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001 0-32 .3

RESEARCH
BRANCH REPORT

#1980#

RAPPORT DE

LA DIRECTION

GÉNÉRALE DE

LA RECHERCHE

AGRICULTURE CANADA

9 NOV 1981

LIBRARY - BIBLIOTHEQUE

630.7

C212

CANADA

Research

r i98o IdÉk Agriculture

I T Canada

c.3

Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2013

http://archive.org/details/researchbranchre1980cana

Research
Branch Report

1980

Rapport de la

Direction générale

de la recherche

RESEARCH BRANCH
DIRECTION GÉNÉRALE DE LA RECHERCHE

AGRICULTURE CANADA

Copies of this publication are available from

Research Program Service
Research Branch
Agriculture Canada
Ottawa, Ont.
Kl A 0C6

On peut obtenir des exemplaires de cette
publication au

Service des programmes de recherche
Direction générale de la recherche
Agriculture Canada
Ottawa (Ont.)
K1A 0C6

CONTENTS

Executive of the Research Branch, v L'exécutif de la Direction générale de la recherche, v
Finance and Administration Division, vi Division des affaires financières et administratives, vi
Map of research establishments, vii Carte des établissements de recherche, vii
Organization of the Research Branch, viii Organisation de la Direction générale de la recherche, ix
Foreword, x Avant-propos, xi

INSTITUTES AND PROGRAM COORDINATION DIRECTORATE
DIRECTION DES INSTITUTS ET DE LA COORDINA TION DU PROGRAMME

Executive, 3 L'exécutif, 3
Preface, 4 Préface, 5

Biosystematics Research Institute, 7

Chemistry and Biology Research Institute, 25

Engineering and Statistical Research Institute, 41

Food Research Institute, 49

Land Resource Research Institute, 61

Research Program Service, 77
ATLANTIC REGION RÉGION DE L'ATLANTIQUE
Executive, 85 L'exécutif, 85
Preface, 86 Préface, 87

St. John's West, Nfld., 89

Charlottetown, P.E.I., 95

Kentville, N.S., 105

Fredericton, N.B., 121
QUEBEC REGION RÉGION DU QUÉBEC
Executive, 135 L'exécutif 135
Preface, 137 Préface, 136

Lennoxville, Québec, 139

Sainte- Foy, Québec, 149

Saint-Jean, Québec, 163
ONTARIO REGION RÉGION DE L'ONTARIO
Executive, 173 L'exécutif 173
Preface, 174 Préface, 175

Animal Research Centre 177

London Research Centre 203

Delhi, Ont., 215

Harrow, Ont., 223

Ottawa, Ont., 239

Vineland Station, Ont., 257
WESTERN REGION RÉGION DE L'OUEST
Executive, 269 L'exécutif 269
Preface, 270 Préface, 21 \

Brandon, Man., 273

Morden, Man., 281

Winnipeg, Man., 289

Melfort, Sask., 303

Regina, Sask., 309

Saskatoon, Sask., 317

Swift Current, Sask., 33 1

Beaverlodge, Alta., 343

Lacombe, Alta., 351

Lethbridge, Alta., 361

Agassiz, B.C., 385

Kamloops, B.C., 391

Saanichton Research and Plant Quarantine Station, B.C., 397

Summerland, B.C., 403

Vancouver, B.C., 413

Program Structure, 423 Structure du programme, 429

Dr. E. J. LeRoux

Dr. E. E. Lister

Mr. J.-J. Jasmin Dr. J. J. Cartier

Dr. A. A. Guitard Dr. T. H. Anstey

EXECUTIVE OF THE RESEARCH BRANCH
L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA DIRECTION GÉNÉRALE DE LA RECHERCHE

Assistant Deputy Minister, Research
Sous-ministre adjoint, recherche
E. J. LeRoux, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director General, Institutes and Program Coordination Directorate

Directeur général. Direction des instituts et de la coordination du programme

J. W. Morrison, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director General, Atlantic Region
Directeur général, région de l'Atlantique

E. E. Lister, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director General, Quebec Region
Directeur général, région du Québec

J.-J. Jasmin, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Director General, Ontario Region
Directeur général, région de l'Ontario

J. J. Cartier, B.A., B.Sc, Ph.D.

Director General, Western Region

Directeur général, région de l'Ouest
A. A. Guitard, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Senior Adviser, International Research and Development

Conseiller principal, programmes internationaux de recherche et de

développement

T. H. Anstey, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Director, Finance and Administration Division

Directeur, Division des affaires financières et administratives

J. E. Ryan, R.I.A.

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
DIVISION DES AFFAIRES FINANCIÈRES ET ADMINISTRATIVES

Director/ Directeur J. E. Ryan, R.I.A.

Chief, Finance Section

Chef, Section des finances J. E. Renaud, CD.

Chief, Administration Section

Chef, Section de l'administration H. D. Brannen

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FOREWORD

The Research Branch of Agriculture Canada
conducts about one-half of the agricultural research
and development in Canada. It also cooperates with
universities and industry by supporting research
that augments the Branch's goals and objectives.
The budget for 1980 was $140 million, of which $5
million was spent on contracted research. In 1980
the Branch staffed 3659 person-years, of which 918
were professional positions.

Branch Headquarters are located at the Central
Experimental Farm, Ottawa. A reorganization of
the Research Branch became effective on 25 Au-
gust 1980. A new directorate and three new regions
were established on that date, by reorganizing the
administration of the former Central and Eastern
regions and by renaming two institutes. The man-
date of the Western Region remains unchanged
from that given it in 1978.

Dr. J. W. Morrison was named Director General
of the new Institutes and Program Coordination
Directorate. He now assumes responsibility for the
institutes in Ottawa and for Research Program
Service, all formerly administered by the Central
Region, while retaining his control over the
Branch's research coordinators.

The Animal Research and London Research
institutes have been renamed centres and are now
under the direction of Dr. J. J. Cartier, Director
General for the new Ontario Region. As well as the
two research centres, Dr. Cartier also assumes
responsibility for all the stations and experimental
farms formerly located in the Central Region.

Two new regions, the Atlantic Region and the
Quebec Region, were created from the former
Eastern Region. Dr. E. E. Lister heads the Atlantic
Region, with headquarters in Halifax. Dr. J. -J.
Jasmin is the Director General for the Quebec
Region, with Headquarters in Quebec City.

This Report is divided into five sections, with
each director general describing his organizational
structure and highlighting achievements for the
year. The research establishments then give details

of their work in separate chapters, for which
reprints are available.

The Branch conducts basic and applied research
on soils, plants, animals, pests including diseases
and weeds, engineering and energy, and food. There
is close cooperation with other branches in the
Department, with other federal agencies, and with
universities, provincial departments of agriculture,
the agricultural industry, and farm organizations.

In Canada there is a unique system for coordi-
nating agricultural research and services, called the
Canadian Agricultural Services Coordinating Com-
mittee (CASCC). This organization reviews gov-
ernmental and institutional services affecting the
general welfare of Canadian agriculture. Its mem-
bers include provincial deputy ministers of agricul-
ture, deans of agricultural colleges and colleges of
veterinary medicine, and representatives from the
private sector. The Chairman is the Deputy Minis-
ter of Agriculture Canada. The research arm of
CASCC is the Canadian Agricultural Research
Council, which advises the parent committee on the
state and needs of agricultural research and devel-
opment. Despite resource constraints, the Research
Branch has maintained a high quality of output and
has contributed significantly to the departmental
aims and the government's policies in support of the
Canadian agricultural industry.

The Branch also strongly supports and cooper-
ates in research at the international level. This
support is partly provided through the Canadian
International Development Agency and the Inter-
national Development Research Centre. The
Branch also has direct relations with the Organi-
zation for Economic Cooperation and Development
(OECD) and the Food and Agriculture Organi-
zation (FAO). Through annual tripartite meetings
with leaders of agricultural research in the USA
and the UK, effective exchanges are occurring and
cooperation is being maintained. In 1980 the
meeting was attended by a delegation from France.

E. J. LeRoux

AVANT-PROPOS

La Direction générale de la recherche d'Agricul-
ture Canada réalise environ la moitié des travaux de
recherche et de développement agricoles effectués
au Canada. Elle coopère également avec les univer-
sités et l'industrie en appuyant financièrement les
recherches qui viennent compléter ses buts et ses
objectifs. En 1980, son budget s'élevait à $140
millions dont $5 millions pour la recherche contrac-
tuelle et son effectif était de 3659 années-personnes
dont 918 employés professionnels.

La Direction générale loge son administration
centrale à la Ferme expérimentale centrale d'Otta-
wa. Depuis le 25 août 1980, elle compte une
nouvelle Direction et trois nouvelles régions, issues
d'une restructuration de l'administration de la
région du Centre et de la région de l'Est. En outre,
deux instituts ont changé de nom. Le mandat de la
région de l'Ouest n'a pas changé par rapport à celui
de 1978.

M. J.W. Morrison a été nommé Directeur géné-
ral de la nouvelle Direction des instituts et de la
coordination du programme. Il cumule donc main-
tenant la direction des instituts et du Service des
programmes de recherche, qui relevaient aupara-
vant de la région du Centre, et celle des coordina-
teurs de la recherche de la Direction générale.

L'Institut de recherche zootechnique et l'Institut
de recherche de London portent maintenant le nom
de Centres et relèvent de M. JJ. Cartier, Directeur
général de la nouvelle région de l'Ontario. En outre,
M. Cartier assure la direction de toutes les stations
et fermes expérimentales qui faisaient auparavant
partie de la région du Centre.

L'ancienne région de l'Est a été subdivisée en
deux nouvelles régions: l'Atlantique et le Québec.
M. E.E. Lister assure la direction de la première,
dont l'administration centrale est située à Halifax;
M. J.-J. Jasmin dirige la région du Québec dont
l'administration centrale est située à Québec.

Le présent rapport se divise en cinq sections,
chaque directeur général décrivant l'organisation
dont il est responsable et ses principales réalisations
durant l'année écoulée. Chaque établissement de
recherche présente ensuite ses travaux dans des
chapitres dont on peut obtenir des tirés à part.

La Direction générale fait de la recherche
fondamentale et appliquée sur les sols, les plantes,
les animaux, les ravageurs, les pathogènes, les
mauvaises herbes, le génie rural et l'exploitation de
l'énergie, ainsi que l'alimentation. Elle travaille en
étroite collaboration avec d'autres Directions géné-
rales du Ministère, d'autres organismes fédéraux
ainsi que les universités, les ministères provinciaux
de l'agriculture, l'industrie agricole et les groupe-
ments d'agriculteurs.

Le Canada s'est doté d'un mécanisme particulier
de coordination de la recherche et des services
agricoles. Il s'agit du Comité canadien de coordina-
tion des services agricoles (C.C.C.S.A.) dont le rôle
est de superviser les services gouvernementaux et
institutionnels touchant l'état général de l'agricul-
ture canadienne. Il est composé des sous-ministres
provinciaux de l'agriculture, des doyens des facultés
d'agriculture et de médecine vétérinaire ainsi que
des représentants du secteur privé. Son président est
le sous-ministre fédéral de l'agriculture. La fonction
«recherche» est confiée au Conseil de la recherche
agricole du Canada qui conseille le C.C.C.S.A. sur
l'état et les besoins de la recherche et du développe-
ment agricoles. Malgré le resserrement de ses
ressources, la Direction générale a réussi à conser-
ver un rendement de haut calibre et à épauler le
Ministère et le gouvernement dans la réalisation des
politiques axées sur la prospérité de l'industrie
agricole canadienne.

En outre, la Direction générale encourage la
recherche au niveau international et y coopère
énergiquement, entre autres par l'entremise de
l'Agence canadienne de développement internatio-
nal et le Centre de recherche pour le développement
international. Elle est également en contact direct
avec l'Organisation de coopération et de développe-
ment économiques (O.C.D.É.) et l'Organisation des
Nations-Unies pour l'alimentation et l'agriculture
(F.A.O.). Les réunions annuelles tripartites tenues
avec les chefs de file de la recherche agricole aux
États-Unis et au Royaume-Uni sont l'occasion
d'établir des échanges fructueux et de renouer des
liens de coopération. En 1980, une délégation
française a assisté à cette réunion.

E.J. LeRoux

INSTITUTES AND PROGRAM
COORDINATION DIRECTORATE

DIRECTION DES INSTITUTS

ET DE LA COORDINATION

DU PROGRAMME

EXECUTIVE OF THE INSTITUTES AND PROGRAM COORDINATION

DIRECTORATE

L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA DIRECTION DES INSTITUTS ET DE LA
COORDINATION DU PROGRAMME

Director General/ Directeur général J. W. Morrison, B.Sc., M. Se., Ph.D.
Research Coordinators/ Coordonnateurs de la recherche

Animais//! nimaux
Crops/ Cultures
Food/ Aliments
Production/ Production

Protection/ Protection
Resources/ Ressources

F. K. Kristjansson, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

W. J. Saidak, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

R. R. Riel, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. J. Bishop, B.Sc, A.M., Ph.D. F.R.S.C.

F.A.S.H.S., F.A.I.C,
R. M. Prentice, B.Sc, M.Sc
R. L. Halstead, B.S.A., Ph.D.

Analy sts/A nalystes

Contracts/ Contrats
Program/ Programmes

J. R. Aitken, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
A. P. Chan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Special Advisers/ Conseillers spéciaux

Resources/ Ressources
Crops/ Cultures
Crops/ Cultures

W. Baier, Diplomlandwirt, Dr. agr., M.Sc.
J. C. St-Pierre, B.Sc. (Agr.), B.Sc, M.S.,
L. Dessureaux, B.A., B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Ph.D.

Directors of the institutes/Z)/r^c/^wn des instituts

Biosystemat'ics/ Biosystématique
Chemistry and Biology
Chimie et biologie
Engineering and Statistical
Technique et statistique
Food/ Aliments
Land Resource/ Terres
Research Program Service
Service des programmes de
recherche

G. A. Mulligan, B.Sc.

A. I. de la Roche, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.

P. W. Voisey, F.I., Mech.E

J. Holme, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

J. S. Clark, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. Trottier, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

institutes and program coordination directorate

PREFACE

With reorganization of the Branch in August
1980 a new directorate, Institutes and Program
Coordination, was formed, with Dr. J. W. Morrison
as Director General. The Institute group comprises
the Biosystematics Research Institute, the Chemis-
try and Biology Research Institute, the Engineering
and Statistical Research Institute, the Food Re-
search Institute, the Land Resource Research
Institute, and Research Program Service. The
institutes' programs were conducted by a staff of
590, with a budget of $18.5 million.

The institutes have the responsibility of carrying
out national programs of research in response to
problems that may have been identified in the
regions. Biosystematics research includes tax-
onomic studies on insects, arachnids, nematodes,
vascular plants, and fungi. The Institute also
maintains national collections of these biota and
provides an identification service. The Chemistry
and Biology Research Institute carries out research
in specialized areas such as winterhardiness, nitro-
gen fixation, and plant diseases. It also provides
analytical chemistry and electron microscopy ser-
vices to other Branch establishments. The Engi-
neering and Statistical Research Institute is in-
volved in research on mechanization and farm
structures. During the year two new sections,
Energy and Food Engineering, were formed within
the Institute to respond to research needs in these
high-priority areas. Statistical research in support
of Branch programs is another important activity.
The research program of the Food Research Insti-
tute is oriented toward food quality, food process-
ing, new food ingredients, food safety, and nutri-
tion. The Land Resource Research Institute carries
out soil surveys in all provinces and performs
research in land classification and utilization and in
agrometeorology. Research Program Service pro-
vides research support to the Branch in the form of

a wide range of scientific information, technical,
and publication services.

Program Coordination, formerly known as Plan-
ning and Evaluation, is located at Headquarters
and is now made up of six coordinators, two
program analysts, and three special advisers. The
staff serves as advisers to the Assistant Deputy
Minister, Research, and to the Research Branch
Management Committee. Program Coordination
serves also as a training ground for potential
managers. Dr. Yvon Martel, who is now Director of
the Lennoxville Research Station, served as Special
Adviser, Soils, and as Executive Assistant to the
Assistant Deputy Minister. Dr. Réjean Bouchard,
Program Specialist for the Quebec Region, spent a
year as Special Adviser, Animal research. Dr. D. G.
Dorrell, recently appointed Director of the Winni-
peg Research Station, was Special Adviser, Crops.
Dr. Ian de la Roche, formerly Coordinator, Crops,
is now Director of the Chemistry and Biology
Research Institute. Dr. W. J. Saidak has just been
appointed Crops Coordinator. Dr. W. Baier is at
present acting as Special Adviser, Resources, and
Dr. J. C. St-Pierre, as Special Adviser, Crops.

Dr. E. E. Lister, Program Specialist, left the
Directorate to assume the responsibilities of Direc-
tor General, Atlantic Region. Dr. Robert Trottier
was appointed Director of Research Program
Service.

Further information about our programs may be
obtained by writing to the research establishments
concerned or by addressing inquiries to Institutes
and Program Coordination Directorate, Research
Branch, K. W. Neatby Building, Agriculture
Canada, Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa, Ont.
K1A0C6.

J. W. Morrison

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PREFACE

La restructuration de la Direction générale, en
août 1980, a donné lieu à la création de la nouvelle
Direction des instituts et de la coordination du
programme, dont le Directeur général est M. J.W.
Morrison. Cette direction englobe l'Institut de
recherche biosystématique, l'Institut de recherche
chimique et biologique, l'Institut de recherche
technique et statistique, l'Institut de recherche sur
les aliments, l'Institut de recherche sur les terres et
le Service des programmes de recherche. La réalisa-
tion des programmes des Instituts est assurée par
un personnel de 590 personnes qui dispose d'un
budget total de $18,5 millions.

Les Instituts ont pour mandat de procéder à la
réalisation de programmes nationaux de recherches
visant à régler les problèmes qui surgissent dans
chacune des régions. La recherche biosystématique
englobe des études taxonomiques sur les insectes,
les arachnides, les nematodes, les plantes vasculai-
res et les champignons. L'Institut qui en est
responsable garde aussi des collections de spécimens
et dispense un service d'identification. L'Institut de
recherche chimique et biologique travaille dans les
domaines spécialisés comme la résistance à l'hiver,
la fixation de l'azote et les maladies des plantes. Il
fournit aussi les services de chimie analytique et de
microscopie électronique aux autres établissements
de la Direction générale. L'Institut de recherche
technique et statistique fait des études sur la
mécanisation et sur les constructions agricoles. Au
cours de l'année, deux nouvelles sections y ont vu le
jour; celle de l'énergie et celle du génie industriel
alimentaire. Ce changement vise à répondre aux
besoins nouveaux de recherches dans deux domai-
nes hautement prioritaires. La recherche statistique
menée dans le cadre des programmes de la Direc-
tion générale constitue également une activité
importante. Le programme de l'Institut de recher-
che sur les aliments englobe les domaines de la
qualité et de la transformation des aliments, des
nouveaux ingrédients alimentaires, de l'innocuité
des aliments et de la nutrition. L'Institut de
recherche sur les terres effectue des prospections
pédologiques dans toutes les provinces et s'occupe

de la classification et de l'utilisation des terres et
d'agrométéorologie. Enfin, le Service des program-
mes de recherche assure le soutien des diverses
directions en leur fournissant une large gamme de
services d'informations scientifiques et techniques
ainsi que de publications.

La coordination du programme, autrefois connue
sous le nom de planification et évaluation, fait
partie de l'Administration centrale et compte six
coordinateurs, deux analystes de programmes et
trois conseillers spéciaux. Elle assure un service de
conseil auprès du sous-ministre adjoint à la recher-
che et du Comité de gestion de la Direction
générale de la recherche. Elle constitue finalement
un champ de formation pour les futurs gestionnai-
res. M. Yvon Martel, l'actuel Directeur de la
station de recherche de Lennoxville, était conseiller
spécial sur les sols et adjoint administratif du sous-
ministre adjoint. M. Réjean Bouchard, spécialiste
en programmes de la région du Québec, a été
pendant un an conseiller spécial en recherche
zootechnique. M. D.G. Dorrell, récemment nommé
Directeur de la station de recherche de Winnipeg,
était conseiller spécial sur les cultures. M. Ian de la
Roche, auparavant coordinateur pour les cultures,
est aujourd'hui Directeur de l'Institut de recherche
chimique et biologique. M. W.J. Saidak vient tout
juste d'être nommé coordinateur pour les cultures.
M. W. Baier est actuellement conseiller spécial sur
les ressources et M. J.C. St-Pierre est conseiller
spécial sur les cultures.

M. E.E. Lister, spécialiste en programmes, a
quitté la Direction pour devenir Directeur général
de la région de l'Atlantique. M. Robert Trottier a
été nommé Directeur du Service des programmes
de recherche.

Pour de plus amples renseignements sur nos
programmes, prière d'écrire aux établissements de
recherche concernés ou de s'adresser à la Direction
des instituts et de la coordination du programme.
Direction générale de la recherche, Édifice K.W.
Neatby, Agriculture Canada, Ferme expérimenta-
le, Ottawa (Ontario) Kl A 0C6.

J.W. Morrison

INSTITUTES AND PROGRAM COORDINATION DIRECTORATE

Biosystematics Research Institute
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Administration

G. A. Mulligan, B.Sc.

A. Giroux

E. Gavora,' I.N.G., B.L.S.

V. Desroches,1 B.Ph.A., B.L.S.

J. E. H. Martin

P. M. LeClair

Director

Administrative Officer

Librarian, Botany

Librarian, Entomology

Head, National Identification
Service, Zoology; Unit Curator,
Miscellaneous insect orders

Head, National Identification
Service, Botany

Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Trichoptera

J. M. Campbell, B.S., M.S., Ph.D

S. A. Allyson, B.Sc, M.Sc.
D. E. Bright, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

J. R. Byers, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. T. Dang,2 B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

J. D. Lafontaine, B.A., Ph.D.

L. LeSage, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

A. Mutuura, B.Sc, Ph.D.

F. Schmid, Lie es Se Nat., D. es Se Nat.

A. Smetana, M.U.DR., Cand. Sc Biol.

Head of Section; Staphylinidae

(rove beetles)
Lepidopterous larvae
Scolytidae (bark beetles),

Curculionidae (weevils)
Reproductive biology and behavior

of cutworm moths
Microlepidoptera of forest

importance (spruce budworm)
Noctuidae (cutworm moths); Unit

Curator, Lepidoptera-Trichoptera
Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles) and

larval Coleoptera
Tortricidae (leafroller moths)
Trichoptera (caddisflies)
Aquatic beetles, Staphylinidae (rove

beetles); Unit Curator, Coleoptera

biosystematics research institute

Diptera and Hemiptera

D. M. Wood, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

K. G. A. Hamilton, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

L. A. Kelton, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. F. McAlpine, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. R. Oliver, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
R. V. Peterson, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

W. R. Richards, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. J. Teskey, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.
J. R. Vockeroth, B.A., M.A., D.Phil.

Head of Section; Tachinidae

(parasitic tachinid flies), Culicidae

(mosquitoes)
Cicadellidae (leafhoppers),

Cercopidae (spittlebugs); Unit

Curator, Hemiptera
Miridae (plant bugs), Anthocoridae

(flower bugs)
Lonchaeidae (lance flies),

Chamaemyiidae (silver flies)
Chironomidae (nonbiting midges)
Simuliidae (black flies),

Nycteribiidae and Streblidae (bat

flies)
Aphidoidea (aphids, plant lice),

Psyllidae (psyllids), Coccoidae

(scale insects), Thysanoptera

(thrips), Psocoptera (psocids, book

lice), Collembola (springtails)
Tabanidae (horse flies, deer flies),

dipterous larvae; Unit Curator,

Diptera
Syrphidae (flower flies),

Scatophagidae (dung flies)

Experimental Taxonomy and Nematology

R. V. Anderson, B.A., M.S., Ph.D.

J. W. Arnold, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
B. A. Ebsary, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. S. Eveleigh, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
B. N. A. Hudson, B.Sc, Ph.D.
R. Matsuda, B.A., Ph.D., D.Sc

Head of Section; Hoplolaimidae
(spiral nematodes),
Tylenchorhynchidae (stylet
nematodes), Aphelenchoidea (foliar
nematodes); Unit Curator,
Nematodes

Insect hemocytology

Criconematidae (ring nematodes),
Paratylenchidae (pin nemotodes),
Hemicycliophoridae (sheath
nematodes)

Dorylaimida (dagger nematodes),
Acarine systems (mites)

Chemical taxonomy of insects:
polymorphic enzymes

Comparative morphology, Tingidae
(lace bugs), Aradidae (flat bugs)

Hymenoptera and Arachnida

I. M. Smith, B.Sc, Ph.D. Head of Section; Acari (mites)

8 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

J. R. Barron, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
C. D. Dondale, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. Goulet, B.A., B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
E. E. Lindquist, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
L. Masner, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. R. M. Mason, B.Sc, Ph.D.
C. M. Yoshimoto,2 B.A., M.Sc.

Ph.D.

Ichneumonidae (ichneumon wasps)
Araneae (spiders), Opiliones

(harvestmen); Unit Curator

Arachnida
Symphyta (sawflies)
Acari (mites, ticks)
Proctotrupoidea (proctotrupid

wasps), Bethyloidea (bethylid

wasps), Sphecoidea (digger wasps),

Evanioidea (ensign wasps); Unit

Curator, Hymenoptera
Braconidae (braconid wasps)
Chalcidoidea (chalcid wasps),

Cynipoidea (gall wasps)

Mycology: Plant Disease and Biodegrading Fungi

R. A. Shoemaker, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
D. J. S. Barr, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. D. Bissett, B.Sc, Ph.D.

M. P. Corlett, B.A., M.A., Ph.D

J. H. Ginns, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Ascocarpic
parasites of cereals
Zoosporic parasites of vegetable
crops

Conidial parasites of forage crops
Ascocarpic parasites of fruit crops
Curator, National Collection of
Fungus Cultures; Basidiocarpic
tree wood rots
S. J. Hughes, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.Sc, F.L.S., F.R.S.C. Conidial molds of wood and insects
G. A. Neish, B.Sc, Ph.D. Mycotoxin fungi

J. A. Parmelee, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D. Curator, National Mycological

Herbarium; Obligate parasites of
plants (rusts, smuts, mildews)
S. A. Redhead, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Mushrooms

Vascular Plants

E. Small, B.A., B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

S. G. Aiken, B.Sc, M.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

I. J. Bassett, B.A.

B. R. Baum, M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. M. Catling, B.Sc, Ph.D.

W. J. Cody, B.A.

J. McNeill, B.Sc, Ph.D.

G. A. Mulligan, B.Sc

S. I. Warwick, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Cultivated crops,

Medicago
Grass flora of Canada
Hay-fever plants, palynology, weeds
Cultivated crops, Hordeum
Sedges, aquatic plants
Curator, Herbarium; Canadian

flora, ferns
Weeds, Polygonaceae,

Caryophyllaceae
Weeds, Cruciferae
Weeds, genecology

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Honorary Research Associates

E. C. Becker, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

J. A. Downes, B.Sc.

D. F. Hardwick, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. P. Holland, B.A., M.A., D.Sc, F.R.S.C.

R. Macrae, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. C. McGuffin, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

O. Peck, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. B. O. Savile, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D., D.Sc,

F.R.S.C.
G. E. Shewell, B.Sc, M.Sc.

A. Wilkes, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Elateridae (click beetles,

wireworms)
Ceratopogonidae (biting midges)
Noctuidae (cutworm moths)
Siphonaptera (fleas)
Basidiocarpic wood rots, polypores
Geometridae (geometer moths,

loopers)
Chalcidoidea (chalcid wasps)
Plant rusts

Lauxaniidae (lauxaniid flies),
Calliphoridae (blow flies)
Insect genetics

Departures

E. C. Becker, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

E. H. Salkeld, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Elateridae (click beetles,

wireworms)
Comparative micromorphology of

insect eggs

Transfers

F. W. Collins, B.Sc, Ph.D.
C. C. Loan, B.A., M.S., Ph.D.

Chemotaxonomy, Brassica
Ichneumonidae (ichneumon wasps),
Braconidae (braconid wasps)

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.
Seconded from Environment Canada.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Biosystematics Research Institute provides a national identification service for
insects, mites, spiders, nematodes, vascular plants, and fungi of importance to Canadians. The
Institute conducts research on various aspects of biosystematics and maintains custody of the
Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids, and Nematodes; the Agriculture Canada
Vascular Plant Herbarium; the National Mycological Herbarium; and the National
Mycological Culture Collection. Eight new curators were appointed for the zoology national
collections during 1980.

The Institute emphasizes taxonomic studies on organisms of special interest to Canadians
and the production of identification guides and inventories of organisms having economic or
environmental impact.

Reprints of research publications are available from the authors. Correspondence on other
matters should be addressed to the Director, Biosystematics Research Institute, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa Ont. Kl A 0C6.

G. A. Mulligan
Director

IDENTIFICATIONS, COLLECTIONS,
AND SURVEYS

National Identification Service

A total of 85 900 specimens of insects,
arachnids, and nematodes were identified
during 1980, an increase of 14% over the
previous year. Agriculture Canada (25%) and
Canadian and American universities (22%
and 13%, respectively) were the greatest
users. Some 5150 were received from the
general public for identification, general
information, or advice on control measures.

A total of 12 552 collections of vascular
plants were identified during 1980. Universi-
ties were again the major users of this service
(50.4%). An increased number of inquiries
were received directly from the general public
and through Public Services Section, Infor-
mation Services, Agriculture Canada. Assist-
ance was provided to the Poison Control
Centre for 15 cases of suspected poisonings
from vascular plants.

A total of 3015 collections and cultures of
fungi were identified during 1980. Principal
users of the service were the general public
(28.1%), followed by other federal depart-
ments (17.0%) and Canadian universities
(14.4%). Assistance was provided to the
Poison Control Centre for 54 cases of sus-
pected poisonings from mushrooms. The
accompanying table shows the number of
specimens identified and their sources.

Collection development

The holdings of the Canadian National
Collection of Insects, Arachnids, and Nema-
todes increased by some 675 000 specimens.
Major contributions were made by 28 officers
of the Institute collecting across Canada, the
Yukon Territory, and eastern and central
United States. The use of devices newly
designed or modified by Institute scientists for
collection of micro-hymenoptera and other
minute arthropods resulted in a spectacular
increase of holdings of many species in the
collection. Donations of specimens to the
collection totaled some 38 400 specimens and
purchases amounted to 7715 specimens. Some
222 loans totaling 73 438 specimens of Cana-
dian National Collection material were made
to scientists around the world for research
study. Material incorporated into the collec-
tion totaled some 195 500 specimens.

The holdings of the Vascular Plant Herbar-
ium now stand at 690 596 collections, an
increase of 13 555 during 1980. Approx-
imately 7000 collections were made during
field trips by staff members in Ontario, the
western provinces, the Yukon Territory,
southwestern and central United States, and
Mexico. Some 3804 collections were donated
to the Herbarium, 2991 as exchange and 813
as gifts from other herbariums.

The holdings of the National Mycological
Herbarium stand at 231 426 specimens, an
increase of 8054 accessions during 1980. A
total of 4498 specimens were donated, 4348 as

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

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RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

exchange from other herbariums and 150 as
gifts. Approximately 4700 collections were
made by staff members during the year. The
National Collection of Fungus Cultures has
increased its holdings from 6093 to 6558, an
increase of 465 cultures. These cultures were
received for deposit from other institutions,
through the Identification Service, or from
isolations made by staff members. At the
present time 2066 cultures have been success-
fully lyophilized for long-term preservation.

During the summer of 1980, the Institute
carried out a 4-mo survey of the insects,
mites, vascular plants, and fungi of Waterton
Lakes National Park, Alberta. The purpose of
this survey was to collect specimens pertinent
to research interests of Institute scientists and
to enhance the collections. This park was
selected because it serves as an excellent site
for studying the flora and fauna of the Rocky
Mountains as well as those of western prairie
elements and aspen parkland. Ten Institute
scientists and technicians participated in the
survey. The material collected is being sorted
and prepared, and will be incorporated into
the collections. Institute personnel worked
closely with park naturalists to provide them
with useful biological information. Four Insti-
tute scientists, including two entomologists,
one mycologist, and one vascular plant taxon-
omist, collected extensively in the Yukon
during 1980. Particular emphasis was placed
on collecting organisms in areas where there
were glacial réfugia.

Identification aids

Insects and Arachnids of Canada. This
faunal series was initiated several years ago
and is now established as an Institute activity.
This activity is designed to treat the insect
and arachnid fauna of Canada in a series of
books that will permit the nontaxonomic
biologist to identify various arthropod entities.
Since the last annual report two contributions
were published: Part 7, Genera des Trichop-
tères du Canada et des États adjacents; and
Part 8, The Plant Bugs of the Prairie Prov-
inces of Canada, Heteroptera: Miridae.

Vascular Plants of Continental Northwest
Territories. This work is a guide or manual to
the species and major geographical races of
the 1113 flowering plants and ferns of the
continental Northwest Territories and in-
cludes keys, descriptions, distribution maps,
and line drawings. The area covered is
roughly 1.6 million square kilometres.

Poison-ivy, Western Poison Oak, and Poi-
son Sumac/ L'herbe à la puce, le sumac a
vernis et le rhus diversiloba. This bulletin,
with line drawings and color plates, includes
information on the biology and identification
of the plants, symptoms of poisoning and
treatment, how poisoning occurs, and how to
eradicate the plants.

Common and Botanical Names of Weeds
in Canada/Noms populaires et scientifiques
des plantes nuisibles du Canada. This bulle-
tin presents the botanical names and English
and French common names of all the plants
growing as weeds in Canada.

Grasses of Ontario. This manual treats the
species and major geographical races of all
the grasses growing in Ontario. It includes
keys, descriptions, distribution maps, line
drawings, and photographs for 78 genera, 238
species, and 123 subspecies and varieties.

Fungi Canadenses. During 1980, 30 contri-
butions were published, bringing the total in
this series to 190. An additional 20 contri-
butions are being processed. Taxa illustrated
and described include several new records of
Canadian fungi, two new species, and three
new combinations. Species of parasitic and
biodegrading fungi from the following genera
are described: Aecidium, Arachnophora,
Endophragmiella, Gerronema, Helmintho-
sporium, Hemimycena, Hygrocybe, Maras-
miellus, Melanotus, Microascus, Mycena,
Olpidium, Peziza, Phaeomarasmius, Psilach-
num, Puccinia, Spiropes, Stigmina, Taeni-
olella, Tyromyces, and Venturia.

SECTIONAL RESEARCH

Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Trichoptera

Coleoptera. Carabidae — A major system-
atic and phylogenetic analysis of the genus
Elaphrus was redrafted and submitted for
internal review. The revision of the 34 species
and four subgenera of Elaphrus includes a
review of both adult and larval characters. An
analysis of structural variation in two subspe-
cies of the Elaphrus americanus complex was
submitted for publication. A similar study of
the E.finitimus complex is in progress.

Staphylinidae — A large revision of the
subfamily Xantholininae for America north of
Mexico was completed. The subfamily in-
cludes 28 genera and 105 species. Revisions of
the genera Lordithon and Carphacis were

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

completed; the latter has been published. Two
new species, including one in a new genus, of
the subfamily Phloeocharinae were described
and illustrated.

Scolytidae — A monograph on the large
genus Pityophthorus in North America was
completed. Over 200 species are described
and illustrated, and keys are provided to aid
in identification.

Buprestidae — A handbook on the Bupres-
tidae of Canada for The Insects and Arach-
nids of Canada series is nearing completion.
Over 200 Canadian species are treated.

Miscellaneous — Considerable progress was
made on the inventory of pest species of
Coleoptera of agricultural importance. It is
expected to be completed in 1981.

Lepidoptera. Tortricidae — A paper de-
scribing a new species of Clepis from the
Yukon Territory was published. Manuscripts
for two papers on the pine cone borer genera
Eucosma and Laspeyresia were prepared.
Genitalia drawings, and keys to genera and
species, of Archipini were completed for a
handbook in the series The Insects and
Arachnids of Canada. Forty populations of
spruce budworm from across Canada were
established for use in a projected taxonomic
revision of the Choristoneura fumiferana
complex.

Pyralidae — A paper describing a new spe-
cies of Dioryctria from Eastern Canada was
completed. Two papers on the larvae of the
subfamily Pyraustinae were submitted for
publication.

Noctuidae — A manuscript on the biogeog-
raphy of the 180 North American species of
Euxoa was submitted for publication. A
taxonomic study of the Euxoa comosa group,
using both classical and experimental ap-
proaches, was completed. On the basis of
larval growth rates, hybridization, mating
discrimination, and pheromone specificity
studies, it was concluded that nine normal
species were best regarded as five subspecies
comprising a single polytypic species. A
catalog of the 450 species and 45 genera of
cutworms of the subfamily Noctuinae in the
Neotropical region was completed.

Geometridae — The fourth memoir in the
series Guide to the Geometridae of Canada
on the subfamily Ennominae was submitted
for publication.

Trichoptera. A world revision of the family
Xiphocentronidae was completed. The family
includes 88 species, of which 68 are new.

Diptera and Hemiptera

Diptera. Volume I of the Manual of the
Nearctic Diptera, covering 43 families of
Nematocera and lower Brachycera, was pub-
lished. The text of the second volume covering
all 65 families of the higher Diptera (Musco-
morpha or Cyclorrhapha) occurring north of
Mexico was completed; work on illustrations
for the second volume is now in progress.
Fifty-two world specialists collaborated in this
two-volume work, which provides new keys
and abundant illustrations to 2150 genera of
flies known to occur in Canada, Greenland,
and continental United States. Well-illus-
trated family keys to adults and larvae of soil-
dwelling Diptera were prepared for inclusion
in a book entitled Soil Biology Guide. Adults
and immature stages of one of the major
blackfly vectors of onchocerciasis in Venezu-
ela, Simulium sanguineum Knab, were rede-
scribed as part of a study of these vectors
under the auspices of the World Health
Organization. Nine new genera and six new
species of Mycetophilidae (fungus gnats)
were described. As part of a cooperative
project involving both North American and
European specialists on midges (Chironomi-
dae), keys, diagnoses, and illustrations of the
larvae of 21 genera of the subfamily Ortho-
cladiinae and nine genera of Diamesinae were
completed. Six New World genera of Empidi-
dae related to Megagrapha were revised,
incorporating the description of one new
genus and 27 new species. Illustrated keys to
the larvae of horse flies and deer flies of
Illinois were completed as part of a manual to
the Tabanidae of that state. Fifty-three
Canadian species in 10 genera of Syrphidae
(flower flies) were redescribed as part of a
handbook to the Syrphidae of Canada,
Alaska, and Greenland. The 14 world genera
of Pallopteridae were redefined and keyed for
the first time. One new extant pallopterid
species was described whose sister-species is
known only as a fossil species in Baltic amber
of Oligocène age (± 40 million years). The
identities of the 12 described species of
Neosilba (Lonchaeidae), whose larvae live in
fruit and vegetables, were established and
three new species described. In cooperation
with the Food Production and Inspection
Branch of Agriculture Canada, a detection
survey for the anthomyiid wheat-bulb fly,
Delia coarctata (Fallen), turned up numbers
of adults on quack grass from Quebec to Nova

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Scotia. No damage to winter wheat was
detected.

Siphonaptera. A monographic treatment of
the fleas of Canada and Alaska, including
keys to all genera and species, and illustra-
tions and distribution maps for each species, is
nearing completion.

Hemiptera. Studies of plant bugs of the
family Miridae resulted in publication of
descriptions of nine new species. Five Euro-
pean species were reported from North Amer-
ica for the first time. Technical bulletins
dealing with the plant bugs infesting apple
trees in Quebec and fruit crops in Canada
were completed. The second part of a hand-
book to the genera of Aphidoidea of Canada
is nearing completion and will be published,
along with the first part, as a single major
treatment. Morphological characteristics and
a diagnosis for a new species of flat bugs
(Aradus) in Canada were published.

Experimental taxonomy and nematology

Biosystematics of cutworms. Two species
of cutworm moths of the genus Xestia from
North America and one from Europe were
compared morphologically and electrophoreti-
cally. Where morphological distinctions were
unclear, the species were readily differenti-
ated by the allozymes of six enzymes. Rela-
tionships between the species were clarified by
measures of genetic distance, attractiveness to
pheromones, and hybridization experiments.
The morphological characters, allozyme fre-
quency distinctions, and behavior of the
species are described in two published papers
and in one manuscript nearing completion.

A manuscript comparing hemocyte com-
plexes in 85 species of cutworms has been
completed. Data show that, with some excep-
tions, a natural system of classification of the
family based on hemocyte complexes is more
relative to one based on larval, rather than
adult, morphology. It is thought that these
hemocyte characteristics may be associated
with the biology of larval development. Some
anomalies in cell complexes, however, lend
support to projected taxonomic revisions
based on adults.

