Genomic Selection (GS) is a relatively new technology, which has already revolutionized animal breeding and which is expected to have a high impact on plant breeding. In contrast to traditional marker assisted breeding, which only focuses on specific genes, GS estimates the genetic value of individuals/families by using genomic information over the whole genome. The benefits of GS include reductions in expensive and time-consuming phenotyping operations, higher genetic gains, and simultaneous selection of multiple traits. To date, GS has primarily been tested in species, which are grown as homogeneous varieties.  For crops grown in heterogeneous families, investigations have been limited to a few theoretical considerations.

The aim of the present thesis was to establish the basis for GS implementation in such species. Fulfilling this aim, Dario performed analyses on real data from a breeding program of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), which is the most cultivated forage grass in temperate regions. During his studies, Dario Fè used different statistical models for predicting the phenotypes of perennial ryegrass families, across different environments. Results showed good prospects for GS implementation in forage breeding, due to the high amount of genetic variability and the high accuracy of predictions in many traits.

The PhD degree was completed at the Centre for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Science and Technology, Aarhus University, and at the DLF-Trifolium Research Division.

This résumé is prepared by the PhD student.

Time: Wednesday 17 June 2015 at 12.00
Place: Auditorium, Aarhus University Foulum, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele
Title of dissertation: Establishing the basis for genomic prediction in perennial ryegrass
Contact information: Dario Fè, e-mail: dario.fe@mbg.au.dk, tel.: +45 8715 4985, mobile +45 9160 7127
Members of the assessment committee:
Senior researcher Mario Calus, Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen UR, Netherlands
Senior researcher Tom Ruttink, Department of Plant Genetics and Physiology, ILVO, Belgium
Lecturer Søren Borg (chair), Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Main supervisors:
Professor Just Jensen, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Co-supervisors:
Senior scientist Luc Janss, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Senior scientist Christian Sig Jensen, DLF-Trifolium
Breeder Morten Greve Pedersen, DLF-Trifolium
Language: The PhD dissertation will be defended in English.

The defence is public.
The dissertation is available for reading at the Graduate School of Science and Technology/GSST, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, room 112, 8000 Aarhus C.