Study of the genetic resources of spring bread wheat of the International Center CIMMYT for breeding in the conditions of the North Kazakhstan region

Abstract

Background and Aim. The development of wheat breeding in Kazakhstan requires genetically diverse and locally adapted germplasm capable of ensuring high yield and stress tolerance. The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) annually provides new lines through the IWIN network, contributing to broadening the genetic base and improving crop adaptation. The aim of this study was to evaluate breeding material from three CIMMYT international nurseries, compare them in terms of productivity and agronomic traits, estimate the proportion of promising lines, and identify the best genotypes for further breeding.

Materials and Methods. The study was conducted in 2024 2025 at the North Kazakhstan Agricultural Experimental Station. Wheat lines from three CIMMYT nurseries were studied: 13th SATYN-DRGT (drought-tolerant lines), 3rd HZWYT-EM (high-zinc, early-maturing lines), and 1st SAWYT EM (earlymaturing lines for semi-arid conditions). Trials were carried out under standard regional practices. Morphological traits, yield components and grain quality (protein, gluten, sedimentation) were assessed.

Results. All CIMMYT lines showed good adaptation to local conditions. The yield of most genotypes was comparable to or exceeded the standard cultivar Astana (385.9 g/m2), with the highest productivity in 1SAWYT-EM (402.2 g/m2). Interms of grain quality, CIMMYT lines surpassed the local cultivar Aina: protein content reached 15.1-17.5%, gluten 33.3-38.0% and sedimentation up to 73.8 mL. Resistance to leaf and stem rust was also confirmed.

Conclusion. CIMMYT germplasm combines adaptability, high productivity and superior grain quality, confirming its value for breeding programs aimed at developing new wheat varieties with improved stress tolerance and disease resistance.