Insect morphology. In two memoirs sub-
mitted for publication the eggs of 124 species
of cutworm moths (Noctuidae) and 112
species representing 40 other families are
described and cataloged. The characters of
taxonomic and phyletic importance depicted

in 235 plates of scanning micrographs include
position and form of the chorionic microsculp-
ture and surface texture, features of the
micropylar area, and position, shape, and size
of the aeropyles. Descriptions include date,
site, and pattern of oviposition, and color and
dimensions of eggs. In a continuing study of
evolutionary processes in animals a new
theory of inheritance of environmentally
acquired characters was extended to talitrid
amphipods and salamanders, and the results
were submitted for publication. Based on
newly postulated concepts concerning mor-
phogenetic plasticity and environmental ef-
fects of the epigenetic system involving
hormonal action, a new theory on the origin of
insect wings was developed and submitted for
publication.

Nematology. Published were descriptions
of a new species of root-knot nematode, a new
genus and species of cyst-forming nematodes,
a bulb-and-stem nematode that induces leaf
galls, and a new species and subgenus of
Aphelenchus.

Revisionary studies of the plant-parasitic
ring nematodes (Criconematidae) were com-
pleted and the data were presented in a series
of papers that are in press, submitted, or
completed. Nominal species of the 22 genera
considered were realigned into more tenable
groupings, for which six new genera were
proposed. Taxonomic keys are provided to
facilitate identification of 180 species of ring
nematodes, including new species described
from Canada.

A manuscript was completed that con-
cludes morphological and taxonomic studies
of plant-parasitic species of the genus Mer-
linius in Canada. The text contains descrip-
tions and illustrations of three new species
and a key to the Canadian species. Also
completed were descriptions of a new species
of spiral nematode (Helicotylenchus), with a
revised key to the Canadian species, and of a
new species of Triversus. New records of
nematodes for Canada have been documented
for a species each of Merlinius and Helicoty-
lenchus, and for the genus Triversus. Host
plants of nematodes recorded for the first time
are spike rush, Eleocharis acicularis (L.) R
& S, and dryas, Dry as integrifolia M. Vahl.

Hymenoptera and Arachnida

Hymenoptera. Progress continued on the
introductory volume on Hymenoptera for the
faunal series, The Insects and Arachnids of

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Canada. Important research, leading to re-
classification of some major groups of Hyme-
noptera, was continued, with one preliminary
paper completed and three others initiated.
These will contribute to a general classifica-
tion basis for the faunal handbook.

Symphyta (sawflies) — A paper on distingu-
ishing more readily among three species of
Gilpinia in North America was submitted for
publication; included are two species actually
or potentially introduced from Europe, one of
which could become a pest of spruce. A
manuscript on distinguishing five species of
Phymatocera in North America, with a
discussion of the natural relationships of these
liliaceous plant feeders, was submitted for
review.

Braconidae — A major revision of the sub-
family Microgastrinae, with a reclassification
and phylogenetic analysis of its genera, is in
press. This study centers on the large, com-
plex genus Apanteles, and shows that this
group of parasites of lepidopterans is not a
natural assemblage.

Ichneumonidae — A taxonomic revision of
the genus Ctenopelma for North America,
treating 24 species (18 new) that are parasites
of pamphiliid sawflies, was submitted for
publication. A revision of the genus Pyrac-
mon, based on larvae and adults, was largely
completed.

Chalcidoidea — A synopsis of eight North
American species of the genus Chrysonoto-
myia, endoparasites of small insect eggs and
larvae, was published. A paper on natural
relationships of endemic Chalcidoidea of
Hawaii was presented at the 16th Interna-
tional Congress of Entomology in Kyoto,
Japan, in 1980. A paper was nearly completed
that describes a new species of Thripocte-
noides, a genus of entedontine Eulophidae,
and parasites of thrip eggs not previously
known from North America. A revision of
North American species of Pediobius, en-
doparasites of various immature insects and
spiders, was nearly completed.

Proctotrupoidea — A large paper providing
keys to 67 genera of the family Scelionidae
for the Northern Hemisphere was published.
A similar work on 46 world genera of ino-
stemmatine Platygastridae was nearly com-
pleted. A paper treating six species of the
platygastrid genus Acerotella for North
America was published, and another on 18
species of the related genus Metaclisis was
completed; wasps of both genera are parasites
of gall flies. Two papers on the scelionid genus

Calotelea, including a revision of 10 species
(all new) for North America, and another
paper revising two species of the diapriid
genus Leaiopria, associated with termites in
Australia, were published.

Arachnida. Araneae (spiders) — A paper,
providing the first description of the female of
Xysticus winnipegensis Redner & Dondale,
was published. A paper was published on the
spider fauna of Canada, given at the 8th
International Congress of Arachnology in
Vienna, Austria, in 1980. A chapter providing
illustrated keys to the spiders of litter, repre-
senting 95 genera in 16 families, was submit-
ted for publication in a book entitled Soil
Biology Guide. Two papers on the wolf spider
genus Pirata were submitted for publication:
Pirata is redefined, along with the description
of a new genus, Trebacosa, in one; and a new
species of Pirata is described from Canada in
the other. The second contribution on spiders
to the faunal series Insects and Arachnids of
Canada is in press. Entitled The Sac Spiders
of Canada and Alaska (Araneae: Clubionidae
and Anyphaenidae), this handbook includes
taxonomic keys, illustrations, descriptions,
and notes on living habits concerning the 1 1
genera and 72 species of sac spiders found, or
anticipated to occur, in Canada and Alaska.

Acari (mites) — An important paper on
evolutionary and ecological strategies of mites
and other arthropods inhabiting annually
temporary pools was published. A major
revision of North American species of the
eriophyoid genus Trisetacus, sporadic pests of
coniferous trees, was nearly completed. A
large monograph on morphology, systematics,
and natural relationships of the world genera
of Tarsonemidae, and on classification of this
family with others in the Heterostigmata, was
completed as a preliminary draft for internal
review.

Mycology: plant disease and biodegrading
fungi

Ultrastructural examinations of fungal
zoospores have revealed numerous new char-
acteristics that substantially aided biosystem-
atic theory. Included prominently among
these new characteristics is the microtubule
rootlet complex that anchors the flagellar
apparatus and provides cytoskeletal support
for the cell. As a direct result of these
findings, a new order, Spizellomycetales, in
the class Chytridiomycetes, was described.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

The order includes many newly reported soil-
inhabiting fungi, as well as ones previously
known such as the virus-transmitting Olpid-
ium brassicae and O. radicale. The genus
Synchytrium, which includes S. endobioti-
cum, the cause of black wart disease of
potato, is retained in the revised order
Chytridiales.

An ecological study on the effect of fire on
the soil microflora of coniferous forests was
published. Accelerated microbial activities
were observed as a long-term effect of fire on
soil microbial populations and metabolism.
These could be attributed to specific environ-
mental changes caused by burning. A revision
of the species of Septorioid fungi occurring on
Gramineae in Canada is nearing completion.
Descriptions of these important disease-caus-
ing fungi will be published in a format that
should assist pathologists and others with
their identification.

A taxonomic revision of some species of
Didymella parasites of raspberry, cucurbits,
and legumes has been completed. A tax-
onomic study of the hyphomycetous genus
Stemphylium is nearly completed. Canadian
species of Mycosphaerella parasitizing se-
lected groups of economically important
plants are being investigated.

A taxonomic monograph of the genus
Coniophora was completed. Detailed descrip-
tions and illustrations will allow rapid identi-
fication of specimens of these dry rot fungi.
They cause economically significant losses in
wood of buildings and other wooden struc-
tures as well as decay in forest trees.

A supplement to the 20-yr-old reference,
An Annotated Index of Plant Diseases in
Canada, is progressing and, when completed,
will be a useful reference work for plant
pathologists, ecologists, and other biologists.

Studies on the taxonomy and distribution of
Fusarium species in Canada, emphasizing the
fusaria associated with cereal grains, are
being continued. Collaborative work with
Animal Research Centre and Plant Products
scientists is focusing on toxin production by
these fungi with emphasis on zearalenone
production by F. graminearum and on the
trichothecenes produced by this and other
Fusarium species. A new variety of Fusarium
moniliforme was described.

A study of 1 7 species of Puccinia complet-
ing their life cycles on Cichorieae (Composi-
tae) in North America was completed. It
revealed one new species on the genus
Agoseris and recognized that certain rusts

attacking Taraxacum, Hieracium, and re-
lated plants are distinct from the wide-
ranging Puccinia hieracii, under which they
had been treated synonymously. Seven rusts
parasitizing the family Primulaceae in
Canada were described.

A revision of section Herbicolae of the
mushroom genus Coprinus on a global basis
was necessary to determine that a winter
pathogen of winter wheat and legume forage
crops in Western Canada represented an
undescribed species. A second species in the
section, which was associated with a turf
disease, was discovered in Canada. Fieldwork
continued to reveal mushrooms new to
Canada, including species new to science, and
many new provincial records. This documen-
tation will assist decision making by Plant
Quarantine officers, should any of the species
be found on imported materials.

Revision of the genus Leptosphaeria and its
segregates progressed through type studies
and additional fieldwork in northern Ontario.
A review was prepared on "Changes in
taxonomy and nomenclature of important
genera of plant pathogens".

Vascular plants

Alfalfa. Four publications on alfalfa were
prepared. Examination of pubescence distri-
bution on alfalfa leaves led to the discovery
that trichome density is greater on the lower
halves of the two outer leaflets than on other
parts of the leaf. Numerical taxonomic analy-
ses of 55 species of Medicago resulted in
recognition of 12 major groupings in three
assemblages. Study of floral structures in
species of Medicago and their relatives en-
abled separation of Medicago, Factorovskya,
and a segment of the genus Trigonella
(fenugreek) from Melilotus (sweet clover)
and the remainder of Trigonella. In the first
group, features were found which promote the
'tripping' phenomenon of alfalfa. A study of
pollen grains revealed that pollen could be
used taxonomically to separate Medicago
from several closely related genera.

Hops. A study of the relationships between
the structure and geographical origin of hops
(the fruit of Humulus lupulus L., widely used
in brewing) was completed. Fruit structure
could be used to identify hops from North
America, Britain, continental Europe, and
Japan.

Wheat group. Based on ultrastructure of
epicuticular waxes, the relationships among

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

genera of this difficult group was investigated
by means of electron microscopy, chemistry,
and numerical taxonomy. Two papers have
been accepted for publication.

Barleys. Preparation of a worldwide barley
cultivar registry, to include pedigrees, coeffi-
cients of common parentage and inbreeding,
and synonyms, is progressing. A new method
of identifying species and cultivars was under-
taken, using a combination of starch granules
from the grain and an image analyzer, and
computer data analysis. This approach
yielded excellent results that were summa-
rized in a comprehensive paper. About 300
accessions of wild species of Hordeum were
collected this summer in the southwestern
United States and Mexico by a joint Cana-
dian-Danish-Swedish exploration team.

Inventory of cultivated crop plants of
Canada. Literature collection continued
toward compilation of a treatment of all
plants known to be cultivated outdoors for
crop purposes in Canada. Treatments of 50 of
the most important genera of Canada were
drafted.

Inventory of Canadian weeds. Work contin-
ued toward publication of an inventory of all
weeds and other noxious or potentially noxi-
ous plants found in Canada. For each of about
1500 species to be included there will be
information on the correct scientific name,
widely used synonyms, English and French
names, geographical distribution, and habitat.

Biology of Canadian Weeds series. Ac-
counts were completed of the common horse-
tail (Equisetum arvense L., a pernicious weed
of pastures and a variety of other habitats),
narrow-leaved plantain (Plantago lanceolata
L., a weed of pastures, lawns, and waste
places, known to shed large amounts of pollen
leading to many cases of hay fever), and
night-flowering catchfly (Silène noctiflora L.,
an important weed, particularly of grain and
leguminous crops in Western Canada).

Aquatic weeds. The genus Myriophyllum
includes the watermilfoils, which are ex-
tremely damaging to waterways in Canada.
Several studies were published documenting
the relationships of substrate on the growth
and form of M. spicatum L., M. exalbescens
Fern., and M. alterniflorum DC, and clarify-
ing the difficulty many individuals have had in
identifying these species due to the differen-
tial development of the plants in various

habitats. An identification key to the 13
species found in North America and discus-
sions of their taxonomic difficulties were
published.

White cockle. A revised treatment of varia-
tion within this weed species was completed.
Four subspecies are recognized and the cor-
rect scientific name for the species is shown to
be Silène pratensis (Rafn.) Godron & Gren.

Knotweeds. Morphology and cytology of
introduced knotweeds {Polygonum spp.) in
Eastern Canada established the existence of
two groups of plants recognizable as species.
The most common knotweeds in open habitats
are tetraploid plants that are distinguishable
from others that are hexaploid by size of their
leaves, and form of their perianth segments
and fruit. These plants are referable to P.
arenastrum Boreau. The more erect intro-
duced hexaploid plants that can more readily
compete as field weeds belong to a species
with the name P. aviculare L., which may be
rejected as ambiguous and replaced by the
name P. monspeliense Pers.

Silky-bent. Discovery of two species of
silky-bent (Apera) in southern Ontario en-
abled preparation of an account that distingu-
ishes this genus from other grasses with which
it might be confused, and indicates the
diagnostic features and potential hazard of
loose silky-bent, A. spicaventi (L.) Beauv., a
weed of winter wheat.

Lamb's-quarters. An extensive account was
prepared for all 31 species of lamb's-quarters
(Chenopodium) in Canada and presents de-
scriptions, distribution maps, chromosome
numbers, a key, and discussions of morphol-
ogy and nomenclature.

Herbicide-resistant weeds. Three papers
were published on comparisons of triazine-
resistant and susceptible weed strains. Resist-
ant strains of groundsel, Senecio vulgaris L.,
were less competitive in the absence of
herbicides and much more homogeneous than
nonresistant strains of North American and
European populations. Resistant and suscepti-
ble strains of lamb's-quarters, Chenopodium
album, and late-flowering goosefoot, C. stric-
tum Roth, differ in competitive fitness both
between species and between strains of the
same species. The literature on three resistant
pigweed species was clarified, and docu-
mented both the occurrence of green pigweed,
Amaranthus powellii, and the first known

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

occurrence of resistant redroot pigweed,
Amaranthus retroflexus, in southern Ontario;
a key for identification of all three species of
pigweed was provided. Three studies were
completed assessing differences between tria-
zine-resistant and susceptible populations of
lamb's-quarters. Differential growth and re-
sponse to atrazine and isoenzyme variation
provided evidence for climatically adapted
populations of both susceptible and resistant
strains; electrophoretic studies of isoenzyme
variation indicated remarkable homogeneity
within resistant populations, but provided
evidence for two independent mutations of
triazine-resistant lamb's-quarters within well-
established populations in Ontario. The ge-
netic basis of ecoclimatic adaptation in
lamb's-quarters was clarified, based on pho-
toperiodic and reciprocal transplant studies

into contrasting climatic regimes. A differen-
tial nitrogen response to atrazine in suscepti-
ble and resistant populations showed that a
degree of inhibition of photosynthesis by
atrazine was necessary to elicit the increase
observed in nitrogen compounds for suscepti-
ble plants.

Floristic studies. A paper on distribution of
the orchid twayblades {Listera) was pub-
lished. One on distribution of plants of
restricted geographical range in Ontario was
completed. Numerous distribution maps were
prepared toward publication of a handbook of
plants of Riding Mountain National Park. A
paper on water-meal {Wolffia columbiana
Karst.), previously unreported in the Park,
was published. Considerable progress was
made toward preparation of an identification
guide to the more than 180 species and 60
genera of grasses of western cattle rangelands.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Aiken, S. G.; McNeill, J. 1980. The discovery of
Myriophyllum exalbescens Fernald (Halora-
gaceae) in Europe and the typification of M.
spicatum L. and M. verticillatum L. Bot. J.
Linn. Soc. 80(3):21 3-222.

Aiken, S. G.; Picard, R. R. 1980. The influence of
substrate on the growth and morphology of
Myriophyllum excalbescens and Myriophyl-
lum spicatum. Can. J. Bot. 58(9): 1 1 11-1118.

Allyson, S. 1980. Last-instar larva of the goose-
berry fruitworm, Zophodia convolutella (Lep-
idoptera: Pyralidae: Phycitinae). Can. Ento-
mol. 112:43-45.

Anderson, R. V.; Hooper, D. J. 1980. Diagnostic
value of vagina structure in the taxonomy of
Aphelenchus Bastian, 1865 (Nematoda: Aph-
elenchidae) with a description of A. (Anaph-
elenchus) isomerus n. subgen., n.sp. Can. J.
Zool. 58(5):924-928.

Anderson, R. V.; Mulvey, R. H. 1980. Description,
relationships, and host symptoms of Ditylen-
chus dryadis n.sp. (Nematoda: Tylenchidae)
from the Canadian High Arctic, a transitional
species of gall-forming parasite attacking
Dryas integrifolia M. Vahl. Can. J. Zool.
58(3):363-368.

Anderson, R. V.; Townshend, J. L. 1980. Variation
of the first head annule in Canadian popula-
tions of Pratylenchus penetrans (Nematoda:
Praytlenchidae) from three host plants. Can. J.
Zool. 58(7): 1336- 1340.

Barr, D. J. S. 1980. Fungi Canadenses: No. 176,
Olpidium brassicae.

Barr, D. J. S. 1980. Heterothallic-like reaction in
the large-oospore form of Phytophthora
megasperma. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:1 16-1 18.

Barr, D. J. S.; Badoni, R. 1979. A new species of
Rozella on a basidiomycete. Mycologia
LXXI(6):1261-1264.

Baum, B. R. 1980. Multivariate morphometric
relationships between Hordeum jubatum and
H. br achy anther um in Canada and Alaska.
Can. J. Bot. 58(6):604-623.

Bissett, J.; Parkinson, D. 1980. Long-term effects of
fire on the composition and activity of the soil
microflora of a subalpine, coniferous forest.
Can. J. Bot. 58( 1 5): 1 704- 1 72 1 .

Cody, W. J.; Scotter, G. W.; Talbot, S. S. 1979.
Additions to the vascular plant flora of Na-
hanni National Park, Northwest Territories.
Nat. Can. 106:439-450.

Corlett, M; Egger, K. N. 1980. Fungi Canadenses:
No. 181, Venturia rumicis; No. 182, Venturia
canadensis.

Corlett, M.; Neish, G. A. 1980. Fungi Canadenses:
No. 1 80, Microascus longirostris.

Dang, P. T.; Peterson, B. V. 1980. A case of
bilateral gynandromorphism in Simulium sou-
brense Vajime & Dunbar (Diptera: Simuli-
idae). Trop. Parasitol. 30:548-550.

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Dang, P. T.; Peterson, B. V. 1980. Pictorial keys to
the main species and species groups within the
Simulium damnosum Theobald complex oc-
curring in West Africa (Diptera: Simuliidae).
Trop. Parasitol. 31:117-120.

Doganlar, M.; Mutuura, A. 1980. A new species of
Phyllonorycter Hbn. (Lithocelletis Hbn.)
(Lepidoptera: Gracilariidae) from western
North America. Can. Entomol. 1 12:31 1-314.

Dore, W. G.; McNeill, J. 1980. Grasses of Ontario.
Agric. Can. Monogr. 26. 566 pp.

Ebsary, B. A. 1979. Crossonema capitospinosum
new species and description of C. menzeli and
C. fimbriatum juveniles (Nematoda: Cricone-
matidae). Can. J. Zool. 57(1 2):23 19-2324.

Farnworth, E. R.; Neish, G. A. 1980. Analysis of
corn seeds for fungi and mycotoxins. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:727-731.

Gibson, G. A. P. 1980. A revision of the genus
Macrophya dahlbom (Hymenoptera: Sym-
phyta, Tenthredinidae) of North America.
Mem. Entomol. Soc. Can. 1 14:617.

Gibson, G. A. P. 1980. Deda, a new genus of
sawflies from western North America (Hyme-
noptera: Symphyta, Tenthredinidae). Can.
Entomol. 112:249-258.

Ginns, J. 1980. Fungi Canadenses: No. 168, Peziza
badioconfusa; No. 169, Peziza varia; No. 174,
Tyromyces kmetii.

Ginns, J. 1980. The genus Flaviporus Murrill
(Polyporaceae). Can. J. Bot. 54(14):1578-
1590.

Hamilton, K. G. A. 1980. Review of the Nearctic
Idiocerini, excepting those from the Sonoran
subregion (Rhynchota: Homoptera: Cicadelli-
dae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:81 1-848.

Hudson, A; Lefkovitch, L. P. 1980. Two species of
the Amathes c-nigrum complex (Lepidoptera:
Noctuidae) distinguished by isozymes of ade-
nylate kinase and by selected morphological
characters. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Wash.
82(4):587-598.

Hughes, S. J. 1980. New Zealand Fungi 27. New
species of Guedea, Hadrosporium, Helmintho-
sporium. N.Z. J. Bot. 18:65-72.

Hughes, S. J. 1980. New Zealand Fungi 29.
Rhinocladium Sacc. et March. N.Z. J. Bot.
18:163-172.

Hughes, S. J. 1980. Fungi Canadenses: No. 163,
Helminthosporium velutinum; No. 164,
Arachnophora excentrica; No. 167, Stigmina
robusta; No. 183, Taeniolella elixis; No. 184,
Taeniolella alata; No. 185, Taeniolella rudis.

Hughes, S. J.; Cooke, J. C. 1980. Fungi Ca-
nadenses: No. 161, Spiropes helleri; No. 162,
Endophragmiella cesatii.

Kelton, L. A. 1980. The insects and arachnids of
Canada. Part 8. The plant bugs of the Prairie
Provinces of Canada. Heteroptera: Miridae.
Agric. Can. Publ. 1703. 408 pp.

Kelton, L. A. 1980. Description of three new species
of Miridae from the Prairie Provinces and a
new record of European Phylini in the Nearc-
tic region (Heteroptera). Can. Entomol.
12:285-292.

Kelton, L. A. 1980. Lectotype designation for
Idolocoris agiles, and descriptions of three new
species of Dicyphus Fieber from North Amer-
ica (Heteroptera: Miridae). Can. Entomol.
112:387-392.

Kelton, L. A. 1980. Description of a new species of
Parthenicus Reuter, new records of Holarctic
Orthotylini in Canada, and new synonymy for
Diaphnocoris pellucida (Heteroptera: Miri-
dae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:341-344.

Kelton, L. A. 1980. Two new species of Melanot-
richus Reuter from Western Canada and a
description of the male of M. atriplicis (Het-
eroptera: Miridae). Can. Entomol. 112:337-
339.

LeSage, L.; Harrison, A. D. 1980. The biology of
Cricotopus (Chironomidae: Orthocladiinae) in
an algal-enriched stream: Part I. Normal
biology. Arch. Hydrobiol. Suppl. 57:375-418.

LeSage, L.; Harrison, A. D. 1980. The biology of
Cricotopus (Chironomidae: Orthocladiinae) in
an algal-enriched stream: Part II. Effects of
parasitism. Arch. Hydrobiol. Suppl. 57:1-25.

Loan, C. C. 1979. Three new species of Peristenus
Foerster from Canada and Western Europe
(Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Euphorinae). Nat.
Can. 106:387-391.

Loan, C. C; Doganlar, M. 1980. Oedemopsis
scabricula in British Columbia (Hymenoptera:
Ichneumonidae, Tryphoninae). Nat. Can.
107:11-14.

Loan, C. C; Holliday, N. J. 1979. Euphorinae
parasitic on ground beetles with descriptions of
three new species of Microctonus Wesmael
(Hymenoptera: Braconidae, and Coleoptera:
Carabidae). Nat. Can. 106:393-397.

Marriage, P. B.; Warwick, S. I. 1980. Differential
growth and response to atrazine between and
within susceptible and resistant biotypes of
Chenopodium album L. Weed Res. 20:9-15.

Masner, L. 1980. The identity of Calotelea ocularis
Ashmead, 1894 (Hymenoptera, Proctotrupoi-
dea, Scelionidae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:393-396.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Masner, L. 1980. A revision of the Nearctic species
of Calotelea Westwood (Hymenoptera, Proc-
totrupoidea, Scelionidae). Can. Entomol.
112:397-408.

Masner, L. 1980. Key to genera of Scelionidae of
the Holarctic region, with descriptions of new
genera and species (Hymenoptera: Procto-
trupoidea). Mem. Entomol. Soc. Can. 113:1-

54.

Matile, L.; Vockeroth, J. R. 1980. Description d'un
genre nouveau de Keroplatidae de l'ouest
Nord-Américain (Diptera: Mycetophiloidea).
Can. Entomol. 112:545-548.

Matusda, R. 1980. Description of a new species of
Aradus (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) from
Canada. Can. Entomol. 1 12:855-856.

McNeill, J. 1980. The delimitation of Arenaria
(Caryophyllaceae) and related genera in North
America with 1 1 new combinations in Minuar-
tia. Rhodora 82:495-502.

McNeill, J.; Majumdar, N. C. 1980. A new species
of Arenaria subgenus Odontostemma from
Tibet, with a review of the status of the genus
Gooringia (Caryophyllaceae). Bot. J. Linn.

Soc. 80:371-378.

Mulligan, G. A. 1980. The genus Cicuta in North
America. Can. J. Bot. 58( 1 6): 1 755- 1 767.

Mulvey, R. H. 1979. Heterodera canadensis n. sp.
(Nematoda: Heteroderidae) from spike-rush
(Eleocharis acicularis (L.) R. & S.) in Que-
bec, Canada. J. Nematol. 1 1 (4):363-371 .

Mulvey, R. H.; Anderson, R. V. 1980. Description
and relationships of a new root-knot nematode,
Meloidogyne sewellii n. sp. (Nematoda:
Meloidogynidae) from Canada and a new host
record for the genus. Can. J. Zool. 58:1551-
1556.

Mulvey, R. H.; Ebsary, B. A. 1980. Dolichodera
fluvialis n.gen., n. sp. (Nematoda: Heteroderi-
dae) from Quebec, Canada. Can. J. Zool.
58(9):1697-1702.

Munroe, D. D.; Smith, R. F. 1980. A revision of the
systematics of Acalymma sensu stricto Barber
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from North
America including Mexico. Mem. Entomol.
Soc. Can. 112:92.

Mutuura, A. 1980. Epiblema (Notoceliaj cynosba-
tella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a recently
introduced old world species potentially injuri-
ous to Rosaceae. Can. Entomol. 112:511-514.

Mutuura, A. 1980. Morphological relations of
sclerotized and pigmented areas of lepidopter-
ous larvae to muscle attachments, with appli-
cations to larval taxonomy. Can. Entomol.
112:697-724.

Naumann, I. D.; Masner, L. 1980. A revision of the
termitophilous Australian genus Leaiopria
Dodd (Hymenoptera: Proctotrupoidea: Diapri-
idae). J. Aust. Entomol. Soc. 1 9: 1 43- 1 49.

Neish, G. A. 1980. Effects of sugars on microconid-
ium production by macroconidia and primor-
dial hyphae of Fusarium acuminatum. Can. J.
Bot. 58(5):542-545.

Parmalee, J. A. 1980. Fungi Canadenses: No. 172,
Puccinia schedonnardi; No. 173, Puccinia
sherardiana.

Parmelee, J. A.; de Carteret, P. M. 1980. Fungi
Canadenses: No. 171, Puccinia malvacearum;
No. 186, Aecidium physalidis; No. 187, Puc-
cinia physalidis; No. 188, Puccinia tumidipes.

Porsild, A. E.; Cody, W. J. 1980. Vascular plants of
continental Northwest Territories, Canada.
Natl. Mus. Nat. Sci. Publ. 667 pp.

Redhead, S. A. 1980. Fungi Canadenses: No. 165,
Mycena cariciophila; No. 166, Marasmiellus
paludosus; No. 170, Gerronema pseudogri-
sella; No. 175, Phaeomarasmius erinaceus;
No. 177, Hemimycena tortuosa.

Redhead, S. A.; Malloch, D. W. 1980. Fungi
Canadenses: No. 178, Hygrocybe spqdicea;
No. 179, Marasmiellus filopes; No. 189, Mel-
anotus caricicola.

Redhead, S. A. 1980. The genus Strobilurus
(Agaricales) in Canada with notes on extralim-
ital species. Can. J. Bot 58(l):68-83.

Redhead, S. A.; Ginns, J. 1980. Cyptotrama
aspraia (Agaricales) from North America and
notes on the five other species of Cyptotrama
sect. Xerulina. Can. J. Bot. 58(6): 731-740.

Salkeld, E. H. 1980. Microtype eggs of some
Tachinidae (Diptera). Can. Entomol. 112:51-
83.

Savile, D. B. O. 1979. Fungi as aids in higher plant
classification. Bot. Rev. 45(4):337-503.

Miscellaneous

Alex, J. F.; Cayouette, R.; Mulligan, G. A. 1980.
Common and botanical names of weeds in
Canada. Agric. Can. Publ. 1397. 132 pp.

Barr, D. J. S. 1980. A Phlyctochytrium-type
zoospore; the possible progenitor for the Blas-
tocladiales. Mycol. Soc. Am. Newsl. 31:33
(abstract).

Bassett, I. J.; Crompton, C. W. 1980. Contributions
11,21, and 32. Mulligan, G. A., ed. Biology of
Canadian weeds. Contributions 1-32. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1693.380 pp.

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Becker, E. C. 1980. Hariminus Fairmaire, 1852
(Coleoptera): proposed designation of a type
species under the Plenary Powers.
Z.N.(S)2264. Bull. Zool. Nomencl. 37(1 ):49-
50.

Boyes, J. W.; Van Brink, J. M.; Boyes, B. C;
Vockeroth, J. R. 1980. Chromosomes of Eris-
talinae and Microdontaine (Diptera: Syrphi-
dae). Genet. Soc. Can. Publ. 3. 137 pp.

Carmichael, J. W.; Kendrick, W. B.; Conners, I. L.;
Sigler, L. 1980. Genera of Hyphomycetes.
University of Alberta Press. 386 pp.

Cody, W. J. 1980. Wolffia columbiana (Limna-
ceae), water-meal, new to Manitoba. Can.
Field-Nat. 94:193-194.

Cody, W. J., editor. 1980. Transactions of the
Ottawa Field-Naturalists' Club and the Ot-
tawa Naturalist Index. Gillett, J. M., compiler.
Publ. No. 2. 95 pp.

Cody, W. J. 1980. Book review: Eastern North
America's wildflowers. Can. Field-Nat.
94:102.

Cody, W. J. 1980. Book review: The pteridophytes
of Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota. Can.
Field-Nat. 94:211.

Cody, W. J. 1980. Book review: Wildflowers of the
North. Can. Field-Nat. 94:484.

Cody, W. J.; Crompton, C. W. 1979. Contribution
15. Mulligan, G. A., ed. Biology of Canadian
weeds. Contributions 1-32. Agric. Can. Publ.
1693.380 pp.

Cody, W. J.; Hall, I. V.; Crompton, C. W. 1979.
Contribution 26. Mulligan, G. A., ed. Biology
of Canadian weeds. Contributions 1-32. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1693.380 pp.

Cody, W. J.; Munro, D. 1980. The genus Listera
(twayblades) in New Brunswick. Can. Field-
Nat. 94:443-446.

Dondale, C. D. 1980. The spider fauna of Canada.
Proceedings 8th International Congress Arach-
nology, Vienna, pp. 41 1-413.

Ginns, J. 1980. Book review: How to identify
mushrooms to genus: I, Macroscopic features;
II, Field identification of genera; III, Micro-
scopic features; IV, Keys to families and
genera. Largent, D. L. et al. Can. Field-Nat.
94:354.

Ginns, J. 1980. Book review: North American
species of Lactarius. Hesler, L. R.; Smith, A.
H. Can. Field-Nat. 94:843-844.

Hamilton, K. G. A. 1980. Book review: The
Auchenorrhyncha (Homoptera) of Fennoscan-
dia and Denmark. Part 1: Introduction, in-
fraorder Fulgoromorpha. Ossiannilsson. F.

1978. Fauna Entomol. Scand. 7(1): 222 pp.
Bull. Entomol. Soc. Can. 12(1):17-18.

Kelton, L. A. 1979. Replacement name for Brook-
sella Kelton (Heteroptera: Miridae). Can.
Entomol. 1 1 1(12):1423.

McAlpine, J. F. 1980. 60. Family Lonchaeidae.
Crosskey, R. W. et al., eds. Catalogue of the
Diptera of the Afrotropical Region. British
Museum (Natural History), London, England,
pp. 630-632.

McNeill, J. 1979. Contribution 25. Mulligan, G.
A., ed. The biology of Canadian weeds. Contri-
butions 1-32. Agric. Can. Publ. 1693. 380 pp.

McNeill, J. 1980. The genus Alchemilla in North
America. Bot. Soc. Am. Misc. Ser. Publ.
158:69-70 (abstract).

Mulligan, G. A., editor and compiler. 1979. The
biology of Canadian weeds. Contributions
1-32. Agric. Can. Publ. 1693. 380 pp.

Mulligan, G. A. 1980. Poison-ivy, western poison
oak, and poison sumac. Agric. Can. Publ.
1699. 13 pp.

Mutuura, A. 1980. Two Pandemis species intro-
duced into British Columbia, with a compari-
son of native North American species (Lepi-
doptera: Tortricidae). Can. Entomol. 112:549-
554.

Neish, G. A.; Hughes, G. C. 1980. Diseases of
fishes. Book 6: Fungal diseases of fishes.
T.F.H. Publications, Neptune, N.J. 159 pp.

Redhead, S. A. 1979. Mycological observations: 1,
on Cristulariella; 2, on Valdensinia; 3, on
Neolecta. Mycologia 7 1(6): 1248- 1253.

Redhead, S. A. 1980. Book review: British fungus
flora. Agarics and boleti: 2. Coprinaceae Part
1: Coprinus. Orton, P. D.; Watling, R. Mycolo-
gia 72:223-224.

Shoemaker, R. A.; Pirozynski, K. A. 1980. Obitu-
ary Luella Kayla Weresub 1918-1979. Bull.
Can. Bot. Assoc. 1 3(2): 13-16.

Smith, K. G. V.; Vockeroth, J. R. 1980. 38. Family
Syrphidae. Crosskey, R. W. et al., eds. Cata-
logue of the Diptera of the Afrotropical region.
Crosskley, R. W., ed. London, pp. 488-510.

Thakur, M.; Nozolillo, C; Baum, B. R. 1980.
Anthocyanin pigmentation in vegetative tissues
as a tool in identifying Impatiens species.
Botany 80. Bot. Soc. Am. Misc. Ser. Publ.
158:1 15 (abstract).

Traquair, J. A.; Redhead, S. A. 1980. Calyptella
capula, an inconspicuous basidiomycete on
alfalfa. Presented to the Canadian Botanical
Society. Bot. Soc. Am. Misc. Ser. Publ.
158:1 18-1 19 (abstract).

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Vockeroth, J. R. 1980. 82. Family Scathophagidae.
Crosskey, R. W. et al., eds. Catalogue of the
Diptera of the Afrotropical region. London, p.
714.

Warwick, S. I.; Marriage, P. B. 1980. Differential
growth and response to atrazine in resistant
and susceptible populations of Chenopodium
album in relation to geographical location.
Botany 80. Am. Bot. Soc. Am. (abstract).

Warwick, S. I.; Weaver, S. E. 1980. Atrazine
resistance in Amaranihus retroflexus (redroot
pigweed) and A. powellii (green pigweed)
from southern Ontario. Expert Committee on
Weeds Research Report.

Weresub, L. K.; Hughes, S. J. 1979. Proposal to
emend entries under Helminthosporium E. M.
Fries, Nom. Cons. (Fungi). Taxon 28:605-607.

Weresub, L. K.; McNeill, J. 1980. Effective publi-
cation under the Code of botanical nomencla-
ture. Taxon 29(4):47 1-476.

Wilkinson, P. R.; Fyfe, R.; Martin, J. E. H. 1980.
Further records of Ornithodoros ticks on
prairie falcons and in bat-inhabited buildings
in Canada. Can. Field-Nat. 94(2): 1 91 -1 93.

BIOSYSTEMATICS RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Chemistry and Biology Research Institute
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

A. I. de la Roche, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Director

S. U. Khan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C, F.R.I.C. Assistant Director

D. Brunette Acting Administrative Officer

Plant Pathology

C. Madhosingh, D.I.C.T.A., B.S.A., M.S. A., Ph.D. Program Leader; Enzymology of

pathogenic fungi
L. R. Barran, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Cell membrane biochemistry

R. B. Pringle, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D., F.A.A.A.S. Host-specific toxins

E. F. Schneider, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D. Sporulation and wall structure
I. L. Stevenson, B.S.A., M.S. A., Ph.D. Cytology and physiology

Virus and Mycoplasma

R. C. Sinha, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., D.Sc

L. N. Chiykowski, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
Y. C. Paliwal, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader; Virus and
mycoplasma vector relationships
Leafhopper-transmitted mycoplasma
Aphid- and mite-transmitted viruses

Environmental Chemistry

S. U. Khan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C, F.R.I.C. Program Leader; Herbicides

R. Greenhalgh, B.S., Ph.D. Organophosphorus insecticides

M. Ihnat, B.Sc, Ph.D. Inorganic chemistry

D. A. Shearer, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., F.C.I.C. Insect pheromones

J. C. Young, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Analytical organic chemistry

Soil Chemistry and Biology

M. Schnitzer, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.S.S., Program Leader;

F.A.S.A., F.S.S.S.A. Soil organic matter

D. S. Gamble, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C. Soil phosphorus

chemistry and biology research institute

K. C. Ivarson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. Kodama, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.Sc
S. P. Mathur, B.Sc, Assoc LA. R.I.
N. M. Miles, B.Sc.
H. Morita, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.Sc.
C. Preston, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
L. Purdie, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. J. Ross, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. S. Singh, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Ph.D.

Soil nitrogen
Soil mineralogy
Organic soils
Soil mineralogy
Organic soils
Soil mineralogy
Soil nitrogen
Soil mineralogy
Soil chemistry

Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation

R. W. Miller, B.S., Ph.D.

R. M. Behki, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.

S. M. Lesley, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.

F. D. H. MacDowall, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. A. Peterson, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

J. C. Sirois, B.A., B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader; Biochemistry,
enzymology
Genetic manipulation
Genetic manipulation
Physiology
Bacteriology
Physiology

Winterhardiness

D. Siminovitch, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.R.S.C.

C. J. Andrews, B.Sc, Ph.D.

F. D. H. MacDowall, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

M. K. Pomeroy, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. Singh, B.S., Ph.D.

J. C. Sirois, B.A., B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader; Frost hardiness,

lipids and membrane
Winter survival of cereals
Frost damage, chloroplast

membrane
Frost resistance, biochemistry,

cytology
Frost hardiness
Growth regulators

Analytical Chemistry Services

S. U. Khan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C, F.R.I.C. Program Leader

Electron Microscope Centre

I. L. Stevenson, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
G. H. Haggis, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader
Electron microscopy

Departures

W. Baier, Diplomlandwirt, Dr. agr., M.Sc. Acting Director

Transferred to Land Resource Research Institute,
Ottawa

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

T. Spurr

Seconded to Research Branch Headquarters
D. A. Shearer, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., F.C.I.C.
Retired August 1980

Administrative Officer
Insect pheromones

VISITING SCIENTISTS

N. Benhamou, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

National Research Council visiting fellow
F. Haque, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Ottawa University
K. Ghosh, B.Sc, M.Sc, D. Phil.

National Research Council visiting fellow
B. E. Gudleifsson, Candidatus agr., Licensiat agr.

Agricultural Research Institute, Iceland
Y. Cloutier

National Research Council visiting fellow

Rickettsia mycoplasma
Pesticide degradation
Soil organic matter
Winter survival
Winterhardiness

Postgraduate student

A. H. Khadhair, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Plant virology

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

INTRODUCTION

The activities of the Chemistry and Biology Research Institute are integrated into
multidisciplinary, mission-oriented programs that have regional responsibility for research in
basic and applied sciences related to agriculture. The activities are conducted under eight main
programs.

Research is concerned with interrelationships between microorganisms, viruses, soils, and
plants. The research programs place particular emphasis on the mineralogy, biology, and
chemistry of soils; frost hardiness; nitrogen fixation in legume crops; plant viruses and
mycoplasma; environmental chemistry including organic toxins, trace elements, and pesticides;
and fusarium-spot blotch disease. New or improved analytical methods for the determination
of various constituents in agricultural materials are developed.

Services include mineralogical analyses by means of X-ray diffraction, electron
microscope facilities, and analytical chemistry services. The facilities of the Electron
Microscope Centre were used by various establishments within the Research Branch,
universities, and outside agencies. The Analytical Chemistry Services provided a wide range of
chemical analyses and structural information on extracts from agricultural and food products
by means of advanced analytical instrumentation such as gas chromatography - mass
spectrometry.

