; it had previously rusty grain beetle had caused an overall been shown that they influenced dispersion weight loss of 2.1 % with a maximum of and patterns of distribution and persistence 3.3%. of fumigant gases and fumigant residues in stored grain. Insect Resistance A microdrop technique was used to mea- sure resistance to malathion of 15 strains of FIELD CROP INSECTS the red flour beetle collected from various regions throughout Canada. A strain ob- Grasshopper Surveys tained from a cargo ship in Vancouver was 20 times more resistant than a standard Surveys for grasshopper eggs in the fall of laboratory strain. The resistance of a strain 1974 showed that in the south central and from Montreal was 9 times that of beetles southwestern parts of the province both the representative of strains from the Prairie areas infested and degree of severity had Provinces, where malathion is used less decreased and the largest and most heavily frequently than at port areas for control of infested area was in the Red River valley and storage pests. the area west to Rathwell. The dominant 244 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 species in 1974 was the twostriped grasshop- INTEGRATED CONTROL OF per; the clearwinged grasshopper, the sec- INSECT PESTS ondary species, increased considerably and was more widely distributed. The forecast of Damage Assessment grasshopper infestations in Manitoba for Fifth-instar larvae of the bertha army- 1975 indicated that the area infested would worm caged over rape plants at densities of 2 decrease by about 25%, but the degree of 20, 50, and 100 per cage (0.84 m ) until they severity would increase in the Red River pupated reduced yields of rapeseed by 4, 17, valley. and 17%. Yield losses apparently resulted from the cutting of blooming shoots in younger plants and cutting. of pods in older Sugar Beet Insects plants. Laboratory studies indicated that mature larvae showed no preference' for Eight insecticides were applied at various feeding on pods rather than leaves. rates and by several methods to control the Biology sugarbeet root maggot. Granular applica- tions of aldicarb, Counter (Cyanamid of Ten generations of bertha armyworms Canada), and carbofuran were very effective were reared continuously without diapause in controlling the sugarbeet root maggot and on artificial diets that incorporated 86 varia- also protected seedling stands from damage tions of composition or manufacture. A by flea beetles. Spray applications of lepto- satisfactory schedule of diets and feeding phos and chlorpyriphos at 560.5 g/ha (8 oz/ was developed by which bertha armyworms ac) effectively controlled red backed can be reared in lots of up to 15,000 for experiments. The best diets produced 90% cutworms. living pupae, of which 80% were visually perfect and 10% showed various degrees of Sunflower Insects pupal malformation. Pupal size and vigor and adult vigor and productivity were equal or superior to those of field-collected insects; The effect of foliage damage by adults and adults that emerged from pupae with mild larvae of the sunflower beetle on some pupal malformation showed no loss of vigor components of yield of sunflowers was or productivity. A wild strain collected from studied in field trials. In 1973, seed yield was the field in 1974 and reared for three 24.3% less from sunflowers that were se- generations on diet did not differ significantly verely defoliated by larvae of the sunflower from the strain in culture for 10 generations. beetle than from plants where insecticides Bertha armyworms reared on a defatted were used to destroy the larvae and limit diet of Feed Wheast (H. V. Nootbaar & Co., defoliation. The yield loss reflected reduc- Pasadena, Calif.) survived poorly (44% tions in both the number of filled seeds per reached the adult stage) and only 38% of head and the kernel weight. A further loss adults had perfect wings. However, 83% was a significant reduction in oil content of survived and 76% of these had perfect wings seed from defoliated plants, which was 1.7% when linolenic acid was added to the diet at lower than that of seed from plants with I mg/g dry weight. Further additions of linolenic acid or the addition of linseed oil limited foliage damage. In similar tests in did not improve this performance. The 1974, despite light defoliation because of a amount of fat stored as linolenic acid by the low larval population, seed yield of untreated insect increased as the dietary level increased plants was 8-10.5% less than that of plants but it remained less than half the level stored sprayed with insecticides. Plants that suffered by individuals reared on rape leaves. defoliation, particularly at the seedling stage, Experiments showed that nondiapausing matured 7-10 days later than those that were pupae of the bertha armyworm are so protected from damage by sunflower beetles. sensitive to cold temperatures that they are A single spray application of carbofuran, completely unable to survive winter in the phosmet, azinphos-methyl, or methidathion prairies. At temperatures below freezing, -7 effectively controlled adults and larvae of the to -18°C, pupae froze and died rapidly. At sunflower beetle. temperatures above freezing + I to + 5°C, RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN. 245 mortality increased with exposure time, and downwind, 70% within an angle of :l: 45° occurred both during exposure and during and 82% within :l: 65° of the wind direction. subsequent incubation when adults at- The numbers ot insects caught in traps tempted to emerge. Emerging adults were located 45.7 to 274.2 m (50 to 300 yd) from abnormal, few mated, and few mated fe- the release points diminished in proportion to males laid viable eggs. Even 10 days of the densities calculated for increasing dis- exposure to + 5°C reduced oviposition to tances from the release point. It was roughly 43% of normal. At temperatures above the estimated that a light trap has a probability zero level for development, + 9 to + 15°C, of trapping an adult if it approaches to pupae developed normally and ad ults within 7 to 10 m (8 to II yd) of the trap. emerged. From data on the time required for Tests to develop practical methods for development at various temperatures, the assessing field populations of flea beetles zero level for development was estimated to were conducted on 20 plots of rape, each be approximately + 5.5°C for eggs, larvae, divided into three subplots. Three sampling and pupae. methods, visual counts, sweep nets, and the Certain cyclic nucleotides were found to D-Vac vacuum net, were compared. The enhance the effectiveness of suboptimal D-Vac, after suitable modifications, was 95- doses of the molting hormone, ecdysone, in 100% efficient in removing flea beetles from the bertha armyworm. Other cyclic nucleo- the area sampled and is used as a reference tides blocked the action of ecdysone com- to calibrate the other two methods. pletely. Parasites Studies to determine the egg-laying behav- ior of females of the red turnip beetle were Surveys and studies continued on hyme- conducted in field cages. Females copulated nopterous and dipterous parasites of rape- for the first time a few hours after emergence seed pests in Western Canada. Emphasis was and repeated copulation many times thereaf- on evaluation of Athrycia cinerea (Coq.) and ter. Some of the females laid eggs before the Banchus sp., the two main larval parasites of 8th day after emergence, but most of them the bertha armyworm. Both species were started oviposition between the 8th and 12th found in association with bertha armyworms day. Egg-laying reached a peak between 12 not only in numerous rape-growing areas of and 16 days after emergence in mated Manitoba but also at a number of sites in females and about 8 days later in virgins, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Both parasites and declined gradually in both groups during were fairly host-specific in rape fields; they the remainder of the oviposition period. emerged rarely from other lepidopterous Although females often laid eggs on succes- species collected on rape. Laboratory studies sive days, the average interval between showed that only one of the parasite species consecutive ovipositions was about 2 days. survived on each multiparasitized host, and Each virgin female laid on the average 236 neither was intrinsically superior to the other. eggs and each mated female 426 eggs. The survivor in each instance was deter- Oviposition seemed to be inhibited some- mined by the intensity and timing of their what on days when the weather was cool and respective attacks on the host. Propagation cloudy and it rained or snowed. procedures were improved for both A. cine- rea and Banchus sp.: in particular, methods Sampling Techniques were developed for breaking diapause and, in A. cinerea, for preventing or inducing it. Studies were started to determine the flight Tests showed that whereas fall cultivation of pattern of adult bertha armyworms and to rape fields killed many bertha armyworm compare efficiencies of traps for adults by pupae, it did not affect survival of Banchus releasing known numbers of moths. The sp. in cocoons in the soil. Pupal parasitism of battery-operated Manitoba black-light trap the bertha armyworm was recorded for the was as efficient as two versions of motorized first time: the species, an ichneumonid, light traps that use AC power and are thus parasitizes freshly formed pupae in the soil. restricted to locations with a power supply. A Methods for propagating this parasite were pheromone trap baited with virgin females developed and preliminary information on was not efficient. Newly emerged adults flew its biology and life history were obtained. 246 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 PUBLICA nONS Research Gill, C. C. 1974. Inclusions and wall deposits in cells of plants infected with oat necrotic mottle Baker, R. J. 1974. Selection indexes without eco- virus. Can. J. Bot. 52:621-626. nomic weights for animal breeding. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 54: 1-8. Gill, C. C. 1973. Preservation of barley yellow dwarf virus by lyophilization. Plant Dis. Rep. Baker, R. J., and Dyck, P. L. 1974. Combining 57:862-864. ability for yield of synthetic hexaploid wheats. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:235-239. Harasymek, L., and Sinha, R. N. 1974. Survival of Berck, B. 1974. Fumigant residues of CT, EDC, springtails of Hypogastrura tullbergi and and EDB in wheat, flour, bran, middlings and ProisolOma min uta on fungal and bacterial bread. J. Agric. Food Chern. 22:977-984. diets. Environ. Entomol. 3:965-968. Kerber, E. R., and Rowland, G. G. 1974. Origin of Bodnaryk, R. P. 1974. Kinetic aspects of the the free thresliing character in hexaploid breakdown of y -L-glutamyl-L-phenylalanine wheat. Can. 1. Genet. Cytol. 16: 145-154. during sclerotization of the puparium of Musca domestica. Insect Biochem. 4:439-454. Kim, W. K., and Rohringer, R. 1974. Ribonucleic acids of differentiating and non-differentiating Bodnaryk, R. P., Bronskill, J. F., and Fetterly, 1. R. uredosporelings of wheat stem rust. Can. J. 1974. Membrane-bound y -glutamyl transpep- Bot. 52:1309-1317. tidase and its role in phenylalanine absorp- tion-reabsorption in the larva of Musca domes- Leisle, D. 1974. Genetics of leaf pubescence in tica.1. Insect Physiol. 20: 167-181. durum wheat. Crop Sci. 14: 173-174. Bodnaryk, R. P., and Brunet, P. C. J. 1974. 3-0- Loschiavo, S. R. 1974. Laboratory studies of a H ydrosulpha to-4- hydroxyphe neth ylamine device to detect insects in grain,. and of the (dopamine 3-0-sulphate), a metabolite in- distribution of adults of the rusty grain beetle, volved in the sclerotization of insect cuticle. Cryptolestes jerrugineus (Coleoptera: Cucuji- Biochem. J. 138:463-469. idae), in wheat-filled containers. Can. Ento- mol. 106:1309-1318. Bodnaryk, R. P., Brunet, C. J., and Koeppe, J. K. 1974. On the metabolism of N-ace- McIntosh, R. A., Dyck, P. L., and Green, G. J. tyldopamine in Periplaneta americana. 1. In- 1974. Inheritance of reaction to stt:m rust and sect Physiol. 20:911-923. leaf rust in the wheat cultivar Etoile de Choisy. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 16:571-577. Bucher, G. E., and MacLeod, D. M. 1974. Redis- covery of Tarichium megaspermum (En to- Osgood, C. E. 1974. Relocation of nesting popula- mophthoraceae) in Canadian cutworms (Noc- tions of Megachile rotundata, an important tuidae). J. Invertebr. Pathol. 23:157-163. pollinator of alfalfa. J. Apic. Rcs. 13:67-73. Osgood, C. E. 1974. Insect mortality associated Burnett, P. A., and Baker, R. 1. 1972. Number of with Saran plastic screen. Can. Entomol. replicates required in experiments designed to 106:1039-1042. determine yield loss on small plots. Manit. Entomol. 6:27-32. Paliwal, Y. c., and Kim, W. K. 1974. Scanning electron microscopy of differentiating and David, 1., and Loschiavo, S. R. 1974. Effects of the antifeeding compound AC 24055 (4'-(3,3- non-differentiating uredosporelings of wheat dimethyl-I-triazeno) acetanilide) on larvae stem rust fungus (Puccinia graminis f. sp. trifid) on an artificial substrate. Tissue & Cell and adults of Drosophila melanogaster (Dip- 6:391-397. tera: Drosophilidae). Can. Entomol. 106:1009-1014. Rohringer, R., Howes, N. K., Kim, W. K., and Samborski, D. J. 1974. Evidence for a gene- Dyck, P. L., and Samborski, D. J. 1974. Inheritance specific RNA determining resistance in wheat of virulence in Puccinia recondita on alleles at to stem rust. Nature 249:585-588. the Lr2 locus for resistance in wheat. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 16:323-332. Rowland, G. G., and Kerber, E. R. 1974. Telocen- tric mapping in hexaploid wheat of genes for Fullerton, R. A., and Nielsen, 1. J. 1974. Identical leaf rust resistance and other characters de- genes for virulence in the smuts Ustilago rived from Aegilops squarrosa. Can. J. Genet. hordei and U. nigra, and inheritance of viru- Cytol. 16:137-144. lence on the barley cultivars Keystone and Conquest. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:253-257. Sinha, R. N. 1974. Ecology of storage. Ann. Technol. Agric. 22:351-369. Fullerton, R. A., and Nielseft;-;),i'~,hd.&~heri- tance of buff spore color and of virulence on Sinha, R. N. 1974. Seasonal abundance of insects the cultivar Warrior in loose smut of barley, and mites in small farm granaries. Environ. Ustilago nuda. Can. J. Bot. 52:2237-2240. Entomol. 3:854-862. RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN. 247 Sinha, R. N., and Harasymek, L. 1974. Survival Harder, D. E., and Martens, J. W. 1974. Diseases. and reproduction of stored product mites and Pages 29-37 in D. E. Harder, Growing wheat beetles on fungal and bacterial diets. Environ. in Kenya. Zakuna Printers, Nairobi. Entomol. 3:243-246. Harder, D. E., and McKenzie, R. I. H. 1974. Skipp, R. A., and Samborski, D. J. 1974. The effect Crown rust of oats in Canada in 1973. Can. of the Sr6 gene for host resistance on histolog- Plant Dis. Surv. 54: 16-18. ical events during the development of stem Ledingham, R. J., Atkinson, T. G., Horricks, J. S., rust in near-isogenic wheat lines. Can. J. Bot. Mills, J. T., Piening, L. J., and Tinline, R. D. 52:1107-1115. 1973. Wheat losses due to common root rot in the Prairie Provinces of Canada, 1969-1971. Starratt, A. N., and Loschiavo, S. R. 1974. The Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53: 113-122. production of aphidicolin by Nigrospora sphaerica. Can. J. Microbiol. 20:416.417. Martens, J. W. 1974. Stem rust of oats in Canada in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54: 19-20. Tekauz, A., and Mills, J. T. 1974. New types of virulence in Pyrenophora teres in Canada. Can. McKeen, C. D., Tinline, R. D., Horricks, J., and J. Plant Sci. 54:731-734. Nielsen, J. 1974. Seed treatment in the Prairie Provinces. Canadex 110.23. Tekauz, A., and Patrick, Z. A. 1974. The role of twig infections on the incidence of perennial Mills, J. T. 1974. Co-operative seed treatment trials canker of peach. Phytopathology 64:683-688. - 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54: 178-181. Mills, J. T., and Tekauz, A. 1974. Stresses affecting Thomas, P. L. 1974. The occurrence of loose smut barley growth in Canada. Can. Plant Dis. of barley on commercially grown cultivars possessing genes for resistance from Jet. Can. Surv. 54:65-70. J. Plant Sci. 54:453-456. Osgood, C. E. 1973. Flea beetles on rape. Canadex 149.622. Watters, F. L. 1973. Control of storage insects by residual chemicals. Trop. Stored Prod. Inf. Romanow, W. 1974. Grasshopper control in Mani- 25:23-24. toba. Manit. Dep. Agric., Publ. 364. Watters, F, L. 1974. Malathion for the control of Romanow, W., and Robertson, J. T. 1973. Fore- Oryzaephilus surinamensis in stored oats. J. cast of grasshopper infestations in Manitoba Stored Prod. Res. 10:225-231. in 1974. Pages 76-77 in Rep. Annu. ConI'. Manit. Agron., Winnipeg, Man. Miscellaneous Samborski, D. 1. 1974. Leaf rust of wheat in Berck, B. 1973. Methods of brewery waste man- Canada in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:8- agement. Master Brewers' Assoc. Am. 10. (MBAA) Tech. Q. 10:56-59. Sinha, R. N. 1974. Challenges and limitations of biological inquiry [in Dutch]. Yakbl. BioI. Chiko, A. W. 1973. Barley stripe mosaic. La 54:245-247. mosaique striee de l'orge. Canadex 114.633. Thomas, P. L., and Nielsen, J. J. 1973. The Chiko, A. W. 1973. Barley stripe mosaic in Mani- incidence of smut diseases in cereals in Mani- toba in 1972 and 1973. Page 56 in Rep. Annu. toba (1970-73) and the occurrence of new ConI'. Manit. Agron. Winnipeg, Man. races of loose smut of barley and oats. Page 54 in Rep. Annu. ConI'. Manit. Agron., Winni- Chiko, A. W. 1974. Barley stripe mosaic in Mani- peg, Man. toba in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:21. Thomas, P. L., and Nielsen, J. J. 1974. Incidence of Gerber, G. H. 1973. Red turnip beetle on rape. smut diseases. Canadex 110.632. Canadex 149.622. Turnock, W. J., Putnam, L. G., Arthur, A. P., and Green, G. J. 1974. Air-borne rust inoculum over Holmes, N. D. 1974. Bertha armyworm fore- western Canada in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. cast. Canadex 149.622. 54:6-7. Westdal, P. H., Romanow, W., and Askew, W. L. Green, G. J. 1974. Stem rust of wheat, barley and 1973. Some responses of sunflowers to defoli- rye in Canada in 1973. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. ation. Pages 98-99 in Rep. Annu. ConI'. 54: 11-15. Manit. Agron., Winnipeg, Man. 248 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Melfort, Saskatchewan PROFESSIONAL STAFF S. E. BEACOM, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Director Forage Production and Utilization D. A. COOKE, B.S.A., M.Sc. Program Leader: Breeding, . evaluation, and production W. E. COATES, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Forage harvesting systems D. H. MCCARTNEY, B.Sc., M.Sc. Beef cow management systems J. A. ROBERTSON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Forage utilization (beef cattle) S. O. THORLACIUS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Forage evaluation (sheep) J. WADDINGTON, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ecology and weed control Cereal and Oilseed Production and Utilization K. E. BOWREN, B.S.A. Program Leader: Tillage and cropping A. G. CASTELL, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Crop utilization (swine) W. F. NUTTALL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil fertility D. J. WARNOCK, B.Sc., M.Sc. Cereal, oilseed, and special crop evaluation RESEARCHSTATION,MELFORT,SASK. 249 INTRODUCTION The research program in 1974 continued to concentrate on the production and harvesting of cereal, oilseed, special, and forage crops and the efficiency of utilization of these crops by livestock. In October the agreement covering the beef cow management project (Pathlow Research Project) was signed by the Ministers of Agriculture for Canada and Saskatchewan. Excellent fall weather allowed the construction of sufficient facilities before freeze-up to house 270 Hereford yearling heifers, purchased in December for this project. Two pasture management systems on 436 ha of provincial community pasture land, two types of winter accommoda- tion, two basic wintering rations, and, eventually, two different crossbred cow herds will be compared. The first phase of the animal research barn was completed early in 1975 and the first lambs were placed on test in February. This facility will permit individual feeding of 120 lambs as well as storage and handling of rations, processing of samples, performance of minor surgery, and isolation of sick animals. Besides publishing( Research Highlights, the staff, with the help of the Information Division, undertook the revision of the publication Forage production and utilization in the aspen parklands of Western Canada. Four separate publications covering forage production, pasture production, harvesting, and utilization of harvested forages were prepared and are available either from the Information Division or from the Research Station. Send requests to the Director, Research Station, Agriculture Canada, Box 1240, Melfort, Sask. SOE lAO. S. E. Beacom Director FORAGE PRODUCTION AND Effect of herbicides on legume seed produc- UTILIZA TION tion. In 1974, asulam and dalapon were applied at 1.1 kg/ha to an established stand Forage Production of sainfoin, Onobrychis viciaefolia Scop., 25 Management of the alfalfa leafcutter bee. ern high to try to control volunteer grass The transfer of alfalfa leafcutter bees and (mainly Poa spp.) and rough cinquefoil. cocoons from the incubator to field shelters Dalapon suppressed the grass without affect- should take place during warm sunny ing sainfoin growth, but it induced considera- weather. If bee emergence does not coincide ble flower head sterility and reduced seed with favorable weather, it may be necessary yield to one-third of that of the control stand, to interrupt incubation. When cocoons that which produced 160 kg/ha. Asulam sup- have been overwintered at SoC are incubated pressed both grass and cinquefoil, but also at a constant temperature of 30°C, the first damaged the sainfoin. Seed yield was ap- females appear after 21 days and continue to proximately one-third of that of the control emerge for 9 consecutive days. To determine stand. whether a prolonged interruption of the Niclofen applied at rates between 0.5 and .incubation period affects survival and rate of 2.0 kg/ha to a seedling stand of red clover, emergence of female bees, the temperature Trifolium pratense L., in 1973 caused some was reduced from 30°C to 18°C immediately leaf necrosis but had no residual effect on after the first one or two males had emerged. clover seed yield, which was 270 kg/ha in The cocoons were held at 18°C for 3, 6, and 1974. 