In vitro selection for Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) resistance in wheat (Triticum aestivum)

The Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) is a pest on wheat (Triticum aestivum) in many regions of the world. The aphid injects a phytotoxin when it feeds. Identification of somaclonal variants with phytotoxin resistance may shorten development time for resistance. Wheat calli from the susceptible cultivar Stephens were exposed to an extract from the aphid. Five plants were regenerated from 100 treated calli. Resistance to the aphid was observed in both the R₂ and R₃ generations. One of the six R₃ populations had improved resistance for leaf curling and leaf folding, while another had improved response for chlorosis damage. These results indicate that the use of aphid extract on wheat callus offers an alternate method for development of resistance to the Russian wheat aphid.