There were some organizational changes in the Institute. The Acting Director, W. Baier,
returned to the Land Resource Research Institute in May 1980 and assumed his duties as
Head, Agrometeorology Section. Dr. A. I. de la Roche of the Planning and Evaluation
Directorate was appointed Director of the Institute in May 1980.

This report summarizes only the highlights of our achievements in 1980. Reprints of the
research publications and copies of this report are available from the Chemistry and Biology
Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. Kl A 0C6.

A. I. de la Roche
Director

PLANT PATHOLOGY

Enzymes and inhibitors related to lipid and
membrane biochemistry in Fusarium spp.

A number of inhibitors to the enzymes
hydroxylmethylglutaryl-CoA reductase and
sterol ester hydrolase from F. culmorum, a
wheat pathogen, have been examined. After
10 h incubation at pH 7, the optimum pH for
activity, linoleoyllysine and linoleoylaspartate
at 0.5 mM concentration inhibited the hydro-
lase system and respiration by 50%. However,
after 25 h incubation linoleoylaspartate
showed significantly more effective inhibition
of respiration than linoleoyllysine. Similarly,
linoleoylaspartate reduced phenylalanine
transport into the mycelium and spores and
the net-sterol content more effectively than
linoleoyllysine. Other studies demonstrated
the laboratory degradation of these com-
pounds by the pathogen.

Mycelia of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici
transported methionine by an energy-depen-
dent process. The energy required for uptake

may be derived from either respiration or
glycolysis at the optimum pH 4 and the
optimum temperature 35°C. Apparent Km
and the Kmax for methionine was 3 /am and
0.27 nmol/min per milligram dry weight,
respectively. .S-Adenosylhomocysteine was
found to be the major metabolic product of
the accumulated methionine.

Methionine uptake was not inhibited by the
acidic and basic amino acids and amino acids
having less than a four-carbon chain. The rate
of methionine transport was greatest in log-
phase cells and decreased substantially as the
cells entered the stationary phase.

Macroconidia of F. sulphureum actively
transported L-glutamate via a specific acidic
amino acid permease. The apparent Km for
uptake (pH 5) was 0.8 x 1.7 x 10s M and
the V varied from 0.8 to 1.2 nmol/min per
milligram dry weight. The pH and tempera-
ture optimums for transport were 3.5-4.5 and
30°C, respectively. The transport of gluta-
mate was shown to occur against a concentra-
tion gradient of at least 1:140 and was

RHSL.ARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

suppressed by uncouplers or inhibitors of
respiration.

Cell wall structure and composition in
Fusarium spp.

Conidiogenesis in F. sulphureum, F. cul-
morum, and F. decemicullare exhibited a
primitive phialitic mode of ontogeny. The
macroconidia were produced terminally and
externally on conidiophores. Mature macroco-
nidial cell walls were found to have a highly
crystalline chitin structure, whereas those of
younger conidia were amorphous as deter-
mined by X-ray diffraction and infrared
analyses. Similar analyses of cells treated
with thiols indicated that these compounds
produced depolymerization of the chitin net-
work in the cell walls.

Biology of seed infestation by Cochliobolus
sativus

Field trials were undertaken in 1980 to
follow natural seed infestation by C sativus
throughout the course of grain development.
Prolonged periods of leaf-surface wetness,
high relative humidity, and elevated tempera-
tures (15 July-4 August) resulted in the rapid
spread of the disease with the concomitant
increase in aerial spore populations. The
percentage of internally infected seed paral-
leled the incidence of airborne spores and the
progression of spot blotch. At harvest C
sativus was recovered from 90% of surface-
sterilized seed.

Light transmission and scanning electron
microscope studies of naturally infected seeds
and seed parts established the following:
fungal mycelium was present within the
parenchyma and sclerenchyma cells of the
lemma and palea and between these outer
husks and the closely appressed pericarp of
the caryopsis. Mycelium was also observed in
the pericarp and between the pericarp layers
and the seed testa. No fungi (or spores) were
observed in other parts of the grain.

Disease-producing toxins from Cochliobolus
spp.

Derivatives of a toxin produced by Coch-
liobolus were prepared by complexing this
toxin with a variety of inorganic ions. These
derivatives were bioassayed and were found to
be biologically stable. They can be used for
further chemical characterization.

Disease control studies

Mixtures of Europan and Maneb fungicides
as a wheat seed treatment did not synergisti-
cally enhance the disease control capacity of
either fungicide. Thiols, which enhanced the
in vitro fungicidal capacity of benomyl
against F. sulphureum, were ineffective under
field conditions for controlling the pathogen.
Clofibrate, an inhibitor of sterol biosynthesis
which inhibits spore germination and growth
of the pathogen, was examined as a seed
treatment. DMSO, ethyl ether, and ethanol
(5%) tested as carriers of the inhibitor for
seed treatments for 6 min, 1 h, and 6 h,
respectively, did not affect seed germination.
Clofibrate at 0.02 mg per seed (5% ethanol
carrier) afforded 50% fungus infestation
reduction in 6 days in cultures of wheat
seedlings containing 105 spores per millilitre
of sand. Results from preliminary field trials
were inconclusive.

VIRUS AND MYCOPLASMA

Peach-X disease

Twenty-five species of plants in 13 families
were tested for disease susceptibility by
exposing them to infective vector leafhoppers
Paraphlepsius irroratus. Eight plant species
developed the disease symptoms and infected
plants were shown to contain typical my-
coplasma cells. Based on high susceptibility to
infection, insect palatability, and mycoplasma
concentration, celery was found to be the most
promising plant species for pathogen
purification.

Forage legume diseases

Four viruses were identified in alfalfa from
26 isolates obtained in 1979. To determine the
incidence of these viruses, extracts of each of
700 plants that were collected from seven
alfalfa fields in Ontario were tested against
antisera of the four viruses. Virus distribution
was: alfalfa mosaic, 3-92%; tobacco streak
and pea streak, 0-10%; and clover yellow
mosaic, 0-12%. Incidence of five viruses,
suspected to be present in red clover, was
similarly determined by testing 350 samples
collected from six fields. Incidence of viruses
was: red clover vein mosaic and pea streak,
1-6%; clover yellow mosaic, 1-7%; bean
yellow mosaic, 2-10%; and white clover
mosaic, 4-11%. Two- to three-year-old alfalfa

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

or clover stands had the highest infection
levels.

Examination of field-collected white clo-
vers through electron microscopy revealed the
presence of rickettsia-like organisms in some
plants. The disease was transmitted to healthy
plants by means of dodder. Infected plants
showed severe stunting, leaf chlorosis, twist-
ing, and reduction in size of leaflets. Both
experimentally infected plants and the dodder
contained rickettsia. This is the first record of
a disease in Canada involving such an
organism.

Aster yellows

The mycoplasma found associated with the
disease was first detected serologically in
extracts of aster plants 3 wk after infection.
The mycoplasma concentration reached a
peak by the 7th wk, remained at the same
level for another 2 wk, and then declined to a
lower level by the 13th wk. Leafhopper
transmission pattern of the disease, after the
vector leafhoppers Macrosteles fascifrons
acquired the pathogen from plants of different
infection ages, was similar to the mycoplasma
growth curve.

Barley yellow dwarf virus

Tests on 140 samples of perennial grasses
from five locations in Ontario revealed gener-
ally low virus infection levels (0-5%) with the
exception of samples collected from Ottawa
area which showed 40% infection. Three virus
strains were identified in grasses and four in
winter and spring wheat grain. An RP-
specific strain was predominant in the grasses,
whereas wheat contained only a nonspecific
one. Virus incidence ranged from 1 to 8% in
winter wheat; from 5 to 10% in spring grains
at locations of very low grass infection; and
from 2 to 3% in the Ottawa area. These
epidemiological studies suggest a limited role
of grasses as a source of virus for the cereal
crops.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY

Inorganic chemistry

Biological availability of trace minerals
from silages. A number of tissues from sheep
fed with normal alfalfa and corn silages or
with similar silages treated with trace miner-
als were analyzed using wet digestion - flame
spectrometry. Different levels of Mg, Ca, Zn,

Cu, Mn, Fe, Cr, and P were present in
samples of rumen, duodenal, and ilial digesta
and components. A computer program for
analytical calculations was used to assess the
bioavailability of these elements from silage.

Detection of hazardous silo gases. A sim-
ple, inexpensive device for detecting the
presence of hazardous gases in silos was
identified for use by farm workers after a
comprehensive survey of the literature and
manufacturers of gas detection devices. Sev-
eral certified, length-of-stain chemical detec-
tors for nitrogen dioxide, the dominant toxic
silo gas with a threshold-limiting value of 5
ppm, and other silage-produced gases were
chosen for field testing. Modifications were
suggested and testing protocols were
established.

Organic chemistry

Ergot alkaloids. The variability in total
and individual ergot alkaloid contents in
wheat sclerotia collected from about 60
different locations throughout Canada was
determined. The total alkaloid content was
highly variable between sclerotia and ranged
from 0.013 to 0.307% (av. 0.163%). Ergocris-
tine and its isomer ergocristinine were the
major constituents (^46%). Other alkaloid
pairs observed were ergotamine (~17%),
ergocryptine (^12%), ergocornine (^11%),
ergometrine (%7%), and ergosine (~5%),
together with some unidentified alkaloids
(-v2%).

Short- and long-term feeding of ergotamine
to poultry showed that 5% reductions in
weight gain resulted with diets containing 40-
60 ppm of the alkaloid. Alkaloid residues in
tissues, when detected, were very low (<10
ppb).

Pesticides

Pesticides in soils, plants, and food crops.
Field microplots were treated with fensul-
fothion containing active ingredient (ai) at
equivalent to field treatment rates of 8.48 and
16.96 kg/ha and with fensulfothion at 2.23
and 4.47 kg ai/ha for banded application. The
half-lives in a sandy loam soil were 30-39 and
14-23 days, respectively. Fensulfothion sul-
fone and fensulfothion sulfide were the main
derivatives found in fensulfothion-treated soil.
The residue levels in crops at harvest de-
creased in the order carrot peel > pulp >
rutabaga root > peel > pulp. The sulfoxide
to sulfone ratio in rutabagas ranged from 0.4

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

to 1.5 and in carrots from 1.7 to 7.6. This
phenomenon is thought to be due to active
oxidative enzyme systems present in rutaba-
gas. Dimethyl phosphorothioic acid, but not
dimethyl phosphoric acid, was detected (max
1.33 ppm) in some rutabaga samples but not
in carrots.

Effect of copper (0, 100, 200, 500, and
1000 ppm) on the degradation of fensul-
fothion in an organic soil was examined in a
greenhouse study. Copper was rapidly ad-
sorbed by the soil. The half-life of fensul-
fothion was 30-40 days with sulfone as the
main derivative formed. During the first 30
days, soil with low copper levels degraded
fensulfothion slightly faster. However, by day
52, there was no significant difference in the
levels of fensulfothion in all the treatments.

Soil-bound 14C residues were absorbed by
the oat plants grown in an organic soil treated
with l4C-ring-labeled prometryn. The roots
contained more extractable l4C residues
(75.0%) than did shoots (51.1%). The major-
ity of extractable 14C residues in the plant
tissue was present in the form of conjugates.
Plant-bound 14C-unextractable residues were
lower in roots (19.9%) but greater in shoots
(40.2%). Mono- and di-TV-dealkylated metab-
olites of prometryn were present in the plant-
bound 14C residues. A major bound-14C resi-
due in plant tissues was associated with lignin.

Other studies demonstrated that time and
method of atrazine application (pre-plant
incorporated, preemergence, postemergence),
and the presence of oil-surfactant additives in
the herbicide formulation had no long-term
effect on persistence. However, postemer-
gence application, along with the presence of
additives, resulted in slightly greater initial
degradation rate of atrazine. In all treat-
ments, application of atrazine at less than
phytotoxic amounts and hydroxyatrazine
persisted into the next growing season. Resi-
dues from the field-treated soil were taken up,
metabolized, and conjugated by oats seeded in
the following spring.

Pesticides in farm animals. Incubation of
deethylatrazine and deisopropylatrazine with
the soluble fraction (105 000 x g) from
goose liver homogenates resulted in formation
of the corresponding hydroxy analogues. No
dealkylation of hydroxyatrazine occurred
when incubation was carried out with the
enzyme preparation. These data suggest that
in the metabolism of atrazine by the soluble

fraction from liver homogenates, the forma-
tion of 2-hydroxy partially TV-dealkylated
metabolites occurs by the hydrolysis of the
respective 2-chloro analogues rather than by
partial TV-dealkylation of hydroxyatrazine.

Analytical methodology and chemistry of
pesticides. The performance of a range of
element-selective detectors was studied using
chlorpyrifos as a standard. Similar linear
ranges were observed when standards contain-
ing one specific heteroatom were compared on
different element-selective detectors. Because
of the latter fact and its sensitivity to these
detectors, chlorpyrifos was recommended as a
common standard for the evaluation of gas
chromatography detectors.

The hydrolysis of fenitrothion was studied
in buffered distilled water, natural lake water,
and buffered lake water. Above pH 8, the
formation of 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol was
demonstrated, whereas below pH 7 demethyl-
fenitrothion was also detected. The half-lives
for disappearance of fenitrothion at 23°C and
pH 7.5 in natural lake water kept in the dark
and in field plots were 49.5 and 1.5-2 days,
respectively. This difference suggests that
photolysis and microbiol processes are the
main degradative routes of fenitrothion in
natural aquatic systems.

Identification of cultivars by pyrolysis gas
chromatography. Pyrograms of four Cana-
dian oat cultivars were obtained using a
Curie-point pyrolyzer and capillary column
gas chromatography. Fifty-seven peaks in
each chromatogram were normalized and
used as variables. The occurrence of a number
of missing values in one or another replicate,
and singularities in the covariance matrix,
resulted in the use of only 10 variables for
discriminant analyses. Four variables were
sufficient for the correct identification, given
the classification functions obtained. This
approach to automated cultivar identification
in oats shows promise but will require further
investigation.

SOIL CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY

Soil chemistry and mineralogy

Exchangeable aluminum in soils. The
ability of five extractants (NaCl, KC1,
NH4N03, NH4C1, and CaClj to measure
exchangeable aluminum in soils was investi-
gated. Ammonium salt solutions consistently
extracted greater amounts of Al than did the

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

other solutions. The extra Al could have come
from sources other than exchangeable Al.
Orthic Ferro-Humic Podzol soils yielded more
Al from nonexchangeable sites than did
Orthic Luvic Gleysol soils. Corrections for
contributions of Al from nonexchangeable
sites need to be made if meaningful assess-
ments of exchangeable Al in acid soils are
required.

The aqueous and exchange chemistry of Al
in selected soils was investigated by equili-
brating the soils with 10~2 M solutions of
CaCl2 and CaS04. Total Al was higher in the
S04 system, whereas Al(III) was higher in the
CI system. The ion activity product Al(OH)3
was found to be higher in the CaS04 than in
the CaCl2 solution. Differences in ion activity
products indicate changes in solid phases
which control the products.

Mineralogy of Arctic soils. The mineralog-
ical characteristics of 12 horizons, taken from
five soil profiles on Ellef Ringnes Island,
N.W.T., were determined. Little soil differ-
entiation was found between parent materials
and surface horizons. One of the Arctic soils
contained a 7Â iron-rich trioctahedral layer
silicate, whose occurrence in soils is unusual.
A detailed analysis showed that this mineral
was berthierine with an intermediate ferrous-
ferric composition. Apparently the severely
restricting weathering environment in the
Arctic region contributed to the preservation
of berthierine in this soil.

Cemented soil horizons. Chemical dissolu-
tion methods were found to be useful for the
characterization of cemented soil horizons.
Cementing agents ranged from inorganic
amorphous substances containing Si, Al, and
Fe to Al-Fe-organic matter and clay-organic
matter complexes. In some soils imogolite was
found to act as a cementing agent.

Separating amorphous from crystalline
soil components. The separation of amor-
phous from crystalline components improves
the sensitivity of X-ray diffraction methods
for the quantification of soil minerals. Four
dissolution methods, making use of solutions
of Tiron, NaOH, Na2C03 and citrate-dithio-
nite, were tested. Dissolution with Tiron was
found to be the most efficient procedure for
this purpose.

Microbial formation of jarosites. The
microbial formation in the laboratory of Rb-
and Cs-jarosites was investigated. Crystalline
Rb-jarosite was formed rapidly, only slightly

more slowly than jarosite but much faster
than were NH4- and natro-jarosites. Cs-
jarosite did not form under these conditions,
probably because of the comparatively large
ionic size of Cs.

Mineralogical analysis service

Some 1100 X-ray diffractograms were
recorded on a wide variety of soils and
minerals. In addition, 250 diffraction film
patterns from Guinier, Gandolfi and Debye-
Scherrer cameras were developed along with
their densiometer patterns. A total of 65
thermal analyses were done. Some 325 infra-
red curves were recorded on soil minerals and
mineral-organic complexes, and 50
Môssbauer spectra were recorded and ana-
lyzed for calibration and mineral identifica-
tion purposes. Four least-square computer
programs were purchased and used for assig-
ning crystallographic indexes and for calcu-
lating X-ray diffraction patterns.

Soil organic matter and organic soils

'Unknown' soil nitrogen. Of 10 fractions
separated from two soils by sedimentation,
the silt- 1 fraction (2-5 /xm) was found to
contain an unusually high 80% 'unknown' N,
compared with only 52 and 30% 'unknown' N
in the two adjacent fractions. The C:N ratio
of the silt- 1 fraction was 3. Môssbauer and
electron spin resonance spectra showed that
the organic matter in this fraction occurred as
a Fe - organic matter complex with which the
'unknown' N appeared to be associated.
Biodégradation experiments with soil mi-
crobes showed that the N in the silt- 1 fraction
was less available than the N in the two
adjacent fractions.

The behavior toward mild chemical oxida-
tion with peracetic acid of the N in one fulvic
and three humic acids was similar. There
were decreases in amino acid N and 'un-
known' N but increases in NH3-N, NO,-N,
and N gases. Between 16.6 and 59.1% of the
'unknown' N was converted to NH3 and N
gases, indicating that the 'unknown' N was
not inert. Proportions of 'unknown' N in soils
and humic materials were found to be af-
fected by the method of hydrolysis. The most
suitable method for obtaining reliable esti-
mates of the 'unknown' N was continuous
hydrolysis for 24 h with hot 6N HC1.

Chemistry of humic and fulvic acids.
Significant new information was obtained on
the fluorescence and viscosity behavior of

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

fulvic acid and its copper and iron complexes
under widely differing experimental condi-
tions. Fluorophore groups in the fulvic acid
were found to participate in formation of
metal complexes. The molecular flexibility of
fulvic acid decreased with increasing forma-
tion of metal complexes. Some of the com-
plexed metals formed bridges between fulvic
acid molecules, thus bringing the macromo-
lecular segments closer to each other. Fulvic
acid was found to be more reactive at pH 6
than at pH 4 because of a reduction in
intramolecular hydrogen bonding at the
higher pH, which allowed the fulvic acid to
interact more freely with metal ions.

Interactions of 1 1 metal ions, namely
Hg(II), Fe(III), Al, Cr(III), Pb, Cu, Ni, Cd,
Zn, Co, and Mn, with humic and fulvic acids
under a variety of experimental conditions
were investigated. Orders of sorption and of
formation of water-insoluble precipitates were
established. The data provided useful infor-
mation on the fixation, release, transport, and
immobilization of metals in terrestrial and
aquatic environments.

Organic soils

To assess effects of incubation on the
carbohydrate composition of organic soils,
four peat samples were incubated for 1 yr at
room temperature in the greenhouse. Bitumen
and lignin-humic fractions increased during
incubation but hemicelluloses and celluloses
decreased. Xylose degraded most rapidly,
whereas relative proportions of glucose in-
creased.

Experiments on four sets of microplots on
organic soils at Ste. Clothilde, Que., and
Holland March, Ont., showed that yields of
radishes, onions, and celery were not affected
by the application of four times the recom-
mended rate of copper. A net gain of up to 3
cm in soil height was noted in microplots
started in 1978. The addition of copper
appeared to adversely affect degradative soil
enzymes in the microplots on which the crops
were grown.

SYMBIOTIC NITROGEN FIXATION

Competition between Rhizobium meliloti
strains

The ability of inoculum strains of Rhizobia
to survive in soil and compete with less active
nitrogen-fixing strains is a critical property
which determines the effectiveness of inocula

to colonize the roots of legume forage crops.
Methods have been developed for determina-
tion of the competitive ability of the many
naturally occurring strains of R. meliloti to
establish symbiotic nitrogen-fixing nodules on
the roots of alfalfa.

Heterologous serological reactions of four
R. meliloti strains, selected on the basis of
differences in their nitrogenase activities,
showed that they can be identified through gel
diffusion tests. Plant passage of these strains
did not change their immunodiffusion pat-
terns.

Tests to determine the susceptibility of R.
meliloti strains to a wide range of antibiotics
indicate that the strains may be grouped on
the basis of their antibiotic resistance or
sensitivity. Although many of the strains
possessed similar sensitivity patterns, the
unique response of others to one or more
specific antibiotics provides an additional aid
for positive identification during studies to
evaluate competitive ability for nodulation in
alfalfa.

A third method of characterization which
utilizes the specificity of infection of various
strains by bacteriophages has been developed.
Preliminary experiments showed that when
indigenous strains of R. meliloti were each
used as an inoculum and applied to freshly
germinated alfalfa seedlings at 100 times the
concentration normally found in soil, all of the
test plants were fully nodulated at 9 wk of
growth. However, bacteria isolated from
individual nodules of these plants were found
to be genetically different from those used as
inoculum when characterized by rhizophage
infection. The inoculant cells apparently were
not effective as competitors against the other
indigenous strains in the soil. This approach
will allow selection of highly competitive
strains for inoculation in the future.

Plant breeding

In collaboration with scientists at the
Ottawa Research Station, a program was
initiated for selection and propagation of
individual alfalfa clones having outstanding
nitrogen fixation activity in symbiotic growth
with selected R. meliloti strains. Selection
criteria will be based on screening tests
previously developed as well as on conven-
tional criteria such as root morphology and
dry weight yield. Possible new criteria for

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

selection based on measurement of photosyn-
thetic rates, efficiency of utilization of photo-
synthate for nitrogen fixation, and diurnal
variations in nitrogenase activity of alfalfa
seedlings are under investigation.

Rhizobium genetics

Nodulation and nitrogen-fixation-defective
mutants of R. meliloti obtained by the
insertion of M/u, bacteriophage were charac-
terized. Although these mutants contained
M/u- bacteriophage as evidenced by DNA-
DNA hybridization and by the transfer of
M fi from these mutants to E. coli, they were
incapable of production of the phage particles.
Their ability to stably maintain and to
transfer M/u, to other organisms was progres-
sively lost with time. Electron-microscopic
examination showed that the defects in abnor-
mal nodules infected with these mutants are
quite different compared with the abnormali-
ties in nodules obtained following alfalfa
infection with Rhizobium mutants obtained
by ethylmethane sulfonate treatment.

Work aimed at mobilization of genes for an
uptake hydrogenase system in Alcaligenes
eutropus progressed slowly. Procedures were
modified and a new class of auxotrophic
mutants was obtained. These mutants were
incapable of growth on C02 and H2 conditions
and were deficient in hydrogen uptake. Analy-
ses of DNA content and type must be made to
determine the basis of this defect and to
understand the intracellular localization of
hydrogen uptake genes. This project will
possibly lead to construction of new strains of
R. meliloti having the capability of recycling
hydrogen gas which is formed as a byproduct
of nodular nitrogenase activity. A new staff
member has joined the program to provide the
expertise in recombinant DNA and genetic
engineering techniques that are important in
developing such genetic approaches to inocu-
lant improvement. To achieve success with
these approaches, new information is needed
concerning the location and organization of
the genes for nitrogen fixation and symbiotic
traits on very large plasmids.

Nutritional requirements for optimal growth
and nitrogen fixation

Immature alfalfa seedlings do not utilize
symbiotically fixed nitrogen effectively in
support of early growth as compared with
added nitrogen fertilizers. There appears to be
a switch over to NH4+ utilization at about 23

days of growth. Alteration of this pattern to
encourage early growth on symbiotic nitrogen
may require both genetic alteration (plant
breeding) and induction by nutritional man-
agement. Nutritional factors other than fixed
nitrogen which influence the development of
high nitrogenase activity in root nodules have
been identified. The balance of cation concen-
trations have proven to be important factors
in this regard. Concentrations of Mg2+ and
Ca2 + , which produce maximal nitrogen fix-
ation and growth, have been identified.
Studies of the bacteroid membrane physical
properties suggested that divalent cations are
essential for maintenance of the membrane in
a state which supports optimal energy supply
to the nitrogenase enzyme system.

WINTERHARDINESS

Field and controlled environment studies

Winter survival of 10 winter cereal culti-
vars was assessed from plantings established
at seven different sites to determine suitable
cultivars for production in Eastern Ontario.
Survival was high in all regions due to an
unusually open winter in 1979-1980, and
significant cultivar differences were not ob-
served at most sites. Low survival was re-
corded only from samples taken from com-
mercial winter wheat plantings under natural
ice cover and in extremely exposed locations.
Snow mold damage was minimal in test plots
and commercial fields due to low snow accu-
mulation. Seventy-five lines of wheat and
triticale from Guelph, Harrow, and Ottawa
were ice encased in the field in January.
Seventeen of the lines tested were found to be
significantly more tolerant to ice encasement
than the commercially grown check variety
Fredrick. Investigations of the promotive
effect of prior flooding on subsequent survival
of winter cereals after ice encasement impli-
cated increased levels of alcohol dehydro-
genase produced during prior flooding in this
promotive effect. Forage grasses were found
to be more susceptible to freezing injury but
more resistant to ice-encasement injury than
winter wheats. Studies on changes in toler-
ance to winter stresses of cereal plants due to
virus infection showed that infected plants of
two wheat cultivars dehardened less than
noninfected plants under warm temperature
regimes used for virus infection and disease
development. Also, uninfected plants rehar-
dened more readily than those infected with

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

virus on further exposure to hardening tem-
peratures. Inhibition to rehardening increased
as the virus incubation period in the plants
was increased. Infected plants were 2-3°C
less hardy than the healthy plants.

Cellular and membrane studies

Electron spin resonance spectroscopy was
employed to examine changes in the proper-
ties of cellular membranes during cold accli-
mation and freezing of winter cereals. During
freezing, membranes of protoplasts obtained
from hardened and nonhardened rye seedlings
respond in a manner similar to that of egg
yolk lecithin liposomes subjected to either
freezing or dehydrative stress. Membrane
packing caused by extracellular freezing was
most pronounced near the polar head groups
of the phospholipid bilayer, and the rigid limit
of the membrane was reached at -12°C in
both hardened and nonhardened protoplast
membranes. Measurements of the fluidity of
membrane lipids from wheat seedlings of
contrasting freezing tolerance demonstrated a
lack of correlation between changes in mem-
brane fluidity and cultivar hardiness. These
observations suggest that changes in the
physical properties of membrane lipids may
not be a prerequisite to the development of
freezing tolerance in winter cereals.

Methods were developed for the successful
isolation of single mesophyll cells from hardy
and nonhardy rye seedlings. These cells retain
the freezing and dehydrative resistance prop-
erties of intact seedlings and will be used for
biophysical studies of freezing phenomena.
Ultrastructural studies on frozen and ice-
encased winter wheat crowns fixed in the
frozen state showed that lethal damage by low
freezing temperatures is accompanied by
severe cell disorganization, whereas little
structural damage occurs during lethal injury
by ice encasement just below the freezing
point.

Desiccation studies

Considerable progress has been made in
attempts to develop a method for rapid
screening of large numbers of cereal lines for
cold hardiness, based on the close relationship
between cold and drought tolerance. The 24-h
induction of freezing tolerance by desiccation
stress, and the concomitant protoplasmic
augmentation, has been confirmed. In several
cultivars, tolerance to freezing developed
under normal low temperature acclimation

was closely correlated with that developed in
24 h by desiccation. If this correlation is
found to apply to a wide range of cereal
cultivars of contrasting hardiness, this method
could eliminate the need for cold conditioning
equipment and protracted periods of condi-
tioning normally required for assessing hardi-
ness potential of cereal lines.

ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
SERVICES

The Analytical Chemistry Services contin-
ued to provide Branch establishments with a
comprehensive service in analyzing materials
as part of research programs. A method for
rapid estimation of sulfide in rumen and blood
with a sulfide-specific electrode was devel-
oped. The method is now being used routinely
for the determination of free sulfide in rumen
fluid and acid-labile sulfide in blood.

The four subunits of the Analytical Chem-
istry Services completed more than 88 000
analyses. The Amino Acid Laboratory carried
out 2494 protein hydrolysates and 633 physio-
logical fluid samples analyses. The Instrumen-
tation Centre used capillary column GC-MS
as a routine analytical technique for separa-
tion of some components in complex biolog-
ical samples. The Centre produced 1664
spectra consisting of 236 nuclear magnetic
resonance, 208 infrared, and 2057 mass
spectra. The Micro Analytical Laboratory
carried out 6739 organic elemental micro-
analyses. The Technical Service Unit per-
formed 60 642 analyses for a wide variety of
constituents. The Unit consistently employed
the two computer Datacom 400 terminals
which improved the calculations, compilation,
and sorting of analytical data. The Glassblow-
ing Service Unit processed more than 100
orders for various Branch establishments.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPE CENTRE

Sixty professional and technical staff of six
institutes, five research stations, three univer-
sities, and four outside agencies made use of
the personnel and facilities of the Centre. The
Postal Service responded to requests by
research workers at the Harrow and St.
John's West research stations and at L'As-
somption and Smithfield experimental farms.

The Centre contributed to research papers
in a number of diverse disciplines including
biosystematics; microbiology; plant pathology;

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

and plant, animal, soil, and food sciences.
Particulars of these publications appear under
the listings of the institutes and stations in
this report.

In-house research projects included the
development of techniques for high-resolution

studies on the structure and arrangement of
plant and bacterial DNA; the development of
replica techniques for viewing the macromo-
lecular configuration of soil organic matter
polymers; and the assessment of imposed
insults on the nature of eggshell fractures.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Barran, L. R. 1980. The methylating system for
3,54-phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis in Fu-
sarium oxysporum. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:774-
777.

Barran, L. R. 1980. Effect of heat, freeze-thaw
cycling and desiccation on the survival of
spores of Fusarium sulphureum. Trans. Br.
Mycol. Soc. 75:305-309.

Behki, R. M.; Lesley, S. M. 1979. Uptake of
exogenous DNA by carrot cell protoplasts. In
Vitro 15:851-856.

Behki, R. M.; Lesley, S. M. 1980. Shoot regenera-
tion from leaf callus of Lycopersicon esculen-
tum. Z. Pflanzen. Physiol. 98:83-87.

Benzing-Purdie, L. 1980. Identification of 2-amino-
2,6-dideoxygalactose hydrochloride in soil hy-
drolysate. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:1315-1317.

Biederbeck, V. O.; Campbell, C. A.; Bowren, K. E.;
Schnitzer, M.; Mclver, R. N. 1980. Effect of
burning cereal straw on soil properties and
grain yields in Saskatchewan. Soil Sci. Soc.
Am. J. 44:103-1 11.

Birch, M. C; Light, D. M.; Wood, D. L.; Brown, L.
E.; Silverstein, R. M.; Bergot, B. J.; Ohloff, G.;
West, J. R.; Young, J. C. 1980. Pheromonal
attraction and allomonal interruption of Ips
pini in California by the two enantiomers of
ipsdienol. J. Chem. Ecol. 6:703-717.

Cochrane, W. P.; Maybury, R. B.; Greenhalgh, R.
1979. Comparative study of the linearity and
sensitivity of electron capture and flame photo-
metric detectors used in pesticide residue
analysis. J. Environ. Sci. Health B 14:197-212.

Eady, R. R.; Imam, S.; Lowe, D. J.; Miller, R. W.;
Smith, B. E.; Thornely, R. N. F. 1980. The
molecular enzymology of nitrogenase. Proc.
Phytochem. Soc. Eur. 18:19-34.

Foster, T. S.; Khan, S. U.; Akhtar, M. H. 1980.
Metabolism of deethylatrazine, deisopropyla-
trazine and hydroxyatrazine by the soluble
fraction (105 000 x g) from goose liver
homogenates. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:1083-
1085.

Gamble, D. S. 1980. Potentiometric measurement
of H + concentrations for aluminum ortho-
phosphate titration curves. Can. J. Chem.
58:2150-2157.

Gamble, D. S.; Underdown, A. W.; Langford, C. H.
1980. Copper(II) titration of fulvic acid ligand
sites with theoretical, potentiometric, and
spectrophotometric analysis. Anal. Chem.
52:1901-1908.

Ghosh, K.; Schnitzer, M. 1979. Some recent ad-
vances in the chemistry and reactions of humic
substances. J. Indian Chem. Soc. LVL1090-
1093.

Ghosh, K.; Schnitzer, M. 1979. UV and visible
absorption spectroscopic investigations in rela-
tion to macromolecular characteristics of hu-
mic substances. J. Soil Sci. 30:735-745.

Ghosh, K.; Schnitzer, M.
structures of humic
129:266-276.

1980. Macromolecular
substances. Soil Sci.

Ghosh, K.; Schnitzer, M. 1980. Fluorescence exci-
tation spectra of humic substances. Can. J. Soil
Sci. 60:373-379.

Ghosh, K.; Schnitzer, M. 1980. Effects of pH and
neutral electrolyte concentration on free radi-
cals in humic substances. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J.

44:975-978.

Greenhalgh, R.; Baron, R. L.; Desmoras, J.; Engst,
R.; Esser, H. O.; Klein, W. 1980. Persistence.
Pure Appl. Chem. 52:2563-2566.

Greenhalgh, R.; Baum, B. R. 1980. Feasibility
study of the identification of cultivars by
pyrolysis gas chromatography using oat {Av-
enu) seed kernels. Seed Sci. Technol. 8:407-
414.

Greenhalgh, R.; Cochrane, W. P. 1980. Use of
chlorpyrifos as an evaluation standard for gas
chromatographic detectors. J. Chromatogr.
188:305-313.

Greenhalgh, R.; Dhawan, K. L.; Weinberger. P.
1980. Hydrolysis of fenitrothion in model and
natural aquatic systems. J. Agric. Food Chem.
28:102-105.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Griffith, S. M.; Silver, J.; Schnitzer, M. 1980.
Hydrazine derivatives at Fe3+ sites in humic
materials. Geoderma 23:299-302.

Ihnat, M.; Gordon, A. D.; Gaynor, J. D.; Berman,
S. S.; Desaulniers, A.; Stoeppler, M.; Valenta,
P. 1980. Interlaboratory analysis of natural
fresh waters for copper, zinc, cadmium and
lead. Int. J. Environ. Anal. Chem. 8:259-275.

Ihnat, M.; Thompson, B. K. 1980. Acid digestion,
hydride evolution atomic absorption spectro-
photometric method for determining arsenic
and selenium in foods: Part II. Assessment of
collaborative study. J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem.
63:814-839.

Ivarson, K. C. 1980. Enhancement of uranous-iron
oxidation by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans. Curr.
Microbiol. 3:253-254.

Ivarson, K. C; Ross, G. J.; Miles, N. M. 1980. The
microbiological formation of basic ferric sul-
fates. 3. Influence of clay minerals on crystalli-
zation. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:137-140.

Kerndorff, H.; Schnitzer, M. 1980. Sorption of
metals on humic acid. Geochim. Cosmochim.
Acta 44:1701-1708.

Khan, S. U. 1980. Plant uptake of unextracted
(bound) residues from an organic soil treated
with prometryn. J. Agric. Food Chem.
28:1096-1098.

Khan, S. U. 1980. Determining the role of humic
substances in the fate of pesticides in the
environment. J. Environ. Sci. Health B
15:1071-1090.

Khan, S. U. 1980. Pesticides in the soil environ-
ment. Elsevier Scientific Publishing Co.,
Amsterdam.

Khan, S. U.; Morris, G. F.; Hidiroglou, M. 1980.
Rapid estimation of sulfide in rumen and blood
with a sulfide-specific ion electrode. Mi-
crochem. J. 25:388-395.

Kodama, H.; Schnitzer, M. 1980. Effect of fulvic
acid on the crystallization of aluminum hy-
droxides. Geoderma 24:195-205.

Kowalenko, K. C; Ross, G. J. 1980. Studies on the
dynamics of 'recently' clay fixed NH4 using
l5N. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:60-70.

Lesley, S. M.; Maretzki, A.; Mickel, L. G. 1980.
The incorporation and degradation of l4C- and
3H-labeled thymidine by sugarcane cells in
suspension culture. Plant Physiol. 65:1224-
1228.

Madhosingh, C. 1980. Isoenzymes in isolates of
Fusarium oxysporum causing spinach dis-
eases. Phytopathol. Z. 87:56-67.

Madhosingh, C. 1980. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
spinaciae: A biochemical comparison of race 1
and race 2. Phytopathol. Z. 98:27-39.

Mathur, S. P.; Bélanger, A.; Hamilton, H. A.;
Khan, S. U. 1980. Influence on microflora and
persistence of field-applied disulfoton, per-
methrin and prometryn in an organic soil.
Pedobiologiya 20:237-242.

Mathur, S. P.; Hamilton, H. A.; Vrain, T. C. 1980.
The influence of some field-applied nemati-
cides on microflora and mineral nutrients in an
organic soil. J. Environ. Sci. Health B 15:61-
76.

Mathur, S. P.; Lévesque, M. P. 1980. Relationship
between acid phosphatase activities and de-
composition rates of twenty-two virgin peat
materials. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal.
11:155-162.

Mathur, S. P.; MacDougall, J. I.; McGrath, M.
1980. Levels of activities of some carbohy-
drases, protease, lipase, and phosphatase in
organic soils of differing copper content. Soil
Sci. 129:376-385.

Mathur, S. P.; Sanderson, R. B. 1980. The partial
inactivation of degradative soil enzymes by
residual fertilizer copper in Histosols. Soil Sci.
Soc. Am. J. 44:750-755.

McNeil, J. S.; Greenhalgh, R.; McLeod, J. M.
1979. The persistence and accumulation of
fenitrothion residues in jack-pine foliage and
their effects on the swaine jack-pine sawfly
Neodiption swainei. Environ. Entomol. 8:752-
755.

Miller, R. W. 1980. Temperature induced physical
changes in fungal plasma membranes. Can. J.
Biochem. 58:1138-1143.

Miller, R. W. 1980. Homeostatic control of mem-
brane and lipid properties. In Kates, M.;
Kuksis, A., eds. Membrane fluidity. Fusarium.
The Humana Press, Clifton, NJ.pp. 327-348.

Miller, R. W.; Robson, R. L.; Yates, M. G.; Eady,
R. R. 1980. Catalysis of exchange of terminal
phosphate groups of ATP and ADP by purified
nitrogenase proteins. Can. J. Biochem. 58:542-
548.

Morita, H. 1980. Total phenolic content in the
pyrophosphate extracts of two peat soil pro-
files. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:291-297.

Morita, H. 1980. Changes in phenolic composition
of a peat soil due to cultivation. Soil Sci.
130:326-329.

Morita, H.; Lévesque, M. 1980. The monosaccha-
ride composition of peat fractions based on
particle size. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:285-289.

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Morita, H.; Lévesque, M.; Mills, G. F. 1980. The
deoxy-sugars and other neutral monosaccha-
rides derived from Riverton, Manitoba, orga-
nic soil profiles. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:21 1-217.

Ozkan, A. I.; Ross, G. J. 1979. Ferruginous deidel-
lites in Turkish soils. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J.
43:1242-1248.

Paliwal, Y. C. 1980. Relationships of wheat streak
mosaic and barley stripe mosaic viruses to
vector and nonvector eriophyid mites. Arch.
Virol. 63:123-132.

Paliwal, Y. C. 1980. Transmission of barley yellow
dwarf virus isolates by the cereal root aphid
Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:90-92.

Ross, G. J. 1980. Mineralogical, physical, and
chemical characteristics of amorphous consti-
tuents in some Podzolic soils from British
Columbia. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:31-43.

Schnitzer, M.; Hindle, D. A. 1980. Effect of
peracetic acid oxidation on N-containing com-
ponents of humic materials. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:541-548.

Schnitzer, M.; Kerndorff, H. 1980. Effects of
pollution on humic substances. J. Environ. Sci.
Health B 15:431-456.

Schnitzer, M.; Kodama, H.; Ivarson, K. C. 1980.
Effects of clay surfaces on the adsorption and
biological decomposition of proteinaceous com-
ponents of fulvic acid. Z. Pflanzenernaehr.
Bodenkd. 143:334-343.

Singh, S. S. 1980. Thermodynamic properties of
synthetic basic aluminite

[Al4(OH),0SO4-5H,O] from solubility data.
Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:381-384.

Singh, J.; Miller, R. W. 1980. Spin label studies of
membrane in rye protoplasts during extracellu-
lar freezing. Plant Physiol. 66:349-352.