9 days before the incubation temperature was returned to 30°C. These treatments Effects of herbicides on yield and quality of lengthened total incubation time by only I, 2, alfalfa. An established stand of variegated and 3 days and reduced the emergence alfalfa, Medicago media Pers., was treated period of the females from 9 days to 7, 6, with 2,4-DB at 0.5-2.0 kg/ha and with 2,4-D and 4 days, respectively. None of the treat- at 0.5-1.5 kg/ha in October 1973. Half of ments affected the survival rate or vigor of each plot was mowed to 7 em of stubble; the the bees. other half was left with a regrowth of about 250 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 . 15 cm. In 1974, the control stand yielded alfalfa yielded less OM per hectare than low- 5990 kg/ha. Production from treated areas cut alfalfa, it produced similar yields of ranged from 4850 kg/ha on areas sprayed protein per hectare. High-cut alfalfa also with 2,4-0 at 1.5 kg/ha to 6290 kg/ha on contained significantly more carotene and areas sprayed with 2,4-0B at 0.5 kg/ha. The was lower in crude fiber than low-cut alfalfa. effect of 2,4-0B was not significant, but 2,4- D reduced production of dry matter (OM) Hay-drying tower. Further modifications below that of the control (P <: 0.0 I). There were made to the tower in 1974. Four, rather was a significant linear trend to reduced yield than three, legs now support the roof, which as the amount of 2,4-0 applied was in- is raised and lowered by one tractor-powered creased. Percentages of digestible organic hydraulic winch. The wire mesh skirt was matter and ash were not affected significantly replaced by one made of plywood panels by herbicide applications. Mowing just held vertically during filling operations and before spraying had no effect, indicating that allowed to flare out during unloading so that the alfalfa was dormant at the time. the hay at the edges of the stack is pushed in toward the unloading mechanism. A concrete Effect of wild oat herbicides on seedling base of 1.2 m was constructed to accommo- grasses and legumes in the greenhouse. The date the drying and unloading duct below wild oat herbicides benzoyl prop-ethyl and hay level. This year unheated air was used asulam were applied at 1,2, and 4 kg/ha to for drying at a cost of 61 <):Itonne, which seedling forages and large-seeded legumes contrasted with $4.95/tonne for previous growing at several stages in the greenhouse. years when heated air was used. Barban was applied simultaneously at 0.4 kg/ha. Seedling damage was evaluated 30 Harvesting losses. Bromegrass-alfalfa was days after treatment. Asulam had the follow- harvested at two moisture levels with each of ing effects. Bromegrass, Bromus inermis three machines: at 25.7 and 22.4% moisture Leyss., was very susceptible at all growth with the Hesston stacking wagon (Model 10), stages tested (up to the fourth leaf at time of at 25.1 and 18.0% moisture with the Vermeer spraying). Crested wheatgrass, Agropyron large round baler, and at 26.1 and 15.0% cristatum (L.) Gaertn., was susceptible as a moisture with a conventional baler. Neither seedling but relatively tolerant when sprayed method of harvesting nor moisture level at the six-leaf stage of growth. Sweetclover significantly influenced the amount harvested (Melilotus officinalis (L.) Lam.), fababeans per hectare. Yields of 5269 and 5045 kg/ha (Vicia faba L.), field peas (Pisum sativum L.), were obtained when the hay was harvested and lentils (Lens culinaris Medic.) were with the John Deere and McKee stacking intermediate in reaction with significant wagons, respectively. damage at high rates of application. Alfalfa Hay harvested in large, round was tolerant. All species except field peas Storing hay. bales showed remarkable resistance to were tolerant of benzoyl prop-ethyl. Peas weathering, provided the bales were stored were moderately tolerant of this herbicide. on a well-drained area or were otherwise As expected from previous work, all species prevented from absorbing moisture from the were tolerant of barban. ground. If not so protected, bales and twine Forage Harvesting sometimes rotted or froze to the ground. Round bales stored in contact with one Harvesting alfalfa for dehydration. Height another spoiled at the points of contact. of cutting was proved to be more important When the tops of mechanically formed hay than date of cutting in maintaining produc- stacks were not well formed, precipitation tive stands of alfalfa for dehydration. When penetrated the stacks and caused spoilage. a cutting height of 15 cm was maintained, The seriousness of the problem depended on the stubble leaves provided sufficient photo- the amount of rainfall. synthate to support regrowth without deplet- ing root reserves. Eight alfalfa cultivars were Forage Utilization harvested at various dates in September to leave 15 cm and 3 cm of stubble. The Evaluation of forage-harvesting systems. average winterkill was 10.5% for alfalfa with For the second consecutive year, bro- 15 cm stubble compared with 27.5% for megrass-alfalfa was cut and allowed to wilt alfalfa cut 3 cm high. Although high-cut or cure in the field windrows. The material RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT, SASK. 251 was then stored as silage (S), which con- Pasture Utilization tained 65% moisture; as chopped hay, which was dried in a hay tower (C) and contained Effect of pasture management on perform- 40% moisture; as mechanically stacked, long ance of yearling steers. Four systems of hay (ST), which contained 27% moisture; managing yearling beef steers on rotationally and as baled hay (B), which contained 15% grazed bromegrass-alfalfa pasture have moisture. The amount of DM harvested been compared for seven grazing seasons. annually in each of the four systems aver- In 1973 abundant rainfall produced an aged 5010, 4742, 4726, and 4636 kg/ha, average yield of DM of 5747 kg/ha, which respectively, over the past 3 yr. Forage from was higher than that for any previous year each system was fed ad lib. to groups of and well above the average 7-yr yield of heifer calves. Dry-rolled barley at 0.9 kg/ 4106 kg/ha. Daily live weight gains averaged head per day was also provided. 0.89 kg, compared with a 7-yr average of just over I kg/day. Two reasons for the lower Differences in gain and feed efficiency daily gains are apparent. First, in previous between treatments were more pronounced years all steers had been implanted with in 1974 than during the first year. Heifers fed diethylstilbestrol (DES). Because this product ration C gained 0.65 kg/day and required 9.9 is no longer available, a progesterone- kg DM/kg gain. Corresponding values for estradiol compound (Synovex S) was im- the other three treatments were: S, 0.60 and planted in half of the animals on each 8.9; B, 0.51 and 10.7; and ST, 0.36 and 16.2. treatment to test its effect. Implanting in- Digestible organic matter (DaM) at the creased gain by 0.25 kg/day. Second, the time of harvest was lower in 1974 than in unexpectedly large production of DM re- 1973 (55.5 vs. 61.5%). In both years DaM sulted in understocked pastures and advanc- decreased an average of 3% between harvest- ing plant maturity, which adversely affected ing and feeding the forage. animal gains. Gains per hectare for the For I ha of standing crop, the live weight treatments were 336 kg (pasture and silage), gain in kilograms was estimated to be 466 for 312 kg (put and take), 352 kg (pasture and S, 511 for C, 272 for ST, and 468 for B. oat soilage), and 423 kg (pasture and rolled barley) compared with 7-yr averages of 282, Effect of wilting and use of a preservative 273,373, and 436 kg, respectively. on the feeding value of oat silage. Chopped, One replicate of each of the "put and direct-cut (28% DM), and wilted (37% DM) take" and "supplementary grain feeding" oats harvested at the early to mid "dough treatments will be grazed for several years to stage were ensiled in separate bunker silos. determine the productive life of the sward. Each silo was partitioned, and one-half was Gains per hectare in 1974 were 293 and 386 filled with untreated silage, the other with kg, respectively. silage treated with formic acid (0.33 kg/100 kg) during filling. The four silages were each Effect of fertilizer on bromegrass-alfalfa fed, with and without two levels of grain, to pasture. A bromegrass-alfalfa pasture estab- groups of eight yearling Hereford steers for lished in 1966 was fertilized with N at 0, 45, 86 days. 90, 135, and 179 kg/ha starting in 1970. From 1971 to 1973 each level of N was When added to the direct-cut silage, for- applied with and without P at 20 kg/ha. mic acid had no significant effect on rate of Average maximum yield was 5574 kg/ha gain or feed efficiency but did increase DM when 179 kg Nand 20 kg P per hectare were recovery from 86% to 92%. When added to applied and cattle were fed rolled barley on wilted silage, formic acid improved both pasture. On these pastures forage yields and live weight gain and feed efficiency by 17%. P levels in the soil were greater than they DaM in the wilted, untreated silage was were on pastures where no supplemental lower than that in the treated silage (47.8 vs. feeding was practiced. On average, the 49.2%), probably because higher tempera- application of 20 kg P /ha increased forage tures (37" vs. 31 DC) developed during fer- yield of DM by 26% (4613 vs. 3649 kg/ha), mentation of the untreated silage. and 179 kg N /ha increased yield by 55% Supplementing the silage with 1.36 or 2.7 (4798 vs. 3086 kg/ha). kg of grain increased average daily gains When N was applied at 179 kg/ha, the from 0.28 kg (with no grain) to 0.60 and 0.76 residual response in 1974 was 25% (4066 vs. kg, respectively. 3272 kg/ha). There was no residual response 252 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 to P on pastures where grain was fed but a dehydrated manure and 50% barley, and (3) residual response of 9% in yield was seen 100% manure. when no supplemental feeding was provided During the 38-day feeding period, wethers on pasture. fed ration I ate 2.05 kg of DM daily, gained 0.27 kg, and required 7.53 kg of feed per Ruminant Nutrition kilogram of gain. The DM in the ration was 62.7% digestible. Ration 2 was not readily Rations for wintering pregnant ewes. One accepted during the 1st wk but was readily lot of young ewes and one of mature ewes consumed thereafter. Wethers ate 1.72 kg/ were divided into three groups and fed one day, gained 0.15 kg/day, and required 11.45 of three rations: (1) sun-cured alfalfa pellets kg per kilogram of gain; digestible DM was (51% digestible organic matter, DOM; 17% 51.7%. Sheep refused to eat the 100% ma- crude protein, CP) and wheat straw (34% nure pellets initially, but once accustomed to DOM, 2.6% CP) with a grain supplement fed them ate large amounts. Average daily DM during late pregnancy; (2) long bromegrass- intake and gain over 51 days of feeding were alfalfa hay (55% DOM, 15% CP) and wheat 1.39 kg and -0.09 kg, respectively; digeStible straw, with ground hay fed during late DM was 26.7%. For the last 23 days of the pregnancy; and (3) crested wheatgrass (55% feeding period, intake averaged 2.05 kg/day DOM, 10% CP) with a grain supplement fed and gain, -0.07 kg. during late pregnancy. Initially, the pellets The results indicate that dried feedlot and hay (rations I and 2) were fed to provide manure can be used in rations for ruminants. 50-60% of requirements recommended by the National Research Council (NRC). During early pregnancy, ewes fed crested CEREAL AND SPECIAL CROP wheatgrass consumed slightly less than NRC PRODUCTION AND UTIUZA TION requirements for dietary energy (DE). How- ever, during the final 2 wk of pregnancy, Variety Testing consumption declined markedly (ca. 50%). Spring wheat. The advantages of early- Ewes fed the alfalfa pellets or the brome- maturing cultivars were evident this year. grass-alfalfa hay consumed very little straw Unfavorable spring weather and early fall (0.25 and 0.15 kg/day, respectively, for the frosts combined to place later-maturing mature ewes and 0.13 and 0.08 kg/day, cultivars at a disadvantage. respectively, for the young ewes). Some The utility wheat cultivars Pi tic 62 and additional straw was consumed from the Glenlea out yielded the hard red spring bedded area. Body weight changes in kilo- wheats Neepawa and Manitou by over 20% grams per day over I mo for ewes fed the but weighed less per bushel. Glenlea out- alfalfa pellets and bromegrass-alfalfa hay, yielded Pitic 62 and Norquay except in one respectively, were 0.06 and -0.05 for the early-seeded trial where Pitic 62 produced mature ewes and -0.15 and -0.03 for the the highest yield. young ewes. When the bromegrass-alfalfa Wascana gave the highest yield of the hay was fed ad lib., consumption of DE rose durum cultivars tested, but its test weight was to near the NRC level for early pregnancy. reduced. Hercules matured a week earlier Ewes fed ground (Yz-in. screen) bromegrass- than Wascana. alfalfa during late pregnancy consumed sufficient DE to meet their requirements. Winter wheat. Winter wheat seeded Sep- tember 5 out yielded that seeded on August 8 The test indicated that ewes fed th"e long by about 40% and matured 4 days later. bromegrass-alfalfa hay would not consume Yields of the best winter wheat cultivars significant amounts of poor-quality wheat were slightly better than yields of the spring- straw. The same pattern was observed for seeded utility wheat cultivars. Winterkill was young ewes fed alfalfa pellets. reduced by good snow cover. Utilization of feedlot manure. Manure Oats. OT618, developed at Melfort, out- from beef cattle fed high-grain rations was yielded Random, the highest-yielding li- dehydrated and pelleted. Eight individually censed cultivar, by 2% in trials at four fed yearling wethers were fed one of the locations in northeastern Saskatchewan. following pelleted rations: (1) 50% brome- Trials in which oats were harvested for grass-alfalfa hay and 50% barley, (2) 50% forage were conducted on a small plot and RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT, SASK. 253 on a field scale. In the field trials the two plots in a 2-yr rotation to evaluate accumula- forage oat lines IH 1863-4 and OA 123-81 tive effects. The chemicals required to control yielded over 9885 kg/ha, whereas Fraser grassy weeds are too expensive to recom- yielded 7428 kg/ha. A durum wheat cultivar, mend on a farm scale. However, a combina- Wakooma, included in the small plot trial, tion of herbicides for broad-leaved weed gave yields of DM nearly equal to those of control and tillage for grassy weed control is OAI23-81. economical and often more effective in weed and soil erosion control. Production Management Effect of wild oats on rapeseed yields. The Effect of barnyard manure on light-tex- yield of rapeseed was adversely affected by tured soil. The effects of manure and chemi- an infestation of 200 wild oats per square cal fertilizer on soil classified as BL and metre in both 1973 and 1974. Removal of SbLL have been compared at Parkside, the wild oats 7 days after emergence reduced Sask., for 37 yr. The manure was applied at rapeseed yield by an average of 639 kg/ha. 34 t('mnes (wet basis) per hectare during the Allowing the wild oats to remain in the crop summerfallow year of a 5-yr grain-forage until harvest reduced the yield of rapeseed rotation. The fertilizer was applied at the by 1618 kg/ha. recommended rate, based on current soil Response of wheat to fertilizer applications. tests, for each crop in the rotation. The Manitou wheat grown as a second crop after rotation was fallow, wheat, wheat, hay, and fallow showed an average 3-yr response hay. (1969-71) of 1310 kg/ha to an application The average annual increases in yield as a of 134 kg N/ha and 20 kg P/ha. Because of result of applications of manure and chemi- insufficient P available in the soil in 1969 cal fertilizer, respectively, over an untreated (11.9 kg/hal, the response to 45 kg N/ha control for each crop were: wheat on fallow, was only 155 kg/ha. When 10 kg P/ha was 638 and 174; wheat on stubble, 433 and 343; added along with the N, the yield increased Ist-yr hay, 1224 and 1017; and 2nd-yr hay, by 954 kg/ha. 1241 and 920 kg/ha. In the last 6 yr, tests for N, measured as nitrate, in soil treated with Crop Utilization and Animal Nutrition manure showed an increase over the control Evaluation of Pitic 62 wheat using grow- of 0.5 and 1.0 ppm (surface 0-61 cm deptt, ing-finishing boars, barrows, and gilts. Three of soil) on the fallow and stubble land. diets of Triticum aestivum L. cv. Pitic 62, respectively. Similar increases in P of 2.4 and with 0%, 7.5%, and 15% field peas cv. 13.3 ppm (surface 0-15 cm depth of soil) Century, and a fourth standard barley - were measured on the manured fallow and soybean meal diet were fed ad lib. or stubble, respectively. The chemical fertilizer semirestricted to boar, barrow, and gilt pigs had little effect on the nutrient status of the over the period from 27 to 91 kg liveweight. soil. All diets were supplemented with the same levels of mineral-vitamin premix and con- Chemical summer fallow. Using herbicides tained 12.7, 14.0, 14.9, and 16.6% protein, alone or in combination with tillage pro- respectively. duced higher wheat yields and similar levels With either ad lib. or semirestricted feed- of soil moisture, N, and P, than those ing, live performance and carcass quality of obtained when using tillage alone over the pigs fed the wheat diets improved with last 9 yr. addition of peas to the extent that the 15% When one to three tillage operations were pea diet was at least equal to the standard replaced by a herbicide treatment for weed diet (720 g liveweight gain per day, 3.66 kg control, the yield of wheat averaged 3616 feed/kg gain, 3.21 cm average backfat, and kg/ha. When tillage alone was used, the 33.6 cm2 loin eye area when pigs were fed ad yield averaged 3487 kg/ha. Corresponding iib.; 613 g, 3.61 kg, 3.02 cm, and 31.4 cm2, values for nitrogen measured as nitrate respectively, when pigs were fed for 45 min (surface 0-61 cm depth of soil) were 13.6 twice daily). and 11.8 ppm; for P (surface 0-15 cm depth When nutrition was adequate, barrows of soil), 32 and 30 ppm; and for soil moisture grew faster than gilts but were inferior to (surface 0-1.2 cm depth of soil) 58 and 57%. them in efficiency of feed conversion (EFC) The treatments were applied to the same and carcass quality; boars were superior to 254 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 barrows in EFC and carcass quality. How- highest for Bonanza (12.5% SBM) and lowest ever, boars and, to a lesser extent, gilts could for Pitic 62 (I % SBM). Although the not grow as well as barrows when the diet or Bonanza (grown at Cut Beaver) diet con- feeding method limited nutrient intake. tained 15.5% SBM, pig performance was Boars produced meat similar in color and slightly inferior to that obtained with the odor to that from barrows or gilts, but the Bonanza (grown at Melfort) diet. Only small dressing percentage for boars was approx- differences were observed in the pigs fed imately 4% lower than that for other pigs. diets from the 1973 crops. These results suggest that maximum production and utili- Evaluation of cereal cultivars. The barley zation will be obtained by growing cultivars cultivars Bonanza and Galt and the wheat having the greatest potential yields and cultivar Pitic 62 were grown in 1972 and supplementing pig feeds formulated from 1973 at Melfort; Bonanza was also grown these cultivars with adequate nutrients. approximately 180 km NE of Melfort at Cut Beaver, Sask. The 2-yr average yields in Evaluation of field peas and fababeans. kilograms per hectare at Melfort for the The field pea cultivar Century and the three cultivars were 4156, 4334, and 4088 for fababean cultivar Ackerperle, grown sepa- grain and 457, 520, and 540 for protein. rately and together (seeded in alternate rows) Yields of the cultivar Bonanza (3209 kg yielded, respectively, 3013, 2554, and 3019 grain, 351 kg protein) were lower at Cut kg seed/ha to produce 663, 664, and 724 kg Beaver, where the growing season was protein/ha in 1973. Each crop, included as shorter, than at Melfort. Although the 23.5% of barley-based diets, was compared highest concentrations of most of the essen- with SBM (10% of diet) as the sole source of tial amino acids were found in Pitic 62, Galt supplementary protein for pigs fed ad lib. barley supplied the most lysine (0.55%, 23.9 from 23 to 91 kg liveweight. The pea and kg/ha). bean-pea diets produced the fastest growth, 814 g/day; however, the bean diet was also Diets containing recommended levels of superior to the control (780 vs. 735 g/ day). minerals and vitamins were formulated from Better efficiency of feed conversion was each cultivar. In 1972 sufficient soybean meal obtained with the pea, bean, and bean-pea (SBM) was included to provide a minimum diets (3.62, 3.67, and 3.71 kg feed/kg gain, of 14.5% total dietary protein and in 1973 a respectively) than with the SBM diet (3.82); fixed 10% SBM was used in each diet. however, average carcass measurements Evaluation of the feeds for both years was were similar for all diet groups. Although based on relative performance of pigs fed ad peas contained less protein (22 vs. 26%) than lib. from 23 to 91 kg live weight. Perform- beans, they tended to have slightly higher ance on the 1972 Melfort crops increased levels of essential amino acids per unit of with the dietary level of SBM and was protein. PUBLICA nONS Research Beacom, S. E. 1974. Effect of Ralgro. Canadex 420.60. Castell, A. G., and Mallard, T. M. 1974. Utilization of ground seed or meal from low erucic acid Bowren, K. E. 1974. Good management on the rape (Brassica campestris cv. Span) in diets for parkland soils of Saskatchewan. Agric. Sci. growing-finishing pigs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. Proc. Soil Manage. 