Phenotypic Characterization Of Recombinant Inbred Durum Wheat Lines Segregating For Resistance To Hessian Fly (mayetiola Destructor (say),) In Morocco

Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), is one of the most destructive insect pests of wheat in North Africa. In Morocco, durum wheat yield losses caused by this pest in arid and semi-arid areas were estimated at 32%. Breeding for resistance has been the most practical and economical method for HF. control. The objective of this study was to agro-morphologically characterize, 180 recombinant inbred durum wheat lines derived from a cross between durum wheat lines with resistance to Hessian fly (CI115,Cando-H25) and susceptible lines adapted to dry areas (BZAIZ-AHF,CM829).The experiment were conducted during 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 in two experiments stations Sidi-El-Aidi (chaouia region) and Marchouch (Zaer region) in Morocco. Yield and yield components as well as agro-morphological and phenological traits were measured. The results indicate that all studied traits follow a quantitative, continuous and normal distribution. Data also showed a wide variation in traits related to yield and its components. Several statistically significant correlations between all the plant characteristics have been observed. Cluster analysis grouped agro-phenological traits, yield and its component into three clusters. These data indicate the usefulness of this population in genetic studies and in breeding programs aiming at improving economically important traits. Given the importance of Hessian fly in the dry areas, this population would be adequate for molecular studies (QTL) for adaptation in the temperate and H.F. infested dry lands