Sinha, R. C; Chiykowski, L. N. 1980. Transmis-
sion and morphological features of my-
coplasma-like bodies associated with peach
X-disease. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:1 19-124.

Sinha, R. C; Madhosingh, C. 1980. Proteins of
mycoplasma-like organisms purified from clo-
ver phyllody and aster yellows-affected plants.
Phytopathol. Z. 99:294-300.

Sinha, R. C; Peterson, E. A. 1980. Homologous
serological analysis of Rhizobium meliloti
strains by immunodiffusion. Can. J. Microbiol.
26:1157-1161.

Stevenson, I. L. 1980. The removal of eggshell
membranes by enzyme treatment to facilitate
the study of shell microstructure. Poultry Sci.
59:1959-1960.

Sugden, E. A.; Greenhalgh, R.; Petit, J. R. 1980.
Characterization of neurotoxic triaryl phos-
phates by analysis of trifluoracetylated pheno-
lic moieties. Environ. Sci. Technol. 14:1498-
1501.

Wilson, A. C; Barran, L. R. 1980. Effect of
temperature on the biosynthesis of 3-s«-phos-
phatidylcholine by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
lycopersici. Kates, M.; Kuksis, A., eds. Mem-
brane fluidity. Biophysical techniques and
cellular regulation. The Humana Press, Clif-
ton, NJ. pp. 297-305.

Miscellaneous

Andrews, C. J. 1980. The effects of flooding on
survival in ice encasement of winter cereals.
Can. Soc. Plant Physiol. Proc. 3.

Andrews, C. J. 1980. The role of ice encasement in
winter survival of wheat in the northeast. Hard
Red Winter Wheat Workers Conf. Proc.
15:12.

Andrews, C. J. 1980. Environmental effects on cold
hardiness and winter survival in the eastern
winter wheat area. Hard Red Winter Wheat
Workers Conf. Proc. 15:36.

Andrews, C. J.; Pomeroy, M. K. 1980. Flooding
and winter survival of wheat. Annu. Wheat
Newsl. 26:54.

Burrows, V. D.; Andrews, C. J. 1980. Routine use
of gibberellic acid to break the dormancy of
freshly harvested oat seeds. Oat Newsl. 30:121.

Coote, D. R.; Siminovitch, D.; Singh, S. S.; Wang,
C. 1980. The significance of the acid rain
problems to agriculture in Eastern Canada.
Research Branch Report, Agriculture Canada.

Ihnat, M. 1980. Atomic spectrometry in agricul-
ture. Abstracts, 7th Annual Meeting of the
Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spec-
troscopy Societies, Philadelphia, PA (28 Sept.
-3 Oct. 1980). Abstract 201.

Ivarson, K. C; Sojak, M. 1980. Plugging of soil
drains by microorganisms. Can. Agric. 25:19-
21.

Lévesque, M. P.; Morita, H.; Schnitzer, M.;
Mathur, S. P. 1980. The physical, chemical,
and morphological features of some Quebec
and Ontario peats. Monograph, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada.

Mathur, S. P. 1980. A report on visits to various
agricultural establishments in France, Ger-
many and Sweden. An International Science
and Technology Mission Report. Research
Program Service, Agriculture Canada. Publ.
No. XCH80-3.

3 s

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Mathur, S. P.; Lévesque, M. P.; Preston, C. M.;
Millette, J. A. 1980. Recent progress on
investigations of the possible use of moderate
amounts of copper for mitigating the excess
decomposition and subsidence of some Histo-
sols. United States Department of Agriculture
NCR-59 Technical Committee Meeting
(abstract).

Mathur, S. P.; Preston, C. M. 1980. Plant-available
N and residual fertilizer copper in muck soils.
Ontario Vegetable Research Committee, An-
nual Report 9.

McMurchie, E. J.; Pomeroy, M. K. 1980. Ion-
stimulated ATPase activity associated with
plant cell membranes. Proc. Aust. Biochem.
Soc. 13:104.

Miller, R. W. 1980. Nitrogen fixation. Bio-Joule
12.

Morita, H. 1980. Peat as a future source of organic
raw materials. Chem. Can. 32:18-27.

Paliwal, Y. C; Andrews, C. J. 1980. Effects of
infection with barley yellow dwarf and wheat
spindle streak mosaic viruses on cold hardiness
of winter cereals. Proceedings American Win-
ter Wheat Conference (1979), Denver, CO. p.
16.

Pierce, R. C; Mathur, S. P.; Williams, D. T.;
Roddington, M. J. 1980. Phthalate esters in
the aquatic environment. Monograph pub-
lished by the National Research Council.
NRCCNo. 17583. 108 pp.

Pomeroy, M. K.; McMurchie, E. J. 1980. Isolation
and properties of ion-stimulated ATPase activ-
ity associated with cauliflower cell membranes.
Proc. Aust. Soc. Plant Physiol. 21:4.

Preston, C. M.; Mathur, S. P.: Rauthan, B. S. 1980.
Long-term effects of copper on soil nitrogen
distribution in muck soils. Ontario Vegetable
Research Committee, Annual Report 9.

Preston, C. M.; Valk, M.; Knibbe, E. M.; Mathur,
S. P.; Millette, J. A. 1980. Copper application
trials. Ontario Vegetable Research Committee,
Annual Report 9.

Schnitzer, M.
25:9-10.

1980. Soil nitrogen. Can. Agric.

Schnitzer, M. 1980. Book review: Sugars for the
soil scientist. Nature 287:372.

Schnitzer, M.; Kerndorff, H. 1980. Sorption of
metals on humic acid. Agronomy Abstracts, p.
159.

Singh, S. S. 1980. Effect of acid rain on agricultural
soils and crops. Proceedings of the subcommit-
tee on acid rain of the Standing Committee on
Fisheries and Forestry

Young, J. C. 1980. Ergot contamination of feeds
and food. Can. Agric. 25:25-28.

CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Engineering and Statistical Research

Institute

Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

P. W. Voisey, F.I., Mech.E.
K. B. Mitchell

Director
Administration

Energy

P. Van Die, B.Sc. (Eng.), M.Sc.
R. D. Hayes, B.Sc, M.Sc.
H. A. Jackson, B.Sc. (Eng.), M.Sc.
D. Marshall, B.Sc. (Eng.)

Head of Section; Energy
Biomass and food
Greenhouses
Conservation

Food Engineering

G. E. Timbers, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
D. McGinnis, B.Sc. (Agr.)

Head of Section; Food-process
engineering
Food-process engineering

Research Service

E. J. Brach, D.E.E., Dip. Mil. Electronics
D. J. Buckley, B.E., M.Sc.

Head of Section; Electronics
Electronics

Structures and Mechanization

M. Feldman, B.E., M.Sc.

K. W. Lievers, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

D. Massé, B.Sc.

G. F. Montgomery, B.Sc. (Agr.)
J. A. Munroe, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
P. A. Phillips, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. S. Reid, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.

Head of Section; Mechanization
Systems analysis
Canada Plan Service, Design
engineering
Mechanization
Structures

Animal environment
Mechanization

ENGINEERING AND STATISTICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

J. E. Turnbull, B.S.A., M.S.A.

Director, Canada Plan Service;
Farm structures

Statistical Research

G. P. Poushinsky, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Head of Section; Statistics

M. R. Binns, M.A., Dip.Stat.

Statistics

G. Butler, B.Math., M.Math.

Statistics

P. Y. Jul, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Statistics

L. P. Lefkovitch, B.Sc.

Statistics

C. S. Lin, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Statistics

P. M. Morse, M.A.

Statistics

B. K. Thompson, B.Sc, M.Math., Ph.D.

Statistics

C. J. Williams, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Statistics

M. S. Wolynetz, B.Math., M.Math., Ph.D.

Statistics

W. Watt, B.A.

Head, Systems and programming

K. Heng, B.Sc, M.App.Sc

Systems and programming

J. D. Hobbs, B.Sc.

Systems and programming

Technical Services

J. G. Caron

Head of Section

Departures

D. K. Hodgins, B.Sc.

Transferred
S. A. Kinsey, B.Math.

Transferred
J. Wu, B.Sc.

Resigned August 1980

Head, Systems and programming
Systems and programming
Systems and programming

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

In 1980 the Institute was reorganized to reflect the changes in programs to meet
departmental priorities. Staff in various sections working on energy research and development
(R & D) were assembled to form an energy section to better coordinate the work in this
increasingly important area. The remainder of the staff working on agricultural engineering R
& D in the Mechanization and Systems and the Structures and Environment sections were
assembled to form a single section, called Structures and Mechanization. This reflects the focus
of the agricultural engineering program on structures and mechanization and the reduced
emphasis on systems and environnmental engineering. A new Food Engineering Section was
formed to expand this program in response to the departmental priority on the processing,
distributing, and retailing sectors of the agribusiness system.

The diverse activities of the Institute in engineering and statistics involved 216 projects, of
which 56 were completed during the year. The internal work was supplemented by 66 research
contracts on energy, buildings, and mechanization, of which 19 were completed. The
contracted work now represents 20% of the total program. The outcome resulted in the release
of 93 publications; those that are published are listed at the end of this report. Further
information is available upon request from the Engineering and Statistical Research Institute,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. K1A 0C6.

Peter W.
Director

Voisey

ENERGY

All the R & D work was contracted out in
1980 and plans were completed for a consid-
erable expansion of this activity under the
national energy program. In-house R&D
was also initiated.

The program included work on energy
conservation in mechanization, farm build-
ings, greenhouses, and food processing. Appli-
cation of solar technology to greenhouses,
crop drying, and farm buildings was also
studied. Studies on renewable energy from
biomass focused on methane from manure,
direct combustion of residues, and fuel alco-
hol from residues, culls, and crops. A review
of the fuel alcohol potential from the agribusi-
ness system was completed.

To date the results from the program are
contained primarily in unpublished contrac-
tors' reports, which are available on a loan
basis (or as microfiche copies) from the
Institute. Summaries of these reports were
published to indicate the information
available.

FOOD ENGINEERING

The program concentrates on process and
equipment development and on the study of
the fundamental properties of foodstuffs. A

new process for separating y-globulins from
swine blood was developed using differential
salting out of proteins, centrifugation, and
electrodialysis. Continuous microwave
processing of oilseed to inactivate myrosinase
was found promising. A computer simulation
of heat transfer in retortable food pouches
and instrumentation to monitor pilot scale
experiments were developed.

A number of techniques and the necessary
instruments were developed for measuring
food quality. Factors measured included
graininess of tomato juice, wheat hardness,
and dough development. The past work in this
area is coming to fruition, with a number of
Canadian food companies adopting the
techniques.

RESEARCH SERVICE

Work on the development of instruments
and equipment to support research operations
across the Branch continued and produced a
range of equipment for use in both research
and regulatory work of the department.

Plot equipment included a rainfall simula-
tor, a portable herbicide sprayer, a string -
spaced seeder for cereals, a tobacco leaf
lamina punch, a cereal sample bag aeration
punch, an oat dehuller, an oat classifier, an

ENGINEERING AND STATISTICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

oat thresher and polisher, a scutcher vacuum
dust collector, and a soybean seed cleaner.

Laboratory equipment included an auto-
matic cigarette diameter control, a spore
counter, an electronic heat sink for micro-
scopes, and an automatic weighing system for
a micro flour mill.

Scientific instruments included an open
path C02 analyzer. Flight tests showed its
capability for measuring variations in C02
flux over crops, forests, water, and terrain. A
ground coverage and leaf wetness measuring
system was also developed. Work was carried
out on the development of remote sensing
techniques using field spectroscopy to detect
yield, disease, stress, variety, and crop. Field
tests continue to demonstrate the potential for
the techniques as a research and crop estima-
tion tool.

STRUCTURES AND
MECHANIZATION

Structures

The Canada Plan Service continued to
work according to national committee priori-
ties. Emphasis was on beef cattle, swine, and
dairy cattle; completed were 49 trusses, 7
plans, and 18 revisions, with 63% of the plans
now in metric measurements.

An up-to-date index of plans and leaflets
was published. Listed are 13 plan sets and 32
leaflets on beef cattle facilities; 24 plan sets
and 31 leaflets on dairy cattle; 27 plan sets
and 32 leaflets on swine; 16 plan sets and 33
leaflets on sheep; 9 plan sets and 8 leaflets on
poultry; 10 plan sets and 12 leaflets on fruit
and vegetable storage; 15 plan sets and 16
leaflets on grain, forage, and feed storage; 21
plan sets and 25 leaflets on special structures;
and 4 plan sets and 15 leaflets on building
engineering. Generally the plans and leaflets
are available in English or French and in
Imperial or metric measures, except that
Imperial measure is progressively being
phased out. Also, 13 departmental bulletins
on farm buildings have been published. Cop-
ies of the index are available from: Informa-
tion Services, Agriculture Canada, Sir John
Carling Building, Ottawa, Ont. Kl A 0C7.

A new, improved sandwich-design wall
panel was developed. Multiple-shear, nailed
joints were analyzed. Expanded data collec-
tion on snow loads commenced. Friction

angles for corn were measured, and new silo-
erection equipment was designed. Tests
showed failure loads lower than expected for
long-span wood trusses.

Two major projects on manure handling
and land application were completed. Effect
on crop growth and groundwater quality were
defined. With handling costs at 25% of the
nutrient value, and winter land application
unacceptable, good management is necessary.
Materials for floating covers were tested, and
the covers were found to suppress odors from
liquid manure tanks.

Silo foundation settlement data were re-
corded for another empty-fill cycle, and a
study showed that silo foundation costs can be
reduced considerably.

Mechanization

Work on narrow-row seeding and bed-
seeded vegetables produced two new seeders,
a modified harvester, and three tested toppers.
Two other improved seeders are in use by
clients.

In harvesting horticultural crops, a new
juice-apple sweeper prototype was built and
was found to work well in Ontario and
Quebec orchards. Height control was im-
proved on a tomato harvester, and a sensing
shoe was built for possible field use. A spinach
harvester was developed and is in production,
and a leek harvester was improved. Work has
started on a multiple picking cucumber
harvester and a cauliflower tier.

Silage distributors were evaluated and
improvements suggested, fans to purge silo
gas were evaluated, and gas detectors and gas
production are being studied. Development of
a round bale processor has progressed to
preproduction prototypes.

Work on grain storage and drying included
evaluating a belt dryer; adjustments were
determined that increased capacity 20% and
efficiency 15% while drying corn acceptably.

In Burley and cigar tobacco mechanization,
racks were made lighter and less expensive in
a new rack wagon.

New design tracks were installed to im-
prove performance of the peatland tractor.

Modifications to a manure injector were
made to overcome problems in operation in
sod, and the unit is in operation at Kapuskas-
ing.

Under the project research applicable in
industry (PRAI) program and the industry
research assistance program (IRAP), an

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

elementary combine feed rate control was
developed, and testing and market develop-
ment continued on sickle knives.

The agricultural engineering computerized
data base of technical and scientific informa-
tion continued to expand.

STATISTICS

Statistical support was provided to many
research areas through collaborative work,
particularly in poultry research and the study
of toxins, trace element metabolism, disease
resistance in sheep, and swine and cattle
research. Bioassay studies of mixtures of slow-
and fast-acting agents, and mixtures to obtain
synergistic effects, were designed and inter-
preted. A coordinated approach to support
tobacco research involves studies of field
conditions, genetic and chemical parameters,
manufacturing processes, health aspects,
yield, and sampling methods at the research
stations at Delhi (cigarette tobacco) and

L'Assomption (cigar tobacco). Crop-loss esti-
mation procedures are being investigated for
corn and soybeans. A general study is being
made of genotype x environment interaction.
Support is being provided for the barley
breeding program and for the potato program
at the Research Station at Fredericton.

Statistical software was implemented on
the new departmental computer network
(AgNet) that will handle 60-80% of the
analyses needed by researchers. In addition,
software has been implemented to simplify
data input and preparation of analyses.

TECHNICAL SERVICES

Technical services continued to provide a
service for the fabrication and maintenance of
scientific equipment. A preventive mainte-
nance program for scientific equipment (e.g.
growth chambers and centrifuges) was initi-
ated. During the year, 1900 work orders were
completed.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Bostanian, N. J.; Paradis, R. O.; Pitre, D.; Price, K.
R. 1980. Action de nouveaux pesticides contre
le tetranyque a deux points, Tetranychus
urticae Koch, sur les fraisiers en serre. Phyto-
protection61(l):30-34.

Brach, E. J.; Fejer, S. O. 1980. Holographie
inteferometry to differentiate the morphology
of various cereal crops. Phyton Rev. Int. Bot.

Exp. 38(l):37-47.

Cave, N. A.; Williams, C. J. 1980. A chick assay
for availability of lysine in wheat. Poult. Sci.
59(4):799-804.

Fraser, D.; Aurther, D.; Morton, J. K.; Thompson,
B. K. 1980. Aquatic feeding by moose Alces
alces in a Canadian lake. Holartic Ecol.

3(3):218-223.

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Thompson, B. K. 1980. Effects
of sodium plus potassium to chloride ratio in
practical-type diets on blood gas levels in three
strains of white leghorn hens and relationships
between acid-base balance and egg shell
strength. Poult. Sci. 59(6): 1 294- 1 303.

Harcourt, D. G.; Binns, M. R. 1980. A sampling
system for estimating egg and larval popula-
tions of Agromyza frontella. Can. Entomol.
112:375-385.

Harcourt, D. G.; Binns, M. R. 1980. Sampling
techniques for the soil-borne stages of Agro-
myza frontella (Rond.) (Diptera: Agro-
myzidae). Great Lakes Entomol. 1 3(3): 1 59-
164.

Hidiroglou, M.; Williams, C. J. 1980. Fate of
isotopically labeled cholecalciferol and 25-
hydroxycholecalciferol in sheep. J. Dairy Sci.
63(6):945-950.

Hollands, K. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Williams, C. J.
1980. Response to five generations of selection
for blood cholesterol levels in white leghorns. J.
Poult. Sci. 59:1316-1323.

Hollands, K. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Williams, C. J.;
Gavora, J. A. 1980. Plasma creatine kinase as
an indicator of degenerative myopathy in live
turkeys. Br. Poult. Sci. 21:161-169.

Hudson, A.; Lefkovitch, L. P. 1980. Two species of
the Amathes c-nigrum complex (Lepidoptera:
Noctuidae) distinguished by isozymes of a
denylate kinase and by selected morphological
characters. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Wash.
82(4):587-598.

Ihnat, M.; Thompson, B. K. 1980. Acid digestion,
hydride evolution atomic absorption spectro-
photometric method for determining arsenic
and selenium in foods: part II. Assessment of
collaborative study. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem.
63(4):814-839.

ENGINEERING AND STATISTICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Jordan, W. A.; Thompson, B. K.; Ivan, M.; Hidiro-
glou, M. 1980. Effects of dietary cernent kiln
dust supplements on growth of lambs. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:87-91.

Jui, P. Y.; Friars, G. W. 1980. Performance of
crosses of selected lines of Tribolium casta-
neum. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:129-136.

Langford, G. A.; Marcus, G. J.; Hackett, A. J.;
Ainsworth, L.; Wolynetz, M. S. 1980. Influ-
ence of estradiol- 1 7/3 on fertility in confined
sheep inseminated with frozen semen. J. Anim.
Sci. 51(4):91 1-916.

Lefkovitch, L. P. 1980. Conditional clustering.
Biometrics 36:43-58.

Mack, A. R.; Brach, E. J.; Rao, V. R. 1980.
Changes in spectral characteristics of cereal
crops with physiological development. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:411-417.

McKeague, J. A.; Wolynetz, M. S. 1980. Back-
ground levels of minor elements in some
Canadian soils. Geoderma 24:299-307.

Millette, J. A.; Bernier, R.; Hergert, G. B. 1980.
Baby carrot production system on organic soils.
Can. Agric. Eng. 22:175-178.

Morse, P. M. 1980. Synergism v. cost benefit.
Nature (Lond.) 284(3):394.

Paton, D.; Robertson, G. D.; Timbers, G. E.;
Spratt, W. A. 1980. Laboratory food extru-
sion— the design of a horizontal split barrel. J.
Food Sci. 45(2):224-227.

Raymond, D. P.; Randall, C. J.; Voisey, P. W.
1980. Functionality of native and denatured
egg white and beef in a meat emulsion system.
Can. Inst. Food Sci. Technol. J. 13:174-177.

Reid, W. S.; Buckley, D. J.; Nicholls, C. F.; Cave,
N. A. G. 1980. An automatic feed dispensing
system for ooultry in floor pens. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:193-195.

Sibbald, I. R.; Barrette, J. P.; Price, K. R. 1980.
Predicting true metabolizable energy, gross
energy, carbohydrate and proximate analysis
values by assuming additivity. Poult. Sci.
59(4):805-807.

Sibbald, I. R.; Barrette, J. P.; Price, K. R. 1980.
True metabolizable energy values for poultry
of commercial diets measured by bioassay and
predicted from chemical data. Poult. Sci.
59(4):808-811.

Sibbald, I. R.; Price, K. R. 1980. Variability in
metabolic plus endogenous energy losses of
adult cockerels and in the true metabolizable
energy values and rates of passage of dehy-
drated alfalfa. Poult. Sci. 59(6): 1275- 1279.

Voisey, P. W.; Kloek, M. 1980. Methods of record-
ing dough development curves from electronic
recording mixers. Cereal Chem. 57:442-444.

Miscellaneous

Arsenault, R. H.; Grandbois, M. A.; Chornet, E.;
Timbers, G. E. 1980. Pyrolysis of agricultural
residues in a rotary kiln. Thermal conversion of
solid wastes and biomass. Am. Chem. Soc.
130:337-350.

Brach, E. J. 1980. Variety identification by means
of spectroscopy. Engineering and Statistical
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 1177.

Brach, E. J.; Elgazzar, S.; Mack, A. R. 1980.
General software flowchart to normalize spec-
tral curves of various agricultural crops. Engi-
neering and Statistical Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 6842 1-62.

Clayton, R. E.; DeVries, H.; Stevenson, R.; Hayes,
R.; Turnbull, J. E. 1980. Experiences with
floating covers for cylindrical concrete manure
storages. Engineering and Statistical Research
Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 1229.

Colwell, H. T. M.; Van Die, P.; Hayes, R. D.; Finn,
P. J. 1980. Alternatives to our present use of
fossil fuels in the agricultural and food system.
Canadian Outlook Conference, Ottawa, Ont.
(Dec).

DeVries, H.; Stevenson, R.; Hayes, R.; Turnbull, J.
E.; Clayton, R. E. 1980. Experiences with
floating covers for manure storages. Canadian
Society of Agricultural Engineering Annual
Meeting. No. 80-218.

Farnworth, E. R.; Kramer, J. K. G.; Thompson, B.
K. 1980. Qualitative and quantitative analysis
of neutral lipids on iatroscan chromarodes.
Abstracts of the Symposium on analytical
chemistry of rapeseed and its products.

Feldman, M., editor. 1980. Summary of 1978-79
contract reports of the Agricultural Engineer-
ing Research and Development (AERD) Pro-
gram/Resume des rapports des travaux faits
sous contrat en 1978-79 dans le cadre du
programme de recherche et de développement
en Génie Rural (RDGR). Engineering and
Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Rep. No. 1212.

Grunder, A. A.; Thompson, B. K.; Hollands, K. G.;
Hamilton, R. M. G. 1980. Egg shell strength
at oviposition and 3 hours later. Poult. Sci.
59:1615 (abstract).

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Thompson, B.
K.; Hollands, K. G. 1980. Relationship
between blood ionized calcium levels and
eggshell strength. Poult. Sci. 59:1617
(abstract).

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Thompson, B. K. 1980.
Variation in feed intake and eggshell strength
during a 14 day period. Poult. Sci. 59:1617
(abstract).

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Voisey, P. W. 1980. Egg shell
strength: a nightmare in experimental mechan-
ics from a poultry scientist's viewpoint. Pro-
ceedings of the Symposium on Eng. Appl.
Mech., University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont.
(June), pp. 155-159.

Hayes, R. D. 1980. Farm-scale production and use
of fuel alcohol: opportunities and problems/
Production et utilisation d'alcool combustible à
la ferme — possibilités et obstacles. Agric. Can.
Publ. 1712.

Hayes, R. D. 1980. Agricultural resources for
ethanol production. Proceedings of the Cana-
dian National Power Alcohol Conference. The
Biomass Energy Institute Inc. XIX- 1 -XIX- 12.

Hayes, R. D. 1980. Resources agricoles pour la
production d'ethanol. Engineering and Statisti-
cal Research Institute, Agriculture Canada.
Rep. No. 1201.

Hayes, R. D.; Timbers, G. E. 1980. Alcohol fuels
from agriculture. Engineering and Statistical
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 7534 1165.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. Harvesting Jerusalem arti-
choke tubers. Engineering and Statistical Re-
search Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 7746 190.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. Compaction and reduction of
chopped whole plant tobacco. Engineering and
Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Rep. No. 7311 1240.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. Project 7708: Report of field
testing in Newfoundland. Peat News 2(3):27-
39.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. A narrow row soybean planter
for experimental plots. Engineering and Statis-
tical Research Institute, Agriculture Canada.
Rep. No. 7527 1230.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. Metric grain test weight
determination for research samples. Engineer-
ing and Statistical Research Institute. Agricul-
ture Canada. Rep. No. 7410 1239.

Hergert, G. B. 1980. Tractors for agricultural
development on peat lands and wet lands. Peat
News2(4):47-53.

Hergert, G. B.; Compton, B. 1980. A tractor for
agricultural development of peat soils. Cana-
dian Society of Agricultural Engineering An-
nual Meeting. No. 80-301.

Jaii, E. Z.; Feldman, M.; Robertson, J. A.; Lievers,
K. W. 1980. Drying and storage of chopped
hay in a hay tower. Canadian Society of
Agricultural Engineering Annual Meeting.
No. 80-220.

Jordan, W. A.; Thompson, B. K.; Ivan, M.; Hidiro-
glou, M. 1980. Lambs fail to improve with
cement kiln dust supplements. Feedstuff's
51(32):33-34.

Jui, P., editor. 1980. Proceedings of the statistical
workshop for Research Branch statisticians,
Ottawa, Ont. Engineering and Statistical Re-
search Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 1252.

Juneja, S.; Neale, R.; Overend, R.; Pneumaticos,
S.; Timbers, G. E. 1980. Canada's bioenergy
programs. Proceedings of the Biomass Con-
gress, Atlanta, Georgia.

Kloek, M. 1980. Measuring high frequency signal
fluctuations in dough mixing tests. Engineering
and Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Rep. No. 1188.

Kloek, M.; Mohr, W. P. 1980. Tomato juice
graininess measurements. Engineering and
Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Rep. No. 7820 1228.

Kramer, J. K. G.; Farnworth, E. R.; Corner, A. H.;
Thompson, B. K. 1980. Evidence that myocar-
dial lesions in male albino rats fed high fat
diets is related to certain dietary fatty acids.
Proceedings of the Int. Seifen Fettwissen-
schaft/American Oil Chemists Society World
Congress (abstract).

Laporte, A. N.; Caron, J.; Lemieux, M. 1980. A
kiln for curing small experimental plots of flue
cured tobacco. The Lighter 50(3):28-31.

LeRoux, E. J. 1980. Energy in agriculture/Energie
en agriculture. Engineering and Statistical
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 1180.

Ogilvie, J.; Laporte, G.; Hergert, G. B. 1980.
Mechanization of harvesting and curing of
stalk cut air cured tobacco. The Lighter
50(3):17-25.

Pella, R. 1980. General metric fact sheets. Engi-
neering and Statistical Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 1-14.

Phillips, P. A. 1980. Selecting manure loading and
transport systems. Farm Equip. Q. 2:8, 10.

Phillips, P. A. 1980. Manure handling case study of
a 1 50-cow Ottawa valley dairy farm. Proceed-
ings of International Symposium on land and
water. Amarillo, TX.

ENGINEERING AND STATISTICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Phillips, P. A.; Young, B. A.; McQuitty, J. B. 1980.
Weight response of growing-finishing swine to
acute cold stress. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:557
(abstract).

Stemshorn, B. W.; Buckley, D. J.; St. Amour, G.;
Duncan, J. R.; Nielson, K. H. 1980. A com-
puter-interfaced photometer and micro-plate
enzyme-immunoassay variation. Annual con-
ference of research workers in animal disease
(abstract). No. 198.

Timbers, G. E.; Caron, J. G.; Stark, R.; Cummings,
D. B. 1980. Pilot-plant steam blancher. Engi-
neering and Statistical Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 7327 606.

Turnbull, J. E. 1980. Construction of milking
centers for northern regions. Engineering and
Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Rep. No. 1234.

Turnbull, J. E. 1980. Alternatives in manure
storage and handling. Engineering and Statis-
tical Research Institute, Agriculture Canada.
Rep. No. 1183.

Turnbull, J. E.; Lefkovitch, L. P.; Lowe, D. 1980.
Multi-laminated nailed truss connections. Ca-
nadian Society of Agricultural Engineering
Annual Meeting. No. 80-202.

Turnbull, J. E.; Riley, V; Rasins, P. 1980. Precast
fiber-reinforced concrete sandwich walls for
farm buildings. Canadian Society of Agricul-
tural Engineering Annual Meeting. No. 80-
201.

Van Die, P. 1980. Energy— implications for agri-
culture in the 80's. Engineering and Statistical
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 1176.

Van Die, P., editor. 1980. 1979 Meeting of the
Canada Committee on Agricultural Engineer-
ing Services report. Research Branch, Agricul-
ture Canada.

Van Die, P. 1980. Summary of Agriculture Can-
ada's energy research and development con-
tract reports. Engineering and Statistical Re-
search Institute, Agriculture Canada. Rep.
No. 1233.

Van Die, P.; Timbers, G. E.; Hayes, R. D. 1980.
Potential of liquid mobile fuel from Canadian
agriculture/Possibilité de production de car-
burants liquides par l'agriculture canadienne.
Engineering and Statistical Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 8007 1172.

Winfield, R. G.; Munroe, J. A. 1980. Solar assisted
animal housing ventilation for northern lati-
tudes. Canadian Society of Agricultural Engi-
neering Annual Meeting. No. 80-217.

Winfield, R. G.; Turnbull, J. E. 1980. Saving
energy by interlocking heating/ventilating con-
trols in livestock housing. Canadian Society of
Agricultural Engineering Annual Meeting.
No. 80-222.

Zilkey, B. F.; Binns, M. 1980. Effect of leaf
ripeness and genotype on agronomic, physical
and chemical measurements of flue-cured to-
bacco and tobacco smoke. 34th Tobacco
Chemists Research Conference.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Food Research Institute
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

J. Holme, B.A., M.A.
E. Larmond, B.Sc.

J. SCHAFER

Ph.D.

Director

Assistant Director

Acting Administrative Officer

Food Processing

D. Paton, B.Sc, Ph.D.

B. Ooma, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. Sinha, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

D. F. Wood, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Ph.D.

Program Leader; Cereal processing
Cereal processing
Lactic acid bacteria genetics
Meat processing

Food Quality

E. Larmond, B.Sc.

D. Froelich, B.Sc, M.Sc

M. Kalab, M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. Y. Ma, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. C. McKellar, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

I. R. Siddiqui, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., D.Sc

C. G. Zarkadas, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

F.R.I.C.

Assistant Director; Program
Leader; Sensory evaluation
Sensory evaluation
Electron microscopy
Protein functionality
Microbiology
Carbohydrates
Meat proteins

Food Safety and Nutrition

R. A. Holley, B.Sc, (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. J. Mullin, L.R.I.C, Ph.D.

A. C. Nunes, B.Sc

A. Paquet, M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. Russell, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Microbiology
Analytical methodology
Nutrient analysis
Organic synthesis
Nutrient analysis

Food Ingredients and New Products

P. J. Wood, B.Sc, Ph.D.
FOOD research institute

Program Leader; Carbohydrates

F. W. Collins, B.Sc, Ph.D.

D. B. Emmons, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
V. R. Harwalkar, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. D. Jones, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., F.R.I.C.
H. W. Modler, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

G. Paquette, B.Sc, (Agr.)

M. Sahasrabudhe, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. Weisz, B.Sc

Plant phenolics
Dairy products
Milk proteins
Oilseeds
Dairy products
Dairy products
Lipids
Carbohydrates

Departures

D. Dobson

Promoted to new position
John R. Quinn, B.S.A., M

Deceased July 1980

August
, Ph.D.

1980

Administrative Officer
Meat processing

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Food Research Institute (FRI) was pleased in making substantial progress in its
staffing activities during 1980. Several additions to professional staff were realized, which
permitted the Institute to attain most of its goals in research in the year. The Institute
welcomes all these new members. Dr. C. Y. Ma has initiated projects on the physical-chemical
and functional properties of food proteins. Dr. B. Oomah has joined the cereal processing
program and is engaged in research on oat fractionation and functional assessment of fractions
therefrom. Dr. W. Collins came to FRI from Biosystematics and has renewed research on the
phenolic constituents of cereals and oilseeds. D. Froehlich joined the food quality team, where
she will be further developing the sensory evaluation area of our program. F. Russell has begun
her research on the nutrient data base for Canadian fruits and vegetables. G. Paquette has
joined the dairy research group and he has taken on duties for administering our large contract
research program in that area. J. Weisz was promoted to the professional staff and will be
operating the Institute's new carbohydrate analytical laboratory and continuing his research on
carbohydrates.

The Department and the Institute were deeply saddened by the untimely death of Dr.
John Quinn, who had maintained a valuable research program in meat and plant proteins over
several years with FRI.

During the year Dr. John Mullin began a transfer of work at the Food Research Institute
in Norwich, England, where he will be studying new methodologies in glucosinolate analysis
and nutrient composition determination.

The Institute's programs in utilization of agricultural resources progressed well in 1980
with continued growth of contract research, addition of new in-house projects, and expanded
collaboration with industry in most areas of its program. Institute staff continued to serve on
important national and international committees endeavoring to coordinate research and
development (R & D) activities and to detail future R&D needs.

Highlights of the year's results are described in this report. Inquiries for more information
should be directed to the Food Research Institute, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada,
Ottawa Ont., Kl A 0C6.

John Holme
Director

FOOD PROCESSING

Extrusion cooking

Outside interest in FRI research directed
toward the measurement of the degree of cook
of extruded cereal products has resulted in the
formation of a Technical Committee of the
American Association of Cereal Chemists to
evaluate this and other related methodology.

Mechanisms of cake baking

Extensive layer cake baking experiments
have been conducted using a novel oven
design which monitors the net internal forces
during the development of a baking cake.
Such measurements are responsive to formu-
lation-ingredient changes. It has been shown
that sugar and oil act in opposition to the
protein and starch components; sugar and oil
lower the net internal forces, whereas protein

and starch increase them. A fully baked layer
cake shows a moderate net positive force
development. The wheat flour used in cake
baking is normally chlorinated to give cake
improvement; it has been shown that a
chlorinated flour when used in a cake formu-
lation gives rise to a consistently higher net
internal force value than does an unchlori-
nated wheat flour. These findings further
corroborate the well-known roles which have
been previously established for the cake
system.

Meat products

The changes in heat stability of beef protein
during processing of meat into sausage batters
has been studied using differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC). Neither the mechanical
work done nor the presence of fat affected the
protein structural stability, but the presence

FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE

of NaCl drastically lowered the temperature
of denaturation. This effect was partly revers-
ible upon dialysis. Rabbit and pork muscle
behaved in a similar fashion. The role of salt
in decreasing the temperature of denaturation
may be critical to the manufacture of batter-
type meat products. Through contracts, meth-
odology has been developed for microscopic
examination of meat batters and for deter-
mining least-cost formulations of poultry
meat-sausage blends.

FOOD QUALITY

Dairy products

Yogurt. Yogurts were manufactured in
which the hydrocolloids were replaced with a
variety of dairy-based proteins and then
subjected to physical and sensory evaluation
tests. The objective was to prepare an all-
dairy yogurt that would utilize more milk
solids or protein or both. Three whey protein
concentrates (WPC), one milk protein con-
centrate (MPC), casein, and skim milk pow-
der (SMP) were tested at the 0.5, 1.0, and
1.5% levels of addition. All products had
levels of syneresis which exceeded the gelatin
control, with casein at 1.5% having the least
syneresis. Products with firmness similar to
gelatin control were unacceptable in terms of
syneresis; however, all products were equal to
or better than the control with respect to
flavor. The ultrafiltrated-WPC (1.5%) and
MPC (1.5%) had thicker consistencies than
the control, whereas the remaining samples
were the same as or thinner than the control.
Three products, ion exchange - WPC at the
1.0% level and electrodialyzed-WPC at the
1.0 and 1.5% levels, had a texture comparable
to gelatin. The remaining 15 formulations
scored higher in terms of smoothness, with
casein being the superior product. An overall
ranking of ingredients revealed that 9 of 18
treatments were acceptable in all respects,
except for syneresis. Six of the nine products
contained casein.

Generally it can be concluded that products
containing casein (MPC, SMP, and casem-
ates) at levels of 1.0 to 1.5% are acceptable
substitutes for gelatin and can be faulted only
on the basis of syneresis. The whey protein
concentrates used at 1.0% and casein contain-
ing products at 0.5% produce one or more
serious defects in yogurt.

Milk quality. The survival of heat-stable
extracellular protease of microbial origin in
processed milk presents a serious shelf-life
problem. Studies were initiated to determine
the correlation between proteolysis and the
development of off-flavors in milk, with a view
to developing a rapid test for proteases.

The addition of crude proteases to ultra
high temperature (UHT) and pasteurized
milk resulted in the breakdown of milk
proteins as measured by the increase in
trichloroacetic acid soluble free amino groups
using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid and by the
development of off-flavors. Proteolysis could
be detected in milk samples that had received
insufficient protease to cause off-flavor. Sig-
nificant off-flavor was detected at various
levels of proteolysis for each of the three
enzymes tested. Long-term studies are in
progress to determine if trinitrobenzene sulfu-
ric acid can be used to monitor stored UHT
milk.

Protein functionality

The effect of chemical modification on the
physicochemical and functional properties of
food proteins was studied. Succinylated wheat
gluten, rapeseed protein concentrate, and oat
protein were found to have improved solubil-
ity, emulsification capacity, and water hydra-
tion capacity. Succinylated egg albumin has
distinct physicochemical properties and is
more resistant to heat coagulation. Data
suggest that ionic interaction is essential for
thermocoagulation of egg white proteins, with
disulfide and hydrophobic interactions playing
a role in the initial stages.

Microstructure

A technique was developed for high-resolu-
tion electron microscopy of dried milk pro-
ducts. It is based on coating the dried product
with platinum while the specimen is rotated,
backing the coating with carbon, and separat-
ing the double layer in the form of a replica
which is subsequently cleaned and examined
under a transmission electron microscope.
Submicellar ultrastructure of casein micelles
was visualized in this way.

Differences in the microstructures of tradi-
tional and newly formulated cream cheeses
were found by electron microscopy. Fat
globules remained almost intact in the tradi-
tional products but were coalesced in the
newly formulated products. Manufacturing

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

processes were found responsible for the
different microstructures.

In collaboration with Utah State Univer-
sity, we detected crystals of emulsifying salts
in process cheeses by electron microscopy.
The results suggested that the use of salt
solutions might be more efficient than the
current practice of adding salt in the crystal-
line form. Because only the salts solubilized in
the cheese curd contribute to the emulsifica-
tion of fat, the portion of crystalline salt that
remains undissolved is not being utilized.

Carbohydrates

A systematic fractionation of lower molecu-
lar weight tobacco carbohydrates by various
chromatographic techniques has led to the
recognition and characterization of a number
of monosaccharides and oligosaccharides:
D-glucose, D-fructose, sucrose, myoinositol,
D-xylose, D-ribose, D-psicose, D-sorbitol, malt-
ose, gentiobiose, glucopyranosyl-myoinositol,
di-D-glucopyranosyl-myoinositol, gentianose,
and erose. Some of these were not previously
known to occur in tobacco.

Tobacco contains a number of alkaloids, of
which nicotine predominates. The recognition,
quantitation, and characterization of l-(l'-2'-
5-nornicotino)- 1 -deoxy- /?-D-fructose from
Canadian tobacco (Delhi 76) is a first attempt
to discover bound nornicotine in a good-
quality Canadian tobacco. The Cherry Red
strain of Bright Yellow tobacco, an inferior
variety that contains nornicotine as a princi-
pal alkaloid, contains the nornicotine-fructose
derivative at around 1% of dry weight. The
Delhi 76 contains 0.3-0.4% of this compound,
which is regarded as an undesirable leaf
component because it imparts a disagreeable
taste to smoke. Additionally, based on the
presence of both secondary amines and oxides
of nitrogen, it is feasible that interaction
between these compounds could produce
nitrosamines, which would account for the
implication of tobacco smoke in tumor
growth. Indeed nitroso derivatives of nornico-
tine have been shown to be carcinogenic in
laboratory animals.