510 Pub!' No. 244. Ext. 54:443-454. Div., Univ. of Sask., Saskatoon. Miscellaneous Bowren, K. E. 1974. Control of weeds in rapeseed and mustard. Canadex 149-641. Beacom, S. E. 1974. Northern agriculture: northern Coates, W. E. 1974. Asphalt-water emulsion for Saskatchewan and Manitoba. AgroJogist feedlot surfacing. Canadex 722. 3(6):8-12. Feldman, M., and Coates, W. E. 1974. 1974 Beacom, S. E. 1974. Finishing steers fed high levels Melf ort forage project progress report. Eng. of ground hay show profit. Canadex 420.60. Res. Servo Rep. No. 7020-434. RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT, SASK. 255 Melfort Research Station. 1974. Forage crop pro- Melfort Research Station. 1974. Forage harvesting duction in the aspen parklands of Western in the aspen parklands of Western Canada. Canada. Can. Dep. Agric. Pub!' 1545. Can. Dep. Agric. Pub!' 1547. Melfort Research Station. 1974. Pasture produc- tion and utilization in the aspen parklands of Melfort Research Station. 1974. Utilizing harve- Western Canada. Can. Dep. Agric. Pub!' sted forages in the aspen park lands of West- 1546. ern Canada. Can. Dep. Agric. Pub!' 1548. 256 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Regina, Saskatchewan PROFESSIONAL STAFF J. R. HAY, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Director Biological Control of Weeds P. HARRIS, B.S.F., D.Le., Ph.D. Head of Section; Biological control-weeds M. G. MAW, B.Sc., M.Sc. Biological control-weeds D. P. PESCHKEN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Dr.Sci.Agr. Biological control-Canada thistle Weed Investigations J. D. BANTING, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Weed science- annual grasses K. F. BEST, B.S.A., M.Sc. Weed biology G. G. BOWES, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed science-range weeds J. H. HUNTER, B.S.A., Ph.D. Weed science-agronomy G. 1. McINTYRE, B.Sc., Ph.D. Weed biology Herbicide Behavior in the Environment R. GROVER, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Availability, mobility, monitoring A. E. CESSNA, B.A., Ph.D. Residues, metabolism, plants A. E. SMITH, B.Sc., Ph.D. Residues, degradation, soils Seed Section E. D. MALLOUGH, B.S.A. Head of Section; Distribution G. R. BOUGHTON, B.S.A., M.Sc. Verification RESEARCHSTATION,REGINA, SASK. 257 Experimental Farm, Indian Head, Sask. R. N. McIvER, B.S.A. Officer-in-charge; cereals, crop management Departures E. S. MOLBERG Weed science-agronomy Retired March 1974 G. S. EMMOND Residues Resigned February 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS D. E. BERUBE,B.S., M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. Biological control National Research Council postdoctorate fellow J. SHORTHOUSE,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Biological control National Research Council postdoctorate fellow H. C. SHARMA,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed science-agronomy All-India Dryland Program 258 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION This report outlines the work done in 1974 at the Research Station, Regina. The Station is the main center for weed control research in Canada. Three weed science programs are under way: biological control, in which insects and other organisms are used to control weeds; herbicide behavior in the environment, in which the fate and movement of herbicides in air, water, plants, and soil are researched and monitored; and weed investigations, in which the biology of weeds and methods of their control are studied. The Station also increases and distributes Breeder seed and seed of new varieties of cereal, forage, and oilseed crops developed by the Branch. We congratulate Dr. G. G. Bowes, who obtained his Ph.D. in ecology at the University of Guelph, and welcome Dr. A. E. Cessna, an organic chemist, who joined the staff to do research on the fate of herbicides in plants. We offer our best wishes to Mr. E. S. Molberg, who retired in 1974 after 36 years of valuable service developing soil erosion control measures, crop production practices, and many of our current weed control recommendations. . Detailed information on research results can be obtained from the scientists. The address of this establishment is Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, 5000 Wascana Parkway, P.O. Box 440, Regina, Sask. S4P 3A2. J. R. Hay Director BIOLOGICAL CONTROL this beetle to ornamentals related to bladder campion. A survey of insects that feed on weeds in Several imported insects found to be host Canada was continued with emphasis on specific were released. The European moth dock, prickly-pear, dandelion, absinth, and Chamaesphecia empiformis (Esp.) was re- Polygonum spp. Several new species of leased for the control of leafy spurge in insects and host records were found. Identi- Saskatchewan, but it has not been recovered. fication of the complex of insects already The beetle Longitarsus jacobaeae Watr., attacking unwanted plants is the first step which attacks tansy ragwort, was released in toward the biological control of these weeds British Columbia. It was recovered for the and influences the choice of imported agents first time at the site of the previous year's to be used against them. release. The gall fly Urophora cardui (L.) was Several insect colonies were established in released in Saskatchewan and British Colum- the laboratory to determine host specificity. bia against Canada thistle. It failed to breed The insects included the European moth in British Columbia. The moth Metzneria Cucullia verbasci (L.), which feeds on mul- paucipunctella Zell. was released in British lein; two seed-head flies, Tephritis dilacerata Columbia on spotted knapweed and was Loew., which attacks the perennial sow- recovered in small numbers. The root-crown thistle, and T. formosa Loew., a sibling weevil Ceutorhynchus fitura (F.) increased on species, which feeds on the annual sow- Canada thistle in Saskatchewan. At the site in thistle; and two moths from Argentina, Ontario where the insect was released in Cactoblastis doddi Heinr. and C. bucyrus 1967, the density of the thistle declined for Dyar, which feed in the pads of prickly-pear. the fourth consecutive year, and in marginal Host specificity tests on the nematode Paran- parts of the stand the thistle has disappeared. guina picridis Kirj. showed that, contrary to The number of galls produced on 100 reports in the literature, it was not specific to heads of spotted knapweed by the gall fly Russian knapweed but attacked plants in two Urophora affinis Frfld. increased from 7.8 to tribes of thistles. Tests on the beetle Cassida 74 at the release site at Chase, B.C. On hemisphaerica Hbst. for possible control of diffuse knapweed, the number of galls per bladder campion were concluded and the 100 heads increased from 12.3 to 39 at culture was destroyed. Probably other insects Pritchard, B.C. Each gall on diffuse knap- exist that present less of a threat than does weed displaces an average of 2.8 seeds, so RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK. 259 - that approximately five galls per head are from the high-volume 65015 nozzles; both needed to stop seed formation. Another gall nozzles performed better than the low- fly, U. quadrifasciata Mg., offers considera- volume 650067 nozzles. At high wind speeds, ble promise. because it increases and dis- their performance was as follows: TK .75 > perses more rapidly than U. affinis. It 65015> 650067. reached a peak population of 20 galls per 100 heads at Pritchard, B.C., in 1974. Herbicide volatility. A closed air-flow sys- The nodding thistle seed-head weevil tem for determining relative volatilities of Rhinocyllus conicus Fr. increased at Ayles- herbicides was developed. The rate of vola- bury, Sask., to a density of 2.1 weevils per tilization of technical n-butyl ester of 2,4-D head and reduced seed production by 63% at increased with the increase in flow rate, and the release site. Distribution of the weevil by the increase was linear with time. A straight- the public was encouraged in Saskatchewan, line relationship between the volatilization and 10,100 weevils were released in Quebec rate and temperature also occurred when log and 4500 in Manitoba. rates were plotted against II T. The spurge hawkmoth Hyles euphorbiae With the closed air-flow system, the rela- (L.) had a larval density of 0.6/m2 at tive volatilities of the formulated butyl esters Braeside, Ont. This density is less than 10% (high volatile), the iso-octyl ester (low vola- of that needed for defoliation; because the tile), and the amine salts were about moth has remained at about this l.evel since 440:33: I. 1970, it appears to be a failure as a control agent. Persistence and degradation of residues in soils. Dichlobenil, triallate, trifluralin, dinitra- mine, and simazine were applied to small HERBICIDE BEHAVIOR IN THE plots at three locations in the fall. The ENVIRONMENT following spring, recoveries ranged from 20 to 70%. No 2,4-D or dicamba residues were Air monitoring of 2,4-D. The levels of total found. None of these herbicides left any 2,4-D in the air at Regina did not exceed the residues at depths below 5 em in the soils detection limit in any of the samples col- studied. lected in the 1974 spraying season. This In laboratory studies, no dicamba loss improvement over previous years may be occurred at _5°C. However, over 80% of the attributed to the unusual growing season labeled dicamba was dissipated from the during which spraying of crops was extended silty clay soil in 8 days at temperatures above over a long period of time. 15°e, whereas 14 days and temperatures Droplet drift potential from ground spray- above 200e were required for similar losses ers. The drift potential of the low-volume (56 from heavy clay and sandy loam soils. litres/ha, 5 gal/ac) TeeJet 650067 nozzles A procedure was developed to extract was lowered from 4-6% to 2-6% when the dichlobenil, dinitramine, triallate, and triflu- pressure was decreased from 275 to 172 kPa ralin from soils, either alone or in combina- (40 to 25 psi), depending on the wind speed tion, and to perform routine analyses by gas- at the time of the trial. Thus, reducing the liquid chromatography (GLC). The method hydraulic pressure lowered the drift potential detects residues down to 0.05 ppm. by about half, but only at the lower wind Hydrolysis of a variety of phenoxy al- speeds. A somewhat similar but less pro- kanoic esters to their corresponding acids was nounced trend was evident for the high- rapid and complete within 48 h in moist soils. volume (112 litres/ha, 10 gallac) TeeJet In dry soils, hydrolysis was minimal and the 65015 nozzles. • esters could be recovered unchanged from However, when the volume sprayed was soils after several days. increased from 56 to 112 litres/ha (5 to 10 gallac), the drift potential of these nozzles A vailability and mobility in soils. Fifty- decreased from 4-6% to 1-4% at 275 kPa (40 seven percent of trifluralin and 75% of psi) and from 2-6% to 1-4% at 172 kPa (25 triallate were desorbed from montmorillonite psi), again depending on the wind speed at after six rinses with distilled water. However, the time of spray application. successive rinses with water yielded only At low wind speeds, the drift potential limited recoveries of both herbicides from from the TK .75 nozzles was equal to that peat moss, cellulose triacetate, and wheat 260 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 straw; only 10-20% for trifluralin and 12- WEED INVESTIGATIONS 28% for triallate after six rinses could be recovered. Wild oats. WL-2976I (Shell Canada Ltd.), an analogue of benzoprop, was applied at The adsorptive behavior of three uracil 0.21, 0.42, and 0.84 kg/ha to wheat, barley, herbicides, namely bromacil, terbacil, and flax, and wild oats in the greenhouse at three lenacil, was determined in five soils. The growth stages of wild oats and at two Freundlich constants (k values) for three different pressures. Wild oats were controlled herbicides ranged from 0.4 to 7.4 for broma- at 0.42 kg/ha with no apparent damage to cil, 0.6 to 7.5 for terbacil, and 0.7 to 14.2 for wheat. Flax injury was evident throughout. lenacil. The Q values (micrograms adsorbed Results with WL-29761 were considered per gram of organic matter) for the three superior to those obtained with benzoprop. herbicides were 43, 48, and 81, respectively. The latter is currently recommended for the The relative ease of desorption of bromacil postemergence control of wild oats in wheat. from the soils was Asquith sandy loam > In field trials, control of wild oats with Regina heavy clay> Melfort loam. WL-29761 at 0.63 kg/ha in the three-leaf Soil columns were used to conduct leach- stage and at 0.84 kg/ha in the five-leaf stage ing experiments on five soil types to deter- was superior to that with benzoprop at 1.40 mine distribution coefficients of the three kg/ha. acid herbicides. The distribution coefficients HOE 23408 (Hoescht Canada Ltd.) was ranged from 0 to 0.08 for dicamba, 0.04 to applied at 0.84, 1.12, and 1.40 kg/ha to 0.49 for picloram, and 0.14 to 3.38 for 2,4-D Neepawa wheat, Bonanza barley, wild oats, for five soils with organic matter varying and green foxtail in the greenhouse when the from 2 to 10%. These values were compara- wild oats were in the two- and four-leaf ble to the corresponding Freundlich con- stage. Wild oats in the two-leaf stage were stants (k values). The order of relative controlled by all rates. Results were less mobility of the three herbicides was dicamba satisfactory at the four-leaf stage. The wheat > picloram> 2,4-D. and barley appeared to be tolerant when the chemical was applied to the crop at the three- to five-leaf stage. Green foxtail was control- Persistence and mobility in irrigation led with HOE 23408 at 0.84 kg/ha when the ditches. A 3-yr study on the movement and chemical was applied at the early three- and persistence of four soil sterilants (simazine, five-leaf stage. It appears that green foxtail atrazine, monuron, and bromacil) in irri- can be selectively controlled by lower rates gation ditches was completed. The relative and at later stages than wild oats. order of mobility of these herbicides was bromacil> monuron> atrazine> simazine, In field trials, HOE 23408 was tested at whereas the order of their persistence was 0.84, 1.12, 1.40, and 1.68 kg/ha. Wild oat reversed. In irrigation waters, the highest control increased by 50% when the rate was herbicide concentrations were in the water increased from 1.12 to 1.40 kg/ha, which samples collected in the first ponding, de- indicates that the optimum rate for HOE creasing by two- to five-fold in the second 23408 is 1.40 kg/ha. ponding. Thereafter, the herbicide concen- Control was also increased by' increasing trations in all successive water samples were the pressure from 2 to 3 kg/cm2 (30 to 45 minimal. psi) and tilting the nozzles 45° forward. In the greenhouse, mixtures of molinate Residues and metabolism in plants. A new and propanil (1:1 and 2:1) were applied at program on the residues and metabolism of 3.36, 5.04, and 6.72 kg/ha when green herbicides in weed and crop plants was foxtail was in the three- to four-leaf and the started. Initially, the emphasis will be on wild six- to seven-leaf stage, wheat was in the oat herbicides. three-leaf stage, and barley in the four- to five-leaf stage. Results with wild oats were A GLC procedure to extract, clean up, and unsatisfactory. Green foxtail was controlled determine amounts of trifluralin in the roots, by 73-100% when the I: I formulation was stems, leaves, pods, and seeds of rapeseed applied at the early stage, but control was plants was developed. Recoveries from less satisfactory with the 2: I formulation. spiked plant material ranged from 75 to 85%. Some damage was evident in both crops RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK. 261 where the I: I formulation was applied at the- Nitrogen effects on Canada thistle. Seed- later stage. lings of Canada thistle were grown in sand When compared in the same field trial, culture with a controlled mineral nutrient triallate (1040 kg/ha), barb an (0.35 kg/ha), supply. Seedlings in the cotyledon stage were HOE 23408 (lAO kg/ha), and WL-2976I extremely susceptible to injury by high salt (0.84 kg/ha) controlled wild oats satisfacto- concentrations, and it was necessary to use a rily. Control was unsatisfactory with ben- 10 times dilution of Hoaglands solution for zoprop at lAO kg/ha and with mixtures of successful establishment. Increasing the N AC 84777 (Cyanamid of Canada Ltd.) at supply from 5.25 to 420 ppm greatly in- 0042 kg/ha and barban at 0.35 kg/ha and of creased the growth of the shoot and also molinate and propanil (2: I) at 4048 kg/ha. promoted the growth of the buds on the root, Rodney oat plants, produced from seed many of which were induced to develop into that had been treated with 1,8-naphthalic- leafy shoots. anhydride (Protect; Stauffer Chemical Co.) at Nitrogen at 210 ppm caused severe leaf 0.25 and 0.5% by weight, were protected necrosis and inhibition of shoot growth, from serious injury when sprayed at the two- when supplied as N03, but no deleterious leaf stage with barban at 0.28 kg/ha. Oam- effects were observed when some nitrogen in age was observed at the OA2-kg/ha rate. the form of NH4 (NH4-N) was provided. The number and dry weight of the axillary shoots Persistence of weed seeds. In longevity and the number of visible root buds were studies, the viability of green foxtail seed at significantly greater with NH -N than with depths of 1.0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 cm in a 4 sandy loam soil averaged 4.2, SA, 2.2, 17.6, NOrN at 210 ppm. and 30.8%, respectively, after burial for 7 yr. In another study, seedlings were supplied After burial for 8 yr, the viability of another with NH4-N at concentrations ranging from population at depths of 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 5.25 to 420 ppm. The dry weight of the 10 cm averaged <: I, 6, 4, 8.6, and 4.6%, shoots increased as the nitrogen was raised to respectively. Green foxtail seeds retained 210 ppm; further increases in nitrogen de- their viability in arable soil for at least 2 yr creased shoot growth. The roots were cleared longer than was previously reported. in lactic acid, and buds that were initiated, With foxtail barley, over 50% of the seeds but not emerged, from the root were on the soil surface were alive after 2 yr. counted. The total number of root buds From 6 to 13% were viable at depths ranging initiated decreased as the nitrogen supply from I to 10 cm in Regina heavy clay soil. was raised but the growth of the root buds Less than 104% of the seeds were dormant at was significantly increased. The roots also this time. branched more frequently with increasing nitrogen. Canada thistle. A detailed field study to Nutritional control of root-bud growth has determine the efficacy of glyphosate relative an obvious significance in relation to her- to 2,4-D and dicamba plus 2,4-0 (I :3) was bicide treatments. In leafy spurge, nitrogen started on fallow in 1972, seeded to wheat in produced similar stimulation of bud growth 1973, and fallowed in 1974. Roots were 2 and increased the translocation of 14C_ removed from an area 0.75 m to a depth of labeled 2,4-0 out of the treated leaf and into 1.2 m in the fall of 1973. In the checks, II, the stems, roots, and root buds. A IO-fold 27, 4J, and 22% of the root weight was increase in 2,4-0 was found in the root buds. found at depths of 