Recurrent Selection for Rubber Yield in Russian Dandelion

Abstract

Russian dandelion [Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS)] is a promising alternative to the Para rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) as a source of natural rubber; however, rubber yields must be improved for this undomesticated species to become a profitable new crop. Half-sib family recurrent selection was conducted for four cycles to increase rubber yield, estimated as the product of rubber percentage, and root dry weight per plant. Two distinct populations were developed for adaptation to sand and loam soil types. Rubber percentage increased from 4.17% for the cycle 0 (C0) population to 6.40% for the C4-loam population. Rubber yield also increased from 0.15 to 0.22 g/plant after four selection cycles. Although phenotypic variation was observed, selection had no effect on root weight; all populations averaged 3.70 g/plant. Rubber yield and percentage and root dry weight were not increased after four selection cycles on sandy soils, likely because of poor adaptation and high environmental variation. Year and soil type affected rubber yields; however, rubber percentage was more stable than root dry weight. Overall, russian dandelion can be improved for rubber yield, and further studies with increased error control should be considered to enhance root dry weight.