Natural back mutation of nicotine-type
tobacco to Cherry Red type has been known
to occur about 0.8% in a generation. It
appears that Delhi 76 is undergoing such
mutation. Obviously the Delhi figure of 2.75—
3% total alkaloids with 95% nicotine for Delhi
76 needs to be reevaluated in view of the

presence of this bound nornicotino/fructose
Amadori product.

Sensory evaluation

Sensory evaluation has been conducted in
support of several projects within and outside
FRI and also outside the government. Product
characteristics evaluated include milk flavor,
butter flavor, veal quality, chicken quality,
and beef tenderness.

Electrical stimulation

The effect of electrical stimulation (ES) on
the sensory quality of Al, CI, and Dl grades
of Canadian beef cattle was determined.
Fifteen animals from each grade were split at
about 30 min postslaughter and half of each
carcass was stimulated (600 V, 2.18 A) with
17 pulses of 2-s duration followed by 1-s
pauses. Steaks from the loin and round were
evaluated for tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and
overall acceptability; Warner-Bratzler shear
values were also determined. No positive
improvements were found for any of the
parameters studied, as a result of the ES
treatment.

Milk-fed versus grain-fed veal quality

Samples were obtained from the loin and
round of grain-fed and milk-fed veal. The
sensory attributes tested were: raw and
cooked color, tenderness, flavor, juiciness, and
overall acceptability. Warner-Bratzler shear
force was also determined. These attributes
were determined for fresh veal and for
duplicate cuts of each muscle which had been
frozen at -20°C and held 4 mo before
evaluation. The fresh grain-fed veal cuts were
judged to be significantly more red in color
and significantly less tender by Warner-
Bratzler shear. However, the panelists did not
detect the tenderness difference and rated
both milk-fed and grain-fed cuts equal in
overall acceptability. The freezing did not
appear to affect the quality, as panel scores
for the frozen samples were similar to those
for the fresh veal.

Contracts

Fat levels in ground beef. A survey of fat
levels in ground beef at the retail level
revealed that in most cases fat levels are well
below regulatory limits. This is a reflection of
the inadequacy of current fat determination
techniques for in-store use. Methodology and

FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE

regulations have been reviewed and recom-
mendations are being developed for both
government and industry.

Mechanically deboned meat. The rheology
and bone strength of chicken, beef, and pork
meat have been determined. The data ob-
tained are to be used in modifying deboning
equipment in order to improve end product
texture.

Meat proteins

The new amino acid methodology recently
developed in this laboratory for the determi-
nation of the myofibrillar and connective
tissue contents of meats and composite meat
products was successfully applied to a variety
of composite meat samples. The determina-
tion of the TV^-methylhistidine and 5-hy-
droxylysine contents of selected composite
meat products was carried out by this chemi-
cal approach with an accuracy of 0-3%. The
method has also been successfully used for an
accurate nutritional assessment of novel pro-
tein supplements, such as fish and crab meals
and potato waste products, in broiler poultry
diets. Further application of the method has
shown previously unreported methylation in
certain important purified muscle proteins.

FOOD SAFETY AND NUTRITION

Microbiology

Mold inhibition on salami casings. Potas-
sium sorbate and natamycin (pimaricin) were
used to prevent uncontrolled surface mold
growth on several types of raw-cured Italian
dry salami during ripening under commercial
production conditions. Salamis were dipped
into, or sprayed with, natamycin or they were
given a combined organic acid plus potassium
sorbate treatment. Acetic and citric acids
potentiated the inhibitory effects of potassium
sorbate significantly, but lactic and succinic
acids showed no effect. At 10% potassium
sorbate on all types of salami and 2.5%
sorbate on Casalingo salami, visual inhibition
of mold growth was observed. Natamycin
spray (2 x 1000 mg/L) was as effective or
slightly better than 2.5% potassium sorbate,
but greater concentrations of each were
required to satisfactorily inhibit surface mold
growth during the 25- to 50-day ripening
period. The lowest most effective concentra-
tion of potassium sorbate was 5% when

applied as two separate 60-s dips at day 0 and
day 5 of curing.

Sorbic acid methodology. A method for
determining sorbic acid in dry salami was
developed and used to follow the sorbate
penetration into the salami after treatment. It
was found that the residual sorbic acid in
slices of these salamis was directly related to
the concentration of the dipping solution used
and inversely related to the diameter of the
salami. Salametti salami, dipped twice into
5% potassium sorbate, contained 332 mg
sorbic acid per kilogram after 25 days of
ripening. Natural casings tended to retain
more sorbic acid after dipping than did
regenerated collagen casings.

Contracts. Four contracts were completed
during the past year with the main highlights
being as follows.

(a) Catalase destruction can be used to
monitor the extent of cooking of sausage
batters. The method will be used in the plant.

(b) Water flow rate and methods of sanita-
tion of poultry chillers need to be standard-
ized and controlled. A report was sent to all
Agriculture Canada personnel across Canada.

(d) Sampling of bird feathers prior to
shipment was found to be a reliable indicator
of Salmonella status of broiler flocks.

Amino acid derivatives

The synthesis of new essential amino acid
derivatives was terminated. Biological testing
showed a variety of potential uses for some of
these compounds. Methionine, tryptophan,
and threonine derivatives were found to
exhibit strong biostatic activity toward several
strains of bacteria (zone inhibition studies).

Nitrosamine analysis

Two contracts are currently in place. The
first is to develop an improved method for
nitrosamine analysis which does not need
extremely expensive detection systems, and
the second is to determine the source of
extremely low, but consistent, levels of di-
methylnitrosamine in cured meat products.

Vitamin analysis

Folic acid. A number of improvements
have been developed for the standard micro-
biological assay procedure. Data have been

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

accumulated for several broccoli and spinach
varieties over two different growing seasons.

Vitamins A and C. The vitamin A and
vitamin C contents of a number of cultivars of
spinach, carrots, and cabbage have been
determined. The loss of vitamin C on storage
of spinach at 4°C has also been determined.
Up to 80% of the vitamin C content of
spinach may be lost during 10 days storage at
4°C. Mini carrots were found to contain about
75% of the amount of vitamin A found in
regular carrots.

Glucosinolate studies

An improved method for the high pressure
liquid chromatographic determination of glu-
cosinolates has been developed and success-
fully applied to quality control of mustard and
horseradish.

NEW FOOD INGREDIENTS

Oats

Carbohydrates. Studies have continued to
establish that the dyes Congo Red and
Calcofluor may be used to specifically locate
cereal /3-glucans histochemically (collabora-
tor: Dr. R. G. Fulcher, Ottawa Research
Station). Staining of oat, wheat, and barley
aleurone and endosperm cell walls by Congo
Red and Calcofluor is largely removed after
treatment with a /3-glucanase specific for the
/3(l->4)(l-K})-D-glucan of cereal cell walls.
Crude cell wall extracts, wheat pentosan
preparations, and wheat arabinogalactan-
peptide either did not interact with dye in
solution or did not interact with dye following
removal of contaminating /3-glucan.

Loss of /3-glucan interaction with dyes
during incubation with /3-glucanases parallels
loss in viscosity, and can thus be used to
follow endo-/3-glucanase activity. The tech-
nique employed for routine endo-/3-glucanase
assay utilizes the concentration dependence of
rate of radial diffusion of enzyme into a
substrate-bearing gel slab. The area of diffu-
sion, which is proportional to the logarithm of
enzyme concentration, can be visualized by
means of interaction of Congo Red with
undergraded substrate. The technique is
suitable for routinely monitoring a large
number of samples for /3-(l->4)-, (l->3)-, and
/?-(l->4)(l->-3)-glucanase activity by use of

CM-cellulose, CM-pachyman, and oat /3-glu-
can, respectively, as substrate. Cereal ex-
tracts, both germinated and ungerminated,
malt, and a large number of fungal enzyme
sources have been examined in this fashion.

Phenolics. Fluorescence microscopy of
hand-sectioned oat grains (cultivar Hinoat)
using the flavone-flavonol fluorochrome, di-
phenyborinic acid, ethanolamine complex has
revealed flavonoid-like compounds in the
aleurone and subaleurone layers. The embryo
and central endosperm tissues are devoid of
this type of phenolic reaction. The flavonoid-
like constituents are only partly extracted
from the tissues using standard aqueous
alcohol extraction procedures. Examination of
the extractable components by preparative
column chromatography and high-resolution
thin-layer chromatography revealed a com-
plex mixture of as many as 25 different
flavonoids. Kaempferol and quercetin (3,5,7,-
4'- and 3,5,7,3',4'-OH-flavone) have been
identified from this mixture, which marks the
first reported occurrence of 3-OH-flavones in
the cereals. The major components of the
flavonoid mixture were tightly bound to
anionic exchange columns, suggesting that
the majority of oat flavonoids may be substi-
tuted with free acidic functions and may be
ionically bound to cationic substrates in the
tissues.

Fluorescence microscopy of hand-sectioned
oat grains indicated that the peripheral region
of the grain contained /wa-dimethylamino-
cinnamaldehyde-positive components. The
distinctive long ultraviolet-stimulated red
orange fluorescence in the grain is character-
istic only of aromatic primary amines. In vitro
testing of a wide number of aminophenols and
aminobenzoic acids using cellulose and poly-
amide adsorbents to simulate the in vivo
staining matrix of the grain suggests the
reactive substance contains an orf/jo-amino-
phenol function. In thin sections, the amino-
phenol-like material was restricted to the
aleurone layer and within these cells was
confined to the protein bodies.

In view of the high redox potential and
propensity to form highly colored oxidation
products, the structure and properties of these
oat components are of potential importance in
evaluating color quality of processed oat
ingredients.

Lipids. A simple microquantitative method
for the estimation of lipase activity in cereal
grains has been developed. The method is

FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE

based on the colorimetric estimation of free
fatty acids hydrolyzed from the endogenous
neutral lipid.

Oilseeds

Progress has been achieved in evaluation of
the FRI 1975 process to produce rapeseed oil
and meal of improved quality, but further
improvements in technology are required
before commercialization.

A contract study at the University of
Toronto on an improved process for rapeseed
protein isolate preparation has shown an
insoluble by-product to contain 26-33% pro-
tein, 23-34% fiber, and no detectable gluco-
sinolate, and to possess good nutritional value.
Waste-disposal problems associated with the
whey-protein by-product was effectively re-
duced by bentonite treatment, which allowed
recovery of a soluble protein fraction.

A contract study at Laval University on
proteolytic products from plant and animal
proteins as nutritional indicators showed that
casein and animal proteins (controls) gave the
highest nutritional values. Of rapeseed, soya,
and wheat concentrates, rapeseed protein
concentrate (RPC) had the highest nutri-
tional value and was equal to that of casein.
Autoclaving improved the nutritional value of
the 2 S plus 1 1 S fraction of soya but the
fractionated proteins had significantly lower
value than the unfractionated. Admixtures of
different plant proteins generally increased
the nutritional value above that of the individ-
ual components, but addition of wheat al-
bumin - globulin and glutenin to RPC
significantly decreased the nutritional value of
RPC.

Contracted investigations to study the
effect of heat processing on canola proteins
showed that the precooking and steam-desol-
ventization steps decreased the protein solu-
bility of the meals.

A contract to evaluate, with rapeseed, a US
patent for preparing an oil-protein complex
(from soybean) was unsuccessful in obtaining
an oil-protein complex from the rapeseed.

Whey protein

To gain understanding of the differences in
functionality of whey protein concentrates
(WPC) prepared by heating before (heat-UF)
or after (UF-heat) ultrafiltration, proteins of

WPC were further evaluated by the determi-
nation of intrinsic viscosity [17] and fluores-
cence emission spectra. The [17] of denatured
proteins, soluble at pH 2.5, generally in-
creased with pH of heat treatment in both the
methods of preparation. This is indicative of
greater unfolding at the higher pH's of
heating. The viscosity data correlated with the
increased water binding capacity of WPC
prepared by heating at higher pH. The
fluorescence intensity decreased with the
increased extent of denaturation, indicating
changing hydrophobic conditions for the
residues causing fluorescence.

In model systems, /3-lactoglobulin (/3-lg)
denaturation was examined by susceptibility
to proteolysis and by fluorescence spectros-*
copy. /3-Lactoglobulin, thermally denatured
at pH 2.5, showed increased rate of hydrolysis
by pepsin. Changes in fluorescence emission
spectra in 1, 2, 4, and 8 M urea were
examined. The emission maximum (Xmax)
increased from 334 nm to 349 nm in the
presence of 8 M urea. A similar red shift was
not observed with lower concentration of urea
(excitation was at 285 nm). However, inten-
sity of fluorescence, as indicated by peak
height, decreased with increasing urea con-
centration, although width at half height
showed change only with 8 M urea. Heat
denaturation of /3-1 g also causes a decrease in
peak height and increase in Xmax from 333
nm to 337 nm but no change in width at half
height. The differences in fluorescence behav-
ior between different concentrations of urea
and between urea and heat denaturation of
y3- 1 g arise from a different degree of unfold-
ing and are consistent with the previously
reported viscosity and optical rotation data.

White bean

Four varieties of white bean were analyzed
for proximate and amino acid composition
and air-classified into high-protein and low-
protein fractions. The lipids, oligosaccharides,
and minerals were concentrated in the high-
protein fraction. More than 80% of protein
was soluble at pH 7.5. Functional properties
of the protein were comparable to those of
other vegetable proteins. The starch from the
low-protein fraction contained 30% amyiose
and gave torque-temperature curves typical
of legume starches.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Emmons, D. B.; Lister, E. E.; Beckett, D. C;
Jenkins, K. J. 1980. Quality of protein in milk
replacers for young calves. V. Effect of method
of dispersing fat on curd formation and whey
syneresis. J. Dairy Sci. 63:417-425.

Emmons, D. B.; Kalab, M.; Larmond, E.; Lowrie,
R. J. 1980. Milk gel structure. X. Texture and
microstructure in cheddar cheese made from
whole milk and from homogenized low fat
milk. J. Texture Stud. 11:15-34.

Harwalkar, V. R. 1980. Measurements of thermal
denaturation of /3-lactoglobulin at pH 2.5. J.
Dairy Sci. 63:1043-1051.

Harwalkar, V. R. 1980. Kinetics of thermal denatu-
ration of /3-lactoglobulin at pH 2.5. J. Dairy
Sci. 63:1052-1057.

Harwalkar, V. R.; Kalab, M. 1980. Milk gel
structure. XI. Electron microscopy of glucano-
d-lactone-induced skim milk gels. J. Texture
Stud. 11:35-49.

Hidiroglou, M.; Siddiqui, I. R.; Khan, S. U.;
Williams, C. J. 1979. Amino acid and glyco-
saminoglycan composition of epiphysical carti-
lage of neonate and osteoporotic lambs. Int. J.
Vit.

Holley, R. A.; Millard, G. E. 1980. Sorbic acid

determination in dry fermented sausage by

ultraviolet spectrophotometry. J. Assoc. Off.
Anal. Chem. 63:1332-1335.

Jenkins, K. J.; Emmons, D. B. 1979. Effect of fat
dispersion method on performance of calves
fed high-fat milk replacers. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
59:713-720.

Ju, H.-Y.; Chong, C; Bible, B; Mullin, W. J. 1980.
Seasonal variation in glucosinolate composition
of rutabaga and turnip. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:605-612.

Kalab, M. 1980. Decayed lactic bacteria — a possi-
ble source of crystallization nuclei in cheese. J.
Dairy Sci. 63(2):301 -304.

Kalab, M. 1980. Possibilities of an electron micro-
scopic detection of buttermilk made from
sweet cream in adulterated skim milk. Scan-
ning Electron Microsc. 111:645-652.

Larmond, E.; Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980.
Cooking characteristics of eating quality of
broiler chickens fed squid meal. J. Poult. Sci.
59:2564-2566.

Ma, C. Y.; Nakai, S. 1980. Carboxyl-modified
pepsin: Properties and reactions with milk and
caseins. J. Dairy Sci. 63:705-714.

Ma, C. Y.; Nakai, S. 1980. Chemical modification
of carboxyl groups in porcine pepsin. J. Agric.
Food Chem. 28:834-839.

Modler, H. W.; Muller, P. G.; Elliot, J. I.; Emmons,
D. B. 1980. Economic and technical aspects of
feeding whey to livestock. J. Dairy Sci. 63:838-
855.

McKellar, R. C; Charles, A. M.; Butler, B. J.
1980. Some properties of adenylate kinase
from chemolithotrophically grown Thiobacil-
l us novel 7 us. Arch. Microbiol. 124:275-284.

Paquet, A. 1980. Preparation of some long chain
A/-acyl derivatives of essential amino acids for
nutritional studies. Can. J. Biochem. 58:573-
576.

Paquet, A.; Sarwar, G. 1980. Determination of
bioavailability of some long chain A-substi-
tuted derivatives of L-methionine and L-lysine.
Can. J. Biochem. 58:577-580.

Paton, D.; Robertson, G. D.; Tibers, G. E.; Spratt,
W. A. 1980. Laboratory food extrusion —
design of a horizontally split barrel. J. Food

Sci. 45:227.

Quinn, J. R.; Raymond, D. P.; Harwalkar, V. R.
1980. Differential scanning calorimetry of
meat proteins as affected by processing treat-
ment. J. Food Sci. 45:1 146-1 149.

Rayan, A. A.; Kalab, M.; Ernstrom, C. A. 1980.
Microstructure and rheology of process cheese.
Scanning Electron Microsc. 111:635-643.

Sahasrabudhe, M. R.; Mullin, W. J. 1980. Dehy-
dration of horseradish roots. J. Food Sci.
45:1440-1443.

Shah, B. G.; Giroux, A.; Belonje, B; Jones, J. D.
1980. Evaluation of rapeseed protein concen-
trate as a source of protein in a zinc supple-
mented diet for young rats. J. Agric. Food
Chem. 28:36-39.

Siddiqui, I. R. 1980. A convenient procedure for
producing gram quantities of brucine L-guluro-
nate and brucine D-manuronate. Carbohydr.
Res. 80:343-345.

Sinha, R. P. 1980. Alteration of host specificity to
lytic bacteriophages in Streptoccocus cremo-
sis. Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 40:326-332.

Sprott, G. D.; McKellar, R. C. 1980. Composition
and properties of the cell wall of Methanospi-
rillum hungatii. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:115-
120.

Stanley, D. W.; Emmons, D. B.; Modler, H. W.;
Irvine, D. M. 1980. Cheddar cheese made with
chicken pepsin. Can. Inst. Food Sci. Technol.
J. 13:97-102.

FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Wood, P. J. 1980. The interaction of direct dyes
with water soluble substituted celluloses and
cereal /3-glucans. Ind. Eng. Chem. Prod. Res.
Dev. 19:19-23.

Wood, P. J. 1980. Specificity in the interaction of
direct dyes with polysaccharides. Carbohydr.
Res. 85:271-287.

Miscellaneous

Beckett, D. C; McGugan, W. A.; Emmons, D. B.;
Nichols, D.; Brackenridge, P. 1979. Denatura-
tions of skim milk powder with anise oil.
International report to Canadian Dairy Com-
mission. 79-1 1-16.

Fulcher, R. G.; Wood, P. J. 1980. Microchemical
differentiation of cell wall constituents in
cereals and cereal products. American Associ-
ation of Cereal Chemists 65th Annual Meet-
ing, Chicago, IL.

Harwalkar, V. R.; Kalab, M. 1980. Rheological
properties of gels by acidulating skim milk at
0-90°C. J. Dairy Sci. 63(Suppl. 1):50.

Harwalkar, V. R.; Sibbitt, D. 1980. A study of
thermal denaturation of individual proteins in
whey by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. J.
Dairy Sci. 63(Suppl. 1):48.

Harwalkar, V. R.; Kalab, M. 1980. Rheological
properties and microstructure of gels made by
acidulating skim milk at 0-90°C. J. Dairy Sci.
63(Suppl.l):50.

Holley, R. A. 1980. The potential hazard from
botulism in cured meats. 60th Annual Meeting
Meat Packers Council of Canada, Toronto,
Ont. (Feb.).

Jenkins, K. J.; Lessard, J. R; Emmons, D. B. 1980.
Improving the curdforming potential of calf
milk replacers. Canadex 401.55 (Aug.).

Klein, K. K.; Salmon, R. E.; Larmond, E. 1980. A
computer model for assessing the economic
value of Candle canola meal in diets for
growing turkeys. 6th Progress Report, Re-
search on canola seed, oil, meal and meal
fractions. Canola Council of Canada, Winni-
peg, Man. Publ. 57:23-26.

Larmond, E.; Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K. 1980.
Sensory evaluation of turkeys fed diets con-
taining Candle canola meal. 6th Progress
Report, Research on canola seed, oil, meal and
meal fractions. Canola Council of Canada,
Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57:103-105.

Ma, C. Y.; Nakai, S. 1980. Identification of vitamin
A degradation products responsible for the
occurrence of hay-like flavor in low-fat milks.
23rd Annual Meeting Canadian Institute of
Food Science and Technology.

Modler, H. W. 1980. Profitability of feeding whey
to beef cattle. Presented at the Speciality
Cheese Seminar, University of Guelph,
Guelph, Ont. (1 May 1980).

Modler, H. W. 1980. Design features and charac-
teristics of ultrafiltration equipment commonly
used in North America. Presented at the
Canadian Institute of Food Science and Tech-
nology workshop on membrane technology for
the food industry, Edmonton, Alta. (May).

Modler, H. W. 1980. Industrial application of
membrane processes. Presented at the Cana-
dian Institute of Food Science and Technology
workshop on membrane technology for the
food industry, Edmonton, Alta. (May).

Modler, H. W. 1980. Recovery and functional-
properties of ultrafiltered whey protein concen-
trate prepared by heating under acidic condi-
tions. Presented at the American Dairy Sci-
ence Association, Blacksburg, VA. (10 June
1980).

Modler, H. W. 1980. Using whey for animal feed
can lower production costs. Food Can. 40:25.

Ooma, B.; Reichert, R. D.; Youngs, C. G. 1979.
Sorghum/millet milling and quality. Interna-
tional Development Research Centre Project
File 3-P-78-0008. Progress report #1(15 Jan.
1979- 15 Aug. 1979).

Paquet, A. 1980. Long chain acylamino acids for
potential use as poor quality protein supple-
ments. Preparation and biological evaluation.
Paper delivered to the American Chemical
Society, Las Vegas, NV. (24-29 Aug.).

Poon, H. H.; Altosaar, I.; Fulcher, R. G; Wood. P.
J. 1980. A histochemical study of rapeseed.
American Association of Cereal Chemists 65th
Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL. (Sept.).

Proudfoot, K. G.; Mullin, W. J. 1979. Glucosinolate
content of rutabaga cultivars. Crucifer Im-
provement Conference, Mount Vernon, WA.
(July).

Rayan, A.; Ernstrom, C. A.; Kalab, M. 1980.
Microstructure and rheology of pasteurized
process cheese. J. Dairy Sci. 63(Suppl. 1 ):61.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Larmond, E. 1980.
Nutritive value of Candle canola meal in
turkey broiler diets of varying nutrient densit\ .
6th Progress Report, Research on canola seed,
oil, meal and meal fractions. Canola Council of
Canada, Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57:1922.

Siddiqui, I. R. 1980. The stability of L-guluronic
acid under decarboxylation and hydrolytic
conditions. Published by the 10th International
Symposium on carbohydrate chemistry. Syd-
ney, Australia (July). Abstract Th 10.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Wood, D. F. 1980. Review of color substitutes for
nitrite in cured meats. Proceedings of the 60th
Annual Meeting of Canada Meat Council.

Wood, D. F.; Froehlich, D. 1980. The effect of
electrical stimulation on the sensory and physi-
cal properties of steaks from three grades of
Canadian beef. Proceedings of a seminar day
on electrical stimulation of beef carcasses.
Alberta Department of Agriculture, Edmon-
ton, Alta.

Wood, P. J.; Fulcher, R. G. 1980. Applications of
the interaction of direct dyes with polysaccha-
rides, in particular cereal y3-glucans. American

Association of Cereal Chemists 65th Annual
Meeting, Chicago, IL. (Sept.).

Zarkadas, C. G. 1979. New methods for studying
muscular dystrophy and connective tissue dis-
orders. Abstracts of the 11th International
Congress of Biochemistry, Toronto, Ont.
(July) (refereed conference proceedings), p.
6SH.

Patents

Canadian Patent — Acylation of amino acids 1,084,-
586 (2 Sept. 1980). Listed previously as Patent
Application, filed 22 Mar. 1977.

FOOD RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Land Resource Research Institute
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

J. S. Clark, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Director

J. C. van Schaik, M.Sc, Ph.D. Deputy Director

M. B. Trudel Administrative Officer

Soil Resource Inventory and Mapping

J. H. Day, B.S.A., M.S. A. Head of Section; Correlation

J. L. Nowland, B.A., M.Sc. Soil correlation — Eastern

J. A. Shields, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Soil correlation— Great Plains

C. Tarnocai, B.S.F., M.S. Soil correlation — British Columbia

and North

Atlantic Soil Survey (Truro)

G. J. Beke, B.S.A., B.Sc, Ph.D. Head of Unit

F. Hender, B.Sc. Party leader, Newfoundland
P. K. Heringa, B.Sc, M.Sc. Party leader, Newfoundland

D. A. Holmstrom, B.S.A. Party leader, Nova Scotia

J. I. MacDougall, B.Sc, B.Sc. (Agr.) Party leader, Prince Edward Island

K. T. Webb, B.Sc, M.Sc. Party leader, Nova Scotia

R. E. Wells, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Party leader, New Brunswick

Quebec Soil Survey (Sainte-Foy)

J. M. Cossette, B.Sc Head of Unit

L. Grenon, B.S.A. Party leader

L. Lamontagne, B.Sc. Party leader

M. C. Nolin, B.Sc, M.Sc. Party leader

R. Simard, B.S.A., M.Sc. Party leader

Ontario Soil Survey (Guelph)

C. J. Acton, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Head of Unit

B. H. Cameron, B.Sc. (Agr.) Party leader

R. K. Jones, B.Sc, M.Sc. Party leader

E. W. Presant, B.S.A., M.Sc Party leader

G. J. Wall, B.S.A., Ph.D. Party leader

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE 61

Manitoba Soil Survey (Winnipeg)

Smith, B.S.A.,

M.Sc.

Head of Unit

Eilers, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Party

leader

. R

. Fraser, B.Sc

., M.Sc

Party

leader

. Michalyna, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Party

leader

Veldhuis, Ing.

Party

leader

Saskatchewan Soil S

Purvey (Saskatoon)

Acton, B.S.A.

, M.Sc

, Ph.D.

Head of Unit

Ballantyne,

B.S.A.,

M.Sc

Party

leader

Kozak, B.S.A

., M.Sc

., Ph.D.

Party

leader

Padbury, B.S.A.,

M.Sc.

Party

leader

W. Rostad, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Party

leader

. E.

Souster, B.A

., B.S.^

,., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Party

leader

Stonehouse, ]

3.S.A.,

M.Sc.

Party

leader

Alberta Soil Survey (Edmonton)

. Pettapiece, ]

B.S.A.,

M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Unit

Coen, B.Sc,

M.Sc,

Ph.D.

Party

leader

Kjearsgaard

, B.Sc.

Party

leader

Peters, B.Sc,

M.Sc

Party

leader

Ta.

iek, Eng.

Party

leader

British Columbia Soil

Survey (Vancouver)

Lord, B.S.A.

Head of Unit

Green, B.S.A.,

M.Sc

Party

leader

Moon, B.Sc.

Party

leader

G. Valentini

I, B.S.A

„ M.Sc, Ph.D.

Party

leader

P. van Vliet,

B.S.A.,

M.Sc

Party

leader

Soil Classification

J. A. McKeague, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. A. Fox, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. C. W. Keng, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. E. M. Levesque, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

G. C. Topp, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

C. Wang, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. Wilson, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.I.C.

Head of Section; Classification

Micromorphology

Physics structure

Organic soils

Physics and water

Chemistry

Engineering

Land Use and Evaluation

J. Dumanski, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. R. Coote, M.S., Ph.D.

J. Culley, B.Sc, M.Sc.

R. DeJong, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

B. Kloosterman, B.S.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section
Degradation
Water quality
Water use
Data system

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

K. B. MacDonald, B.S.A.
K. Switzer-Howse, B.Sc.

M.Sc, Ph.D.

Evaluation
Information

Agrometeorology

R. Mack, B.S.A. , M.Sc, Ph.D.

Acting Head of Section; Remote
sensing

L. Dejardins, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.

Micrometeorology

M. Dwyer, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Agrometeorology

N. Edey, B.Sc.

Climatology

N. Hayhoe, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Biomathematics

W. Stewart, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Micrometeorology

Departures

W. B. Baier, Diplomlandwirt, Dr. agr., M.Sc.

Seconded to Branch Coordination and Evaluation

Directorate, 18 August 1980
C. E. Ouellet, B.A., B.Sc.A., M.Sc

Retired 29 December 1980
R. B. Stewart, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred to Regional Development and

International Affairs, Crop Production Division, 28

November 1980

Head of Agrometeorology Section

Ecoclimatology
Applications

VISITING SCIENTIST

O. Iizuka, Ph.D.

Transfer of work from College of Agriculture,
Nikon University, Tokyo, Japan

Soil classification

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

INTRODUCTION

The Land Resource Research Institute (LRRI) was established in 1978 to bring together
the main professional disciplines involved in agricultural land resource studies in Agriculture
Canada. In 1980, the second year of operation for the Institute, activities continued to focus on
(/) the assembly and integration of information on land forms, soils, and climate and their
interactions relative to the evaluation of land resources for potential agricultural and related
uses; (2) the collection and synthesis of information on the seasonal dynamics of weather and
its effects on land use and food production; and (5) the undertaking of research as required to
meet the needs of the first two functions. Regional programs have been maintained through
regional soil survey units working in cooperation with provincial survey agencies.

This report briefly outlines the activities and achievements during 1980. Requests for
details should be addressed to: Land Resource Research Institute, Agriculture Canada,
Ottawa, Ont. Kl A 0C6.

J. S. Clark
Director

INSTITUTE ROLES

The activities of LRRI include research,
development, and services related to Canada's
land resources. These activities not only
support other' research within the Research
Branch but also provide information essential
to policy and decision making for regional and
national levels of governments, educational
institutions, and agribusiness. The Institute in
pursuit of these activities provides leadership
and is responsible for a number of national
programs related to land including those
outlined below.

Soil inventory. Soil mapping is done by
LRRI staff in cooperation with provincial and
university personnel throughout the nation,
and correlation provides quality control on
soil maps and reports. Maps are prepared
showing the distribution of soils and land
capability for various potential uses.

Canada Soil Information System (Can-
SIS). Soil survey, soil management, crop
yield, and cartographic data are stored in a
computerized system so as to be available to
users throughout Canada.

Soil taxonomy and interpretations. Im-
provements are developed in taxonomic and
interpretive soil classification systems through
research and integration of information from
many sources.

Land evaluation. Soils, climate, agronomic,
and economic data are being integrated to
develop improved methodology for predicting

crop yield potentials and assessing the quality
of the land resources of Canada for various
uses.

Agrometeorological data archive. Agrome-
teorological data and processing services are
provided.

Crop information system and agroelimatic
resources. Procedures are developed for moni-
toring the areal distribution of growing
conditions and crop production prospects from
meteorological, environmental, remotely
sensed agroelimatic, and crop statistical data.
Agroelimatic resources are assessed as a
means of providing information for efficient
management of agricultural resources.

Committees

LRRI contributes to the integration of
land-related activities of Agriculture Canada
and other federal and provincial agencies
through participation in a number of commit-
tees. These include:

• Canada Committee on Land Resource
Services (CCLRS) and the associated
expert committees

• Provincial agricultural services coordinat-
ing committees and soil survey commit-
tees

• Canada Committee on Ecological Land
Classification

• Interdepartmental Committee on Land
Use

• Interdepartmental Committee on Water

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

• Geotechnical Committee of the National
Research Council and the Peatland Sub-
committee

• Canada Advisory Committee on Remote
Sensing

• Committee on Great Lakes Water Qual-
ity

• Interdepartmental Committee on Air
Surveys.

INSTITUTE PROGRESS AND
ACHIEVEMENTS DURING 1980

Soil resource inventory and mapping

The soil resource inventory and mapping
program involves personnel of the soil survey
units throughout Canada and a group at
headquarters of the Land Resource Research
Institute in Ottawa concerned with soil corre-
lation and cartography. The survey projects
are conducted in cooperation with personnel
of provincial agencies according to priorities
that are established in the provinces through
consultation and mutual agreements. Many of
the federal soil survey units share offices and
other facilities with their provincial counter-
parts. The report that follows includes only
the resource inventory and mapping carried
out by the federal soil survey staff.

Newfoundland. The introductory sections
of the Gander Lake report, and the soil and
capability maps, as well as the manuscript
report and maps for the Terra Nova develop-
ment area, were completed. The field work in
Red Indian Lake - Burgeo was completed.
The Bonavista report was edited and revised.
The Codroy report was published.

Prince Edward Island. Manuscript maps
were compiled and the 1:10 000 maps were
generalized to 1:75 000 for the remainder of
Prince County, and the preparation of the
accompanying soil report is in progress.
Observation wells at five sites were installed
and monitored.

Nova Scotia. A high-intensity pilot soil
survey project in Kings County was orga-
nized; 2400 ha were mapped for land plan-
ning. Mapping in Pictou County was com-
pleted. In addition, the Cape Breton
Development Corporation site near Sydney
was mapped and a draft report compiled.
Preliminary photo interpretation was com-
pleted for Hants County. Erosion plots and
wells were monitored.

New Brunswick. The soil report for the
Richibucto-Rogersville area was revised. The
draft report and preliminary map for the
Sussex project (phase 1) was completed and
part of the phase 2 area was mapped. Field
checking and map compilation was completed
in the Chipman-Harcourt area. Soils were
mapped and sampled in the St. John River
valley area as part of a contribution to the
study of soil erosion in the province. The soil
report for Madawaska County was published.

Quebec. Saint-Hyacinthe County was
mapped (1:20 000 scale), and manuscript
maps were compiled for the north half.
Reconnaissance-intensity mapping was con-
ducted in parts of Richelieu County in order
to establish the mapping legend for the
detailed survey to be initiated in 1981. In
addition, 30 observation wells were installed
and monitored.

Ontario. The report for the Ottawa urban
fringe was published, as was a field manual
for describing soils. Mapping was completed
in Ottawa-Carleton. Checking and correla-
tion was completed in Norfolk-Haldimand,
and 90% of the mapping was completed in
Ottawa-Carleton regional municipalities. All
interim maps and legends were completed,
and manuscript reports are being prepared for
both areas. Specifications for Niagara and
Durham projects were completed and prepa-
rations for fieldwork were initiated, such as
transects of representative landscapes. In
addition, half of the Timmins-Rouyn-No-
randa report was completed, as well as parts
of the Brant report, of the Sudbury legend,
and of the Sault Ste. Marie - Blind River
extended legend. Draft reports for Dryden-
Kenora, Fort Frances - Rainy River, Ville
Maire - North Bay, and Gogoma sheets were
completed. Guidelines were established for
soil suitability interpretations for tobacco and
woodlands, and others are under development
for horticultural crops. Methodology was
developed for interpretation of erosion poten-
tial of soils, and Brant County soils were rated
accordingly. A cooperative program with the
Ministry of Natural Resources to develop
mapping and classification systems suitable
for forestry purposes was further developed;
staff was trained, and 250 plots were charac-
terized and sampled.

Manitoba. Approximately 107 000 ha in 13
selected areas of southern Manitoba were
resurveyed. This included mostly urbanizing

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

areas, land around small rural townsites, and
provincial parks. Reports and maps were
published for 14 areas including Ste. Rose du
Lac, Minnewasta, Killarney, Rockwood,
Glenboro, Sandy Lake, north shore Lac du
Bonnet - Bird River, Paint Lake, Cranberry
Portage, Beauséjour, Matlock-Gimli-River-
ton, Dauphin, West Interlake, and organic
study areas near Hadashville. Soil landscape
and physiographic region maps at a scale of
1:1 000 000 were compiled.

Saskatchewan. The manuscript of the
Swift Current report was completed. The
Hudson Bay - Swan Lake report has pro-
gressed to the editing stage. Mapping was
conducted on 376 000 ha in the Melville -
Riding Mountain area, and five preliminary
rural municipality maps were printed and
distributed in those municipalities. In addi-
tion, eight maps were compiled. In the
Battleford area work was conducted to estab-
lish a mapping legend and to compile a pilot
map and report of the distribution in the
region of acid soils for use by extension
specialists. Monitoring of saline soil and
groundwater sites has shown that reclamation
of salt-affected soils will be a slow if not
impossible task with normal agronomic man-
agement practices. Deep-plowing experiments
have shown that yield increases are possible.

Alberta. The report for Newell County was
completed and submitted for publication. The
survey of Warner County is 80% completed;
preliminary soil maps were released to the
Irrigation Division of the Alberta Department
of Agriculture. For the Banff-Jasper national
parks project the maps and legends were
completed and submitted for processing. The
Yoho National Park biophysical map was
submitted for printing; a report is nearly
completed. A small-scale map of Solonetzic
soils was completed. Another small-scale map
of physiographic areas of the province was
compiled and amended.

British Columbia. The Taseko Lakes maps
were completed. Quesnel area soil maps and
report are in the process of publication. The
Lac La Hache - Clinton report was pub-
lished. The Horsefly and Barkerville reports
were compiled. Soil-vegetation relationships
were reported for the Cariboo Wetlands and
Power River project areas. The Mill-Wood-
fibre creeks report was completed and submit-
ted for editing. Gulf Islands phase 1 maps and
interim report were completed. Mapping was

conducted in priority areas of Saltspring
Island (part of Gulf Islands phase 2). New
plots were installed to measure erosion losses
in the Peace River area. Soil and wheat
suitability maps were submitted to cartogra-
phy and a draft report was completed for
Basuto and Balangida-Lelu sheets in
Tanzania.

Ottawa. Soil correlation studies were con-
ducted in cooperation with regional correla-
tors in many areas: Valemount, McBride, and
south Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands
(B.C.); selected areas in the Yukon; Melville
area (Sask.); Warner area (Alta.); Portage la
Prairie and Morden (Man.); and 16 other
areas in Eastern Canada. Soil reports were
edited for Port au Port, Cormack, Prince
Edward Island, Bonavista, Iosegun, Hudson
Bay, Newell. Recommended soil correlation
procedures were tested; modification of the
procedures was undertaken. The soil tempera-
ture installation at Inuvik was serviced and a
report on soil temperatures was completed. A
paper on soil temperatures in northcentral
Keewaten was published. Mapping was com-
pleted in the Firth and Horton rivers area; the
map and report compilation is under way. An
outline was completed for a proposed "Man-
ual of soil survey procedures."

Cartography. Maps completed were: soils
62, special projects 136, miscellaneous LRRI
65, other agencies 87. A total of 93 maps were
added to the CanSIS system, 82 maps were
completed, and 142 derived maps were gener-
ated. In addition, 46 maps were completed for
the Canada Land Inventory (CLI) and Land
Use Information. An index to soil surveys and
a soil map color specification book were
published. A change in priorities by Lands
Directorate saw nine maps of a coastal zone
resource folio completed in lieu of CLI maps.
The French edition of Canada's Resource
Lands Atlas was completed.

Soil classification

Research of the soil classification section is
related to soil inventory and soil interpreta-
tions. It contributes to increased understand-
ing of soil genesis and behavior and to
improved classification and interpretations of
soils for various uses. Progress is outlined for
each of the three projects: organic soils,
mineral soils, and soil water-structure.

Organic soils. A monograph was published
on the basic properties of some organic soils

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

from Quebec and Ontario. The most useful
properties were identified for differentiation
and classification of these soils. Greenhouse
studies were completed on the effects of lime
and copper added to organic soil material on
plant growth and composition, and on peat
decomposition. Grasses grew well on peat
limed only to pH 3.6 and subsidence of this
peat could be reduced by addition of copper.
Plants grown on the copper-enriched soil were
not excessively enriched in copper. Work at
the University of Montreal supported by an
Energy, Mines, and Resources grant showed
that the botanical origin of peat materials can
be determined by study of partly decomposed
fragments. Five research and two miscella-
neous articles were published on characteri-
zation, subsidence, chemistry, and botany of
organic soils.