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, and 1.2 m respectively; 67% of the roots were 3-6 mm Range weeds. Glyphosate applied on ran- in diameter. The herbicide 2,4-0 at 1.12 kg/ geland at 2.2 kg/ha in band widths varying ha, dicamba and 2,4-0 at 1.12 kg/ha, and between 5 and 40 cm reduced the competi- glyphosate at 1.68 kg/ha decreased the root tion from the resident vegetation and permit- weight by 46, 35, and 74%, and the regenera- ted the establishment of alfalfa, sainfoin, tive capacity of the root by 74, 40, and 94%, and milkvetch. Because the spring of 1974 respectively. In 1974 top growth was control- was wetter than normal, these treatments will led 63.1,2.2, and 99.8%, respectively. have to be repeated under drier conditions. One year after a fall application of gly- In other tests the yield of forage was not phosate at 1.68 kg/ha, top growth of Canada increased when weeds were controlled after thistle was controlled 95% and the yield of 2,4-0, 2,4-0 plus dicamba, or 2,4-0 plus wheat was increased by 22% or 282 kg/ha. picloram was applied. When 34 kg/ha of 262 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 both nitrogen and phosphorus were added to removed. These results support the hypothe- any of the treated or untreated plots, the sis that when N is nonlimiting, inhibition of forage yield was almost doubled. root-bud growth is due mainly to internal competition for a limited water supply. In an ecological study conducted during 1973 and 1974 on improved rangeland, less alfalfa grew directly under aspen poplar SEED SECTION (Populus tremuloides Michx.) and prickly rose (Rosa acicularis Lindl.) than between A 0.9-ha (2.2-ac) increase of a new rust- these plants. No chemical treatment is availa- resistant strain of flax, FP597, was made in ble for selective control of prickly rose when California during the winter of 1973--74. The alfalfa is present on rangeland. seed was returned to Canada in time to make a further increase on 41 ha (102 ac ) for distribution to seed growers and the seed Growth analyses of weeds. Experiments trade. Material from 30 plant breeders was were conducted on dormancy of buds on increased on the 5-ha (12-ac) winter nursery quack grass rhizomes both in the field and in the Imperial Valley of California. Seed under growth chamber conditions. Dormant harvested in this program was returned to buds were induced to grow by maintaining Canada in time for planting. In New Zealand the rhizomes in a constantly moist environ- 0.4 ha (I ac) of mustard, B. hirta cv. ment. Therefore, the degree of water stress B.H.1245, was increased and 907 kg (2000 seems to play an important role in the control Ib) of the returned seed was released to two of bud activity. crushing companies for further increase The level of asparagine in quack grass under contract. rhizomes was approximately 10 times greater In California 10 ha (25 ac) of a new leaf- than that of any other amino acid but rust-resistant strain of spring wheat, C.T.440, declined significantly when bud growth was was seeded in October 1974. Seed from this induced. This suggests that asparagine is the increase will be returned to Canada and main storage form of soluble N in the further increased under contract before rhizomes and may also playa major role in release. Four new cultivars, Macoun durum N translocation. Amino-acid concentration wheat, Hudson oats, Mancan buckwheat, decreased markedly from the apex to the and Canuck hard red spring wheat, were base of the rhizome. This decrease was distributed to seed growers and members of correlated with a gradient of decreasing bud the seed trade across Canada. The Breeder activity, and its steepness was inversely seed maintenance program continued to related to the external N supply. expand. A total.of 5980 kg (13,289 Ib), which comprised 376 lots of 39 cereal and In a study of the mechanism of root-bud oilseed cultivars, were distributed to Cana- inhibition in leafy spurge, plants were grown dian seed growers. In 1973, 4023 kg (8942 at a high N level. When the parent shoot was Ib) of experimental seed of 61 different removed, a marked increase in the water cultivars were sent out to fill 154 requests content of the buds occurred within 24 h. from Canada and eight foreign countries. The shoot also continued to exert a signifi- This seed was for experimental or testing cant degree of root-bud inhibition after all purposes and was not intended to be the apical and lateral meristems had been multiplied. PUBLICA TIONS Research Grover, R. 1974. Adsorption and desorption of trifluralin, triallate and diallate by various Goeden, R. D., Andres, L. A., Freeman, T. E., adsorbents. Weed Sci. 22:405-408. Harris, P., Pienkowski, R. L., and Walker, C. R. 1974. Present status of projects on the Grover, R., and McCashin, B. 1974. A nomograph biological control of weeds with insects and for the conversion of 2,4-D ester concentra- plant pathogens in the United States and tions in air from JL g/m3 to ppbv and vice Canada. Weed Sci. 22:490-495. versa. Pestic. Monit. J. 8:213-215. RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK. 263 • ~------.-~ i Grover, R., and Smith, A. E. 1974. Adsorption Banting, J. D. 1974. Growth habit and control of studies with the acid and dimethylamine wild oats. Can. Dep. Agric. Publ. 1531, 34 pp. forms of 2,4-D and dicamba. Can. J. Soil Sci. Banting, J. D. 1974. Wild oat control with triallate, 54: 179-186. barban, trifluralin, asulam, benzoyl prop-ethyl, Harris, P. 1974. The selection of effective agents AC-84777 (six leaflets). Canadex 641. for biological control of weeds. Can. Entomol. Banting, J. D. 1974. Some statistical considerations 105: 1493-1503. in the bioassay of herbicides, in Proc. 3rd Int. Hunter, J. H., and Mcintyre, G. 1. 1974. Factors Congr. Pestic. Chern., Helsinki, Finland. affecting the translocation of 2,4-D in leafy Banting, J. D., and Hay, J. R. 1974. Fall treatment spurge. Weed Sci. 22: 167-171. of wild oats. Farm Lett. No. 90, Can. Dep. Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of 2,4-D from Agric., Ottawa. aqueous solution by a fulvic acid - clay complex. Environ. Sci. Technol. 8:236-238. Bowes, G. 1974. Effect of density on ion cycling in a Crataegus punctata Jacq. ecosystem. Ph.D. Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of linuron by Thesis, Univ. of Guelph, Guelph, Ont. montmorillonite. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:235-237. Grover, R. 1974. Herbicide entry into the atmo- Khan, S. U. 1974. Adsorption of bipyridylium spheric environment. Chern. Can. 26(7):36-38. herbicides by humic acid. J. Environ. Qual. 3:202-206. Grover, R. 1974. Reducing droplet drift from existing farm sprayers. Minutes 28th Annu. Khan, S. U., and Mazurkewich, R. 1974. Adsorp- Meet., Canada Weed Committee, West. Sect., tion of linuron on humic acid. Soil Sci. Regina, Sask. pp. 18-19. 118:339-343. Grover, R., and Smith, A. E. 1974. Herbicide Maybank, J., Yoshida, K., and Grover, R. 1974. behavior in the environment. Canadex 641. Droplet size spectra, drift potential and ground deposition pattern of herbicide sprays. Harris, P., and Peschken, D. P. 1974. Biological Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:541-546. control of St. John's-wort. Can. Agric. 19(1):13-15. Mcintyre, G. 1., and Larmour, S. D. 1974. The correlative inhibition of bud and shoot growth Hay, J. R., and Banting, J. D. 1974. Chemical in flax. Anatomical changes associated with control of wild oats. Canadex 641. the release of lateral buds from inhibition. Hay, J. R., and Banting, J. D. 1974. Wild oat Can. J. Bot. 52:2269-2275. control. Canadex 641. Smith, A. E. 1974. The breakdown of the herbicide Hay, J. R., Grover, R., Haagsma, T., Kenoga, E. dicamba and its degradation product 3,6- E., Patterson, 1. H., Roberts, J. R., and Wu, D. dichlorosalicylic acid in prairie soils. 1. Agric. 1974. Picloram: The effects of its 'use as a Food Chern. 22:601-605 .. herbicide on environmental quality. Associate Smith, A. E. 1974. Degradation of trichloroacetic Committee on Scientific Criteria for Environ- acid in Saskatchewan soils. Soil BioI. Biochem. mental Quality NRCC No. 13684,p. 128. 6:201-202. Hunter, 1. H., and Mcintyre, G. 1. 1974. Some Smith, A. E. 1974. A multiresidue extraction effects of nitrogen supply on the growth and procedure for the gas chromatographic deter- development of Canada thistle. Proc. North Cent. Weed Control Conf. mination of the herbicides dichlobenil, dinitra- I mine, triallate, and trifluralin in soils. J. Hunter, J. H. 1974. Control of Canada thistle. Chromatogr. 97: 103-106. Palliser News, March. Smith, A. E., and Cullimore, D. R. 1974. The in Khan, S. U. 1974. Humic substances reactions vitro degradation of the herbicide bromoxynil. involving bipyridylium herbicides in soil and Can. 1. Microbiol. 20:773-776. aquatic environments. Residue Rev. 52: 1-26. Smith, D. W., and Bowes, G. G. 1974. Loss of Mallough, E. D. 1974. Potential new varieties. some elements in fly-ash during old-field burns Canadex 110.23. in southern Ontario. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:215- 224. Molberg, E. S. 1974. Weed control in flax. Ca- nadex 148.641. Miscellaneous Smith, A. E. 1974. Field persistence studies with Banting, J. D. 1974. Control wild oats. Canadex herbicides in prairie soils, in Proc. 3rd Int. 641. Congr. Pestic. Chern., Helsinki, Finland. 264 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Saskatoon, Saskatchewan PROFESSIONAL STAFF J. E. 'R. GREENSHIELDS,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D., Director F.A.Le. R. K. DOWNEY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Assistant Director J. e. BOYER Administrative Officer Scientific Support F. CHEN (Mrs.), B.A., M.A., M.L.S. Assistant Librarian A. E. MCPHERSON (Miss), B.A., B.L.S., M.A. Library Area Coordinator H. K. MILNE (Miss) Computer Systems Programmer M. E. TAYLOR, B.S.A. Research Information Officer Crop Management Section e. H. KEYS, B.S.A. Head of Section; Weeds and crop management W. L. CROWLE, B.S.A., M.Sc. Cereals and crop management L. G. SONMOR, B.S.A., M.Sc. Irrigation H. UKRAINETZ, B.S.A. Soil fertility Plant Breeding Section R. P. KNOWLES, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D., F.A.Le. Head of Section; Grasses S. J. CAMPBELL, B.Sc., Ph.D. Oilseed breeding; sunflowers R. K. DOWNEY, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Oilseed breeding; rapeseed B. P. GOPLEN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Legume breeding R. E. HOWARTH, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Legume bloat biochemistry A. J. KLASSEN, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Oilseed breeding; rapeseed D. L MCGREGOR, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Physiology; Brassicas G. R. STRINGAM, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Cytogenetics; Brassicas Entomology Section R. H. BURRAGE, B.S.A., Ph.D. Head of Section; Wireworms RESEARCHSTATION,SASKATOON,SASK. 265 L. BURGESS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Associate Head; Oilseed crop insects A. P. ARTHUR, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Oilseed crop insects R. E. BELLAMY,B.S., M.S., M.A., Ph.D. Mosquitoes N. S. CHURCH, B.Sc., M.S., Ph.D. Insect endocrinology C. H. CRAIG, B.A. Forage crop insects G. R. F. DAVIS, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Insect nutrition J. F. DOANE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Wireworms; ecology A. B. EWEN, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Grasshoppers; physiology R. J. FORD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide application; engineering F. J. H. FREDEEN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Black flies S. H. GAGE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Insect management Y. W. LEE, B.S., M.S. Pesticide chemistry K. S. McKINLAY, B.Sc. Pesticide application; toxicology J. J. R. McLINTOCK, B.Sc., Ph.D. Mosquitoes and arboviruses M. K. MUKERJI, M.Sc., Ph.D. Demography, grasshoppers R. PICKFORD, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Grasshoppers; ecology L. G. PUTNAM, B.S.A., M.Sc. Rapeseed insects W. W. A. STEWART, B.Sc. Mosquito ecology and control N. D. WESTCOTT, B.Sc., Ph.D. Pesticide chemistry Plant Pathology Section R. D. TINLINE, B.A., M.sc., Ph.D. Head of Section; Cereal root diseases S. H. F. CHINN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil microbiology J. DUECK, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Oilseed crop diseases H. HARDING, B.Sc., Ph.D. Legume and cereal diseases R. J. LEDINGHAM, B.Sc., M.Sc. Cereal root diseases G. A. PETRIE, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Oilseed crop diseases J. D. SMITH,I B.Sc., M.Sc. Grass diseases Departures H. McMAHON, B.S.A., M.Sc. Pollinators Retired October 6, 1974 S. H. PAWLOWSKI, B.Sc., M.Sc. Oilseed breeding; mustard, Resigned September 17, 1974 sunflowers VISITING SCIENTISTS National Research Council postdoctorate fellows H.-C. HUANG, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., 1972-74 Cereal diseases S. K. SARKAR, Ph.D., 1973-74 Biochemistry; legume bloat D. C. MCGEE, PhD., 1974-75 Oilseed diseases 266 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia A. PALAFOX,Ing. Agron., 1973-75 Rapeseed breeding Instituto N aciona1 de Investigaciones Agrico1as, Chapingo, Mexico Rapeseed Associa'ion Fellow P. R. VERMA,B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., 1974-75 Rapeseed diseases IOn transfer of work at Vollebekk, Norway, September I, 1974 to September 30, 1975. RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 267 I INTRODUCTION The Research Station, located on the Saskatoon campus of the University of Saskatchewan, conducts a comprehensive research program on development and production of crops and protection of animals. Included are the breeding of oilseeds, cereals, grasses, and legumes; ecology and control of some of the most important plant insect pests, plant diseases, and weeds; and the ecology and control of black flies and mosquitoes affecting animals and humans. Research is carried out on the epidemiology of western encephalitis, the histophysiology and nutrition of insects, the fertility and management of soils, pesticide residues in crops and soils, and methods of application of pesticides. The Station works closely in a number of areas with many departments of the University of Saskatchewan and the Prairie Regional Laboratory of the National Research Council. Accomplishments in selected subjects are summarized in this report. The mailing address of this establishment is Research Station, Agriculture Canada, University Campus, Saskatoon, Sask. S7N OX2. J. E. R. Greenshields Director CROPS rapeseed were examined. On the average the yellow-seeded rapeseed contained 2% more Oilseeds oil, 1% more protein, and 4.4% less fiber than Rapeseed breeding. In 1974, low-erucic, brown-seeded segregates. These differences low-glucosinolate strains of Brassica were found to result from yellow seed having campestris L. with partly yellow seed were a thinner seed coat and a higher oil and widely evaluated in cooperative rapeseed protein content in the tissue. Results indi- tests. Quality characteristics, particularly oil cated that breeding for yellow seed may content, of these strains were excellent. Oil significantly reduce fiber content without content ranged from 0.8 to 1.5% higher than sacrificing other agronomic characteristics that of the control cultivar Echo. Further such as yield or oil and protein contents. evaluations will be carried out with Saskatch- In yellow and brown seed the seed coats ewan-grown seed to reassess seed yield contained appreciable proportions of the potential, because germination and stand total seed oil (2-4%) and total protein (7- establishment were poor in 1974 when tests II %). Although dehulling would result in a were conducted with small, weak seed pro- more desirable meal with less fiber, it is duced in the California winter nursery. doubtful whether the practice could econom- Resistance to white rust, Albugo crucif- ically be justified unless the hulls were erarum S.F. Gray, was identified in wild B. further processed and used. campestris strains from Central and South Independent inheritance of linoleic and America, and it is being incorporated into linolenic acids in rapeseed oil. Study of low-erucic, low-glucosinolate genotypes. Se- selections for altered linoleic acid in the seed lections are now being made within early- oil of rapeseed showed that the proportion of generation segregating populations. linolenic acid can be raised or lowered by In preliminary field trials, several low- breeding without affecting the total amount erucic, low-glucosinolate strains of B. napus of oil formed. There was evidence that the L. were superior to the low-glucosinolate amount of linolenic acid has been altered cultivar Tower in seed yield and oil content, without a change in the amount of linoleic and a few strains also exceeded the highest- acid; thus, lowering the undesirable linolenic yielding cultivar Midas in these acid content through plant breeding may not characteristics. necessarily result in a reduction of the desirable linoleic acid. Improved quality of yellow rapeseed. The chemical and morphological characteristics New testfor glucosinolates in seed. A rapid of the embryos and seed coats of F2 popula- and simple method for quantitative analysis tions segregating yellow- and brown-seeded of glucosinolates was developed; it uses a 268 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 commercially available test paper that reacts difficult weeds to control selectively in rape- semiquantitatively and specifically to glucose. seed or mustard. A new product, FMC 25213 Glucose is released from hydrolysis of the (FMC of Canada Ltd.), applied preemer- glucosinolates by the endogenous myrosinase gence to B. campestris and B. napus cultivars in aqueous extracts of rapeseed, and is Torch and Midas, resulted in 80 to 85% measured after interfering substances have control of stinkweed as well as other broad- been removed with charcoal. The stability of leaved weeds. The rapeseed was fairly toler- the reagents and the simplicity, sensitivity, ant of the treatment. A second experimental and speed (less than 5 min) of the test product, 73-A 176 (Allied Chemical Services suggest that it could be used at farm delivery Ltd.), applied as a postemergence treatment, points and throughout the Canadian trans- controlled weeds as effectively as FMC portation and marketing system to identify 25213, but B. campestris was more suscepti- seed of low-glucosinolate cultivars. ble to injury by it than B. napus. Interspecific hybridization. Selection in Sunflower breeding and management. advanced generations of an interspecific Early sunflower strains were identified that cross of B. napus X B. campestris resulted in flowered 3 to 7 days earlier than the cultivar B. napus lines with high oil content, good Krasnodarets and possessed fair stem yielding ability, earliness, and low contents strength, high oil content, and low hull of erucic acid and glucosinolates. Significant content. Drifting of the herbicide 2,4-D transgressive segregation for earliness, oil caused damage in several commercial fields. content, and yield in these lines confirms that Single-plant selection for tolerance for 2,4-D interspecific gene transfer is a successful and drift was effective, which indicates the feasi- promising breeding technique for B. napus. bility of breeding cultivars that tolerate 2,4- D. The content of chlorogenic acid (CGA), Haploids. Studies on frequencies of spon- the major phenolic acid in sunflower flour, taneous haploids in Canadian cultivars of B. was shown to be influenced by seeding date napus indicated that selection can increase and stage of development of the kernel; haploid frequencies more than IO-fold in a early high-oil strains with 1% CGA, about single generation. Progenies of plants se- one-half the normal level, were identified. lected from lines with high, medium, and low The heads and stalks of the sunflower were frequency of haploids generally remained in shown to be desirable sources of water- and the same frequency classes, which suggests oxalate-soluble pectin; the yield and quality that the tendency for haploid production is of the pectin were influenced by the stage of highly heritable. Recent data indicate that development of the plant. spontaneous haploid frequencies significantly "Sunfallow," the practice of seeding sun- greater than 5% may be difficult to attain. flowers in single or double rows spaced 3.7 m Crop losses because of wild oats in rape- (12 ft) or more apart on cereal stubble seed. The advantage of early removal of wild intended for summerfallow, gave a substan- oats from rapeseed was clearly established. tial financial return in the summerfallow Yields of rapeseed grown with a wild oat year. popuhition of 200 plants/m2 (per 1,550 sq Weed control in sunflowers. The problems in.) were compared with a yield of 1565 kg/ of weeds in sunflower production are similar ha (1,396 Ib/ac) from a weed-free crop. to those in production of rapeseed; however, When wild oats were removed 7 days after tolerance for herbicides differs to some emergence, the yield loss was 8%; with extent. A mixture of linuron and chloramben removal at 21 days after emergence the loss (I :3.3), applied as a preplant-incorporated was 22%; with removal at 40 days it was treatment at 4.48 kg/ha (4.00 Ib/ac), pro- 61%; and with removal at maturity the loss vided excellent control of weeds, including was 69%. Tests also showed that a popula- stinkweed. Crop tolerance was excellent. Two tion of 10 plants/m2 reduced yield by 18%, herbicides, RH2915 (Rohm & Haas Canada 100 plants/m2 reduced it by 56%, and 300 Ltd.) and oxadiazon (May & Baker), applied plants/m2 reduced it by 68%. This evidence preemergence to the crop and weeds at 1.12 emphasized the need to remove even light kg/ha (1.00 Ib/ac) also gave good weed infestations at an early stage of development. control and crop tolerance. Application of Weed control in rapeseed. Stinkweed, each of the three products resulted in yields Thlaspi arvense L., has been one of the most equivalent to those from hand-weeded plots, RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 269 and weed control in each case was 80% or were detected in the vegetative portions of 25 higher. annual Medicago spp. and 25 Trigonella spp. Three Trifolium spp. contained condensed Legumes tannins. A reliable assay for dicoumarol in sweetclover hay was developed in response Grasses to requests from feed analysis laboratories in Recurrent mass selection in intermediate Saskatchewan and Alberta. wheatgrass. Five cycles of recurrent mass Breedingfor nonbloating alfalfa. The main selection of intermediate wheatgrass resulted objective in the alfalfa breeding program is in a 76% gain in seed yields. Gain per cycle the development of a nonbloating variety by was 9% when open-pollination seed was used reduction of the total soluble proteins (TSP) to form the next generation, and 18% when in the plant. High variability in TSP contents selected plants were intercrossed to form the of individual plants suggests marked en- basis of the next generation. vironmental influences and the need for well- Bromegrass seed midge. The bromegrass replicated progeny tests. Lines with low and seed midge, Contarinia bromicola (Marik. & high levels of TSP are being selected concur- Agafonova), c,aused serious losses to seed rently to measure the success of the selection growers in 1973 and lesser damage in 1974. ;')rogram. A high TSP alfalfa also may serve Preliminary attempts to control damage by a future demand for alfalfa as a protein burning residues and by use of insecticides source. Preliminary data indicate that low were not successful. Adults of the midge TSP levels will not necessarily cause reduc- were present from June 17 to July II and tions in levels of total protein. numbers reached two to four per sweep at A second approach to developing a non- flowering time, July 5 to 8. Further attempts bloating alfalfa is to raise levels of palatable at control with insecticides will cover a longer condensed tannins. The possibilities of using period. mutagenic agents, hybridization, and haploid cell fusion are being investigated. . Heterosis in crested wheatgrass after strain A feeding trial to study bloat incidence is interpollination. Moderate heterosis was ob- under way at the Research Station at Kam- tained from natural interpollination of four loops, B.C. Threshold levels of soluble tetraploid strains of crested wheatgrass in protein at which bloat occurs as well as paired combinations. The average forage concentrations of other selected protein yield of 12 such "crosses" was 6.34 tonnes constituents are being determined. (t)/ha (2.83 tons/ac), the average of six seed blends 6.12 tlha (2.73 tons/ac), and the Legume biochemistry. An improved proce- average of pure strains 6.19 tlha (2.76 tonsl dure was developed for the extraction of ac). The highest-yielding cross was of the soluble proteins. Samples, instead of being cultivars Summit and Nordan, with a yield of freeze-ground in liquid nitrogen, are freeze- 6.61 tlha (2.95 tons/ac). Close scrutiny of dried and then ground. When protein frac- plant type for this combination indicated tions were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel 25% hybridization. electrophoresis, problems of poor resolution and background staining were encountered. Irrigated pasture mixtures. A winter-hardy However, good resolution was obtained white clover from the Research Station at when samples were desalted by dialysis or Melfort, Sask., was grown in combination Sephadex G-25 chromatography and when with various grasses in 1971-74 and clipped electrophoresis was performed in sodium two to three times per season {Q simulate dodecyl sulfate. Electrophoretic properties of pasturing. Highest yields of dry matter from alfalfa leaf proteins were described and the grass-clover mixtures, over the period 1972- proteins that contained bound lipids were 74, were obtained from Climax timothy, 5.47 identified. tlha (2.44 tons/ac); intermediate wheatgrass, 3ate-Smith's astringency test for tannins 5.13 t/ha (2.29 tons/ac); and meadow fox- was modified to give greater reproducibility. tail, 4.84 tlha (2.16 tons/ac). However, no Also, Burns' vanillin-HCI screening test for grass-clover mixture yielded as well as a condensed tannins was modified to avoid a control mixture of Troy Kentucky bluegrass false positive reading when alfalfa and other and Roamer alfalfa, 6.81 tlha (3.04 tonsl legumes were tested. No condensed tannins ac). The most uniformly balanced stands of 270 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 grass and clover were obtained for Kentucky penetration pegs; these entered the epidermis bluegrass, timothy, meadow foxtail, and directly. The pegs were subtended by lignitu- orchardgrass. Bromegrass, reed canarygrass, bers, but development was not inhibited. The slender wheatgrass, and intermediate wheat- fungus proceeded from the epidermis to the grass were weakened by repeated clippings cortex and endodermis and caused cell and were dominated by the clover by 1974. breakdown. Sometimes the stele was invaded and vessels were occluded. Dark-stained objects of unknown origin and function PLANT DISEASES occurred in some infected tissues. Diseases of Cereals Studies of somatic nuclei in C. sativus by means of light and electron microscopes Common root rot. Estimated losses from showed that division took place within the disease in Saskatchewan were 12% in wheat nucleus. Haploid nuclei contained single and 14% in barley; they were comparable to nucleoli, whereas some diploid nuclei con- the high losses recorded in 1973. Conversion tained two. Spindle pole bodies were located factors derived from levels of disease and opposite one another on the periphery of the yields of plants in samples from selected nuclear envelope; a nuclear spindle devel- fields were applied to disease levels in survey oped. Chromosomes condensed at prophase, fields and used to calculate the losses. approached the equatorial plane at Common root rot in wheat increased with metaphase, and moved asynchronously at depth of seeding. The effect was more anaphase. Nuclei exhibited maximum elon- pronounced at mid- than at late-season. gation at telophase. New daughter nuclei Subcrown internodes, the part on which were formed as the nuclear envelope in the disease was rated, were longer with deeper interzonal region disintegrated. When exam- seeding. When planted at similar depths, ined by light microscopy, the nuclei, spindles, Chinook invariably had longer subcrown nucleoli, and chromosomes appeared larger, internodes than Neepawa, but it was more and the number of chromosomes greater, in susceptible than Neepawa regardless of diploid than in haploid nuclei. In culture, C. internode length. sativus readily used certain D amino acids as A number of lines of wheat and barley sole nitrogen sources but conidial morphol- selected for resistance in screening trials ogy was altered by some of them. continued to perform well in replicated tests at several locations. Some of the wheat lines Snow mold. Several psychrophilic fungi of diverse parentage will be crossed to seek such as Sclerotinia borealis Bub. & Vleug., a progeny with exceptionally high resistance. low-temperature basidiomycete, and particu- Additional new wheat and barley lines were larly Typhula sp. were shown to cause assessed and a small percentage merits damaging snow mold in winter wheat and further testing. rye grown in test plots. One or more of these Conidia of Cochliobolus sativus (Ito & fungi or Fusarium nivale (Fr.) Ces. were Kurib.) Drechsl. ex Dastur in the soil were involved in variably damaged commercial more abundant after a barley crop than after crops in northern Saskatchewan, after snow wheat, and less abundant atter rye and oats formed a deep and prolonged cover during than after wheat. Sporulation on crowns of the winter of 1973-74. wheat plants was several times greater than that on subcrown internodes. Some fun- Diseases of Forage gicides applied to wheat plants between July 15 and 31 reduced formation of conidia, and Grasses. Heavy outbreaks of snow mold in when applied to stubble shortly after harvest 2- and 3-yr-old turfgrass plots resulted from some decreased the percentage of viable artificial inoculation with the low-tempera- spores found in the soil. ture basidiomycete. Although none of the No histopathologic differences were obs- strains of Poa pratensis 1;., Festuca rubra L., erved between cultivars that differed in and F. ovina L. was immune, some of the resistance to C. sativus. Disease appeared to introduced and local selections showed little develop similarly in naturally and artificially initial damage, or rapid recovery, or both. infected subcrown internodes. Germinating The most effective fungicides for control of conidia on the host's surface formed appres- snow mold were chloroneb, inorganic mer- soria, or infection cushions, that produced cury compounds, and quintozene where the RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 271 low-temperature basidiomycete or Typhula larvae pupated successfully. Various modifi- sp. were dominant in disease complexes. cations of this diet have been developed which enable larvae of the flax bollworm Legumes. Callus an'!. cell suspension cul- and the sunflower moth to be reared with tures of several forage legume species have equal success. The clover cutworm, Scoto- been established. They will be used to assay gramma trifolii (Rott.), appears to be the for chlorophyll-destroying metabolites pro- most likely alternate host for the parasite duced by foliage pathogens. Banchus jfavescens Cress., when field popula- Diseases of Oilseeds tions of the bertha armyworm are low. The clover cutworm is readily attacked, the Rapeseed. Screening of turnip rape, B. parasite develops successfully in it, and field campestris, for resistance to white rust caused populations are present each year. Larvae of by A. cruciferarum was continued; several the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni (Hiib- crosses involving resistant lines were rated ner), were found to be unsuitable hosts for B. highly resistant in field plots. Histological jfavescens because all the young parasite studies showed that the process of infection larvae are sloughed off when the host casts its in cotyledons of several Brassica spp. was skin. similar up to the time of formation of the first haustorium. In the resistant B. napus L., Wireworms fungal growth was arrested and the haustoria Feeding activity. In studies of the regula- encapsulated, whereas in susceptible B. tion of feeding and molting in wireworm campestris intercellular hyphae proliferated larvae, surgical removal of the frontal gan- and additional haustoria were formed. glion prevented feeding but did not prevent Of 610 seed samples of Brassica spp., 80% molting. Larvae submitted to a sham opera- contained oospores of A. cruciferarum; the tion without removal of the ganglion fed and highest infestation level was 1,500 spores/g molted, as did controls that did not undergo of seed. Oospores stored dry in the labora- surgery. In tests with a series of large larvae, tory for 21 yr germinated well after they some of the controls fed before the first molt were washed in water. that followed several months of cold condi- Boron deficiency symptoms were induced tioning, and in tests with a series of medium- in rapeseed plants in sand culture. Leaves sized larvae most of the controls did so; turned purplish and became leathery, inter- nearly all fed actively after each molt. nodes were compressed, flower shoots with- Ganglionectomized larvae molted normally ered, and roots were poorly developed and at least once, although they did not feed showed tissue breakdown. Boron corrected before or after molting. In many cases, the disorder when applied at 0.5 ppm but frontal ganglionectomy accelerated molting. was phytotoxic at 5.0 ppm. The symptoms of Thus, molting in wireworm larvae is not acute boron deficiency were similar but not dependent upon food intake, nor is it trig- identical with those of girdling foot rot. gered by the stimulus of a period of feeding When spores of Alternaria spp. were mediated by the frontal ganglion as has been trapped in plots of Brassica sp., conidia were demonstrated in locusts. particularly prevalent when plants were in The frequencies of successive feeding the seedling stage and when plants were near periods in individual wireworms suggest that maturity. an internal rhythm is involved. Feeding usually occurs in the period immediately after molting, but larvae sometimes reenter ENTOMOLOGY an active feeding phase without molting. Thus, the feeding stimulus may arise inde- Rapeseed Insects pendently and the molt may be omitted. Bertha armyworm. Populations were very Grasshoppers low across the prai~ies in 1974. Laboratory cultures were essential for continued work on Abundance. Grasshopper infestations have this pest. With use of a new, improved increased each year since 1971. Surveys of artificial diet for the bertha armyworm, the abundance of adults and eggs during late based on the lima bean diet of Shorey and summer and fall in 1974 indicate that in- Hale, more than 80% of the early-instar creased densities may be expected in 1975, 272 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 when the outbreak may be one of the most the model indicates that reproductive success severe for many years if weather conditions of the grasshopper population is affected by are favorable, for example, if a warm, early the amount of embryonic development car- spring is followed by a hot, dry summer. ried over from the previous fall, and by Damage studies. Studies of the effects of conditions of current season. If favorable grasshopper infestations on crop yields have temperatures continue for more than 1yr, the revealed some interesting interactions carryover of development from year to year between crop and insect dynamics, and have will tend to bring a greater segment of the shown that weather could rapidly alter these population into the early laying segment, relationships. Severe damage may be ex- thus leading to a potential outbreak. On the pected during hot, dry conditions, which other hand, if inclement weather persists, the favor the insects but inhibit crop growth. depressing effects of the resultant delayed Under excellent crop-growing conditions hatching may counteract the positive effects such as those of the past few years, large of early hatching on population growth, and yield reductions can occur only when popula- this situation may be carried over from one tions of grasshoppers are very high. Losses year to the next. were greatest when grasshoppers hatched A similar multiple regression model has early in the season and crops were in the also been developed for predicting the early seedling stage; later hatching permitted amount of embryonic development of the the crop to develop well despite the grass- migratory grasshopper in the fall. The model hoppers~ by increasing its foliage production. indicates that the effects of previous popula- Three general types of damage to crops tion history, as represented by the estimated result from grasshopper depredation: early date of adult emergence, can be separated and complete destruction of seedling plants from the effects of temperatures in the by invasion from field margins; late head- current season. This finding should allow a clipping, which occurs after all leaves are method of estimating the impact of embry- gone; and gradual defoliation throughout the onic development in the fall on population season, which reduces both yield and grade trends. of seed. Analysis of results from damage studies in Forage Insects 1974, with grasshoppers caged over wheat Sweet clover weevil. Further experiments plants in the field, indicates that the season were conducted on the damage to vegetative was one of the most favorable for grasshop- sweetclover stands in late summer and fall by per survival and development for many the sweetclover weevil, Sitona cylindricollis years. As the weather was sunny and warm, F1'thr.The experiments investigated the com- the wheat seedlings in the cages were de- bined effects of clover defoliation early in the stroyed during the 1st wk of the experiment, critical period by adult weevils and subse- and under similar conditions through the quent partial loss of clover top growth by early summer the cages had to be moved to normal swathing of the companion cereal new plant stands as many as four times. The crop at a height of 20 cm (8 in.). It was same result was evident in the field, where confirmed that 2nd-yr forage yield was heavily infested areas showed considerable reduced by half compared with that of a crop destruction. Consequently, one of the weevil-free, unswathed control. Root mortal- most intensive campaigns of grasshopper ity, and to a lesser extent fewer crown buds control in many years was conducted. Artifi- per root, accounted for this reduction. Nor- cial defoliation experiments indicated that mal swathing alone did not significantly the period just before flowering, about mid- reduce forage yield. Also, normal swathing July, was the most hazardous to wheat and subsequent defoliation by weevils after plants. the critical period did not adversely affect the Population studies. An empirical model for 2nd-yr forage yield. the prediction of hatching in the migratory Alfalfa plant bug. In 1974, an unprece- grasshopper, Melanoplus sanguinipes (Fabr.), dented outbreak of the alfalfa plant bug, has been developed by use of daily max- Adelphocoris lineolatus (Goeze), occurred in imum air temperatures from March to June. alfalfa seed crops throughout Saskatchewan The model accounted for a maximum of 96% and southern Alberta. Infestations intense of the variance in hatching date. Analysis of enough to cause total failure of the seed crop RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 273 were frequent; ones that could cause 30 to only 4% emergence. When it was used 70% seed loss were common. The application against larvae, 67 litres/ha (6 gal/ac) were of recommended controls effectively reduced required to obtain similar results. the infestations to noneconomic levels. Ecology. Data were summed from a 3-yr Mosquitoes investigation at a freshwater breeding site near Saskatoon, which was sampled for Abundance. In 1974, for the 3rd consecu- larvae and adults from snowmelt to freeze- tive yr, mosquito populations in the agricul- up. The results showed that two rather tural area of Saskatchewan were compara- distinct populations occur at pestiferous tively small, being well below the average of levels (at which they constitute more than 1% the past 10 yr. Culex tarsalis Coq., the of the total mosquito population). This points epidemic and endemic transmitter of the up the need for separately timed operations western equine encephalitis (WEE) virus, was ..to control the two groups. The first popula- more abundant than in 1973 but was still tion, which arises from overwintered eggs, below the long-term average. Culiseta inor- contains only the genus Aedes; the second, nata (Will.) was generally the most abundant from overwintered adults, is comprised of species during the season. the genera Culiseta, Culex, Anopheles, and Arbovirus activity. In 1973, examination of Mansonia. Altogether, nine species of mos- 45,124 female mosquitoes for arboviruses quitoes reached pestiferous levels of abun- yielded only one isolation of the WEE virus, dance in the experimental area in 1974. and that was from C. inornata; no WEE The heat units required for development virus infections were acquired by three of larvae of Aedes implicatus Vockeroth in indicator flocks of 75 chickens. In 1974, the field were 44, 33, 3 I, and 67 degree-days examination of 32,568 female mosquitoes (DC) above 4.4°C for the first, second, third, yielded three WEE virus isolations from C. and fourth ins tars in that order. These tarsalis, and 14 of 99 indicator chickens from requirements were almost identical with four flocks acquired WEE infections. How- conditions needed for this species in the ever, as forecast, no epidemic of WEE laboratory. occurred in Saskatchewan in 1974 and no Black Flies human cases were reported. Four out of 25 suspected WEE infections were confirmed in Ecology. The larvae of Simulium arcticum horses. Of 20 other arbovirus isolations made Mall. develop rapidly from overwintered from mosquitoes in Saskatchewan in 1974, eggs in the North Saskatchewan River. six are still unidentified, six were strains of Analysis of data for 1972 showed that first- California encephalitis virus, and