Mineral soils. Results from this project
contribute to the basic knowledge of Cana-
dian soils, and to improved mapping, interpre-
tation, and classification. The transect method
for assessing the variability of soils was tested
further and it is being used by several soil
survey units to improve the quality of soil
surveys. The pedotechnical system of inter-
preting soil survey information for engineer-
ing applications was revised and it is being
tested by three soil survey units. The sensitiv-
ity to acid rain of soils in Eastern Canada was
evaluated, and a map and report were pre-
pared. Micromorphological analysis of Cryo-
solic soils (shallow permafrost) showed new
microfabric features related to cryoturbation
(frost churning). Podzolic soils developed in
situ from granite in New Brunswick were
found to contain gibbsite in the horizons least
affected by pedogenesis. Energy-dispersive
X-ray analysis was used in determining the
composition of unknown features seen in thin
sections of soils from British Columbia; pyrite
and sponge spicules were identified in a
marine soil. Imogolite, a fibrous, tubular,
microcrystalline, hydrous aluminum silicate,
was identified in the clay fraction of cemented
horizons of some British Columbia soils.
Eluvial horizons (Ae) of some Gleysolic soils
were found to be as markedly depleted of Mn,
Co, Ni, and Cu as those of Podzolic soils. A
total of eight research and five miscellaneous
papers were published on specific topics in the
field of soil characterization, interpretation,
taxonomy, and genesis.

The Service laboratory analyzed some 3300
samples (total of some 20 000 determina-
tions) mainly for the Atlantic Provinces soil
survey unit and for projects at LRRI, Ottawa.
Other clients were the Ottawa Research
Station and other federal agencies without
facilities for soil analysis. Improvements of
methods and organization of the laboratory
resulted in increased efficiency.

Soil water-structure. Time domain reflec-
trometry (TDR) was developed further as a
convenient, versatile technique for measuring
soil water both in the field and in laboratory
experiments. Results showed that the TDR
method measures the total quantity of liquid
water regardless of soil type, density, salt
content, or temperature. A variety of probe
configurations designed to suit experimental
requirements were tested and used success-
fully in determining soil water in the field and
laboratory. The technique is beginning to be
used by several research agencies in both
Canada and the United States.

The spatial variability of soil water proper-
ties, such as hydraulic conductivity and
desorption properties, was found to be very
large within similar map units in the Ottawa
area. For the soils studied, structure appeared
to be the dominant feature determining the
magnitude of hydraulic conductivity. Rela-
tionships between soil structure and soil water
properties are being studied at four sites;
three of these were instrumented for measure-
ment of precipitation, water table, water
content, and temperature. Comparisons were
made of measurements of saturated hydraulic
conductivity by three methods, and descrip-
tions were made of macroporosity, micropo-
rosity, and structure with a view to relating
porosity to hydraulic conductivity. Data of
laboratory studies of water flow and retention
in columns of structured soils are being
analyzed and related to the data on porosity
and hydraulic conductivity.

Land use and evaluation

The land use and evaluation program is
directed to the development of new and
improved systems for integrating and inter-
preting soil climate, landform, agronomic and
economic data, for evaluating the production
potential of land for various alternate agricul-
tural uses. Activities and progress within each
of the four projects that make up the program
are as follows.

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Canada Soil Information System (Can-
SISj. Improvements were made in the com-
puter system for storage and retrieval of soil
map data, experimental yield data, and soil
site data. Testing has been completed on some
data base management software packages:
RAPID, EASYTRIEVE, SAS, and
DREAM. These have been adopted for use
and several computer files can now be interro-
gated simultaneously. This constitutes a
major development toward a fully opera-
tional, computerized soil information system.
Work is ongoing to convert all existing files to
this system.

Computerized procedures have been com-
pleted for logging soil maps through the
system, a routine was developed to plot
unedited map data, and analyses were com-
pleted to accommodate the input for very
large soil maps. Two papers were prepared
dealing with procedures for producing derived
maps and the development of computerized
extended legends. A report was published
describing a standard computerized format
for polygon data exchange between large
geographic information systems.

A standardized output has been developed
for the performance/management file, and a
software package that plots the geographic
location of data stored in various files was
instituted. The Soil Names and Atlantic
Daily files were revised. The soil, wildlife, and
vegetation data files maintained for Parks
Canada were improved.

Procedures have been developed to initiate
standard requests (output) through remote
terminals. A general user's manual describing
all required commands is being drafted, and
training procedures are being developed for
new nonspecialist users. These procedures will
make CanSIS available to all users
throughout Canada.

Crop production potentials. A special
paper on spring wheat production potentials
was prepared for the Prairie Production
Symposium. Experimental and actual crop
yield data contained in CanSIS were used to
calculate cr yield potentials for Ontario.
Equations for predicting soil physical proper-
ties were assessed for regional application.
Agroclimatic maps for the Great Plains were
completed (1:1 000 000) and these are cur-
rently being evaluated. A bulletin on lime
requirements for soils was prepared. Work is
in progress to produce a manual describing

soil and climate requirements for economi-
cally important crops in Canada.

Resource protection. Bulletins were pre-
pared on land degradation in Canada, land
management practices for pollution abate-
ment in the Great Lakes basin, and on the
effects of pipeline construction on farmland
productivity. A series of scientific papers were
compiled on agriculture and water quality;
nitrogen, phosphorus, and liquid manure
runoff to the Great Lakes; and the deteriora-
tion of Canadian soil resources. Also, two
reports on acid rain in Eastern Canada were
prepared. New studies were initiated on
unlined manure-storage, phosphorus and ni-
trate leaching through tile drains, and soir
erodibility.

Land use and socioeconomic evaluation. A
report describing Canadian crop production
potentials for spring wheat, corn, potato,
soybean, and phaseolus bean has been pub-
lished, using results compiled from a com-
puterized national land potential data base.
Work is ongoing to prepare a user's manual
for the data base so as to make these data
available through remote terminals in all
regions in Canada. Agricultural land use
systems maps have been published for the
Ottawa-Carleton area; similar maps for the
Melville region, Saskatchewan, are being
prepared. The Niagara agricultural land use
survey has been completed, and maps are
being prepared. A report entitled "Impacts of
energy supplies on land needs for agriculture
in Ontario" has been prepared by the Univer-
sity of Guelph land evaluation research team.
This is the first of a series of reports that will
be prepared by the team.

AGROMETEOROLOGY

Agrometeorology is concerned with the
interaction of hydrometeorological factors
and soils as they affect agriculture and food
supply. Discovery and definition of these
relationships and application of this informa-
tion toward more effective land use and crop
production are of primary concern. Progress
reported for 1980 is as follows.

Applications. The Soil Moisture Evaluation
Project (SMEP) was used for the preparation
of a number of special reports relative to the
1980 drought in Western Canada. Documen-
tation of the Versatile Soil Moisture Budget
was completed and a scientific paper pub-
lished. A climatic analysis was made of data

6 s

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

from nine stations in northern Ontario. Two
technical reports were prepared relative to
fieldwork days in Canada and the weather
risk in harvesting hay. Data processing sup-
port was provided to a number of projects to
include soil moisture, grasshopper prediction,
soil temperature, yield prediction, and crop-
weather modeling. Progress was made in
developing an interactive computer-ased agro-
meteorological information service for on-line
usage in Agriculture Canada's AGNET
system.

Crop information. Yield estimates for
wheat, barley, and oats for the crop districts
in Western Canada were provided in 1980 on
a weekly basis from May to 31 July 1980 to
the Commodity Markets Analyses Division,
Marketing and Economics Branch (formerly
Production and Marketing Branch). Produc-
tion estimates in July based on derived yields
and estimated hectarage agreed well with the
final harvest estimates provided by Statistics
Canada in November. Landsat imagery of
major wheat growing areas was obtained to
estimate cereal production. Microwave imag-
ery was acquired at the Central Experimental
Farm and Guelph radar test sites under the
Interdepartmental Sursat Program to evalu-
ate its suitability for analytical all-weather
crop assessment.

The soil moisture estimation component of
a wheat yield model was improved by testing
statistical procedures to simulate soil water
uptake by plant roots, taking into account root
density. A site was set up at the Central
Experimental Farm to obtain measurements
related to latent heat and frost depth to
provide data for modeling soil temperatures
for snow-covered and snow-free areas.

Agroclimatic resources. Computer map-
ping of various agroclimatic variables for the
Canadian Great Plains was carried out. The
climatic data was mapped at a scale
1:1 000 000 for the Great Plains Region (18
sheets). A model for assessing general winter
survival conditions for alfalfa across Canada

wa's completed. This study utilized survival
conditions at 43 locations for over 10 years.
Twenty-two new maps for inclusion in the
Agroclimatic Atlas were completed. They
involved mean soil temperatures at various
depths for all of Canada and mean dates when
soil tempertures at 20 cm rise or fall below
0°C in Eastern Canada. The climatic normals
from 1941 to 1970 for the prairies are now
available for: a) mapping the weather deficit
(irrigation requirements) at the 50% probabil-
ity for each of four soil texture classes; b)
mapping the Aridity Indices for annual spring
wheat production for four soil texture classes.

Crop-weather analyses. The exchange of
C02 and water vapor with the adjacent
atmosphere over a corn crop were measured
using the eddy-correlation technique for
developing a system to evaluate absorption of
C02 and transpiration of water from a crop.
Measurements were made on site for small
areas and on board an aircraft for larger
areas. Supplementary measurements were
made to compare C02 and water exchange
with growth rates and growing conditions
(leaf area index, yield, temperature, soil
moisture, and biomass).

Spectral measurements using a data
processing system were made on several crops
and crop densities in order to obtain a rapid
measurement of leaf area index. A laboratory
version of a microprocessor-based system for
measuring soil moisture was completed and a
report on the description of the unit was
written.

Water extraction patterns were obtained
under several soil textures and environmental
growing conditions for application in testing
an évapotranspiration model to clarify
changes in leaf water potential with respect to
atmospheric and soil water conditions.

Scientific and technical papers were also
published on overwintering of nursery plants
in containers, on litter decomposition, on
nonlinear least square analysis, and on de-
scription of an open-path C02 analyzer that
will be used to measure the rate of growth of
crops directly.

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Achuff, P.; Coen, G. M. 1980. Subalpine Cryosolic
soils in Banff and Jasper national parks. Can.
J.SoilSci.60(3):579-582.

Ballantyne, A. K. 1980. Ameliorating effect of
dolomite on soils that had received heavy
applications of potassium refinery dust. Can. J.
Soil Sci. 60:23-29.

Ballantyne, A. K.; Anderson, D. W.; Stonehouse,
H. B. 1980. Problems associated with extract-
ing Fe and Al from Saskatchewan soils by
pyrophosphate and low speed centrifugation.
Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:141-143.

Coote, D.; Hore, F. R. 1979. Contamination of
shallow groundwater by an unpaved feedlot.
Can. J. Soil Sci. 59:401-412.

DeJong, R.; Shaykewich, C. F.; Reimer, A. 1980.
The calculation of the net radiation flux. Arch.
Meteorol. Geophys. Bioklimatol. Ser. B
28:353-363.

DeJong, R.; Shaykewich, C. F.; Reimer, A. 1980.
The net radiation flux and its prediction at
Pinawa, Manitoba. Agric. Meteorol. 22:217-
225.

Desjardins, R. L.; Chong, C. 1980. Unheated
environments for overwintering nursery plants
in containers. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:895-902.

Desjardins, R. L.; Ouellet, C. E. 1980. Determina-
tion of the importance of various phases of
wheat growth on final yield. Agric. Meteorol.
J. 22:129-136.

Dumanski, J.; Marshall, I. B.; Huffman, E. C.
1979. Soil capability analysis for regional land
use planning — a study of the Ottawa urban
fringe. Can. J. Soil Sci. 59:363-379.

Dumanski, J.; Pawluk, S.; Vucetich, C. G.; Lindsay,
J. D. 1980. Pedogenesis and tephrochronology
of loess derived soils, Hinton, Alberta. Can. J.
Earth Sci. 17:52-59.

Dyer, J. A.; Baier, W. 1979. An index for soil
moisture drying patterns. Can. Agric. Eng.
21:117-118.

Dyer, J. A.; Baier, W. 1979. Weather-based estima-
tion of field workdays in fall. Can. Agric. Eng.
21:119-122.

Dyer, J. A.; Baier, W. 1980. The influence of zones
in budgeting plant available soil moisture. Can.
Agric. Eng. 22:65-70.

Hayhoe, H. N. 1980. Calculation of workday
probabilities by accumulation over subpcriods.
Can. Agric. Eng. 22:71-75.

Lévesque, M.; Dinel, H.; Marcoux, R. 1980. Evalu-
ation des critères de différenciation pour la
classification de 92 matériaux tourbeux du
Québec et de l'Ontario. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:479-486.

Mack, A. R.; Brach, E. J.; Rao, V. R. 1980.
Changes in spectral characteristics of cereal
crops with physiological development. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:41 1-417.

Mathur, S. P.; Lévesque, M. 1980. Relationship
between acid phosphatase activities and de-
composition rate of twenty-two virgin peat
materials. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal.
11:151-162.

McKeague, J. A.; Guertin, R. K.; Valentine, K. W.
G.; Bélisle, J.; Bourbeau, G. A.; Howell, A.;
Michalyna, W.; Hopkins, L.; Page, F.; Bres-
son, L. M. 1980. Estimating illuvial clay in
soils by micromorphology. Soil Sci. 129:386-
388.

McKeague, J. A.; Protz, R. 1980. Cement of duric
horizons, micromorphology and energy disper-
sive analysis. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:45-52.

McKeague, J. A.; Sheldrick, B. H. 1980. Micro-
morphology and energy dispersive X-ray anal-
ysis of features of a soil from Vancouver
Island. Soil Sci. 130:258-263.

McKeague, J. A.; Wang, C. 1980. Micromorphol-
ogy and energy dispersive analysis of ortstein
horizons of Podzolic soils from New Brunswick
and Nova Scotia, Canada. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:9-21.

McKeague, J. A.; Wolynetz, M. S. 1980. Back-
ground levels of minor elements in some
Canadian soils. Geoderma 24:299-307.

Morita, H.; Lévesque, M. 1980. Monosaccharide
composition of peat fractions based on particle
size. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:285-289.

Morita, H.: Lévesque, M.; Mills, G. F. 1980. The
deoxy-sugars and other neutral monosaccha-
rides derived from Riverton Manitoba organic
soil profiles. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:21 1-217.

Tarnocai, C. 1980. Summer temperatures of Cryo-
solic soils in the norlhcentral Keewaten.
N.W.T. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:31 1-327.

Tinker, R. W.; Brach, E. J.; LaCroix, L. J.; Mack,
A. R.; Oushinsky. G. 1979. Classification of
land use and crop maturity, types and diseases
status by remote reflectance measurements.
Agron. J. 71:992-1000.

Topp, G. C; Davis, J. L.; Annan. E. P. 1980.
Electromagnetic determination of soil water
content: Measurements in coaxial transmission
lines. Water Resour. Res. 16:574-582.

Rl SI ARCH BRWC H RI PORT 1980

Topp, G. C; Zebchuk, W. D.; Dumanski, J. 1980.
The variation of in situ measured soil water
properties within soil map units. Can. Soil Sci.
60:497-509.

Valentine, K. W. G.; Chang, D. 1980. Map units in
controlled and uncontrolled legends on some
Canadian soil maps. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:51 1-
516.

Valentine, K. W. G.; Fladmark, K. R.; Spurling, B.
E. 1980. The description, chronology and
correlation of buried soils and cultural layers in
a terrace section, Peace River Valley, British
Columbia. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:185-197.

Van Vliet, L. J. P.; Mackintosh, E. E.; Hoffman, D.
W. 1979. Effects of land capability on apple
production in Southern Ontario. Can. J. Soil
Sci. 59:163-175.

Van Vliet, L. J. P.; Wall, G. J. 1979. Comparison of
predicted and measured sheet and rill erosion
losses in Southern Ontario. Can. J. Soil Sci.
59:211-213.

Wang, C; Rees, H. W. 1980. Characteristics and
classification of noncemented sandy soils in
New Brunswick. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:7 1-81.

Miscellaneous

Acton, D. J. 1980. Nonagronomic soil interpreta-
tions. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Expert
Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land
Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 1 12-127.

Acton, D. F.; Dumanski, J.; Stewart, R. B. 1980.
Land resources of the Prairie Provinces for
grain production. Prairie Production Sympo-
sium, Canadian Wheat Board Advisory
Committee.

Acton, D. F.; Padbury, G. A.; Kraft, S. 1980. A
multicategorical classification of agricultural
land in Saskatchewan: A base for land evalua-
tion. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Expert
Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land
Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 266-292.

Baier, W. 1979. Planning for the future in agricul-
tural meteorology. World Meteorol. Org. Bull.
29(l):21-23.

Baier, W.; Mack, A. R.; Shields, J. A. 1979. Crop
information systems. Minutes 1st Annual
Meeting Expert Committee Soil Survey, Ot-
tawa, Ont., Land Resource Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada, pp. 50-60.

Bélisle, J. 1980. Field manual for describing soils.
Ontario Institute Pedology, University of
Guelph, Guelph, Ont.

Brennan, V.; Buchanan, J.; MacDonald, K. B.
1980. Spatial display plot package, use manual
and examples. Internal Report. 1 1 pp.

British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture. 1979.
Soil erosion in British Columbia Peace River
region. Van Vliet, L. J. P., in cooperation with
the Peace River Soil Conservation Committee.

Chagarlamudi, P.; Schubert, J. S.; Mack, A. R.
1980. Mapping growing conditions of crops
from Landsat data. 1980 Machine Processing
of Remotely Sensed Data Symposium. Purdue
University (abstract), p. 121

Coote, D. R., editor. 1980. CANCID Newsletter,
Canadian National Committee on Irrigation
and and Drainage, Agriculture Canada. No.
15, July. 11 pp.

Coote, D. R. 1980. Agriculture and water quality in
the Canadian Great Lakes Basin/L'Agricul-
ture et la qualité de l'eau dans le bassin des
Grands Lacs. Can. Agric. 25( 1 ):3-6/7- 1 1 .

Coote, D. R. 1980. Soil degradation in Canada:
Assessment of location and extent. Minutes
2nd Annual Meeting Expert Committee Soil
Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource Re-
search Institute, Agriculture Canada, pp. 301-
303.

Coote, D. R. 1980. The deterioration of agricultural
land. Agrologist 9(4): 12-14.

Crown P. H.; Mack, A. R. 1979. Proceedings 8th
Meeting Agriculture Working Group of the
Canadian Advisory Committee on Remote
Sensing. Nova Scotia Land Survey Institute,
Lawrencetown, N.S. 86 pp.

Day, J. H. 1980. Establishment of terms of refer-
ence for survey projects. Minutes 2nd Annual
Meeting Expert Committee Soil Survey, Ot-
tawa, Ont., Land Resource Research Institute,
Agriculture Canada, pp. 148-155.

Day, J. H. 1980. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting
Expert Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont.,
Land Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. 305 pp.

Desjardins, R. L.; Stewart, D. W.; Dwyer, L. M.
1980. Crop-weather analysis — Objective and
methodology. Agronomy Abstracts, American
Society of Agronomy. 10 pp.

Dumanski, J. 1980. The agricultural land resource.
Agrologist 9(5): 15- 17.

Dumanski, J.; Stewart, R. B. 1980. Crop produc-
tion potentials for land evaluation in Canada.
Land Resource Research Institute Technical
Bulletin, Agriculture Canada. 79 pp.

Dyer, J. A. 1980. Fall field workdays in Canada.
Agrometerology Section, Research Branch,
Agriculture Canada. Tech. Bull. 92. 60 pp.

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Dyer, J. A. 1980. Weather risks for harvesting hay
at selected sites in Canada. Agrometeorology
Section, Research Branch, Agriculture
Canada. Tech. Bull. 91. 66 pp.

Dyer, J. A.; Baier, W. 1980. Weather and farm
field work. Can. Agric. 25( 1 ):26-28.

Dwyer, L. M.; Desjardins, R. L; Stewart, D. W.
1980. Biological observations in a corn field.
Agrometeorology Section, Research Branch,
Agriculture Canada. Misc. Bull. 16. 22 pp.

Dwyer, L. M.; Desjardins, R. L.; Stewart, D. W.
1980. Meteorological factors influencing a corn
crop. Agrometeorology Section, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada. Misc. Bull. 17.
33 pp.

Eilers, R. G. 1 980. Status of soil salinity research in
Manitoba. Presentation to Saskatchewan Soil
Salinity Workshop No. 8, 20 Feb. 1980.
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask.

Eilers, R. G.; Halstead, B. E. 1980. Soils of the
Dauphin Area. Canada-Manitoba Soil Survey
Report No. D34, Department of Soil Science,
University of Manitoba.

Energy, Mines, and Resources. 1979. Standard
format for the transfer of geocoded informa-
tion in spatial data polygon files. Canada
Council on Remote Sensing. Prepared by the
Interdepartmental Spatial Data Transfer
Committee. Canada Centre for Remote Sens-
ing, Ottawa, Ont. Res. Rep. 79-3. 63 pp.

Fraser, W. R.; Veldhuis, H.; Mills, G. F. 1980.
Soils of the Bird River - North Shore Lac du
Bonnet Area. Canada-Manitoba Soil Survey,
Department of Soil Science, University of
Manitoba. Soils Rep. Nos. D29 and D30. 50
pp. and map.

Fraser, W. R.; Veldhuis, H.; Mills, G. F. 1980.
Whiteshell project — Preliminary maps, legend,
and interpretations. Canada-Manitoba Soil
Survey, Department of Soil Science, Univer-
sity of Manitoba. Rep. No. D40.

Garron, L. 1980. Status of the operational yield
model used in forecasting cereal crop yields for
the Canadian prairies. Agrometeorology Sec-
tion, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada.
Internal Rep. 38. 20 pp.

Geib, P. C; Crown, P. H.; Mack, A. R. 1980.
Bibliography on application of remote sensing
and aerial photography to agricultural crops,
soil resource and land use. Supplement to
1978. Agrometeorology Section, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada. 1 30 pp.

Halstead, R. L.; Dumanski, J. 1980. A strategy for
agricultural land resource research for
Canada. Special Publication Canadian Com-
mittee Land Resource Service, Agriculture
Canada. 31 pp.

Hayhoe, H. N. 1980. Mathematical model of plant
root systems and soil-water uptake. Proceed-
ings 2nd International Conference Mathemati-
cal Modelling, pp.937-946.

Hayhoe, H. N. Solar radiation and sunshine dura-
tion relationship. Agric. Can. Misc. Rep. 20.

Hayhoe, H. N.; Sharp, W. R. 1980. Markov chain
probability modelling computer program.
Agrometeorology Section, Research Branch,
Agriculture Canada. Tech. Bull. 89. 58 pp.

Hopkins, L.; Smith, R. E. 1980. Organic soil study
of the Hadashville area. Canada-Manitoba
Soil Survey, Department of Soil Science,
University of Manitoba. Rep. No. D38.

Keng, J. C. W.; Lin, C. 1980. Two straight line
approximation of hydraulic conductivity -
pressure head function in structured soils.
Titles and abstracts, Annual Meeting Cana-
dian Society of Soil Science, Edmonton, Alta.
pp. 15, 16.

Kozak, L. M. 1980. The soils of the Swift Current
sewage effluent irrigation research project.
Saskatchewan Institute of Pedology. No. M52.

Langmaid, K. K.; MacMillan, J. K.; Losier, J. G.
1980. Soils of Madawaska County, New
Brunswick. New Brunswick Department of
Agriculture and Rural Development, Box
6000, Fredericton, N.B.

Lévesque, M. 1980. Report on organic soil condi-
tioners prepared from mixed wood bark. Sub-
mitted to Domtar Co. in Cornwall, Ont.

Lévesque, M.; Mathur, S. P. 1980. Uptake of
copper by oats grown on a muck soil containing
high level of Cu, and on mixtures of the muck
with various mineral sublayers. 1980 Meeting
Ontario Vegetable Research Committee
(Dec).

Lévesque, M.; Morita, H.; Schnitzer, M.; Mathur,
S. P. 1980. The physical, chemical, and mor-
phological features of some Quebec and On-
tario peats. Land Resource Research Institute.
Agriculture Canada. Publ. 62. 70 pp.

MacDonald, K. B. 1980. Development of basic
levels of output from the soil performance and
management. File of CanSIS. Minutes 2nd
Annual Meeting Expert Committee Soil Sur-
vey, Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource Research
Institute, Agriculture Canada, pp. 294-300.

MacDonald, K. B.; Leuty, R. 1980. Map interpre-
tations and computerized extended legends.
Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Expert Commit-
tee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, pp.
255-264.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Mack, A. R. 1980. Operational applications for
analysis of agricultural crops and cultural
practices. Proceedings 6th Canadian Sympo-
sium Remote Sensing, Halifax, N.S. 5 pp.

Mack, A. R. 1980. Remote sensing data-system
developments in Agriculture: Selected
highlights by Agriculture Canada. Presented
to the Federal-Provincial Committee Agric.
Stat. (Mar.). Agrometeorology Section, Re-
search Branch, Agriculture Canada. Internal
Rep. 15.21 pp.

Mack, A. R. 1979. Report on the Working Group
on Agriculture. The 1979 Report of the Cana-
dian Advisory Committee on Remote Sensing.
Energy, Mines, and Resources. Sect. 5.1. 7 pp.

Mack, A. R. 1980. Use of land resource and
meteorological satellite data for agriculture.
Review paper presented at Atmospheric En-
vironment Service Workshop on Agmet, Uni-
versity of Guelph. Internal Rep. 37. 32 pp.

Mack, A. R.; Garron, L. H. 1979. Summary of the
1977-78 contracts for research into the devel-
opment of a crop information system. Report
1. Agrometeorology Section, Research Branch,
Agriculture Canada. Misc. Bull. 1 3. 27 pp.

Mack, A. R.; Halstead, R. L. 1980. Remote sensing
developments in agriculture in Canada. A
review paper prepared for Tripartite (UK,
USA, Canada) discussions on research in
agriculture. Agriculture Canada. 40 pp.

Mack, A. R.; King, G. J. 1979. Improving Cana-
dian information on world crop statistics. The
crop information system based on remotely
sensed and weather data. A summary of
presentations made at a seminar on the Crop
Information System — A review. King, G. J.,
ed. Commodity Market Analysis Division,
Policy, Planning, and Economics Branch, Agri-
culture Canada. 144 pp.

Mack, A. R.; Shields, J. A. 1979. Thematic digital
terrain maps (DTM) for crop classification
analysis of Landsat data. Proceedings Seminar
Digital Terrain Models, University of Guelph
(5-7 Oct.), Guelph, Ont. Tech. Rep. 126-50-
1980. pp. 91-96.

Marshall, I. B.; Dumanski, J.; Huffman, E. C;
Lajoie, P. G. 1979. Soils, capability and land
use in the Ottawa urban fringe. Ontario Minis-
try Agriculture and Food, Toronto, Ont. On-
tario Soil Survey Rep. No. 47, 59 pp. (plus
microfiche, three maps, and a land use report).

Mathur, S. P.; Lévesque, M.; Preston, C. M.;
Millette, J. A. 1980. Recent progress on
investigations of the possible use of moderate
amounts of copper for mitigating the excess
decomposition and subsidence of some histo-
sols. 1980 meeting of the U.S. Department of

Agriculture. NCR. 59 Technical Committee on
Soil Organic Matter. Ottawa, Ont.

McKeague, J. A. 1980. Checking the composition
of soil nodules by SEM-EDXRA. Agron.
Abstr. 193.

McKeague, J. A. 1980. Citation classic. Curr.
Contents 11(16):14.

McKeague, J. A. 1979. Taxonomic classification.
Minutes 1st Annual Meeting Expert Commit-
tee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource
Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, pp.
33-37.

McKeague, J. A.; Tarnocai, C; Nowland, J. L.;
Wang, C; Dumanski, J.; Shields, J. A. 1980.
Letter to the editor. Can. Geogr. 24(2): 195.

Michalyna, W. 1980. Soil criteria and water quality
for evaluating irrigation suitability in Mani-
toba. Proceedings Manitoba Agronomists An-
nual Conference, University of Manitoba (lu-
ll Dec).

Michalyna, W. 1980. Soils of the Glenboro area
and interpretations for agriculture, engineering
and recreation uses. Canada-Manitoba Soil
Survey, Department of Soil Science, Univer-
sity of Manitoba. Rep. No. D24.

Michalyna, W. 1980. Use and management inter-
pretations of soil survey information. Paper
presented at Soil, Land Use and Soil Classifi-
cation Seminar, Agriculture Extension Center,
Brandon, Man. (1 1 Dec).

Michalyna, W.; Holmstrom, D. 1980. Soils of the
Killarney study area. Canada-Manitoba Soil
Survey, Department of Soil Science, Univer-
sity of Manitoba. Rep. No. D22.

Michalyna, W.; Holmstrom, D. 1980. Soils of the
Sandy Lake area. Canada-Manitoba Soil Sur-
vey, Department of Soil Science, University of
Manitoba. Rep. No. D25.

Michalyna, W.; Podolsky, G. 1980. Soils of the
Matlock-Gimli-Riverton area. Canada-Mani-
toba Soil Survey, Department of Soil Science,
University of Manitoba. Rep. No. D23.

Nowland, J. L. 1980. Correlog.: A correlation
record. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Expert
Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land
Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 166-196.

Nowland, J. L. 1980. Restoration of urban water
bodies. Report to the Subcommittee on Urban
Terrain Problems, Associate Committee on
Geotechnical Research, National Research
Council.

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

7 3

Nowland, J. L. 1980. Soils and on-site sewage
systems. Contribution to course on Environ-
mental Hygiene for the Public Health Inspec-
tor, St. John's, Nfld., conducted by Institute of
Public Affairs, Dalhousie University.

Nowland, J. L. 1980. Soils water regime classifica-
tion 1980. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Ex-
pert Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont.,
Land Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 36-56.

Presant, E. W.; Young, R. I. 1980. Soil map of area
annexed by Waterloo Region from Hamilton-
Wentworth region. Ontario Ministry Agricul-
ture and Food, Toronto, Ont.

Schubert, J.; Shields, J. A.; Chagarlamudi, P.;
Mack, A. R. 1980. Stratification of Landsat
data by uniform productivity of soils. Machine
processing of remotely sensed data and soil
survey systems. Buroff, P. G.; Morrison, P. B.,
eds. Purdue University.

Shields, J. A. 1980. Proposed framework for corre-
lation procedures in Canada. Minutes 2nd
Annual Meeting Expert Committee Soil Sur-
vey, Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource Research
Institute, Agriculture Canada, pp. 156-165.

Shields, J. A.; Goodfellow, C. 1980. Temporal
analysis of Landsat data for land use mapping.
Machine processing of remotely sensed data
and soil survey systems. Burroff, P. G.; Morri-
son, P. B. eds. Purdue University.

Shields, J. A.; Sly, W. K. 1980. Aridity indices
derived from soil and climatic parameters. I.
Perennial crops. Land Resource Research
Institute, Agriculture Canada.

Sonzogni, W. C; Chesters, G.; Coote, D. R.; Jeffs,
D. N.; Konrad, J. C; Ostry, R. C; Robinson,
J. B. 1980. Pollution from land runoff. J.
Environ. Sci. Tech. 1 4(2): 1 48- 1 53.

Stewart, D. W. 1980. Using a non-linear least
squares method to analyze yield data. The
program and abstracts of Workshop on crop
simulation (4-6 Mar.) (abstract).

Stewart, D. W.; Desjardins, R. L.; Dwyer, L. M.
1980. The crop-weather analysis project objec-
tives and methodology. Agrometeorology Sec-
tion, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada.
Misc. Bull. 18. 10 pp.

Tarnocai, C. 1980. Book review: Forest soils —
properties and processes. Armson, K. A. Can.
Field-Nat. 94:357.

Tarnocai, C. 1980. Canadian wetland registry.
Proceedings of a Workshop on Canadian Wet-
lands. Rubec, C. D. A.; Pollet, F. C, compilers
and editors. Environment Canada, Ecological
Land Classification Series. 12:9-38.

Tarnocai, C. 1980. Report of the subcommittee on
soil classification. Minutes 2nd Annual Meet-
ing Expert Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa,
Ont., Land Resource Research Institute, Agri-
culture Canada, pp. 68-72.

Tarnocai, C. 1979. Soil resource inventories: their
methods, approaches and interpretations. Pro-
ceedings Resource Inventory Workshop, Yu-
kon Territory, pp. 111-118.

Tarnocai, C. 1980. Soil temperatures of the Inuvik
area, N.W.T. An interim report. Land Re-
source Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. 35 pp.

Tarnocai, C; Zoltai, S. C. 1978. Soils of the
Northern Canadian peatlands: their charac-
teristics and stability. Proceedings 5th North
American Forest Soils Conference. Young-
berg, C. T., ed. pp. 433-448.

Valentine, K., chairman. 1979. Mapping Systems
Working Group. A proposed soil mapping
system for Canada. Report submitted to
Canada Expert Committee on Soil Survey,
Ottawa, Ont., Land Resource Research Insti-
tute, Agriculture Canada. 60 pp.

Valentine, K. W. G.; Schori, A. 1980. Soils of the
Lac la Hache - Clinton area, British Colum-
bia. British Columbia Soil Survey, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada. Rep. No. 25. 118
pp. (plus soil map and microfiche).

Van Vliet, L. J. P.; Brierley, A.; Green, A. J. 1980.
Soils of Valdes, Thetis, Galiano Islands. Soil
maps and extended legends. Part of resource
folio for Gulf Islands. Terrestrial Studies
Branch, British Columbia Ministry of the
Environment, Victoria, B.C.

Veldhuis, H. 1980. Soils of the Cranberry-Portage
Provincial Park camping area. Canada-Mani-
toba Soil Survey, Department of Soil Science,
University of Manitoba. Soil Rep. No. D33.

Veldhuis, H. 1980. Soils of the Paint Lake Provin-
cial Recreational Park. Canada-Manitoba Soil
Survey, Department of Soil Science, Univer-
sity of Manitoba. Soil Rep. No. D32.

Veldhuis, H. 1980. Soil and vegetation sequences in
the Mackenzie Delta, N.W.T. Proceedings
24th Annual Manitoba Soil Science Meeting.
University of Manitoba (3-4 Dec).

Wall, G. J.; Dickinson, W. T. 1980. Quantification
of soil erosion interpretations for soil resource
inventories. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting
Expert Committee Soil Survey. Ottawa. Ont.,
Land Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 134-145.

Wall, G. J.; Dickinson, W. T.; van Vliet, L. J. P.
1979. Agricultural sources of fluvial suspended
sediments. Prog. Water Technol. J. 1 1(6):4S1-
499. LRR11I2M

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Walmsley, M.; Utzig, G.; Void, T.; Moon, D.; van Wilson, G. 1980. Pcdotechnical interpretations for

Barneveld, J., editors. 1980. Describing ecosys- soil survey. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting

terns in the field. Resource Analysis Branch, Expert Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont.,

Assessment and Planning Division, British Land Resource Research Institute, Agriculture

Columbia Ministry of the Environment, Victo- Canada, pp. 146-147.

ria, B.C. Technical Paper 2. pp. 223. ..... n.

Wilson, G. 1980. Plants are programmed for

Wang, C. 1980. Quantitative approach in soil engineering sense. Ag-Rapport (July-Aug.)

mapping. Can. Agric. 25(3): 1 8— 1 9.

Wang, C. 1980. Transect method and its applica-
tions. Minutes 2nd Annual Meeting Expert
Committee Soil Survey, Ottawa, Ont., Land
Resource Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada, pp. 197-212.

LAND RESOURCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE 75

Research Program Service
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administration

R. Trottier, B.Sc.
D. W. Friel
W. A. Fettes

M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director

Administration and Awards

Branch liaison

Graphics

C. N. Halchuk
W. G. Wilson

Art and design
Photography

Scientific Information Retrieval

P. Beauchamp, B.Sc, M.Sc.
J. S. Kelleher, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. S. Krehm, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
C. D. Laing, B.Sc, M.Sc

Herbicides
Biological control
Fungicides and insecticides
Inventory

Scientific Editing/Text Processing

J. A. Perrin, B.Sc.

D. M. Archibald, B.A.

S. M. Balchin

M. M. Ellis

N. Rousseau, B.A., M.A.

S. M. Rudnitski, B.Sc.

F. Smith, B.A.

A. Thomassin, B.A., B.A. (Geog.'

J. M. Tomlinson, B.A., M.A.

Head of Section

Editing

Text processing

Editing

RESEARCH PROGRAM SERVICE

Departures

Y. Dupont, B.A. Editing

Resigned December 1980
J. H. Ford Systems

Resigned April 1980
H. R. Jackson Head of Graphics Section

Deceased May 1980
C. R. Wood, B.S.A., M.Sc, B.D. Editing

Retired February 1980

78 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT l«)80

INTRODUCTION

In support of research and development in the Branch, Research Program Service
provides a wide range of scientific information, technical, and publication services. In 1980, the
Scientific Information Retrieval Section continued to maintain the computerized Inventory of
Canadian Agricultural Research (ICAR) and compiled an inventory of pesticide research
(author, pesticide, hosts, and pests). The minor use of pesticides program was streamlined and
a circular was released in collaboration with the Pesticides Section of Food Production and
Inspection Branch. The 1980 Pesticide Research Report was published, as were four issues of
the Pesticide Information newsletter.

News of happenings in the Research Branch was circulated to all staff members in ten
issues of Tableau in 1980, including a tenth anniversary issue. Also, three numbers in Volume
60 of the Canadian Plant Disease Survey were issued.

Several scientific visits to and from Canada were coordinated, and the Canada-France
exchange program was administered. The programs for operating grants, extramural research
grants, and visiting fellowships were also administered.

A folder describing the services available from Research Program Service was issued and
distributed to all research establishments in October.

We were deeply saddened in May by the sudden death of Ross Jackson, Head of the
Graphics Section. Ross's never-failing good humor along with his sound administrative and
technical advice have been sorely missed.

This report is a summary of activities during 1980. Detailed information may be obtained
by writing to: Director, Research Program Service, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada,
Ottawa, Ont. Kl A 0C6.

Robert Trottier
Director

AWARDS AND BRANCH LIAISON

Research Program Service continued to
administer the extramural research grants,
operating grants, visiting fellowships, and
scientific exchange programs during 1980.

Under the extramural research grants
program, specific research projects are solic-
ited from university scientists to augment
current research programs. The program is
the responsibility of a departmental commit-
tee appointed by the Deputy Minister. In
1980, a total of 73 applications were received.

Operating grants are awarded to individual
researchers at Canadian universities as contri-
butions toward the costs of proposed research
projects that will be of value to the agricul-
tural industry. The selection committee con-
sists of three representatives from Agriculture
Canada and seven from faculties of agricul-
ture and veterinary science. In 1980, the
committee received 262 applications.

The visiting fellowships program gives
promising young scientists, from all over the
world, the opportunity to work with
distinguished researchers in their respective
fields before embarking on careers in scientific
research. The program is administered by the
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
Council on behalf of Canadian government
departments and agencies. Research Program
Service acts as liaison between the Council
and Agriculture Canada. In 1980, there were
179 applications for fellowships in this depart-
ment.

A total of 31 delegations visited Canada
during the past year: eleven from France, five
from the People's Republic of China, three
from Romania, two from Australia, and one
each from Peru, Zimbabwe, Japan, Rwanda,
Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Britain, Denmark, Chile,
Zaire, and the USSR. Two delegations went
from Canada; one to Ethiopia and one to
Morocco, Spain, Portugal, and the Canary
Islands.

Ten issues of Tableau were published,
including a tenth anniversary issue.

RESEARCH PROGRAM SERVICE

GRAPHICS

A wide variety of services in research
photography and production art and illustra-
tion were provided to the Branch and other
agencies within the Department. There was a
15% increase in jobs processed over 1979, and
as a result, 10% of the job requests were
contracted out. Jobs were completed in an
average of 15 working days, with fewer than
1% returned for correction.

Because a computerized production report-
ing system was developed in order to improve
planning and control, a monthly detailed
analysis of jobs completed is now possible.

SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION
RETRIEVAL

Information on pesticides and agricultural
research in Canada continued to be main-
tained in a computerized storage and retrieval
system. The information is available to re-
searchers; funding agencies; provincial, re-
gional, and national research planning and
coordinating committees; and anyone inter-
ested in agricultural research. Requests for
information were answered in an average of
nine working days.

The Summary Data Sheet system for
candidate pesticides was realigned and perti-
nent information on 10 new experimental
pesticides was included in the Pesticide
Information newsletter, beginning in April
1980. The procedures for the minor use of
pesticides program were streamlined, and a
circular was released in collaboration with the
Pesticides Section of the Food Production and
Inspection Branch.

Commonwealth Institute of Biological Con-
trol contracts were coordinated and managed
for Agriculture Canada and for the Canadian
Forestry Service. In 1980, 14 shipments were
received from six countries for a total of
35 210 specimens. Forty-four shipments were

sent to research establishments; 15 parasite
species totaling 12 407 insects were sent to
eight provinces for release or study, or both.

SCIENTIFIC EDITING/TEXT
PROCESSING

Research Program Service continued to
help meet the technology transfer require-
ments of the Research Branch by providing
editorial and text processing services for
scientific and technical publications of the
Branch and Department. In 1980, 26 English
and 40 French publications were processed,
comprising 5800 and 2560 manuscript pages,
respectively. Two bilingual publications, com-
prising 424 manuscript pages, were published.
Of the total of 8784 pages completed, 40%
were for Department publications of interest
to growers and the general public, and 60%
were for Branch reports and scientific mono-
graphs intended for research workers in
universities, industry, and government.