eight were instar larvae first appeared on April 26, 6 Cache Valley virus. days after the spring ice began to break up. At subsequent weekly intervals, larval instars Insecticides. The organophosphate OMS 1 and 2, I to 4, I to 7, and I to adult 1155 (Dow Chemical Co. of Canada Ltd.), occurred. Outbreaks commenced on May 25 dimethyl analogue of chlorpyrifos, is less and animal fatalities occurred irregularly toxic to associated aquatic fauna than from May 25 to June 30 from black flies that chlorpyrifos (Dursban; Dow Chemical Co. emerged from an untreated portion of the of Canada Ltd.). It was tested against river. From April 26 to May 20 the densities mosquito larvae in naturally infested ponds of larval populations increased daily, not near Saskatoon. OMS 1155 at 33.6 and 8.4 only because overwintered eggs continued to g/ha (0.03 and 0.0075 lb/ac) was completely hatch but also because larvae drifted effective in open ponds with sparse emergent downstream. vegetation. At 16.8 g/ha (0.015 lb/ac), it eliminated larvae by the 14th day after Control. A single 7.5-min injection of 0.6 treatment. The insecticide was less effective ppm methoxychlor into the North Saskatche- at this median rate probably because it failed wan River totally eliminated instars 3 to 6 to disperse evenly through the dense emer- inclusive of the larvae of S. arcticum from gent vegetation in the pond treated. sites 40 and 80 km (25 and 50 mi) Flit MLO (Exxon), a surface-spreading oil, downstream, and removed 91 % at 121 km applied against mosquito pupae at 22.5 (75 mi) and 66% at 161 km (100 m). Of litres/ha (2 gallac) prevented emergence of instars I and 2, 96% were removed from the adults; at II litres/ha (I gal/ac) it allowed most distant site. 274 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 The treated portion of the river was carrots decreased from that of the previous rapidly repopulated. At distances of 40, 80, year, the level of residue in Norland and 12I, and 161 km downstream from the Kennebec potatoes grown under dryland or chemical injection point, populations of irrigated conditions increased; in Norland Chironomidae larvae, larger than I mm long, potato peels the increase was from 0.04 ppm equaled or surpassed the pretreatment densi- (total alpha and gamma isomer) to 0.37-0.47 ties within 1-3 wk, Ephemeroptera within ppm. 1-4 wk, Trichoptera within 1-7 wk, Plecop- Flax treated with carbofuran at 0.14 and tera within 4-5 wk, and Simuliidae within 0.28 kg/ha (2 and 4 oz/ac) was analyzed for 2-10 wk; populations of newly hatched residues of carbofuran and 3-hydroxycar- larvae reappeared in less time. bofuran, but neither chemical was found in the harvested seed. Pesticide Chemistry Pollution potential. A study was started to Methodology. A method has been devel- determine whether thiram, a fungicide used oped for the determination of thiram-35S in seed treatment, would appear as a harmful residues in animal tissues. The new method residue in game birds. Pheasants fed thiram- requires the digestion of animal tissue in an 35S excreted about 8% of the administered alkaline solution of sodium 2-hydroxymercu- dose in feces and urine within 27 h, and ribenzoate. Typical recoveries from muscle, about 20% within 15 days. The amount of blood, liver, and fat of pheasants were 90%, radioactivity in the exhaled breath could not and from kidney tissue, 70%. be accurately measured. Female bir~s fed on A new method was developed for deter- a diet with thiram laid abnormal eggs, but mining residues of carbofuran and 3-hy- returned to producing normal eggs when droxycarbofuran in flax seed. Extracts of the thiram was removed from the diet. Birds seed were partially cleaned, then derivatives sacrificed 27 h after feeding had about one- obtained with trifluoroacetic anhydride were quarter of the original dose in muscle and chroma tographed and quantitively analyzed. organs, and traces of activity in blood, bone, Carefully selected conditions of chromatog- or feathers. raphy were essential to minimize the effects Insect Nutrition of interfering coextractives. Mycotoxin detection. Isolates of fungi Translocation and retention. Sixteen occurring on cereal grains were fed in dietary months after application of insecticide to soil, substrates to larvae of the yellow meal worm the concentration of technical chlordane was to screen the fungi for mycotoxin production. still 60% of the initial concentration, the Three isolates of Fusarium roseum Lk. concentration of lindane was 40%, but the emend. Snyder & Hansen, two of F. equiseti concentration of fonofos was less than 10% (Cda.) Sacc., and of F. nivale (Fr.) Ces., and of the initial level. one of an unidentified species of Fusarium Carrots grown in soil treated with fonofos caused growth depression of the larvae. One in the previous growing season adsorbed isolate of an unidentified species of Myrothe- small amounts of chemical (0.02 ppm), 100- cium was also toxic to the larvae. Mycotoxin fold less than the residue level in carrots production was apparently dependent on the grown the previous year; potatoes had only specific fungus and the culture conditions traces of fonofos. The concentration of under which the fungus was grown. Some lindane in carrots decreased by nearly 50%. fungal isolates had growth-promoting quali- Although the level of technical chlordane in ties for the larvae. PUBLICA nONS Research Balba, M. H., and Saha, 1. G. 1974. Degradation of matacil by the ascorbic acid oxidation Arrand, 1. c., and McMahon, H. 1974. Plagiog- system. Bull. Environ. Contam. & Toxicol. nalhus medicagus (Hemiptera: Miridae): de- II: 193-200. scriptions of egg and five nymphal instars. Can. Entomol. 106:433-435. RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 275 Bellamy, R. E., and Corbet, P. S. \973. Combined Guppy, J. C., and Mukerji, M. K. \974. Effects of autogenous and anautogenous ovarian devel- temperature an developmental rate of the opment in individual Culex tarsalis Coq. immature stages of the alfalfa weevil, Hypera (Dipt., Culicidae). Bull. Entomol. Res. 63:335- postica (Coleoptera: Curcu\ionidae). Can. En- 346. tomol. 106:93-100. Bellamy, R. E., and Corbet, P. S. 1974. Occurrence Gutek, L. H., Goplen, B. P., Howarth, R. E., and of ovariolar dilatations in nulliparous mosqui- McArthur, J. M. \974. Variation of soluble toes. Mosq. News 34:334-335. proteins in alfalfa, sainfoin, and birdsfoot trefoil. Crop Sci. 14:495-499. Burrage, R. H., and Saha, J. G. 1974. Lindane Harcourt, D. G., Mukerji, M. K., and Guppy, J. C. residues.in wheat, oat, and barley plants, and \974. Estimation of egg populations of the grain grown from treated seed. Environ. alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Coleoptera: Entomol. 3:\94-\95. Curculionidae). Can. Entomol. \06:337-347. Burton, A. N., McLintock, J., and Francy, D. B. Harding, H. \973. Apparent recovery from the \973. Isolation of St. Louis encephalitis and field of hyaline-spored strains of Bipolaris Cache Valley viruses from Saskatchewan mos- sorokiniana 15 years after their introduction. quitoes. Can. J. Public Health 64:368-373. Can. J. Bot. 51 :9-13. Campbell, S. J., and Darwish, 'D. \974. The Harding, H. 1973. Fungi associated with subcrown synthesis and reactions of chiral sulfonium internodes of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Can. yields. Can. J. Chern. 52:2953-2959. J. Bot. 5\:25\4-25\6. Chinn, S. H. F. 1973. Prevalence of Dendryphion Huang, H. C, and Tinline, R. D. \974. Somatic namum in field soils in Saskatchewan with mitosis in haploid and diploid strains of special. reference to rape in the crop rotation. Cochliobolus sativus. Can. 1. Bot. 52: \56\- Can. J. Bot. 5\ :2253-2258. \568. Kaul, R., and Crowle, W. L. \974. An index Davis, G. R. F. \974. Evaluation of the nutritional derived from photosynthetic parameters for value of proteins of rape, turnip rape and predicting grain yields of drought-stressed yellow mustard seed by larvae of the yellow wheat cultivars. Sonderdr. aus Z. Pflanzen- mea\worm, Tenebrio molitor L. Arch. Int. zuecht. 7\ :42-51. Physiol. Biochim. 82: \4\-\48. Ledingham, R. J., Atkinson, T. G., Horricks, J. S., Davis, G. R. F., and Sosulski, F. W. \973. Protein Mills, 1. T., Piening, L. J., and Tinline, R. D. nutrition of Tenebrio molitor. XVI. Effects of \973. Wheat losses due to common root rot in dietary'protein concentration on larvae of race the Prairie Provinces of Canada, \969-71. F. Arch. Int. Physiol. Biochim. 8\ :66\-665. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 53:\13-\22. Davis, G. R. F., and Sosulski, F. W. \974. Nutri- McGregor, D. I. 1974. A rapid and sensitive spot tional quality of oilseed protein isolates as test for linolenic acid levels in rapeseed. Can. determined with larvae of the yellow meal- 1. Plant Sci. 54:21\-2\3. worm, Tenebrio molitor L. 1. Nutr. \04: \\72- McKinlay, K. S. \974. Laboratory studies of spray \\77. deposits on the migratory grasshopper (Mela- Downey, R. K., and Klassen, A. 1. \974. Midas noplus sanguinipes) (Orthoptera: Acrididae). summer rape. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:433. Can. Entomol. 106: \103-1108. McKinlay, K. S., Ashford, R., and Ford, R. J. Downey, R. K., and Klassen, A. J. 1974. Torch \97 4. Effects of drop size, spray volume, and summer turnip rape. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:435. dosage on paraquat toxicity. Weed Sci. 22:3\- 34. Dueck, J. 1973. Bactericidal treatment of apples for elimination of surface-borne Erwinia amylov- Miltimore, 1. E., McArthur, J. M., Goplen, B. P., ora. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:353-358. Majak, W., and Howarth, R. E. \974. Varia- bility of fraction I protein and heritability Dueck, 1. 1973. Survival of Erwinia amylovora in estimates for fraction I protein and total association with mature apple fruit. Can. J. phenolic constituents in alfalfa. Agron. J. Plant Sci. 54:349-351. 66:384-386. Fredeen, F. 1. H. \974. Tests with single infections Petrie, G. A. \974. Alternaria brassicicola on of methoxychlor black fly (Diptera: Simuli- imported garden crucifer seed, a potential idae) larvicides in large rivers. Can. Entomol. threat to rapeseed production in Western 106:285-305. Canada. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:3\-34. 276 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Petrie, G. A., and Vanterpool, T. C. 1974. Fungi Miscellaneous associated with hypertrophies caused by infec- tion of Cruciferae by Albugo cruciferarum. Downey, R. K. 1974. Management for increased Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 54:37-42. rapeseed yields. 7th Annu. Meet. Rapeseed Assoc. Can., Calgary, Alta. pp. 26-30. Petrie, G. A., and Verma, P. R. 1974. A simple method for germinating oospores of Albugo Downey, R. K. 1974. Turnip rape varieties, 1974- candida. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:595-596. 76. 7th Annu. Meet. Rapeseed Assoc. Can., Calgary, Alta. pp. 50-52. Pickford, R. 1974. Reproductive behaviour of the clear-winged grasshopper, Camnula pellucida Downey, R. K., and Hussar, N. 1974. Report of (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Can. Entomol. rapeseed technical mission to Spain. Rapeseed 106:403-408. Assoc. Can. Publ. 37. II pp. Downey, R. K., and Klassen, A. J. 1974. Bessere Pickford, R., and Mukerji, M. K. 1974. Assessment Rapsol-Qualitat durch Ziichtung. Umsch. of loss in yield of wheat caused by the Wiss. Tech. 74:527. (Note). migratory grasshopper, Melanoplus s'angui- nipes (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Can. Entomol. Downey, R. K., Klassen, A. J., and McAnsh, 1. 106: 1219-1226. 1974. Rapeseed Canada's 'Cinderella' crop. Rapeseed Assoc. Can. Publ. 33. 52 pp. Randell, R. L., and Mukerji, M. K. 1974. A technique for estimating hatching of natural Hill, R. D., Klassen, A. 1., and Dedio, W. 1974. egg populations of Melanoplus sanguinipes Metabolic factors influencing kernel develop- (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Can. Entomol. ment in triticale. Proc. Int. Symp. on Triticale, 106:801-812. EI Batan, Mexico. pp. 149-154. Reid, W. S., and Downey, R. K. 1974. A multiori- Howarth, R. E. 1973. Future approaches to the fice rapeseed counter. Can. J. Plant Sci. control of bloat. Rep. Work Plann. Meet. 54:215-217. Forage Crops Can., Winnipeg, Man. p. 32. Saha, J. G., and McKinlay, K. S. 1973. Use of Howarth, R. E. 1973. Industrial processing of mercury in agriculture and its relationship to forage - potential for leaf protein concen- environmental pollution. Toxicol. & Environ. trates. Rep. Work Plann. Meet. Forage Crops Chern. Rev. 1:271-290. Can., Winnipeg, Man. p. 80. Howarth, R. E. 1974. Modification of rumen Saha, J. G., and Sumner, A. K. 1974. The fate of fermentation: Bloat control. Proc. 23rd Can. lindane - 14C in wheat flour under normal Comm. Anim. Nutr. Meet., Winnipeg. Man. conditions of bread making. Can. Inst. Food p.40. Sci. & Technol. J. 7: 10 1-104. Kasting, R., Pittman, U. J., Horricks, J. S., Sawchyn, W. W., and Church, N. S. 1973. The Downey, R. K., and Dubetz, S. 1974. Toxin effects of temperature and photoperiod on from the straw residue of rape. Can. J. Plant diapause development in the eggs of four Sci. 54:447-450. (Abstr.). species of Lestes (Odonata: Zygoptera). Can. J. Zool. 51: 1257-1265. Knowles, R. P. 1974. Crested wheatgrass variety tests, Western Canada, 1973. Canadex 127.34. Smith, 1. D., and Shoemaker, R. A. 1974. Didy- mella jestucae and its imperfect state, Phleo- Knowles, R. P. 1974. Bromegrass variety tests, spora idahoensis, on Festuca species in western Western Canada, 1973. Canadex 127.34. North America. Can. 1. Bot. 52:2061-2074. McKeen, C. D., Tinline, R. D., Horricks, J., and Stewart, W. W. A. 1974. The rate of larval Nielsen, J. 1974. Seed treatment in the Prairie development of Aedes implicatus Vockeroth in Provinces. Canadex 110.23. field and laboratory. Mosq. News 34:283-285. Peters, E. G., and Pickford, R. 1974. Grasshopper forecast 1974. Canadex 620. Sutherland, G. B., and Ewen, A. B. 1974. Fecun- dity decrease in mosquitoes ingesting blood Smith, J. D. 1974. Winter diseases of turfgrasses. from specifically sensitized mammals. J. Insect Proc. 25th Annu. R. Can. Golf Assoc. Natl. Physiol. 20:655-660. Turfgrass Conf., Winnipeg, Man. pp. 20-25. Verma, P. R., Morrall, R. A. A., and Tinline, R. D. Tinline, R. D., Ledingham, R. J., Petrie, A., 1974. The epidemiology of common root rot Harding, H., Smith, J. D., Morrall, R. R., and in Manitou wheat: disease progression during McLean, L. A. 1973. Plant diseases. Pages the growing season. Can. J. Bot. 52: 1757- 211-212 in 68th Annu. Rep. Sask. Dep. Agric. 1764. Regina, Sask. RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK. 277 Turnock, W. 1., Putman, L. G., Arthur, A. P., and Verma, P. R., Morrall, R. A. A., and Tinline, R. D. Holmes, N. D. 1974. Bertha armyworm fore- 1973. Root rot disease of wheat in a cultivated cast. Canadex 149.622. ecosystem. Matador Proj., Can. Comm. Int. BioI. Programme Tech. Rep. 30. 221 pp. Verma, P. R., Morrall, R. A. A., Randell, R. L., and Tinline, R. D. 1973. Epidemiology of common root rot of wheat. 2nd Int. Congr. Plant Pathol., Univ. Minn. Abstr. 0177. 278 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Research Station Swift Current, Saskatchewan PROFESSIONAL STAFF A. A. GUITARD, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director G. E. KERLEY, CD. Administrative Officer Information A. K. LAIRD (Mrs.) Librarian P. I. MYHR, B.S.A. Research Information Cereal Production and Utilization C. H. ANDERSON, B.Sc., M.Sc. Head of Section; Cultural management M. E. DODDS, M.B.E., C.D., B.E. Harvesting K. E. DUNKELGOD, B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Turkey nutrition D. G. GREEN, B.SA, M.S., Ph.D. Hardiness physiology E. A. HURD, B.SA, M.Sc., Ph.D. Spring wheat breeding D. S. McBEAN, B.S.A., M.Sc. Rye breeding D. W. L. READ, B.S.A., M.Sc. Fertility management R. E. SALMON, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Turkey nutrition T. F. TOWNLEy-SMITH, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Durum wheat breeding Forage Production and Utilization D. H. HEINRICHS, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D., F.A.I.C. Head of Section; Legume breeding M. R. KILCHER, B.S.A. Forage management J. E. KNIPFEL, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ruminant nutrition H. C. KORVEN, B.E., M.Sc. Irrigation management T. LAWRENCE, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Grass breeding J. LOOMAN, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Range ecology J. D. McELGUNN, B.S., M.Sc., Ph.D. Production physiology Environment W. L. PELTON, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Head of Section; Agrometeorology RESEARCHSTATION,SWIFT CURRENT, SASK. 279 I V. O. BIEDERBECK,B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Soil microbiology C. A. CAMPBELL, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D. Soil chemistry W. NICHOLAICHUK,'B.E., M.Sc. Hydrology Analytical Services and Design F. G. WARDER, B.S.A., M.Sc. Head of Section; Soil chemistry F. B. DYCK, B.E., M.Sc. Equipment design W. C. HINMAN, B.Sc., M.Sc. Soil chemistry N. B. McLAUGHLIN, B.Sc., M.Sc. Equipment design H. MOEN Computer programmer Departures F. BISAL, B.S., M.S. Soil physics Retired October 25, 1974 W. DEDlO, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Durum wheat breeding Completed term appointment July 8, 1974 D. W. STEWART, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Environmental physiology Resigned July 5, 1974 L. M. WRIGHT, B.Sc., M.Sc. Cereal harvesting Resigned June 28, 1974 VISITING SCIENTISTS All-India Dry/and Program S. A. SHENDE, B.Sc., M.Sc. Equipment design S. TIWARY, B.Sc., M.S. Equipment design 280 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION The climate of southwestern Saskatchewan is characterized by low precipitation, high evaporation, and wide l;:xtremes in temperature. Throughout the region, cereal grains are grown on various soils, and cattle are raised on natural and cultivated grasslands. Small areas are irrigated. Research is focused on improving the economy and stability of this production. Heavy snow in winter and above-average precipitation in May delayed spring seeding but provided the moisture base for an excellent crop. Lack of precipitation during June and July slightly reduced crop potential. Excessive moisture during August, combined with a late- August frost, reduced yield and quality of cereals. A license was obtained for Canuck, a hard red spring wheat developed by Mr. D. S. McBean. The release of this sawfly-resistant cultivar that has better yield and quality than Cypress is very timely. Before he retired in December, Mr. F. Bisal completed the development of a mathematical model that describes the rate of movement and total flow of windblown soil particles. This model is essential to an understanding of the physical components of wind erosion. These and other research accomplishments are described briefly in this report. Detailed information can be obtained from the publications listed at the end of the report, from Mr. P. I. Myhr, or from individual scientists. Correspondence should be addressed: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 1030, Swift Current, Sask. S9H 3X2. A. A. Guitard Director CEREAL CROPS was only slightly higher in Pitic 62, but under severe stress it was twice as high as in the Breeding and Evaluation other cuItivars. It appears that photosynthesis measured with a differential respirometer Canuck spring wheat. Canuck was licensed and 14C02 incorporation have potential as and the seed distributed during 1974. The screening techniques for drought resistance. cultivar was developed at the Station from a cross made in 1957 between Canthatch and a Cold tolerance in winter wheat. Soluble sawfly-resistant selection from Mida-Cadet- carbohydrate patterns of two hardy winter Rescue. It is an improvement over Cypress wheat cuItivars, Kharkov MC22 and Win- (the currently recommended sawfly-resistant alta, and two less hardy cultivars, Nugaines cuItivar) in yield, quality, and disease resist- and Jones Fife, were compared during the ance. Similar to Cypress, the new cuItivar has cold-hardening process. Concentrations of tall weak straw and a tendency to shatter. soluble carbohydrates increased at different Canuck is rated equal to Marquis in quality. rates as the seedlings hardened. The largest It is adapted to the drier prairie areas where soluble carbohydrate differentials developed sawflies are likely to infest wheat. in the sucrose and raffinose fractions with the accumulation greatest in the two less hardy Drought tolerance in spring wheat. Three cuItivars. methods of determining photosynthesis were evaluated as possible screening tests for Soil Nutrient Relationships drought resistance in spring wheat. Potential photosynthesis in detached leaves, measured Nutrient uptake by wheat. In lysimeter by the differential respirometer, was consid- tanks under low, medium, and high moisture erably higher in Pitic 62 than in Koga, tension, early application of Nand P was Neepawa, or Wascana after a 4-h recovery essential for maximum yield and nutrient from drought stress. Actual photosynthesis uptake by Manitou and Cypress wheat. measured by i"nfrared gas analysis varied There was a strong tendency to take up most slightly among cultivars after overnight of the N and a lesser tendency to take up P recovery from drought. In moderately early in the season as the moisture tension drought stressed plants, 14C02incorporation increased. Manitou wheat was higher than RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK .. 281 Cypress in both percent and total N uptake conversion was more efficient with lower at each sampling period. 15N analysis showed ADF to 4 wk, but became more efficient with that Manitou took up a greater proportion of higher ADF as the birds approached matur- fertilizer N. At tillering, the percent P was ity. Energy utilization was more efficient and consistently higher in Cypress than in Mani- protein utilization less efficient with narrower tou, but at maturity there was no difference than with wider E:P's. Increased deposition between the two cultivars. Total P uptake of tissue fat at high ADF levels may explain was greater in Cypress than in Manitou when the increased energy tolerance of poults fed fertilizer was applied, but tended to be less high-fat diets. when not fertilized. Carcass finish and tissue-fat deposition were influenced more strongly by the level of Translocation of P into the kernels of ADF than by varying the E:P. The pro- windrowed wheat. When Chinook spring nounced influence of ADF on the skin and wheat was cut with a self-propelled wind- tissue fat of immature turkeys indicates the rower starting at 45% kernel moisture, there potential value of increased ADF in diets for was movement of P from the straw into the early marketed small turkeys. The yield of kernel until the kernel approached 35% carcass components other than skin was not moisture. There were indications that this strongly influenced by either ADF or E:P. process does not require active metabolism. Percent eviscerated carcass and edible meat Soil Moisture Relationships yield increased with age. Percent yield of wing segments and drumsticks decreased Influence of stubble height on snow accu- with age. Skin yield and content of tissue fat mulation. During the winter of 1973-74, first decreased, then increased with age. snow was measured on a wheat field where the crop had been swathed to leave the Digestibility of rapeseed oil. The apparent stubble at a uniform height of 15 cm and on digestibility of rapeseed oil by growing a field where the wheat had been swathed at poults increased from 55% at I wk to 88% by alternate heights to leave stubble 23 cm and 5 wk of age. Erucic acid was partly responsi- 15 cm high. The alternate-height stubble ble for the low early digestibility of the oil. trapped 4 cm more water from snow than the Therefore, a lower metabolizable energy uniform height stubble. This exceptionally value should be used for rapeseed oil in the good accumulation of snow in the wheat formulation of diets for starting poults. swathed at alternate heights was possible Amino Acids because of an above-average snowfall of 185 cm. During some years, there would not be Limiting amino acids in protein sources. sufficient snow at anyone time to fill to Free amino acids in the blood plasma of capacity even the I5-cm stubble. However, poults fed diets based on four protein sources the study showed that, during years of were determined to establish the order of adequate snowfall, some soil moisture ad- limiting amino acids in each. Values of free vantage can accrue by managing the stubble amino acids in birds fed pea-protein concen- for maximum snow-holding capability. trate indicated that methionine was the first limiting amino acid. The second limiting amino acid seemed to be in a group consist- TURKEY NUTRITION ing of lysine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine. In soybean meal, the first, second, and third Dietary Fat limiting amino acids were methionine, lysine, and threonine. In an un supplemented herring Effect of dietary fat concentration. The fishmeal basal diet, free histidine and methi- effects of up to 12.5% added dietary fat onine levels were low. In poultry residue (ADF) and 10% increase or decrease in meal, lysine and histidine appeared to be the relative energy:protein ratio (E:P) on the first and second limiting amino acids. performance at 4-wk intervals to 24 wk and the carcass composition of male turkeys Evaluation of wheat cultivars. Wheat culti- showed that poults fed the low level of ADF vars ranging in crude protein content from required a narrower E:P to 4 wk and were 10.8 to 17.1 % were fed in computer-formu- more sensitive to E:P imbalance than those lated diets to chicks and poults. The growth fed higher levels of ADF. The E:P require- rate of chicks increased as the protein level ment was less critical after 4 wk. Energy of the wheat decreased in the order of 282 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 cultivars Chinook, Inia 66, G lenlea, and with specific combining ability also being Lemhi 53. The differences were related to the important. About half of the variation in dietary amino acid balance and are attri- yield of dry matter was attributed to specific buted to both the better amino acid balance combining ability with 26% attributed to in the lower protein wheats and the greater additive genetic effects. This suggests that proportion of soybean meal used in diets diallel crossing of selected plants before containing lower protein wheats. The growth formation of synthetic strains would be of rate of poults was not related to the protein value in improving yield of dry matter. level of the wheat. Poults fed Chinook and Segregation in populations derived by Pitic 62 grew faster than those fed either Inia crossing heterozygous progeny of a varie- 66 or Glenlea, but not Lemhi 53. Feed gated foliage plant and a normal green conversion of diets based on Chinook, Inia foliage plant produced a ratio of 12 normal 66, Glenlea, and Lemhi 53 did not differ in green : 3 variegated : 1 albino, which either chick or poult studies. However, the indicates inheritance according to the domi- diet based on Pitic 62 was more efficiently nant epistasis pattern for two factors. Prog- converted by poults than were the other diets. eny from a cross between normal green and yellow foliage plants were also grown in the field and classified into normal and yellow FORAGE foliage plants. The yellow foliage character carried by this population was found to be Breeding and Evaluation monogenic and recessive. Alfalfa. Levels of 19 amino acids were Altai wild ryegrass. When progenies from determined for 29 alfalfa cultivars. Ex- a six-genotype dialle! cross were studied in pressed as grams per 16 g of N, levels of the field, variation in individual seed weight some of the more important amino acids was evenly distributed among general com- varied as follows: lysine from 6.5 to 7.3, bining ability, specific combining ability, and arginine from 5.3 to 6.3, threonine from 4.2 reciprocal or maternal effects. Variation in to 4.7, isoleucine from 3.7 to 4.4, leucine number of days from seeding to seedling from 6.8 to 8.0, phenylalanine from 4.4 to emergence was influenced more strongly by 5.2, and aspartic acid from 10.6 to 14.0. reciprocal and specific combining ability Kane, Ladak, Rambler, and two experimen- effects than by general combining ability. tal synthetics had the best balance of these Reciprocal effects were important in the amino acids. control of leaf number during the first 2 wk Studies of total water use, water use per of growth, but by 6 wk the additive general day, water use per unit of herbage produc- combining ability effects had contributed tion, and water use per unit of total plant more than half of the variation in leaf productivity of 15 alfalfa genotypes from the number. Also, by 6 wk, tiller number was three Medicago species indicated that selec- largely controlled by general combining tion for efficiency of water use in both ability, which indicates that good progress limited and nonlimited soil moisture environ- could be expected in selecting for this factor. ments must be based on actual yield. If Variation in date of head emergence indi- selection is not done in the field, then the cated that 67% could be attributed to general artificial selection environment must be simi- combining ability and thus this factor should lar to the natural environment under which be responsive to selection. Variation in seed the alfalfa will be produced. It was found yield was found to be about equally divided that alfalfas that grow slowly and are between general combining ability and ma- drought-resistant may have superior effi- ternal effects. Variation in dry matter yield of ciency of water use but are less capable of adult plants was largely additive. high production. Establishment and Survival Russian wild ryegrass. Studies of progenies from a five-genotype diallel cross indicate Endosperm exhaustion in germinating that 64% of the variation in date of head grass seeds. When six species of grass were appearance can be attributed to additive germinated for 21 days in darkness, max- genetic effects, and thus fast progress could imum root and shoot length of a species did be made in selection for early heading. not occur on the same day. Endosperm Variance for seed yield was strongly additive exhaustion based on maximum length of the RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK. 283 root, shoot, and total plant occurred between the aboveground parts at about 6000 kg/ha. 15 and 18 days after the initiation of germi- Stem yield increased linearly throughout the nation. The amount of endosperm reserve entire growing period. Increase in leaf yield varied widely among species, but all used was linear until flowering began, but was their reserves in about the same amount of only slight thereafter. Thus, at the early time. Russian wild ryegrass, Altai wild rye- flowering stage the yield of stems and leaves grass, intermediate wheatgrass, and brome- was equal, but at the late bloom stage stems grass lost more than 60% of their initial seed made up 60% and leaves 40% of the total weight during germination, whereas crested yield. With advancing maturity the nutritive wheatgrass and tall wheatgrass lost less than value of the leaves deteriorated much less half of their initial weight. Loss of seed than that of the stems. N content declined weight was a useful indicator of endosperm 29% in leaves and 49% in stems from the exhaustion. early leaf to the late bloom stage. During the same period, P content declined 4% in leaves Forage Yield and 34% in stems and digestible energy Pasture potential of Russian wild ryegrass, declined 3% in leaves and 34% in stems. The Altai wild ryegrass, and green needlegrass for composite result was a rapid increase in yield grazing after seed production. Grazing after of nutrients up to the early bloom stage but. seed harvest resulted in increased seed yield only a slight increase thereafter. of all three grasses the following year. Metabolic profiling of nutritional status. Carrying capacities based on a 6-yr average When bred ewes were fed alfalfa, a mixture were 83, 156, and 78 animal unit (au) days/ of alfalfa and wheat straw, mature Altai wild ha and animal weight gains were 44, 58, and ryegrass, or mature crested wheatgrass, blood 44 kg/ha for Russian wild ryegrass, Altai urea nitrogen correlated well with protein wild ryegrass, and green needlegrass, respec- digestibility of the feed and therefore tively. Because Altai wild rye grass has a showed promise as an indicator of protein deeper root system than Russian wild rye- nutritional status of the adult ruminant. grass or green needlegrass, it used soil Blood glucose did not appear to provide a moisture from a perched water table and this satisfactory measurement of nutritional resulted in greater productivity. Green nee- status, because for all diets it decreased with dlegrass did not compete well with weeds advancing pregnancy. and had almost disappeared after 6 yr of grazing. Flora of the Canadian Prairie Provinces Winter pasture potential of Altai wild The second paper in the series "Biological ryegrass. When bred Shorthorn females were flora of the Canadian Prairie Provinces" was grazed on Altai wild ryegrass during Novem- published. The paper describes Astragalus ber, December, and January with access to vexilliflexus Sheld., which is an uncommon only shelter, water, and salt, the animals lost legume that has a limited distribution in weight at 0.67 kg/day. When the pasture was Saskatchewan and Alberta. supplemented with 0.91 kg of chopped oats/ animal per day, body weight was main- tained. When fed 2.27 kg of oats/animal per day, the cows did not graze during stormy ENVIRONMENT and severely cold weather. This resulted in under-utilization of the winter pasture. The Soil Nitrogen stiff basal leaves of Altai wild rye grass Methods of estimating available N. When projected above shallow snow and remained 12 chemical methods of estimating available erect in deep snow, which caused the snow to N were each compared with the aerobic bridge across the plants. The cattle removed incubation method, the amount of N re- the snow with their muzzles and grazed the leased in a dilute solution of CaCl2 gave the grass underneath. best index of available N. This method Forage Quality consistently gave the highest correlation with the aerobic incubation method and also with Alfalfa grown under irrigation. During an the total N uptake by wheat grown on 8-wk growing period under irrigation, stubble with various levels of N Roamer alfalfa accumulated dry matter in supplementation. 284 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 Effect of soil temperature, moisture, and Influence of Soil and Climatic Factors on NH4-N on soil N. When Wood Mountain Response to Fertilizer of Wheat Grown loam was wetted with water or a solution of on Stubble (NH4)2S04 and incubated in polyethylene Field tests were conducted to determine bags buried 2.5 cm deep in summerfallow or the effect of soil moisture and nutrient in an incubator that simulated the diurnal content at seeding, rainfall during the grow- temperature patterns recorded in the field, ing season, and rainfall deficits for half- the incubator satisfactorily simulated the monthly periods during the growing season effect of growing season temperatures on soil on the response to Nand P fertilizers of N transformations. Pronounced increases or wheat grown on stubble. In general, climatic decreases in temperature led to flushes of N factors during the growing season were mineralization. Comparison of the nitrifica- important in causing yearly variations in the unfertilized plots, but soil moisture and tion occurring in laboratory-incubated soils nutrient status at seeding had the greatest with that occurring in the field indicated that influence on the response to fertilizer. 70-90% of the N03-N produced in the surface soil resulted from wetting and drying. Determination of the Amount of Soil At 10, 15, and 20% moisture, the average Removed from an Erosive Soil Surface potentially ammonifiable soil N was 27, 41, Soil erosion by wind may be defined as and 82 ppm, respectively. The time required initiation, transportation, and total amount of to mineralize half of the potentially ammoni- soil removed from a specific area. Empiri- fiable soil N was about 7 wk. cally the amount of soil removed from a specific area varies as the velocity gradient V~. The general equation is: Relationship between N03 -N in summerfal- lowed surface soil and some environmental qi = K(V'1 (I) variables. When measurements were made * on summerfallowed Wood Mountain loam in where ql is the mass of soil removed from a the field and when temperatures and wetting soil tray of widthy in a time period (tp); K is and drying conditions measured during one a parameter and P the exponent to be growing season were simulated in the labora- determined. The experimental values of the tory using three soils, the most important exponent were found to range from 2.1 to factor influencing NOrN change was wet- 5.1 with a mean value of 3.2 in 21 randomly ting and drying. The effect depended on the selected tests. soil moisture content just before the change The physical interpretation of the above occurred and on the temperature during the equation can also be approached by means period of change. Nitrification accounted for of dimensional analysis to determine the 12% of the increase in N03-N in the top 2.5 exponent. The work done by the wind is cm of soil and 88% resulted from upward equal to the pressure of the wind, multiplied by the area on which it acts, times the movement and deposition of N03-N salts near the soil surface as a result of evapora- distance x in the direction of this force. The tion. Of the NOrN produced by nitrification equation is: I x2 in the Wood Mountain loam, about 17.4% -p -yzx. (2) was accounted for by temperature effects. 2 (2 Thus only about 2.1% of the NOrN increase in the top 2.5 cm of soil in the field was This is equal to the work by the soil caused by temperature. In the simulation K1 MgZ (3) study, 19°C appeared to be the critical temperature above which the rate of nitrifi- where Z is a function of x. Equating equa- cation was sufficient to compensate for N03- tions (2) and (3) results in: N losses resulting from leaching and denitri- 1 p x2 _ . fication. The effect of moisture change on __ . yx - KIM, (4) 2 g (2 N03-N change appeared to be directly proportional to the total C and N content of when equation (4) is divided by time (t) and the three soils. multipled by the time period (tp), and RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK. 285 ___ I using the parameter K2 in place of K1 the and deposited in the sample pan. The sheaf result is: can be removed from the pan in about half p x3 _ the time required for a machine with a -. ytp - K M. (5) 2 conventional reel. The compacted sheaf can g t3 be bagged or laid out on the plot stubble for x . t can be replaced by the velocity (v). A field drying and subsequent threshing. conversion from velocity to velocity gradi- Tillage and Seeding Equipment for Indian Agriculture ent*( V;) and if 1/ K2 is replaced by C, the equation is then: For the past 2 yr the Station has partici- pated in a training program for Indian design M = C (V~)3 ytp. (6) 12 engineers. Each training program culminates g in the design and construction of a machine that is thought to have potential for farm use Based on experimentally determined val- in India. These machines are subjected to ues and by means of dimensional analyses, preliminary testing in Canada and then sent the amount of soil moved from an erosive to India for final evaluation by their de- surface varies as the velocity gradient cubed. signers. The following machines have been The average rate of flow for the time period developed. also varies wit!) the same exponential power. Dryland ridger-seeder. This is a 3-point hitch tractor-mounted machine with three ridgers and associated seeding equipment. RESEARCH EQUIPMENT Ridges from 20 to 60 cm wide and furrows A Two-row Harvester for Lodged Cereal from 25 to 45 cm wide can be formed by the Grain machine. For kharif seeding two rows can be planted on each ridge, and for rabi seeding A machine was designed and constructed one row can be planted in the moist soil at to harvest moderately to severely lodged the bottom of each furrow and fertilizer barley in small plots on irrigated land. The placed 2.5 cm below the seed. machine is powered by a 7-hp air-cooled motor operating at 2500 rpm. A transaxle A bullock-drawn multipurpose til/age and provides forward speeds of 1.36, 2.19, and seeding machine for Maharashtra State. This 3.23 km/h and a reverse speed of I. 70 km/h. machine was designed for primary tillage Positive traction is provided by 5 x 12 and seedbed preparation, seeding and fertil- ground-grip tires. The machine is 2.30 m izing, interrow cultivation, or a combined long, 0.68 m wide, and 0.85 m high. The tillage-seeding operation. It is a three-row cutting bar is 35 cm wide and 15 cm high. seeder with a variety of openers for placing Japanese raising fingers angled at 45° replace seed and for placing fertilizer in bands the conventional reel. The total weight of the beside the seed. machine is 160 kg. A seeder for the plateau region of Bihar The machine will harvest two rows, from State. This is a two-row bullock-drawn 23 to 27 cm apart, in a single pass. Any machine for placing seed and fertilizer tangled and fallen grain between the two during both the kharif and rabi seasons. Hoe inner rows and the outer rows is separated by openers were designed to place seed and the dividing heads. The grain stalks are fertilizer in bands about 2 cm apart. For rabi grasped by the fingers as they rise from the seeding modified cultivator sweeps precede lower inside corners of the dividing heads, the seed openers, pushing the dry soil aside. lifted to an erect position, cut by the knife, The machine can also be used for cultivation. 