Six major books were published during the
year; Parts 7 and 8 in the series The Insects
and Arachnids of Canada — Genera des Tri-
choptères du Canada and The Plant Bugs of
the Prairie Provinces; Common and Botani-
cal Names of Weeds in Canada/Noms popu-
laires et scientifiques des plantes nuisibles du
Canada; The Grasses of Ontario; Trees and
Shrubs of the Dominion Arboretum; and
Fougères du district d'Ottawa.

The editing of some manuscripts was con-
tracted out to avoid serious backlogs of work
and to reduce editorial and production times.

The computerized text processing facilities
continued to provide support to Branch scien-
tists. About 90% of the jobs processed were
for Branch reports and miscellaneous publica-
tions in support of research and development.
The remaining 10% of the work was for
Department publications, where extensive
retyping during the editing cycle was avoided,
and where photocomposition was carried out
for material already in the computer system.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Trottier, R.; Hagley, E. A. C. 1979. Influence of
temperature and snowfall on codling moth
fecundity. J. Environ. Entomol. 8:1052-1054.

Trottier, R.; Heme, D. H. C. 1979. Temperature
relationships to forecast hatching of overwin-
tered eggs of the European red mite, Pano-
nychus ulmi (Acarina: Tetranychidae). Proc.
Entomol. Soc. Ont. 1 10:53-60.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Trottier, R. 1980. Early warning system for apple Krelim, H. S. 1980. Pre-plant chemical seed pro-
pest management in Canada. Eur. Mediterr. tectants registered for use on cereal and
Plant Prot. Organ. Bull. 10:253-257. oilseeds. Canadex 1 10.23.

Miscellaneous

Anon. 1979. Pesticide research report. Expert Twn^ R\ editor- ,98°- Pesticide information.

Committee on Pesticide Use in Agriculture. Research Program Service, Research Branch.

Research Program Service, Research Branch. ol- 2' Nos- '~^-
615 pp.

Kelleher, J. S., compiler. 1980. The Canadian Williamson, G. D. 1980. Insect liberations in

agricultural insect pest review. Vol. 57 (1979). Canada: parasites and predators, 1976. Libera-

Research Program Service, Research Branch. tion Bull. No. 40. Research Program Service,

70 pp. Research Branch. 15 pp.

RESEARCH PROGRAM SERVICE

ATLANTIC REGION
RÉGION DE L'ATLANTIQUE

Dr. E. E. Lister

# 1

Dr. W. B. Collins Mr. J. R. Frappier

EXECUTIVE OF THE ATLANTIC REGION
L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA RÉGION DE L'ATLANTIQUE

Director General
Directeur général

E. E. Lister, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Specialist

Spécialiste en programmes

W. B. Collins, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

Chief, Finance and Administration

Chef, finances et administration
J. R. Frappier, B.A.

ATLANTIC REGION 85

PREFACE

The Atlantic Region, with headquarters in Hali-
fax, consists of four research stations, two experi-
mental farms, and one substation. These research
establishments serve the agricultural communities
in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova
Scotia, and Newfoundland. In 1980 the Region
managed a budget of $19 million and employed 88
professionals to carry out its various programs.

Construction of new facilities at the Kentville
Research Station was substantially completed in
1980. The new complex, to be known as the
Kentville Agricultural Centre, houses both federal
and provincial personnel. Staff of the various
scientific disciplines are established under one roof
for the first time in the history of the Station. This
arrangement will provide new incentives for strong
team approaches to the major mandates of the
Station.

Research in animal science was highlighted by
improvements in the handling and management of
corn silage, resulting in higher beef production per
hectare from beef cattle and improved milk produc-
tion from dairy cattle. Swine management studies
produced valuable information leading to the estab-
lishment of optimum stocking densities. Further
improvements in the efficiency of meat production
in broiler chickens were established, with concomi-
tant gains in net returns per bird to the producer. It
was shown that there is an economic advantage to
early weaning of lambs and that the feeding level of
lactating ewes can be reduced without penalty in
late lactation.

Key advances in cereal and forage research
included the refinement and definition of production
procedures to ensure consistently superior yields
and quality in winter wheat and in corn for silage.
Twenty-five barley selections were identified with
high levels of leaf disease resistance. Red clover and

alfalfa were identified as the most suitable species
for direct drilling to restore the legume component
in pastures and hayfields, and a major red clover
breeding program was established.

In horticultural research low-oxygen storage
developments for Mcintosh apples received interna-
tional recognition and are already being put into
commercial practice. Two significant variety re-
leases were made in berry crops, one in strawberries
and the other in red raspberries. Substantial pro-
gress was achieved in red-stele control in strawber-
ries through a combination of resistance breeding
and systemic fungicidal drench techniques. Two
new potato varieties were licensed; one was a
yellow-fleshed type with potential significance for
the export seed market. An effective management
strategy package was developed for control of
potato leaf roll virus and potato virus Y in suscepti-
ble varieties.

A new high-output energy-efficient blanching
system was developed in the processing research
sector through the use of contract research funds.
The new system has functioned so well that nearly
one million kilograms of raw product were pro-
cessed through the prototype, with substantial
savings in energy costs.

Significant staff changes in 1980 included the
appointment of Dr. E. E. Lister as Director General
of the newly established Atlantic Region. Dr. W. B.
Collins was named Program Specialist.

Further information about our programs may be
obtained by writing to the research establishment
concerned or by addressing inquiries to Atlantic
Region Headquarters, Research Branch, Agricul-
ture Canada, 1888 Brunswick Street, Suite 708,
Halifax, N.S. B3J 3J8.

E. E. Lister

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PREFACE

La région de l'Atlantique, dont l'Administration
centrale est située à Halifax, comporte quatre
stations de recherche, deux fermes expérimentales
et une sous-station qui desservent les collectivités
agricoles du Nouveau-Brunswick, de l'île-du-Prin-
ce-Édouard, de la Nouvelle-Ecosse et de Terre-
Neuve. En 1980, la région disposait d'un budget de
$19 millions et son personnel comptait 88 employés
professionnels.

La construction des nouvelles installations de la
station de recherche de Kentville a été en grande
partie achevée en 1980. Le nouveau complexe, qui
portera le nom de Centre agricole de Kentville,
abrite à la fois les services fédéraux et provinciaux.
Ainsi, pour la première fois de l'histoire de la
station, le personnel de diverses disciplines scienti-
fiques est rassemblé sous un même toit. On espère
ainsi encourager la formation d'équipes de recher-
che fortes, aptes à mener à bien les principaux
mandats de la station.

La recherche zootechnique s'est distinguée par
les améliorations apportées à la manipulation et à la
gestion de l'ensilage de mais, favorisant une plus
forte production de boeuf par hectare et une
amélioration de la production de lait. Les études
menées sur la gestion des élevages de porc ont
fourni des renseignements précieux menant à la
détermination de densités optimales d'élevage. On a
continué à augmenter l'efficacité de la production
du poulet à griller, ce qui a contribué à augmenter
les recettes des producteurs. On a démontré qu'il
existe un avantage économique à procéder au
sevrage précoce des agneaux et que la réduction du
niveau de nutrition des brebis en fin de lactation
peut se faire sans danger.

Parmi les progrès clés réalisés dans la recherche
sur les céréales et les fourrages, on compte le
perfectionnement et la détermination de méthodes
de production visant à assurer des rendements
supérieurs et une haute qualité du blé d'hiver et du
maïs d'ensilage. Vingt-cinq sélections d'orge ont
montré une forte résistance aux maladies des
feuilles. Le trèfle rouge et la luzerne se sont avérés
les espèces les plus propices au semis direct pour la

réinstallation des légumineuses dans les pâturages
et les prairies de fauche et un important programme
d'amélioration du trèfle rouge a été mis sur pied.

Dans le domaine de la recherche en horticulture,
les progrès réalisés dans la conservation des pom-
mes Mcintosh en ambiance à faible teneur en
oxygène ont suscité beaucoup d'intérêt à l'étranger
et commencent déjà à être mis en exploitation
commerciale. Deux nouvelles variétés importantes
de petits fruits ont été mises sur le marché: une
fraise, et une framboise rouge. D'importants pro-
grès ont été réalisés dans la lutte contre la stèle
rouge du fraisier grâce à la combinaison de la
sélection de variétés résistantes et de la mise en
application de méthodes d'épandage de fongicides
systémiques par arrosage du pied. Deux nouvelles
variétés de pommes de terre ont été homologuées
dont l'une à chair jaune présente des possibilités
d'exportation comme pomme de terre de semence.
On a élaboré une stratégie efficace pour la lutte
contre le virus de l'enroulement et le virus Y, chez
les variétés sensibles de pommes de terre.

Un nouveau système de blanchiment à haut
rendement mais peu exigeant en énergie a été mis
au point par le secteur de la recherche industrielle
grâce à des fonds de recherche contractuelle. Le
nouveau système fonctionne si bien qu'on a pu
procéder, à l'aide du prototype, au traitement de
près de 1 million de kilogrammes de produit brut,
tout en réalisant d'importantes économies d'énergie.

Parmi les principaux changements de personnel
survenus en 1980, mentionnons la nomination de M.
E.E. Lister comme Directeur général de la nouvelle
région de l'Atlantique. M. W.B. Collins a pour sa
part été nommé Spécialiste en programmes.

Pour de plus amples renseignements sur nos
programmes, prière d'écrire aux établissements de
recherche concernés ou de s'adresser à l'Adminis-
tration centrale de la région de l'Atlantique, Direc-
tion générale de la recherche, Agriculture Canada,
1888, rue Brunswick, Suite 708, Halifax (N.-É.)
B3J 3J8.

E.E. Lister

ATLANTIC REGION

Research Station
St. John's West, Newfoundland

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

H. W. R. Chancey, B.S.A., M.S.A. Director

Entomology

R. F. Morris, B.S.A., M. Se. Head of Section; Vegetable insects

Horticulture

B. G. Penney, B.Sc, M.Sc. Vegetable crops

Plant Breeding and Pathology

K. G. Proudfoot, B.Agr., M.Agr. Head of Section; Potato breeding

M. C. Hampson, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D. Plant diseases

Agronomy

A. F. Rayment, B.Sc., M.Sc. Soil fertility and drainage

RESEARCH STATION, ST. JOHN'S WEST, NFLD. 89

INTRODUCTION

The responsibility center for regional agricultural research in Newfoundland and
Labrador is located at St. John's West, 8 km from City Centre. The research program
encompasses the reclamation and use of peat soils, potato breeding for resistance to wart
disease and the golden nematode, economic insect control, plant disease control, plant
nutrition, and vegetable adaptation trials. Rutabaga breeding for resistance to clubroot disease
is a further responsibility, together with the design and adaptation of mechanical equipment
for cultivating, fertilizing, seeding, and harvesting crops grown on peat soils.

Previous reports and reprints of publications can be obtained from: Research Station,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 7098, St. John's West, Nfld. AIE 3Y3.

H. W. R. Chancey
Director

ENTOMOLOGY

Cabbage maggot

evaluation of treatments impossible. An un-
usually cool wet growing season may, in part,
have accounted for this lack of infestation.

In experiments at St. John's and Wooddale
to determine if cabbage root maggots were
developing resistance to organophosphate
insecticides, results showed that field popula-
tions of the maggot were tolerant of both
Dasanit (fensulfothion) and the carbamate
Furadan (carbofuran) at St. John's. However,
this trend was not confirmed at Wooddale.

Split applications of Dasanit (fensul-
fothion) at both St. John's and Wooddale
were more effective than equivalent applica-
tions applied as granules at seeding. Single
applications of granules at both localities were
ineffective. A split application of Dasanit
(fensulfothion) at the recommended rate (5.6
kg ai/ha) gave fairly satisfactory control
(73%) at Wooddale, but only 45% at St.
John's. Single applications of granular Dasa-
nit (fensulfothion) probably controlled at-
tacks of first- generation root maggots, but
were ineffective for second-generation attack.
Usually cool wet weather during the growing
season of 1980 may, in part, have accounted
for the short residual effect of single applica-
tions of granular Dasanit (fensulfothion) at
seeding.

Five pyrethroid insecticides, Ambush (per-
methrin), Belmark (fenvalerate), Ripcord
(cypermethrin), Cymbush (cypermethrin),
and Decis (decamethrin), at two levels of
drench treatments, were evaluated for root
maggot control on early cabbage. A light
infestation of root maggots caused only 2.5%
crop loss in the control plots and made

Lepidopterous caterpillars

Field trials with late cabbage and dwarf
Essex rape to determine the effectiveness of
pyrethroid insecticides, Ambush, Cymbush,
Decis, Ripcord, and Belmark, together with
Thiodan, were evaluated in field trials as
single and double applications to control leaf-
eating caterpillars: the imported cabbage-
worm, Pieris rapae (L.); the purplebacked
cabbage worm, Evergestis pallidal a (Hufn.);
and the diamondback moth larvae, Plutella
xylostella (L.), at St. John's. The efficacy of
treatments could not be evaluated because no
infestation of any of these larvae occurred in
any of the treated or control plots.

Leaftier

Ten insecticide treatments, including Am-
bush, Belmark, Ripcord, Decis, Cymbush,
and Guthion, were tested for control of the
blueberry leaftier, Argyrotoza curvalana
(Kft.), at Witchazel Ridge near Gushue's
Pond Park. All pyrethroid treatments signifi-
cantly controlled larval populations of the
blueberry leaftier, and all were equally as
effective as Guthion. Populations in treated
plots were reduced to 0-5 larvae per plot, 5
days after treatment, whereas larval popula-
tions in the control plots averaged 67. Popula-
tions within plots before treatments varied
from 35 to 106 larvae.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PLANT BREEDING AND
PATHOLOGY

Breeding potatoes for resistance to wart
and the golden nematode

The wart-resistant selection N 135-671, a
sister seedling of Mirton Pearl, has been
evaluated in trials and demonstration plots
over a 5-yr period. These tests indicate that
this selection, provisionally named Anson, is
of considerable merit, having a high yield of
marketable tubers. Maturity and dry matter
content are similar to those of Green Moun-
tain, and when combined with higher resist-
ance to late blight and virus infection, it is
believed that Anson could replace this variety.

As a result of preliminary yield in wart and
nematode trials, N664-127 has been identified
as a promising selection with resistance to
both pests. Resistance to wart disease derives
from Mira and to the golden nematode from
Wauseon. A yellow-fleshed selection, N682-6,
which has attractively shaped tubers of uni-
form size, is also resistant to both wart and
the golden nematode. In this potato, golden
nematode resistance is derived from a selec-
tion bred from C.P.C. 1685.

The recently introduced cultivars Trent,
Rideau, and Longlac were severely infected in
wart trials, but Yukon Gold was only slightly
infected; Clairchip and Conestoga were free
from infection.

Infectivity and germination in potato wart
disease

Work on wart disease was pursued at field,
greenhouse, and laboratory levels. In the field,
further evidence was obtained to indicate that
inorganic ammonium compounds influence
the intensity of the disease. A survey was
made of private kitchen gardens in an attempt
to correlate disease intensity with physical
and biological soil factors. Potato tubers,
inoculated and placed in a growth room at
various times during the year, showed further
evidence of a seasonal factor influencing
disease severity. The tubers were inoculated
prior to planting, by introducing tumor pieces
to a water column surrounding the rose-end
sprouts.

Evidence was also obtained that showed
that when potato sprouts were abrased, the
incidence of potato wart disease increased.
The relationship of this finding to soil condi-
tions and fungal ingress is being investigated.
The resting sporangium of the causal agent

was shown to be covered by a layer of chitin.
Labeled isotope uptake and chemical analysis
strongly suggested that chitin was manufac-
tured early in the sporangial wall. Scanning
electron microscopy revealed that the potato
sprout is covered with many necrotic plaques.
It is proposed that these necrotic areas
influence the causal agent directly through
sprout exudates or indirectly through the
contiguous microflora. A system was devised
for supplying debris-free yields of resting
sporangia using sucrose-centrifugation.

Breeding clubroot-resistant rutabagas

The New Zealand cultivar Kiri remained
free from clubroot infection in test plots.
Roots of Kiri were longer and more tapering
than were roots of RST lines. Both Kiri and
RST are derived from crosses of clubroot-
resistant Dutch turnips and rutabaga. Com-
parisons of roots of three generations of field-
produced seed of RST showed that a marked
improvement had been made in producing
well-colored roots free from side roots.

PLANT SCIENCE

Field crops

Cabbage. In previous years, results showed
that yields from transplanted Houston Ever-
green cabbage planted on mineral soil were
similar for an early or late planting, but in
1980 a decline in yields was observed for the
later planted crops due to a cool wet growing
season. Yields for the three planting dates in
tonnes per hectare were as follows: 21 May —
64.5; 29 May— 58.2; and 11 June— 53.5.
Increasing the N level from 224 to 336 kg/ha
by applying a side-dressing at 112 kg/ha
increased the average yield from 46.4 to 58.7
t/ha. Due to similar growing conditions, very
early field seeding of Houston Evergreen
cabbage did not result in large yield increases
as in previous years. Yields for the three
planting dates in tonnes per hectare were as
follows: 21 May— 18.4; 29 May— 22.4; and
1 1 June — 9.9. Increasing the N level from
224 to 336 kg/ha by applying a side-dressing
at 1 12 kg/ha increased the average yield from
9.4 to 16.9 t/ha.

Soil conditioners. Agromax NiPhoKal-1
and Agromax 17-5-5-GR, received from
Hungary, were evaluated under greenhouse
conditions with oats and lettuce and were
found to have no effect on yields. There was

RESEARCH STATION, ST. JOHNS WEST, NFLD.

no effect on lettuce germination, but emer-
gence time of oats was less in one trial than in
the control. In a field trial with turnips,
neither of these products had any effect on
yields or times of emergence.

Blueberries

Atrazine at 3 and 6 kg (ai)/ha, dichlobenil
at 4 kg (ai)/ha, and simazine at 3 kg (ai)/ha
significantly increased yields, but weed con-
trol was only fair. Hexazinone at 1.5 and 3.0
kg (ai)/ha and dichlobenil at 8.0 kg (ai)/ha
significantly reduced yields.

Productivity of native stands of lowbush
blueberries was determined at various loca-
tions on the Avalon and Bonavista peninsulas.
Mean yields in kilograms per hectare were as
follows: Little Catalina — 1031; Newman's
Cove — 770; Pouch Cove — 722; Adams
Cove — 696; St. Joseph's — 633; Avondale —
251.

In frequency of burning experiments, re-
sults in 1980 were similar to those obtained in
previous years. Higher yields occurred in the
first year after burning and declined in
subsequent years. Yields in the third year
after burning were similar to those obtained
with zero burning.

SOIL SCIENCE

Peat soils

Fertility. After 25 yr of peatland develop-
ment in Newfoundland, substantial tracts
exist that have been under cultivation for
more than 10 yr. Fertilizer experiments on
permanent grasslands on such 'mature' peat
soils have shown no response to phosphorus
rates over 50 kg P,05/ha. In the past season,
however, a significant response was obtained
from phosphorus rates between 50 and 66.6
kg/ha on a stand of timothy established the
previous year. In the presence of normal soil
test values for phosphorus for these soils, the
question is raised of the possible influence of
the new high-analysis phosphate (46% P:05)
fertilizer on these results.

It has been suspected that a cause for ill
thrift in lambs grazing on local peatland
pastures could be a molybdenum-induced
copper deficiency. Initial results from a small-
plot study on the influence of these elements
applied to the soil on plant tissue composition
show that an application of Mo at 0.4 kg/ha
on virgin peat will induce close to physiolog-
ically active levels (15 ppm) in the plant.
Though the rate is about five times that
provided in the usual field applications where
the trouble arose, the possibility of toxic
accumulations from annual applications is
exceedingly probable. Studies are continuing
into the effects of residual and annual mainte-
nance applications.

Peat drainage. The extremely wet season
resulted in outstanding crop responses to
different drainage treatments. Carrots re-
sponded in yield and root length to both
ridged culture and supplemental slit drain
treatments; best results were obtained from
both techniques together. Although potatoes
also responded in yield to supplemental
drainage and ridged culture treatments, the
effects of the two together were not additive.
This may be somehow related to the effects of
potato culture in increasing aeration as mea-
sured by oxygen flux. This latter phenomenon
has now been observed for two consecutive
years.

Machinery. Results of field tests with the
peat soil rotoridger-precision seeder designed
at the Memorial University of Newfoundland
(MUN) gave approximately 75% single-plant
emergence with minor occurrence of doubles.
The MUN-designed peat drainage ditcher
performed well, but requires modification to
improve spoil spreading and to correct rear-
end imbalance.

The weed sprayer and transporter devel-
oped by MUN for peat soils was highly
satisfactory in field trials for both ridge- and
level-seeded vegetable crops, whereas the
commercial carrot harvester adapted by
MUN for use on peat soils will be operational
with minor modifications.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Hampson, M. C. 1980. Responses of resting sporan-
gia of Synchytrium endobioticum to in vitro
germination treatments. Can. J. Plant Pathol.

2:76-82.

Hampson, M. C. 1980. Pathogenesis of
Synchytrium endobioticum: 2. Effect of soil
amendments and fertilization. Can. J. Plant
Pathol. 2:148-151.

Hampson, M. C; Haard, N. F. 1980. Pathogenesis
of Synchytrium endobioticum: 1. Infection
responses in potato and tomato. Can. J. Plant
Pathol. 2:143-147.

Mathur, S. P.; Rayment, A. F. 1977. Influence of
trace element fertilization on the decomposi-
tion rate and phosphatase activity of a mesic
fibrisol. Can. J. Soil Sci. 57:397-408.

Morris, R. F. 1980. Notes on the occurrence of the
wharf borer, Nacerdes melanura (L.), (Cole-
optera: Oedemeridae) in Newfoundland. Can.
Entomol. 112:217-218.

Morris, R. F. 1980. Butterflies and moths of
Newfoundland and Labrador: The Macrolepi-
doptera. Agric. Can. Publ. 1691. Supply and
Services Canada. 407 pp., 34 color plates.

Rayment, A. F.; Hore, F. R. 1976. Hydraulic
conductivity and bulk density changes in the
cultivated layer of a Newfoundland peat soil
and initial effects of soil amendments. Proc.
5th Int. Peat. Congr., Posnan. 1:282-292.

Miscellaneous

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Control of leaf
tier, Argyrotoza curvalana (Kft.), on blueber-
ries. Pesticide Progress Report, pp. 54-55.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Control of leaf
eating caterpillars on cabbage with pyrethroid
insecticides. Pesticide Progress Report, pp.
108-109.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Control of root
maggots on stem brassicas. Pesticide Research
Report, pp. 121-122.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Control of leaf
eating caterpillars on rape. Pesticide Research
Report, pp. 204-205.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Field tests with
Dasanit for organophosphate resistance. Pesti-
cide Research Report, pp. 217-219.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1979. Control of the
sheep blowfly and sheep ked. Pesticide Re-
search Report, pp. 316-317.

Morris, R. F.; Morry, H. G. 1980. Vegetable, field
crop and other injurious insect pests predomi-
nating in Newfoundland. Can. Agric. Insect
Pest Rev. 57:11, 27, 28, 38, 41-42, 44-46, 50,
52-54.

Rayment, A. F.; Penney, B. G. 1979. The agricul-
tural potential of Newfoundland peat soils.
The diversity of peat. Publication of the New-
foundland and Labrador Peat Association, pp.
39-50.

RESEARCH STATION, ST. JOHNS WEST, NFLD.

Research Station
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

L. B. MacLeod, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. B. Willis, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

D. A. Hutchinson

B. Stanfield,1 B.S.A., M.S.A., M.L.S.
S. R. Knight, B.Sc.

Director

Assistant Director
Administrative Officer
Librarian
Information Officer

Forage and Livestock

L. S. Thompson, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

T. M. Choo, B.Sc, Ph.D.

H. T. Kunelius, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. H. Lovering,2 B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.

J. A. MacIsaac,2 B.Sc.

P. R. Narasimhalu, B.Sc, B.V.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

M. Suzuki, B.Sc, Ph.D.

C. B. Willis, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

K. A. Winter, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Insects (forage,

cereal, and potato)
Breeding (red clover)
Physiology and management

(forage)
Economics (production)
Systems engineering
Quality and utilization (forage)
Biochemistry and physiology

(forage)
Diseases (forage)
Nutrition (cattle)

Cereals

J. A. MacLeod, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc., Ph.D.

A. J. Campbell, B.Eng.

U. C. Gupta, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.
H. W. Johnston, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. A. Martin, B.Sc, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. G. Nass, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. D. E. Sterling, B.S.A., M.Sc
R. P. White, B.S. (Ed.), M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Nutrition (forage

and cereal)
Agricultural engineering
Micronutrients (soil and plant)
Diseases (cereal)
Diseases (cereal)
Breeding (wheat), physiology

(cereal)
Breeding (barley)
Nutrition and management (corn

and potato), soil chemistry

RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.

Horticulture and Tobacco

J. A. Cutcliffe, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

J. A. Ivany, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D.

J. Kimpinski, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. G. McDonald, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. W. Platt, B.SC, Ph.D.

D. C. Read, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. M. Sadler, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. B. Sanderson, B.Sc. (Agr.)

Head of Section; Nutrition and

management (vegetable)
Weed control (vegetable, potato,

and cereal)
Nematology
Virus diseases (potato)
Diseases (potato)
Pesticide bioactivity, insects

(vegetable)
Soil management
Management and nutrition (potato)

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finanace and Administration Branch.
-'Seconded from Regional Development and International Affairs Branch.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Research Station at Charlottetown has Atlantic Region responsibility for research on
the production and utilization of livestock feed crops, tobacco, and certain vegetables grown for
processing.

This report includes brief summaries of some of the research completed in 1980. More
detailed information may be obtained from the publications listed or by contacting the
Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 1210, Charlottetown,
P.E.I. CIA 7M8.

L. B. MacLeod
Director

CEREAL AND PROTEIN CROPS

Breeding and testing

Oats. The oat line QO 151-103, from the
cross Tarpan/QO 51-41 made at the Re-
search Station, Ste. Foy, Que., has superior
yield and relatively low hull percentage
compared with presently recommended varie-
ties and is expected to be licensed.

Spring wheat. Application will be made for
licensing the Charlottetown selection AW4
for the Maritime Provinces based on its
superior yield and mildew resistance.

The use of harvest index as a selection
criterion for grain yield in F2 populations of
spring wheat grown at two population densi-
ties was investigated. The F4 lines selected in
F2 for a high harvest index yielded about 9%
more per plot than F4 lines having a low
harvest index in F2. Generally, lines selected
at the higher seeding rate yielded more than
lines selected at the lower planting density.
Selection based on high harvest index at low
population density can be used to select
higher yielding plants but was not as effective
as selection at high population density, which
more closely approximates commercial crop
densities.

Winter wheat. The feed wheat selection T
1365-216 exceeded Lennox in yield on a 2-,
3-, and 4-yr average basis. An application for
licensing for the Maritime Provinces will be
made by the Ottawa Research Station in
1981.

Soybeans. The soybean line AU 3-1-3 has
adequate maturity for Prince Edward Island
conditions and 40% greater yield potential
than Maple Presto. A recommendation has
been made for licensing.

Diseases

The cereal crop in Prince Edward Island is
damaged severely by the fungal pathogen
Fusarium roseum (Lk.) emend. Snyder &
Hansen f. sp. graminearum and through
contamination by its associated mycotoxin,
vomitoxin. Spring wheats such as Opal and
Vernon are particularly susceptible to this
head blight whereas other selections or culti-
vars illustrated varying degrees of resistance.
Best control of the disease was obtained by
application to the maturing heads of the
fungicides chlorothanil, captofal, triadimefon,
or CGA-64250 (Ciba-Geigy) sprays. Vomi-
toxin levels vary considerably depending on
the husbandry used to produce the crop and
are generally higher in barley than wheat.

Intensive cereal production

Winter wheat. Results of a 3-yr study with
Lennox winter wheat indicate that high yields
of winter wheat can be obtained through the
use of multiple levels of N, growth regulators
for lodging control, and fungicides for disease
control. Significant grain yield and N concen-
tration responses were obtained with multiple
N applications in all years and significant
grain yield response to fungicides and growth
regulators two years out of three.

Barley. Studies with the barley growth
regulator Terpal (BASF) indicate that it is
effective in lodging control but yield depres-
sion has been common.

Tillage practices

Swathing offers no advantage in either
earlier harvesting or increased yields, com-
pared with direct-cut combining of small
grains. In some cases swathing resulted in

RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.

harvesting delays due to heavy rains that
soaked the swaths.

FORAGE CROPS

Management and nutrition

Winter survival. Frequent occurrence of
midwinter thaws is a major cause of winter
injury in the Atlantic Provinces, and two
major stress factors associated with midwinter
thaws are freeze-thaw cycles and anaerobic
environments due to waterlogging or ice
encasing. Under controlled environments,
responses of alfalfa to waterlogging in com-
bination with and without freezing were
determined. The effect of growing conditions
on the waterlogging resistance appeared to be
greater than the effect of genotype as far as
Medicago sativa L., M. media Pers., and M.
falcata L. are concerned. A greenhouse
experiment, however, showed that if alfalfa
plants are grown in plastic pails, thus limiting
oxygen supply of the roots in comparison with
that in the field, for 1 yr or longer, these
plants are able to survive flooding for up to 14
wk, as long as a part of the top tissue is above
the water level. Both greenhouse and field
plants were damaged severely by a combina-
tion treatment of freezing-waterlogging-
freezing. It appeared that the resistance to
freezing after waterlogging was the most
important character of alfalfa to survive
midwinter thaws. The most noticeable meta-
bolic change that occurred in alfalfa roots
during the combination treatment was an
accumulation of ethanol. The difference in
ethanol concentration between the plants
before and after waterlogging may explain the
difference in freezing resistance of plants.

Annual ryegrass. Promenade Westerwolds
ryegrass, Lolium multiflorum Lam., was
grown on fine sandy and light loam soils.
Nitrogen was applied at 40, 80, or 120 kg/ha
after emergence and after both the first and
second harvests. The first harvest under
schedules A, B, and C was on 10, 15, and 22
July followed by the second harvest in 28, 37,
and 40 days, and the third harvest in 30, 50,
and 37 days after the second harvest, respec-
tively. The fourth harvest for schedule A was
46 days after the third harvest. Mean dry
matter yields ranged from 6.26 to 9.03 t/ha,
total N in tissue from 2.09 to 2.99%, in vitro
digestibility of dry matter from 73.3 to 76.3%,
and dry matter content from 12.1 to 14.1%

depending on the N rate or harvest schedule
or both. Nitrate-N concentration in plant
tissue was low for 40 and 80 kg N/ha per
application but reached 0.45% for the 120 kg/
ha per application under harvest schedule A.
Yield distribution within the season was most
uniform for schedule B. A three-harvest
schedule with N applied at 80 kg/ha at
seeding and after the first and second harvests
was suitable management for Promenade
Westerwolds ryegrass in the Atlantic Region.

Grass silage utilization. Monocultures of
Climax timothy (Phleum pratense L.),
Lemtal Italian ryegrass, and Aubade and
Promenade Westerwolds ryegrasses were cut,
wilted to about 25% dry matter, in mid-June
for timothy and mid-August for the rye-
grasses, and were conserved as silages. Sheep
fed ad libitum silage rations consumed an
equal quantity of dry matter on a percent
body weight basis, from either the Lemtal
Italian ryegrass or Promenade Westerwolds
ryegrass silage (1.8%), but the intakes were
lower for Climax timothy (1.7%) and Aubade
Westerwolds ryegrass (1.5%) silages. Prome-
nade Westerwolds ryegrass silage contained
the most digestible dry matter (66.7%),
followed by Lemtal Italian ryegrass (64%),
Aubade Westerwolds ryegrass (62.6%), and
Climax timothy (60.4%). Lemtal Italian
ryegrass yielded about 10% more digestible
silage dry matter per hectare compared with
the other ryegrasses or with Climax timothy.

Uptake of residual-applied selenium by
timothy and barley. Timothy was harvested
for 4 yr from plots treated with selenium (Se)
as sodium selenite at the rates of 1.1 and 2.2
kg Se/ha. Timothy forage and barley grain
without added Se contained only 0.02-0.03
ppm Se and were Se deficient from the animal
nutrition standpoint. At 1.1 and 2.2 kg Se/ha,
timothy contained adequate Se (>0.1 ppm)
for 3 and 4 yr and barley grain for 1 and 2 yr
following application, respectively.

Effect of soil fumigation on the nutrient
content of forages. The soil fumigant, methyl
bromide, used to kill pathogenic microorga-
nisms in soil prior to crop planting, has been
shown also to decrease or increase the availa-
bility of plant nutrients in soil. Experiments
conducted under greenhouse conditions
showed that the use of methyl bromide
increased the Zn, Mn, S, and P content of
timothy and alfalfa. Molybdenum content
also increased, but only in timothy.

9 S

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Corn management. Increasing the plant
population of Canadian and European corn
varieties from 50 000 to 75 000 plants per
hectare increased forage yields by 18% in a
2-yr study, but decreased whole plant dry
matter from 31.7 to 30.5%. At 100 000 plants
per hectare the yield increase was only 15.5%
and whole plant dry matter was reduced to
28.6%. Some European hybrids had a tend-
ency for improved grain yields at 75 000
plants per hectare, whereas the Canadian
hybrids tended to decline in yield. Grain
yields were lowest at 100 000 plants per
hectare. Grain moisture increased with in-
creasing population. European hybrids tended
to contain less moisture early in the fall, but
dried more slowly than the Canadian hybrids.

In a 3-yr planting date study, mid-May
planting produced the greatest whole-plant
maturity at harvest (31.4%), but a 10% lower
yield than planting in early June, which gave
only 24.2% dry matter. Planting later than
early June reduced yields and dry matter.

Total yields and the yields of various plant
parts (except the ears) declined with time
after the first killing frost on 25 September.
Ear yields increased up to about 24 October.
Leaves and stalk tops dried most rapidly, and
leaf yield declined nearly 50% by 14 Novem-
ber. The bottom one-third of the stalk was
very wet initially (15% dry matter) and dried
very slowly in comparison to the middle or the
top by 14 November.

Corn nutrition. A study of soil and tissue
nutrient levels in corn grown in Prince Ed-
ward Island indicated that the crop is gener-
ally well managed. The mean soil pH was
6.01 and the mean P, K, Ca, and Mg soil test
levels all ranked 'high.' Less than 8% of the
fields had any soil nutrient testing 'low.' The
mean leaf nutrient levels for N, P, K, Ca, Mg,
S, B, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Mo were all within or
above normally accepted sufficient levels, with
K ranking very high (2.77%). Overall, only
Zn appeared to warrant further study based
on a number of low testing fields.

Effect of atrazine carryover on crops grown
in rotation with corn. Residue carryover in a
fine sandy loam from atrazine applied
preemergence to corn with active ingredient
(ai) at 1.13 kg/ha had no effect on yield of
winter rye seeded before the corn was har-
vested, and of barley, field peas, alfalfa, red
clover, and timothy seeded in May of the
following year. Increasing the atrazine rate to
2.25 kg ai/ha reduced yield of red clover by

2&% and of barley by 18%. Timothy was
killed at this and higher application rates. At
the maximum rate tested of 4.5 kg ai/ha,
yields of red clover, barley, alfalfa, winter rye,
and field peas were reduced by 100, 52, 42,
20, and 17%, respectively. Fall rye suffered
greater yield reductions from atrazine car-
ryover in the previous 2 yr. The effect of
atrazine carryover was similar for all 3 yr
with the other rotation crops.

Insects and nematodes

Alfalfa blotch leafminer. Although the
protein concentration of alfalfa leaves de-
creased due to infestation by alfalfa blotch
leafminer, the concentration in the combined
tissues of leaves plus stems did not decrease
significantly. The concentration of water-
soluble carbohydrates (WSC), however, de-
creased in both leaf and stem tissues. Since a
high WSC content is important in producing
a high-quality silage, special caution may be
necessary to ensure an adequate supply of
sugars for making silage from leafminer-
infested alfalfa.

Beginning in 1978, parasitic insects known
to destroy the alfalfa blotch leafminer in the
larval stage of development were introduced
into Prince Edward Island in an attempt to
develop a biological control program against
this alfalfa pest. Of the three species released,
at least one of these, Dacnusa dryas (Nixon),
has become established near Charlottetown.

European skipper. A nuclear polyhedrosis
virus, found at Normandin, Que., in 1974,
was released in some Prince Edward Island
timothy fields between 1976 and 1979 as a
biological control agent against the European
skipper, a destructive pest of timothy. Obser-
vations in 1980 indicated that the virus was
active in most fields sprayed as well as in
fields and roadsides not sprayed previously.
The virus disease, which does not affect
mammals, fish, or other beneficial insects,
should provide an effective means of preven-
tive control of the European skipper in Prince
Edward Island, but the level of protection
remains to be quantified.

Root-lesion nematodes in alfalfa and timo-
thy. Numbers of Pratylenchus penetrans
(Cobb) Filipjev & Stekh. in alfalfa and
timothy, and to a lesser extent P. crenatus
Loof in timothy, increased substantially as
soil temperature increased from 10 to 30°C.
However, P. crenatus in alfalfa decreased in

RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.

number as soil temperatures increased. Mo-
bility of P. crenatus in vertical soil columns
decreased as temperature increased from 9.5
to 28.5°C. Raising the soil pH in which alfalfa
was grown from 5.0 to 6.9 increased the
numbers of P. penetrans and greatly reduced
the numbers of P. crenatus. The numbers of
both nematode species in timothy were re-
duced significantly as soil pH was increased.
The optimum soil pH for movement of P.
penetrans was 6.0. P. crenatus moved equally
well over a range of 5.0-7.0.

CATTLE

Mineral elements in timothy forage

The average mineral content of timothy
grown on Prince Edward Island was found to
be moderately low to deficient for most of the
minerals studied. Calcium content (0.25%)
averaged about one-half the mean value
published for timothy, whereas P content
(0.24%) approximated published values.
Magnesium content (0.11%) was about one-
half of the requirement for dairy and beef
cattle. Average K content was 2.1%, but some
samples contained 5% or more of K. If these
high K values were combined with low Ca and
Mg in the same forage, this would create a
grass tetany prone situation. Average S, Mn,
Zn, Fe, and Mo contents of timothy were all
borderline low to deficient. These data indi-
cate a definite need for careful attention to
the mineral supplementation of diets for cattle
on Prince Edward Island, especially Ca, Mg,
and trace elements.

Forage-livestock model

A computer program that models the
growth, storage, and feeding of a forage and
cattle housing, the milking, and the manure
handling on dairy farms was used to deter-
mine the net benefits of several management
alternatives available. One of the more prof-
itable plans for a 30-cow farm includes two
cuts per year of timothy, total annual applica-
tions of N fertilizer at 160 kg/ha, and storage
of the wilted silage in a horizontal silo with
formic acid added and covered with polyethyl-
ene. The animals in this system are housed in
a free-stall barn and milked in a double-four
herringbone milking parlor with automatic
milker detachers. The manure is handled as a
solid. The cows are fed from the silo with a
tractor and front-end loader and a feed
wagon. This organization is contrasted

against one of substantially lesser profitability
that involves one cut per year of timothy, an
annual nitrogen application at 34 kg/ha, and
storage of wilted silage in a stack silo, and a
stanchion barn, pipeline milker, manure han-
dled as a solid, and with feed distributed by
cart.

HORTICULTURAL CROPS AND
TOBACCO

Potato management and nutrition

Potato nutrition. A study of soil and tissue
nutrient levels indicated few problems in the
potato crop in Prince Edward Island. Soil test
levels indicated a mean pH of 5.2 and 'high
plus' P, 'high' K, and 'medium plus' Ca and
Mg. Literature values on adequate tissue
levels are scarce, but in general, the mean P,
K, Mg, S, B, Zn, Cu, and Mn levels observed
in Prince Edward Island appeared sufficient.
Nitrogen, Ca, and possibly Fe appeared
somewhat low depending on the sufficiency
levels chosen. The possibility of Mo deficiency
requires further interpretation.

Small whole seed potato production. Pre-
sprouting of small whole seed tubers in light
at 15-20°C for 3 wk prior to planting in-
creased total average seed yields of three
varieties (Sebago, Kennebec, and Red Pon-
tiac) over 2 yr when topkilled in early to mid-
August. Total yields were increased from 19.6
to 24.0 t/ha and for tubers under 60 mm,
from 10.9 to 11.7 t/ha.

Nitrogen applications above 67 kg/ha did
not improve the production of Sebago small
whole seed tubers. Increasing N rates in-
creased the difficulty, and slowed the rate, of
topkilling. Delaying topkilling from 27 Au-
gust to 10 September increased the total yield
from 24.8 to 30.5 t/ha, but the bulk of the
increase was in tubers larger than 60 mm.