286 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 PUBLICATIONS Research Salmon, R. E. 1974. Effect of dietary fat concentra- tion and energy to protein ratio on the per- Campbell, C. A., Stewart, D. W., Nicholaichuk, formance, yield of carcass components and W., and Biederbeck, V. O. 1974. Effect of composition of skin and meat of turkeys as growing season soil temperature, moisture and related to age. Brit. Poult. Sci. 15:543-560. NH4-N on soil nitrogen. Can. J. Soil Sci. 54:403-412. Warder, F. G., and Vijayalakshmi, K. 1974. Phosphorus fertilization of sunflower. Can. J. Dodds, M. E. 1974. Grain losses in the field when Plant Sci. 54:599-600. windrowing and combining barley. Can. Agric. Eng. 16:6-9. Miscellaneous Hinman, W. C. 1974. Effects of fertilizer and Anderson, C. H. 1974. Seeding depth of spring available moisture on the yield and N or P wheat in southwestern Saskatchewan. Ca- content of wheat and on soil nutrients. Can. J. nadex 112.22. Soil Sci. 54: 187-193. Campbell, C. A., and Biederbeck, V. O. 1974. Kileher, M. R., and Heinrichs, D. H. 1974. Inter- Effect of methods of application and soil pretive difficulties with erratic data from sampling on recovery of fertilizer N. Pages perennial forage crops grown in a semiarid 115-122 in Proe. 1974 Soil Fertility Work- region. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:457-462. shop, Saskatoon, Sask. Heinrichs, D. H. 1974. Alfalfa variety tests in Kileher, M. R., and Heinrichs, D. H. 1974. Contri- Western Canada. Canadex 121.34. bution of stems and leaves to the yield and nutrient level of irrigated alfalfa ill different Heinrichs, D. H. 1974. Breeding alfalfa for varying stages of development. Can. J. Plant Sci. protein content including low-bloat types. 55:739-742. Pages 34-41 in 11th Annu. Alfalfa Symp., Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisc. Lawrence, T. 1974. Inheritance of a variegated foliage character in Russian wild rye grass, Lawrence, T. 1974. Russian wild ryegrass, western Elymus junceus Fisch. Can. J. Genet. & Cytol. tests, 1973, and intermediate wheatgrass, 16:467-468. western tests, 1973. Canadex 127.34. Lawrence, T. 1974. Inheritance of a yellow foliage Looman, J. 1974. Fall rye in tame pasture. Cattle- character in Russian wild ryegrass. Can. J. men 37(9):1 17. Plant Sci. 54:659-660. Salmon, R. E. 1974. Feed grain quality criteria - is Lawrence, T., and Heinrichs, D. H. 1974. Altai the grain industry listening? Feed & Farm wild ryegrass for winter pasture. Can. J. Plant Supply Dealer 55(2):33. Sci. 54:581-584. Salmon, R. E. 1974. Protein, energy and fat in diets for growing turkeys. Pages 19-27 in Looman, 1. 1974. Biological flora of the Canadian Proc. 9th Annu. Pac. Northwest Anim. Nutr. Prairie Provinces. II. Astragalus vexilliflexus Conf., Victoria, B.C. Sheld. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:291-300. Salmon, R. E. 1974. Nutritive requirements of McElgunn, J. D. 1974. Germination response of turkey breeders. Pages 125-129 in Proc. 9th forage grasses to constant and alternating Annu. Pac. Northwest Anim. Nutr. Conf., temperatures. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:265-270. Victoria, B.C. Read, D. W. L., and Warder, F. G. 1974. Influence Salmon, R. E., and O'Neil, J. B. 1974. An assess- of soil and climatic factors on fertilizer re- ment of commercial turkey broiler rations. sponse of wheat grown on stubble land in Can. Poultryman 61 (3):26-28, 55. southwestern Saskatchewan. Agron. J. 66:245- 248. Townley-Smith, T. F., Hurd, E. A., and McBean, D. S. 1973. Techniques of selection for yield Robertson, G. W. 1974. Wheat yields for 50 years in wheat. Pages 605-609 in Proc. 4th Int. at Swift Current, Saskatchewan, in relation to Wheat Genet. Symp., Mo. Agric. Exp. Stn., weather. Can. 1. Plant Sci. 54:625-650. Columbia, Mo. RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK. 287 Research Station Beaverlodge, Alberta PROFESSIONAL STAFF L. P. s. SPANGELO, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Director W. A. AYRE Administrative Officer Environment and Special Crops Section R. E. HARRIS, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Head of Section; Environment and special crop breeding A. L. DARWENT, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Weed research J. G. N. DAVIDSON, B.S.F., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant pathology J. S. McKENZIE, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant survival Cereal and Oilseed Crops Section D. G. FARIS, B.SA, M.SA, Ph.D. Head of Section; Cereal breeding R. M. DEPAUW, B.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. Wheat and rapeseed Forage Crops Section C. R. ELLIOTT, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Acting Head of Section; Grass seed management S. G. BONIN, B.SA, Ph.D. Grass breeding D. L. NELSON, B.S.A., M.Sc. Apiculture (Head of Unit) P. PANKIW, B.S.A., M:Sc., Ph.D. Legume seed management W. L. PRINGLE, B.S.A., M.S.F. Production and utilization T. I. SZABO, BAE., M.Sc., Ph.D. Apiculture Soils Section W. A. RICE, B.S.A., M,Sc., Ph.D. Acting Head of Section; Microbiology A. M. F. HENNIG, B.Sc. Crop management P. B. HoYT, I B.SA, M.S., Ph.D. Organic matter relationships R. H. LEITCH, B.Sc., M.Sc. Soil fertility RESEARCHSTATION,BEAVERLODGE, ALTA. 289 Experimental Farm, Prince George, H.C. W. K. DAWLEY, B.S.A. Superintendent; Forage utilization J. N. TINGLE, B.S.A., M.Sc. Forage management Experimental Farm, Fort Vermilion, Alta. B. SIEMENS, B.S.A., M.Sc. Superintendent; Forage crops management Departure M. D. HAMILTON Administrative Officer Transferred to Research Station, Winnipeg, Man., June 1974. IOn special assignment to Tanzania, September 1973 to Seplember 1975. 290 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 INTRODUCTION The Northern Research Group, which comprises the Research Station at Beaverlodge and the associated experimental farms at Fort Vermilion, Alta., and Prince George, B.C., continued research on agricultural problems of northwestern Canada. This report presents highlights of research in 1974. Research centering on the relationship between crops and environment continued to be a major concern of the group. Our apiculture research program was strengthened by the appointment of another scientist. Forage research was highlighted by the introduction of Dawn, a new diploid alsike clover. Our tomato breeding program produced the new cultivars Sub-Arctic Cherry and Sub-Arctic Maxi. Research on production and management of forage crops continued as the main activity at Prince George and Fort Vermilion, and forage utilization was also studied at Prince George. The Northern Research Group is pleased that the Station's ecologist helped the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs by studying and reporting on agricultural potential in the Yukon Territory, and on the land capability of the Mills Lake area of the Northwest Territories. This report and reprints of the publications are available on request. Correspondence to individual research scientists should be addressed to: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 29, Beaverlodge, Alta. TOH OCO; Experimental Farm, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Fort Vermilion, Alta. TOH INO; or Experimental Farm, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Prince George, B.C. V2N 2H8. L. P. S. Spangelo Director APICULTURE Workers were attracted to polystyrene lures that had been rubbed against a queen's Behavior head or abdomen. An ether extract of laying queens was more attractive than one of Acceptance and attractiveness of queens. virgin queens, and the number of workers An introduced queen was accepted by 7-day- attracted to queen extracts at increasing old workers but was usually rejected by concentrations followed a curvilinear regres- workers 14 or 21 days old. Aggression by sion. workers increased linearly with their age (8- When two queens met they showed ag- 12 days) and depended on whether the gression, nonaggression, or avoidance. Ag- introduced queen had been stored in a gression was greater between queens of queen-right, queen less, fed, or unfed colony. similar age and condition. Hostility was not A queen up to 7 days old or more than 35 affected by removal of mandibular glands days old was most readily accepted; queens and was not related to the queens' weights, 14, 21, or 28 days old were usually rejected. although starvation reduced aggressiveness. Aggression of workers depended on the The initial attacker was usually the victor. queen's age and attractiveness, the latter being the most important factor. Each queen had a particular degree of CEREAL CROPS attractiveness. Workers accepted their own Physiology queen or a strange queen of similar attract- iveness, but rejected one whose attractiveness Yield development in isogenic barley lines. differed. Some colonies were more attracted Four backcross-derived, isogenic lines of to queens than were others. The queens' Atlas barley that differed in awn length (full-, weight at emergence was linearly related to half-, quarter-awned, and awnless) were their weight when laying (at 2 mo old), and grown for 3 yr at Beaverlodge. The half- heavier queens were more attractive to the awned line gave the highest average yield, workers. 5% mOJe than that of the awnless line. Seed RESEARCH STATION, BEAVER LODGE, ALTA. 291 ~~ i weight was linearly related to awn length, most serious disease of fescue, and was and greater awn length was associated with a estimated to have caused a regional average . reduction in the number of spikes and florets loss of 24% in seed production. Losses of per plant. The magnitude of the latter two newly seeded fescue were severe in the area components may depend partly on competi- of Beaverlodge and were as high as 40% in tion for nutrients, during early development some fields. Damage to fescue seed from of the spike, between the awns at the base of stem eyespot was low for the 2nd yr. Losses the spike and the developing florets at the of winter rye caused by snow mold were the tip. Long days may put the full-awned line at most severe in the region since 1930 and in a further disadvantage in terms of yield at some fields the crop was a total loss. Snow Beaverlodge. mold also seriously damaged bromegrass, timothy, and orchardgrass. . In alfalfa and clover, the disease complex ENVIRONMENT of crown rot, root rot, and winter kill caused Plant Survival most losses, although common leaf spot and yellow leaf blotch on alfalfa and powdery Water permeability and cold hardiness. The mildew on the clovers were extremely prev- relationship between resistance to freezing alent. Foliage diseases of forage crops were and water permeability of cortex cells was generally light. studied in stems of red-osier dogwood (Cor- Common root rot was the most prevalent nus stolonifera Michx.). Permeability was and serious disease on all cereals, barley estimated by determining the diffusion flux scald being the only other cereal disease of of tritiated water from slices previously significance. Brown girdling root rot, whose equilibrated in tritiated water. Energies of cause is not yet determined, was the most activation and diffusion times were examined serious disease of rape for the 2nd yr, to compare the flux of tritiated water from followed by staghead. Early infections of living cortex slices with the flux from slices black leaf spot (Alternaria sp.) on lower killed by immersion in liquid N . The com- 2 leaves of rape did not spread to a significant parisons verified that intact membranes of extent to stems and pods. Root rot of flax uninjured cortex cells limit water flux. was common but light. Mycotoxins of several Water permeability of living phloem and types continued to be a sporadic but serious cortical parenchyma cells increased during problem. These mostly originate from feed the initial (photoperiodically induced) phase grains that were not harvested until spring. of cold acclimation. This accompanied an increase in hardiness at temperatures from Weed Control -3 to -12°C. Little, if any, further increase in permeability was noted during subsequent Control of narrow-leaved hawk's-beard in acclimation to below -65°C. creeping red fescue. Fall applications (early Measurements of permeability performed to mid-October) of 2,4-DB at 1.4 kg/ha or on nonhardy cortex samples yielded consist- more and 2,4-D ester at 1.12 kg/ha consist- ent results, but measurements on samples ently provided good control of hawk's-beard from hardy twigs were often difficult to in established creeping red fescue over a 3-yr reproduce. This unexplained variability pre- study period. A combination of dicamba, cludes specific conclusions, but the technique 2,4-D, and mecoprop at 0.13, 0.35, and 0.08 based on the diffusion flux of tritiated water kg/ha, respectively, applied at the same time may provide an alternative to traditional provided good control in 2 out of the 3 yr. plasmolytic techniques in studies of water With each of these treatments the hawk's- permeability in woody plant tissues. beard plants were not immediately killed, but This research was conducted in coopera- rather became severely distorted and died tion with Dr. C. J. Weiser at the Laboratory during the following spring. Injury to fescue of Plant Hardiness, University of Minnesota. was not apparent from any of the treatments. Spring applications (early to mid-May) of Crop Diseases 2,4-DB at 1.4 kg/ha, 2,4-D ester at 1.12 kg/ Disease assessment. Previously unrecog- ha, and dicamba at 0.13 kg/ha plus 2,4-D at nized damage from snow mold, attributed to 0.35 kg/ha plus mecoprop at 0.08 kg/ha also Sclerotinia borealis Bubak & Vleugel, to seed controlled hawk's-beard. However, the appli- stem initials of creeping red fescue .}Vasthe cation of 2,4-D reduced seed yields of fescue 292 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974 in 1973 and the treatment with dicamba plus Seeding rates for red fescue seed fields. 2,4-D plus mecoprop reduced fescue height Seeding rates were evaluated as a means of severely in 1974. maximizing seed yields of red fescue in the 1st yr, when infestations of the stem eyespot Effect of herbicides on seed yield and disease, and associated seed losses, are at quality of red clover. Field studies on effects their minimum. Seed yields increased from of herbicides were conducted in established 430 to 725 kg/ha as seeding rates were stands of red clover in 1972, 1973, and 1974. increased from I to 10 kg/ha. Yields de- MCPA at 0.28 and 0.56 kg/ha, MCPB at clined sharply when seeding rates higher 1.12 and 1.68 kg/ha, and bromoxynil at 0.28 than 10 kg/ha were used. Plots seeded at 40 and 0.42 kg were applied in spring, either as kg/ha yielded less than 100 kg/ha. the red clover was beginning to break dor- mancy or when it was 7.5 to 10.0 cm high. Herbage Production The applications did not affect seed yield or germination. The treatments with MCPB and Effect of nitrogen on meadow foxtail. bromoxynil had no effect on seed weight, and Spring application of N at several rates MCPA reduced seed weight only in 1973 increased the yield of dry matter and con- when applied at 0.56 kg/ha to red clover in tents of crude protein, Cu, K, and Zn of the 7.5- to 1O.0-cmstage. meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis L.). The amounts of P, Ca, Mg, and Mn present The other herbicide treatments evaluated in the plants declined as the rate of N in the study (2,4-D at 0.28 and 0.56 kg/ha. application increased. Application of P, in and 2,4-DB at 1.12 and 1.68 kg/ha) do not combination with N, increased the plant K appear to have a potential for weed control content and prevented the decline of P in seed-producing fields of red clover. They content resulting from N application. The consistently delayed crop maturity, reduced levels of digestible dry matter and Cu seed yields in 1973, and reduced seed declined in successive cuts whereas Mn weights in 1972. content increased. At low rates of applied N, the Ca and Mg contents of the plants also increased as the season advanced. FORAGE CROPS Mineral composition of cereal silage. Varia- Breeding tion of species, cultivars, and locations did Alsike clover. Dawn, a new cultivar se- not affect the P content and Ca:P ratio of lected for herbage yield and winter survival, spring cereals harvested at the soft-dough was licensed in April 1974. It is a nine-clone stage. Calcium and K contents were influ- synthetic of the diploid type produced by the enced by differences of location and cultivar. polycross method. In tests across Canada, The contents of Mg, Mn, and Cu varied Dawn produced up to 14% more herbage according to the cultivar. Mo content was not and had a 10% higher winter survival rate influenced by the cultivar or location. Pitic 62 than Aurora. Dawn will replace Aurora as spring wheat was lower in Ca, K, Mg, Zn, the recommended diploid alsike clover. Mn, and Cu contents than several oat and Breeder seed of Dawn, from the Syn-2 barley cultivars. The barley cultivars and generation, is being released for the produc- Rosner triticale contained more Zn than the tion of Foundation and Certified generations oat cultivars. The oat cultivars contained under contract to the Canadian Forage Seeds more Mn than most of the barley cultivars. Project. Influence of barley morphology on forage yield and quality. Forty cultivars of barley Seed Production from the World Collection were grown to test Companion cropsfor alsike and red clover. the effect of height, row, and awn types on First-year seed yields from clovers seeded forage yield and quality. At the soft-dough without a companion crop were 675 and 750 stage, two-rowed cultivars produced more kg/ha for red and alsike clovers. Seed yields dry matter and more leaves, contained less were consistently lower when clovers were head and sheath material, and were less established with barley, oats, flax, or rape. digestible than six-rowed cultivars. Hooded Rape was the most competitive crop, causing cultivars produced more stem and leaf mate- yield reductions of 50 and 40% for red and rial and less head, sheath, and digestible dry alsike clovers. matter than smooth-awned cultivars, but the RESEARCH STATION, BEAVER LODGE, ALTA. 293 types were equal in dry matter yield. Tall 60-65 em. Fruits are produced in trusses of cultivars produced more dry matter and stem 8-16, have mild flavor, and are smooth, and leaf material but were lower in crude uniform green (u), 4-8 em in diameter, 3-7 protein, dry matter digestibility, and head em long, and bright red when ripe. contents than short cultivars. SOILS HORTICULTURE Soil Fertility Breeding Effect of organic materials on acid soils. Addition of alfalfa meal, sucrose, and peat New tomato cultivars. The tomato breeding moss to very acid soil at 3% of soil weight project was completed with the introduction resulted in alfalfa yields of 15.9,0.1, and 3.3 of two new cultivars. Both have excellent glpot, respectively. Alfalfa grown on soil fruit-set ability at cold and high tempera- with no amendment yielded 0.7 g/pot. Incu- tures, good cotyledonary branching, large bation of the soil with the amendments for 3 trusses, and early, even ripening. No blos- mo before alfalfa was planted resulted in som-end rot or cat-face and few large yields of 2.2, 10.5, 6.1, and 2.2 glpot from blossom-end scars have been observed. soils with no amendment and with alfalfa Sub-Arctic Cherry was selected from the meal, sucrose, and peat moss. backcross (Mini Rose X Early Sub-Arctic) X The benefit from the alfalfa meal occurred Early Sub-Arctic and tested under the num- because or- its action incomplexing ex- ber NRG 7249. It ripens up to 30 days changeable AI. Its water-soluble component earlier than Tiny Tim and Mini Rose and 5 was mainly involved in formation of the Al - days later than Early Sub-Arctic. Plants are organic matter complexes; -the release of compact and determinate, with a spread of NH4 as the meal decomposed was not con- 55-60 em. Fruits are produced in trusses of sidered a major cause of the decrease in 20 or more, have good flavor, and are exchangeable AI, because exchangeable NH4 smooth, uniform green (u), round, 2-3.5 em increased largely after the decrease of the in diameter, and bright red when ripe. latter. Sub-Arctic Maxi was selected from the Although the addition of these large quan- backcross NRG 6809 X (Sub-Arctic Plenty tities of organic materials to very acid soil X NRG 6809) and tested under the number produces many of the beneficial effects that NRG 7262. It ripens up to 10 days earlier would result from liming, the effects are than Booster, Pembina, Melfon, and Early temporary, lasting only a few months under Tanana. It has better resistance to cracking, greenhouse conditions. Thus, the addition of better yield than all but Swift, and equal or large quantities of organic materials cannot better size than all but Melfort. Plants are be considered a satisfactory substitute for compact and determinate with a spread of liming of very acid soils. PUBLICA TIONS Research Fejer, S. 0., and Spangelo, L. P. S. 1974. Three generations of inbreeding and S2 factorial test Clarke, J. M., and Elliott, C. R. 1974. Time of crosses in red raspberry cultivars. Can. J. floral initiation in Brornus spp. Can. J. Plant Genet. Cytol. 16:419.432. Sci. 54:475-477. Fejer, S. 0., and Spangelo, L. P. S. 1974. Growth Faris, D. G. 1974. Yield component development of Ottawa hybrid seedling rootstocks top- in four isogenic barley lines differing in awn worked with McIntosh and Quinte apples and length. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:315-322. its relation to early yield. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:101-104. Faris, D. G., and Lock, H. 1974. Containers for' growing cereal plants harvested sequentially in growth chambers and greenhouses. Can. 1. Harris, R. E. 1974. Apple-crab Trailman. Can. J. Plant Sci. 54:829-830. Plant Sci. 54: 105. 294 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1974