Six varieties of potatoes grown for seed
were topkilled on either 14 August or 27
August. The extra 13 days of growth in-
creased the mean total yield from 15.9 to 25.8
t/ha, and the yield of tubers under 75 mm
from 15.9 to 25.0 t/ha. With delayed topkill-
ing, the Superior variety produced the highest
yield (31.4 t/ha) and Katahdin the lowest
(15.9 t/ha) yield of tubers under 75 mm.

Planting small whole Sebago tubers (80-
120 g) did not produce a significantly greater
yield of tubers under 75 mm than did planting
160-240 g tubers cut in half, or 320-480 g

100

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

tubers cut in quarters. Planting small whole
tubers produced more small tubers than did
planting sets cut from larger tubers.

Kennebec potatoes planted at either 15 or
30 cm in-row spacings were sampled weekly
from 63 to 116 days after planting. The yield
of 41-60 mm tubers increased rapidly from
60 to 74 days. At the 15-cm spacing the yield
of 41-60 mm tubers increased rapidly from
60 to 74 days. At the 15-cm spacing the yield
of 41-60 mm tubers remained fairly constant
to harvest, whereas at 30 cm the yield of 41-
60 mm tubers declined with time. Yield of
tubers from 61 to 80 mm increased rapidly
from 74 to 109 days, with close spacing giving
a greater yield. Tubers over 80 mm appeared
at 81 days, increasing in yield at about half
the rate of the smaller sizes. The 30-cm
spacing produced about double the yield of
the 15-cm spacing in this large size. Final
yields at harvest were 22.0, 12.8, and 4.8 t/ha
at the 15-cm spacing, and 19.3, 7.2, and 1 1.4
t/ha at the 30-cm spacing for the 41-60, 61-
80, and over 80 mm sizes, respectively.

Processing potatoes. No differences in the
N requirement of Netted Gems grown for
processing were observed over 3 yr when
planted after either clover or oats. The
optimum yield response occurred with 67 kg
N/ha. With increasing N applications up to
202 kg N/ha, tuber specific gravities were
reduced.

Delayed planting of Netted Gems after
mid-May by 14 or 28 days reduced both the
yield and specific gravity of tubers grown for
processing over a 5-yr period. Maximum
yields required up to 134 kg N/ha, with less
required for later plantings.

Effect of metribuzin residue on crops
grown in rotation with potatoes. Residue

carryover in fine sandy loam soils from
metribuzin applied preemergence to potatoes
at the recommended rate of 0.5 kg ai/ha did
not reduce yield of winter rye seeded in
September of the year of application, and of
barley, red clover, and timothy seeded in May
of the following year. At two to three times
the recommended rate, metribuzin carryover
had negligible effects on yield of these four
rotation crops.

Potato virology

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA) was a reliable and sensitive tech-
nique for diagnosing potato X (PVX), S
(PVS), Y (PVY), and leafroll (PLRV)
viruses in foliage of secondary-infected potato
plants. This technique was also used success-
fully to diagnose PVX and PVS in potato
tubers. Use of ELISA for the diagnosis of
PLRV and PVY in tubers is being developed
for application in seed potato certification.

Effect of lime and K on cabbage yields

Cabbage yields were increased by 13 and
7% by applying lime at 6726 kg/ha to soils
with initial pH levels of 4.8 and 5.3, respec-
tively. Yields were affected only slightly by
added K. Neither the lime nor the K treat-
ments affected the quality of samples held in
refrigerated storage for 6 mo.

Tobacco nutrition

Sources of N. Five sources of N produced
varying yields and quality of flue-cured to-
bacco. The treatment containing 75% NH4-N
+ 25% N03-N gave the highest yield and
dollar return per hectare. This ratio will
replace the previous ratio of 50% NH4-N +
50% N03-N for commercial tobacco produc-
tion on Prince Edward Island.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Baier, W.; St. Pierre, J. C; Lovering, J. H. 1980.
Analysis of environmental factors affecting
timothy yields. Agric. Meteorol. 23(3-4):319-
339.

Choo, T. M. 1980. Doubled haploids for estimating
additive epistatic genetic variances in self-
pollinating species. Can. J. Genet. Cytol.
22:125-127.

Choo, T. M.; Klinck, H. R.; St. Pierre, C. A. 1980.
The effect of location on natural selection in
bulk populations of barley {Hordeum vulgare
L.). I. Simply inherited traits. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:31-40.

Choo, T. M.; Klinck, H. R.; St. Pierre, C. A. 1980.
The effect of location on natural selection in
bulk populations of barley {Hordeum vulgare
L.). II. Quantitative traits. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:41-47.

RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.

101

Choo, T. M.; Reinbergs, E.; Park, S. J. 1980.
Studies on coefficients of variation of yield
components and on character association by
path coefficient analysis in barley under row
and hill plot conditions. Z. Pflanzenzuecht.
84:107-114.

Cutcliffe, J. A.; Gupta, U. C. 1980. Effects of added
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium on leaf tissue
boron concentration of three vegetable crops.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:571-576.

Cutcliffe, J. A.; Munro, D. C. 1980. Effects of
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and lime on
yield and maturity of green peas. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:599-604.

Edgington, L. V.; Martin, R. A.; Bruin, G. C;
Parsons, I. M. 1980. Systemic fungicides: A
perspective after 10 years. Plant Dis. 64:19-23.

Gupta, U. C; Kunelius, H. T. 1980. Effect of
molybdenum, lime, and cropping on yield and
molybdenum concentration of grass-legume
mixtures and cabbage. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:113-120.

Ivany, J. A. 1980. Effect of weed competition and
weed control programs on rutabaga yield. Can.
J. Plant Sci. 60:917-922.

Ivany, J. A. 1980. EPTC compared with EPTC +
antidotes for alfalfa establishment. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:1049-1052.

Johnston, H. W.; Ivany, J. A.; Cutcliffe, J. A. 1980.
Effects of herbicides applied to soil on fusar-
ium root rot of processing peas. Plant Dis.
64:942-943.

Kimpinski, J.; Willis, C. B. 1980. Influence of crops
in the field on numbers of root lesion and stunt
nematodes. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:33-36.

Kunelius, H. T. 1980. Effects of nitrogen rates and
harvest schedules on yield and quality of
Westerwolds ryegrass grown as a summer
annual. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:519-524.

Mclsaac, J. A.; Lovering, J. H. 1980. A model for
estimating silo losses and costs. Can. Farm
Econ. 15(5):10-16.

Narasimhalu, P. R.; Belzile, R. J.; Brisson, G. J.;
Holtman, W. B. 1980. Adaptation of lactating
cows to rations containing urea. J. Dairy Sci.
63:1266-1272.

Piatt, H. W. 1980. The effects of light intensity and
relative humidity on conidiation in Pyreno-
phora tritici-repentis (Died.) Drechs. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:53-57.

Piatt, H. W. 1980. The effects of windspeed and
humidity on conidium liberation of Pyreno-
phora tritici-repentis (Died.) Drechs. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:58-64.

Sadler, J. M. 1980. Effects of placement location
for phosphorus banded away from the seed on
growth and uptake of soil and fertilizer phos-
phorus by flax. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:251-262.

Suzuki, M.; Lund, C. W. 1980. Improved gas-liquid
chromatography for simultaneous determina-
tion of volatile fatty acids and lactic acid in
silage. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:1040-1041.

Winter, K. A.; Javed, A. H. 1980. Fish silage as a
protein source for early weaned calves. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:787-789.

Miscellaneous

Arsenault, W. J.; Johnston, H. W. 1980. Tobacco
black root rot control studies using soil applied
fungicides. Lighter 50(1):29-31.

Cutcliffe, J. A. 1980. Effect of transplanting date
on tomato yields in P.E.I. Canadex 257.20.

Cutcliffe, J. A. 1980. Earlier cucumbers. Canadex
256.20.

Cutcliffe, J. A. 1980. Seeding rutabagas "on-the-
flat" versus "hills." Canadex 250.22.

Cutcliffe, J. A. 1980. Onion production in the
Maritimes. Can. Agric. 25(3): 1 9.

Cutcliffe, J. A.; Munro, D. C. 1980. Effects of N, P,
K, and lime on pea yields. Canadex 142.20.

Gupta, U. C. 1980. A simplified method for
determining available boron in soils. Canadex
531.

Gupta, U. C. 1980. Boron deficiency symptoms in
forage legumes. Canadex 532.

Ivany, J. A. 1980. 1978 Prince Edward Island weed
survey. Canadex 640.

MacLeod, J. A. 1980. Effects of rate of application
and time on N loss from urea applied to
forages. Canadex 120.10.

McRae, K.; White, R. P. 1980. A procedure for
combining and evaluation of the performance
of forage corn hybrids over years and locations.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:320 (abstract).

McDonald, J. G.; Singh, R. P. 1980. Comparison of
ELISA with LAT for the post-harvest indexing
of seed tubers for potato viruses X and S. Am.
Potato J. 57:488 (abstract).

Singh, R. P.; McDonald, J. G. 1980. A chlorotic
mosaic of fall hawkbit (Leontodon autum-
nalis). Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60:47-50.

Suzuki, M.; McRae, K. B.; MacKenzie, D. N.
1980. Winter injury of forage legumes, winter
cereals, and strawberries in the Maritimes.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:321 (abstract).

White, R. P. 1980. Planting date studies in a short
season environment. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:321
(abstract).

102

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

White, R. P.; Munro, D. C. 1980. Seed size vs yield Willis, C. B. 1980. Reproduction of root lesion

and size distribution on Netted Gem potatoes. nematode species in forage legumes and

Canadex 258.22. grasses and yield effects. Canadex 628.

Willis, C. B. 1980. Effect of root lesion nematodes

White, R. P.; Munro, D. C; Lelacheur, K. E. 1980. on competitiveness of forage legumes, winter

Availability to plants of magnesium from cereals, and strawberries in the Maritimes,

different sources. Canadex 540. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:321 (abstract).

RESEARCH STATION, CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. 103

Research Station
Kentville, Nova Scotia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administration

G. M. Weaver, B.Sc, Ph.D.
D. L. Craig, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S.,
R. G. Ross, D.F.C., B.Sc. (Agr.),
K. M. Carter, B.Comm.

Ph.D.
M.Sc.

Ph.D.

Director

Assistant Director, Operations
Assistant Director, Program
Administrative Officer

Scientific Support

K. B. McRae, B.Ed., M.S., Ph.D.
J. R. Miner,1 B.A., M.L.S.
M. L. C. Peveril,2 B.Sc.

Statistician

Librarian

Programmer

Crops

D. L. Craig, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D.

L. E. Aalders, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.

C. R. Blatt, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

R. W. Jones, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

I. V. Hall, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. R. Hicklenton, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. L. Ricketson, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Plant breeding
Genetics and plant breeding
Physiology and nutrition
Cereal crops physiology
Ecology and physiology
Ornamental physiology
Vegetable physiology

Entomology

A. W. MacPhee, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. J. Herbert, B.Sc. (Agr.)
W. T. A. Neilson, B.Sc, M.Sc
K. H. Sanford, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.
H. B. Specht, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Insect ecology

Pheromones and mites

Fruit maggots

Integrated control programs

Vegetable and field crop insects

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

105

Plant Pathology and Pesticide Residues

R. G. Ross, D.F.C., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

M. G. Anderson, B.Sc, Ph.D.

C. O. Gourley, CD., B.Sc. (Agr.)

K. I. N. Jensen, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. R. Kimball, B.Sc.

C. L. Lockhart, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.

M. T. H. Ragab, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Tree fruit diseases

Vegetable storage diseases

Berry crop diseases

Herbicide physiology

Residue chemistry

Horticultural pathology

Residue chemistry

Poultry

F. G. Proudfoot, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S.

H. W. Hulan, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Physiology and
genetics
Nutrition and physiology

Processing, Distribution, and Retailing

R. Stark, B.Sc, Ph.D.
P. D. Lidster, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
P. A. Poapst, B.Sc (Agr.)
W. G. Simpson, B.S.A., M.S.

Head of Section; Food technology
Storage physiology
Storage physiology
Technological services

Tree Fruits

A. D. Crowe, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. H. Webster, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Plant breeding
and physiology
Soils and nutrition

Experimental Farm, Nappan, N.S.

F. W. Calder, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S.

J. E. Langille, B.Sc. (Agr.)
T. A. Van Lunen, B.S.A.

Officer in Charge; Forage crops

agronomy
Agronomy, cereal and forage crops
Swine management and nutrition

Departures

D. B. Cumming, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred to Summerland Research Station,
November 1980
R. B. Peveril, B.Sc.
Resigned August 1980

Food technology

Programmer

106

research branch report I4S0

J. R. E. Sawyer, B.Ed., M.L.S. Librarian

Resigned May 1980
L. R. Townsend, B.A., B.Sc. Plant physiology

Retired December 1979

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

'Seconded from Systems and Consulting Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

RESEARCH STATION, KENTViLLE, N.S. 107

INTRODUCTION

This report highlights the principal research results from the Kentville Research Station
and the Experimental Farm at Nappan for 1980. Kentville is the center for research in
horticulture, poultry, food technology, and pesticide residues in the Atlantic Provinces. The
Experimental Farm at Nappan, 80 km north of Kentville, serves as an associate establishment
doing applied and developmental research on the production of cereals, forages, and lowbush
blueberries, and on the management of livestock. The Atlantic region is characterized by a
cool, humid climate and by Podzol soils which sustain a diverse agriculture.

Completion of the new office-laboratory complex is expected in the spring of 1981.
Occupancy, however, commenced in October 1980, with facilities nearing full operational
status at time of reporting. The consolidation of staff in the new center with access to modern
facilities for controlled manipulation of scientific experimentation should offer substantial
stimulus to establishment programs.

Crop physiology research was also augmented significantly with the successful
recruitment of cereal and vegetable specialists during the year.

Requests for further information or reprints of publications should be addressed to the
Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Kentville, N.S. B4N 1 J5.

G. M. Weaver
Director

BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND
CULTURE OF CROPS

Lowbush blueberries

Seed characteristics. Seed production ba-
sed on number of seeds per berry differed in
four clones of lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium
angustifolium Ait.). Large seeds were more
viable than small seeds.

Promotion by tryptophan of growth and
root formation in lowbush blueberry pericarp
callus cultures. Lowbush blueberry {Vaccin-
ium angustifolium Ait.) pericarp callus grew
slowly and formed normal tetraploid roots on
Nitsch's medium containing L-tryptophan and
kinetin. Both growth and rooting depended on
the levels of these two substances in the
medium. Rooting declined but callus growth
rates changed little over successive subcul-
tures. When tryptophan was replaced by
indoleacetic acid, indolebutyric acid, 2,4-
dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, or naphtha-
leneacetic acid, callus growth rates increased
but no roots formed. Tryptophan medium did
not support callus growth or induce rooting
unless the tryptophan was autoclaved with the
rest of the medium, thus suggesting that an
active substance is produced by reaction of
the tryptophan with one or more other constit-
uents of the medium during heating.

Lowbush blueberry breeding. Plants of 16
ultraselect lowbush blueberry clones were
prepared for a 1981 first planting of the
advanced regional replicated field trials. The
trials are to be evaluated in five areas, namely
Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince
Edward Island, and Maine.

A replicated yield trial of 53 entries plus 10
standards was planted at Sheffield in 1980
using an incomplete block design. Plants were
prepared for a similar trial to be planted in
1981, and an additional 22 clones were
elevated to replicate field trial status.

The first yields were recorded from the 27-
entry replicated yield trial set in 1978 and the
10-entry seedling progeny yield trial also set
in 1978. Fourth harvest yields were also
recorded from the block planted in 1972.
Yields of 15.3 and 14.3 kg per 12-plant plot
were recorded for clones 70-36 and 70-21,
respectively. For the first time at Kentville, all
lowbush blueberry fruit was raked and win-
nowed for yield records in 1980, instead of
being hand picked as has been done in the
past.

A total of 30 new selections were made
from the block of 3336 seedlings planted in
1978, and a new block of 4368 seedlings was
set in 1 980 for evaluation in 1 982.

[08

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Grapes

Cultivar testing. Fruit yield and juice
analysis were obtained from 31 of the 56
grape cultivars on test at Kentville. The cool
weather of May and June delayed flowering
and thus fruit maturity by 10-15 days. This
adverse growing season permitted the identi-
fication of cultivars best suited to the local
environment. Four red wine, three white wine,
and two seedless dessert types were identified
as adaptable and useful cultivars for this
region. The first local cottage wine industry
was established near Kentville in 1980. Culti-
vars used to establish the industry had been
identified in previous tests conducted at
Kentville.

Raspberries

Red raspberry breeding. The Kentville
seedling selection K70-11 (Southland x
Boyne) has been named Nova. Nova has
proved to be winter-hardy following 10 yr of
plot testing in Nova Scotia plus several years
in Prince Edward Island and Quebec. With
the exception of the cultivar Festival, no
cultivar meets the regional requirement of
cane winterhardiness, high fruit yield capabil-
ity, plus fruit quality; Nova appears to meet
these requirements, thereby potentially pro-
viding a second good cultivar for the region.

Strawberries

Breeding. Evaluation trials of selections
from the Kentville breeding program have
identified four superior selections (K73-2,
K75-13, K76-9, K78-4) for inclusion in the
1981 regional test plots. The high-yielding,
large-fruited selection K74-10 has been
named Kent and released to the public via
commercial nurseries.

The breeding program designed to incorpo-
rate field tolerance for the red stele organism
(Phytophthora fragariae) has produced selec-
tions which will be propagated by a local
nursery for distribution to commercial grow-
ers. All crosses made in 1980 included a
parent resistant to red stele. Seedling inocula-
tion with a strain complex of the red stele
organism was carried out at Kentville. The
inoculation survivors (1478) which were
planted in land infested with the red stele
organism will be evaluated in 1981.

Cereals

Animo fall rye. This cultivar is well
adapted to the Annapolis Valley of Nova
Scotia and was found to be superior in
yielding ability to Kustro, Kodiak, and Puma.
Animo has a higher kernel weight than its
contemporaries, has good lodging resistance,
and has straw which is shorter than Kodiak or
Puma.

Field crops

Yields of forage peas. The first forage pea
trial was carried out in 1977 and the respec-
tive yields were: Century 3274 kg/ha, Mi-
nerva Maple 3126 kg/ha, and Trapper 2610
kg/ha. Five varieties were grown in 1978 and
the leading cultivar was Krupp at 8862 kg/ha
followed by Rosakrone at 7544 kg/ha, Mi-
nerva Maple at 7421 kg/ha, Century at 7212
kg/ha, and Trapper at 4978 kg/ha. Forage
peas are considered a highly productive one-
harvest crop.

Ornamentals

Refining slow-release fertilizer treatments
for containerized plants in soilless mixes.
Following two consecutive years of study, a
suitable rate and form of slow-release fertil-
izer (isobutylidene diurea, IBDU 31-0-0) has
been determined to sustain growth rates and
appearance of containerized Ardorra junipers
through one growing season. Plants were
grown successfully in a mixture containing
three parts sawdust to one part peat with an
admixture of 380 g pelletized IBDU per
bushel. The fine, Par-Ex form of IBDU at the
same rate did not provide adequate plant
nitrogen through the season. In these trials
phosphorus was supplied as superphosphate
and potassium as muriate of potash or fritted
potassium. Minor elements were also added in
a fritted form as a medium premix. No visual
differences in plant quality could be found
between the soluble (muriate) and slow-
release (fritted) forms of potassium.

Hardiness zone effects on storage of con-
tainerized ornamentals under various cover-
ings. Despite widespread use of storage houses
covered with white polyethylene for overwin-
tering containerized ornamentals, trials con-
ducted during 1979-80 indicated that the
method is not always satisfactory for plants
which are important in the Atlantic Region.
Winter storage of Cotoneaster dammeri in
plant hardiness zone 6a under white polyeth-
ylene resulted in satisfactory spring quality,

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

109

whereas in zone 5a the same treatment caused
severe leaf browning and damage. The same
species overwintered under flexible 6-mm
styrofoam (Microfoam) was undamaged in
either zone.

Differences in the effectiveness of white
polyethylene storage were related to lower
root temperatures under zone 5a conditions.
Microfoam maintained root temperatures
significantly above the killing point in both
zones. Juniperus chinensis cv. Pfitzeriana
Aurea stored well under white polyethylene or
microfoam under 5a or 6a conditions. The
choice of storage method for containerized
ornamentals should take into consideration
species characteristics (particularly root har-
diness) and the winter climate of the storage
site.

Effects of carbon dioxide on flowering and
vegetative development in Pharbitis nil.
Short-day (SD) photoperiods (8 h light - 16 h
dark) caused rapid flowering in Pharbitis
plants grown in 0.03 or 0.1% C02, whereas
plants in long-day (LD) conditions remained
vegetative. At 1 or 5% C02, however, flower
buds were developed under both the SD and
LD photoperiods. Flowering was earliest in
plants exposed to SD at low C02 concentra-
tions, when floral buds were formed at node 3
or 4. At high C02 concentrations, floral buds
did not form until node 6 or 7. Both high CO,
concentrations and LD photoperiods tended to
enhance stem elongation and leaf formation.
Subsequent experiments on C02 exchange
indicated that the occurrence of flowering
under normally noninductive LD photoperi-
ods at 1 or 5% C02 could not be readily
explained in terms of higher photosynthetic
rates. It is possible that inadvertently high
C02 concentrations in greenhouses producing
floricultural crops may lead to undesirable
effects on plant morphology.

Ornamental cultivar evaluations. Twenty-
eight species of ornamental trees and shrubs
were established in test plots during 1980.
This planting represented the start of an
ongoing evaluation program which will be
developed during future years to include
locations in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward
Island, and New Brunswick. The 1980 plant-
ings were duplicated at the L'Assomption
Experimental Farm, Que. Each year more
species will be added to the inventory in this
testing network, and evaluations will be
conducted at each location over a minimum
5-yr period.

Rhododendron breeding. Several promising
seedlings were selected in 1980 including
yellow-flowering types. The white-flowered
Kentville seedling selection K74-02 (Cun-
ningham's White x Rhododendron yakusi-
manum) was named Minas Snow.

PROTECTION OF CROPS AGAINST
PESTS

Plant pathology

Persistence of captafol applied with foliar
nutrients during fruit bud development of
apple. Adding the foliar nutrients urea and
magnesium sulfate to captafol sprays applied
to apples with active ingredient (ai) at 2.4 kg/
1000 L water at the pink stage of fruit bud
development did not affect the persistence and
redistribution of captafol deposits. Residues
were higher on foliage throughout the season
and on the fruit at harvest when captafol at 6
kg ai/ 1000 L was applied at the pink stage of
fruit bud development than when it was
applied when fruit buds were in earlier stages
of development.

Evaluation of fungicides on apple. Apple
scab pressure was high, with infection periods
frequent throughout the spray season in which
light sprays were applied dilute to run-off
with a handgun to the cultivars Mcintosh and
Cortland. The experimental fungicides Bay-
cor 50 WP and CGA-64251 look particularly
promising for scab control. Both were very
effective in mixtures with captan. Baycor with
the surfactant AL-411F gave excellent scab
control but caused a slightly mottled chlorosis
to foliage. The foliage of trees sprayed with
CGA-64251 was crinkled, somewhat leathery,
and darker green than normal. A test in which
these fungicides were applied at 24, 48, and
72 h following two heavy apple scab infection
periods suggests that both act as eradicants or
after-rain fungicides up to at least 72 h
following apple scab infection periods.

Control of twig and blossom blight of
highbush blueberry with fungicides. Foliar
sprays of Funginex and Ronilan gave signifi-
cant control of twig and blossom blight and
the mummyberry stage of Monilinia vaccinii-
corymbosi (Reade) Honey. Funginex was
more effective than Ronilan in controlling
twig and blossom blight and its use increased
yields significantly over those of control plots.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Observations on white mold in snap beans.
White mold (caused by Sclerotinia sclerotio-
rum (Lib.) deBary) was a problem in snap
bean fields where beans had been grown in
previous years and in the dense weedy areas of
the fields. In these locations infections ranged
from 10 to 50% of the plants exhibiting
disease symptoms. Losses were less than 5%
in the 40 ha surveyed.

Observations on storage rots of Mcintosh
apples in low oxygen storage. The amounts of
storage rots were lower in the lower levels of
oxygen concentrations, particularly in the
absence of carbon dioxide. Increasing the
concentrations of carbon dioxide from 1 to 5%
decreased the amount of rots in the higher
concentrations of oxygen.

Insect pests

Control of blueberry thrips with per-
methrin, the effect on yield, and the residue in
fruit. Permethrin at 0.4 kg ai/ha controlled
blueberry thrips (Frankliniella vaccinii Mor-
gan). There was no plant damage, and crop
yield was significantly increased. Permethrin
residues were not detected in berries.

Pesticide residues

Asulam for control of eastern bracken fern
in lowbush blueberry fields. Eastern bracken
fern (Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn var.
latiusculum (Desv.) Underw.) in fields of
lowbush blueberry {Vaccinium sp.) was ef-
fectively controlled by spray application of
asulam (methyl sulfanilylcarbamate), a sys-
temic herbicide. No detectable residue of
asulam was found in fruit harvested from
treated plots. Spray applications were at 1.12
and 2.24 kg/ha. The higher rate was more
thorough than the lower rate in reducing the
number of bracken fronds.

Comparative behavior of simazine and
terbacil in soils. Adsorption of simazine (2-
chloro-4,6-bisethylamino- 1 ,3,5-triazine) was
2.3 to 3.7 times greater than that of terbacil
(5-chloro-6-methyl-3-?-butyluracil) in the
same soils, and adsorption of both herbicides
was two to four times greater in the topsoils
than in subsoils. Adsorption was inversely
correlated with herbicide movement in a
thick-layer chromatography system. One year
after application of 3 kg/ha to field plots,
simazine residues were highest near the soil
surface, whereas terbacil residues increased
with soil depth in the sandy and sandy loam

soils" indicating that leaching plays a signifi-
cant role in terbacil dissipation from soils.
Total residues recovered from the upper 25
cm of soils ranged from 6-18% and 16-32%
of that applied for simazine and terbacil,
respectively. In an oat seedling bioassay, the
gr50 values were generally one and one-half to
three times higher for simazine than for
terbacil in the same soils. Both herbicides
were more phytotoxic at pH 7.1 than at pH
5.4.

Herbicide residues in lowbush blueberry.
Lowbush blueberry plants were treated with
asulam, dichlobenil, 2,4-D, pronamide, or
simazine at the recommended rates. The area
was burned before regrowth began in the
following spring. No residues of herbicides
were detected in the berries 2 yr after
application.

Persistence of dinitramine and trifluralin
in soils. Persistence of two dinitroaniline
herbicides in two loamy sand soils of the
Somerset and Berwick series was found to be
greater than anticipated. Half-lives of spring-
applied dinitramine in the Somerset and
Berwick soils was 51 and 72 days, respec-
tively, and 126 days for trifluralin in the
Berwick soil. Trifluralin had not dissipated to
the 50% level in the Somerset soil over the
190-day test period. An indicator plant,
Setaria viridis, showed severe stunting when
grown in soils sampled in late September from
plots treated with trifluralin at 1.0 kg/ha in
late May.

Residues of glyphosate and its major
metabolite in crops as a result of the
preemergence treatment with Roundup® her-
bicide. Neither glyphosate nor its metabolite
were found in mature crops of corn, oats, snap
beans, peas, carrots, or red beets preemer-
gently treated with Roundup® at 4 kg ai/ha in
300 L water. Analysis was made by gas and
thin-layer chromatography.

PROCESSING, DISTRIBUTING,
AND RETAILING

Applications of surface waxes to sweet
cherries prolongs expected shelf life and
reduces disorders resulting from mechanical
damage. Surface damage caused by mechani-
cal injury, stem discoloration and shriveling,
and fruit weight loss in sweet cherries
{Prunus avium L.) are persistent problems
facing Canadian sweet cherry industries.

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

Ill

Applications of emulsifiable coatings to cher-
ries have significantly reduced surface disor-
ders, fruit and stem desiccation, and stem
discoloration. In addition, wax formulations
applied to cherries have enhanced fruit gloss,
improved overall appearance of the fruit, and
increased the potential shelf life by 100%.

Characteristics of frozen strawberries. The
physical and chemical characteristics of nu-
merous strawberry varieties have been exam-
ined for attributes associated with a high-
quality frozen product. Measurements are
made on the fresh strawberries at the time of
harvest and on the frozen products after
approximately 6 mo of storage at -26°C.
Good agreement has been found between
measurement of color with a Hunterlab color
difference meter and the judgment of color by
a taste panel.

Fruit maturity and storage parameters
affect fruit response to low-oxygen atmo-
spheres. Several fruit and storage parameters
have been identified which affect the response
of Mcintosh apples {Malus domestica Borkh)
to low-oxygen (1.0% 02) storage atmospheres.
Fruit maturity at harvest is critical for
optimum low-oxygen storage retention of fruit
firmness. Immature and overmature fruit will
have accelerated firmness loss in storage.
Postclimacteric fruit are susceptible to inter-
nal browning in 1.0% oxygen atmospheres.
Similarly, storage temperatures of 0°C when
Mcintosh apples are held at 1.0% may
predispose the fruit to an internal breakdown
disorder. Carbon dioxide (0-5.0%) in the
storage atmosphere is negatively correlated
with the retention of fruit firmness when
storage oxygen levels are at 1 .0% or lower.

Low-oxygen storage maintains apple qual-
ity in several cultivars. Recent developments
indicate that present oxygen levels recom-
mended for controlled atmosphere (CA)
storage of several apple cultivars {Malus
domestica Borkh) do not provide for optimum
retention of fruit quality and maximum
storage life. Reduction of CA oxygen levels to
1.0% or lower has the potential of greatly
enhancing the maintenance of fruit firmness,
acidity, juiciness, and overall acceptability of
Golden Delicious, Mcintosh, and Cortland
apples in storage. Mcintosh apples respond
particularly well to low-oxygen atmospheres
and demonstrate the potential for commercial
year-round marketing of this variety.

The development of a new blanching sys-
tem. Blanching as a commercial process,
though vitally necessary, tends to be energy
intensive and high in effluent production, and
in many cases significantly reduces the nutri-
ent content of products. Over a 7-yr period a
new prototype blancher has been developed
which has been demonstrated to reduce
energy requirements as much as 10 times
when compared with conventional procedures.
Most vegetables tested show ascorbic acid
retentions of 85-90% of fresh produce and
improvements in retention over water blanch
processes of up to 52%. Effluent volumes and
overall loads tend to be significantly reduced.

Extensive testing has shown the new
process system provides significant im-
provements in the process parameters outlined
above while yielding products of high quality
that are, in many cases, superior to conven-
tionally processed products. A program is now
under way to develop the system as a com-
mercial entity. A unit capable of blanching
peas at 2720 kg/h was tested during the
processing seasons of 1979 and 1980.

The effect of an individual quick blanching
method on ascorbic acid retention in selected
vegetables. Method of blanching (including
cooling) was found to have a significant effect
on residual ascorbic acid level in peas (P <
0.01) and broccoli (P < 0.001), but not in cut
green beans (P > 0.05). The separate parts of
the procedure (heating and cooling) had an
additive effect but acted independently of one
another. In each case where a difference was
observed the experimental procedure (individ-
ual quick blanch - evaporative or air cool)
was found to yield a product higher in
ascorbic acid than the conventionally pro-
cessed product (water blanch - water cool).
The practical implication is that adoption of
specialized steam blanch procedures or evapo-
rative cooling will result in improved nutrient
levels in sensitive vegetables (e.g. peas and
broccoli) compared with the conventional
product. The experiments also indicated that
any contact of heat and water with susceptible
vegetable materials will cause a marked
reduction in ascorbic acid levels. For the
vegetables studied, the K-l individual quick
blanch system yielded a fully blanched pro-
duct which retained mean ascorbic acid levels
between 82 and 91% of raw values, depending
on the specific vegetable.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

ANIMAL SCIENCE

Cattle

Early weaning of beef cows in dry lot.
Calves, from half the cows which were
wintered on either an adequate or a low plane
of nutrition, were weaned at about 2 mo of
age and reared on ad libitum creep feed and
hay to the normal weaning age of 200 days.
Calves left with the cows were fed creep feed
ad libitum and had access to forage in the
feed bunk. Early weaning did not affect the
weights of calves at 200 days of age for cows
on the adequate level of nutrition, but early
weaned calves from the low-plane cows aver-
aged 7 kg less than those left with the cows.
Early weaning improved conception rate of
the cows on the low level of feeding but had
no effect for those fed adequately. The most
economical feeding program was the low
plane of nutrition with early weaning.

Effect on animal gain of steam-treating
grass for silage. Four crops were compared as
unwilted silage for beef cattle weight gain: (a)
grass harvested 14-15 June, early head stage,
of 61% digestible in vitro dry matter (DM);
(b) similar grass, steamed standing, harvested
14-15 June, early head stage of 63% digest-
ible DM; (<:) second harvest of grass from
same area as a above harvested 22-24 Au-
gust, early head stage of 59% digestibility; (d)
grass-legume, second harvest on 22-24 Au-
gust, early head - early bloom stage of 62%
digestible DM. Steaming of grass in b was
accomplished with the Dutch thermal unit.
Animal gains (kilograms per head per day)
when silage only was offered were: (a) 0.45;
(b) 0.71; (c) 0.47; and (d) 0.71. This repre-
sents an increase of 57% in animal gain
resulting from steaming a standing grass
sward prior to ensiling, compared with a 30%
increase obtained by supplementing the con-
ventional silage ration with 1 kg of barley per
day.

Monensin for beef cows. Monensin, a feed
additive approved in Canada for use with
feedlot cattle, has not been approved for
breeding animals. In 3 yr of testing with the
Nappan beef cow herd, it has proved effective
in improving the efficiency of feed conversion
and has not shown any detrimental effects on
reproductive performance of the cows. In 1 yr
when feeding was suboptimal, there was
evidence of a beneficial effect on conception
rate from feeding monensin.

Stocking rate for reed canarygrass pasture.
It was found that a reed canarygrass sward
grazed rotationally and at a low stocking rate
will continue to persist for at least 3 yr. Two
years of continuous grazing nearly eliminated
the stand in previous experiments. Animal
gain was not significantly different between a
low and high grazing intensity, but the low
grazing intensity favored the reed canarygrass
production, with a dry matter yield of 8.87
Mt/ha.

Use of prostaglandin to synchronize estrus.
The main cow herd at Nappan was injected
with prostaglandin on 2 days 10 days apart
and inseminated twice on the 3rd and 4th day
after the second injection. Less than 50% of
the herd conceived to these inseminations.
Weaning the calves on the day following the
second injection did not improve conception
rates at the timed inseminations, but it did
increase conception rates of the cows over the
2-mo breeding season, especially for cows that
were on a low plane of nutrition prior to
weaning.

Hogs

Comparison of growing weaner pigs on
raised decks and on solid flooring. Raised
weaner decks are increasing in popularity
across Canada and the United States.
Because of this popularity it was decided to
test this equipment via two experiments, using
a total of 150 weaner pigs. The pigs were
placed on six treatments which compared
weaner decks to floor pens at three stocking
densities. Results indicate that performance
of pigs in terms of growth rate, feed conver-
sion, health, and carcass quality is not im-
proved by the use of weaner decks. It was also
found that weaner pigs reared in low stocking
densities perform better than those kept in
higher densities.

Effect of fish silage supplementation of
feed on performance of growing-finishing
swine. Fish silage in addition to a 16% crude
protein ration was fed to 24 pigs from 40 kg to
60 kg liveweight. Consumption of fish silage,
when fed separately from the rest of the
ration, does not appear to be a viable supple-
ment for swine rations. Other feeding meth-
ods will be tested in future trials.

Effect of sodium hypochlorite on the
growth of pigs. Water containing 1000 ppm
sodium hypochlorite was given to 10 barrow
pigs from 4 wk of age to market weight.

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

113

Consumption of sodium hypochlorite resulted
in no measurable effect on growth rate, feed
conversion, or carcass quality.

The influence of number of animals per
pen and presence of free choice minerals on
leg weakness in boars. The feeding of a free-
choice mineral mix, and the opportunity for
increased exercise, were tested on boars both
with and without foot and leg weakness. The
results indicate that neither of the treatments
tested have any effect on the feet and legs of
boars.

Poultry

Cooking characteristics and eating quality
of broiler chickens fed squid meal. Meat
from frozen broiler chickens that had been fed
diets containing 0 (control), 5, 10, or 15%
squid meal was evaluated for its cooking
characteristics and eating quality. Ten panel-
ists scored samples for flavor, juiciness,
tenderness, and off-flavor. Control samples
lost significantly more weight (P < 0.05)
during cooking than did the 5% squid meal
samples. As the level of squid meal in the
diets increased, the chicken flavor intensity
decreased slightly but not significantly. Off-
flavors were detected in samples from all
treatments including the control. The off-
flavor of control and 5% squid meal samples
was not characterized by the judges, whereas
the most common description of the off-flavor
for the 10% and 15% squid meal samples was
'fishy.' Control samples were significantly less
juicy (P < 0.05) than squid meal and
significantly less tender (P < 0.05) than
either the 5 or 10% squid meal samples. It is
concluded that up to 10% squid meal can be
fed to broiler chickens without significantly
affecting cooking characteristics or eating
quality of the meat produced.

Effect of vitamins on the incidence of
mortality and acute death syndrome (flip-
over') in broiler chickens. Eight different
vitamin mixtures were each fed to six repli-
cate pens (150 birds per pen) of day-old Cobb
chicks in a completely randomized design to
evaluate the effect of biotin, pyridoxine, and
thiamine singly or in combination and the
effect of feeding these vitamins in addition to
the standard vitamins at two and four times
their required level on mortality and incidence
of acute death syndrome (ADS) or 'flip-over'
of broiler chickens. Further additions to the
standard vitamins and addition of thiamine to
the standard vitamin mixture significantly

increased 28-day liveweights (P < 0.05). The
addition of biotin or thiamine significantly
improved feed conversion (P < 0.05). Mone-
tary returns were reduced for those diets
involving multiple additions of vitamins owing
to increased feed costs. Total mortality and
mortality attributed to ADS appeared to be
reduced by the inclusion of additional vita-
mins. The inclusion of biotin alone signifi-
cantly reduced total mortality (P < 0.05) and
mortality due to ADS {P < 0.05).

Influence of genotype and diet on general
performance and incidence of leg abnormali-
ties of commercial broilers reared to roaster
weight. Two experiments were conducted to
study the influence of genotype and diet on
general performance and incidence of leg
abnormalities of commercial broiler chickens
reared to roaster weight. In experiment 1 a
total of 1960 male day-old chicks of seven
different commercial genotypes were housed
separately in 14 pens (25.64 m2) with 140
birds per pen and fed one dietary regimen. In
experiment 2, 3000 male day-old chicks of
two commercial genotypes were randomly
assigned to 20 pens (13.54 m2) with 150 birds
per pen, and two replicate pens were fed one
of the five different dietary regimens designed
to promote rapid, intermediate, or slow
growth.

Differences {P < 0.05) were observed
among the genotypes tested (experiment 1) in
the incidence of mortality, leg abnormalities,
liveweight, and feed conversion but not for
mean monetary returns per bird housed. In
experiment 2, significant differences (P <
0.01) were observed among the dietary reg-
imens tested for liveweight, feed conversion,
and monetary returns per bird housed. As the
protein content of starters, growers, and
finishers decreased, body weight decreased
but monetary returns improved. Feeding the
birds beyond 63 days resulted in a substantial
reduction in monetary returns. A dietary
regimen which included starter, grower, de-
veloper, and finisher with 18, 24, 22, and 14%
protein, respectively, resulted in significantly
better feed conversion and a significantly
lower incidence of leg abnormalities.

Performance of chicken broilers changed
from starter to finisher diets at different ages.
A total of 1600 broiler chickens were fed a
starter diet (24.0% protein and metabolizable
energy of 12.45 MJ/kg) and a finisher diet
(15.9% protein and metabolizable energy of

114

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

13.45 MJ/kg) in this experiment. Commenc-
ing at 24 days of age, and at daily intervals
thereafter to 33 days inclusive, randomly
selected pens of birds were switched from
starter to finisher diets. All surviving birds
were slaughtered at 49 days. Although mor-
tality was slightly higher among females,
body weights were numerically heavier when
birds were switched from starter to finisher at
28 days of age. However, this was not
reflected in a significant difference in mone-
tary returns (P < 0.05). It is concluded that
broiler chickens fed diets described herein
may be changed from starter to finisher diets
over ages ranging from 24 to 33 days without
markedly affecting general performance or
monetary returns. This latter relationship
may change with different ingredient costs.

The effect of diet, feed withdrawal, and
carcass chilling on the live and eviscerated
weights of broiler chickens. Nine hundred
broiler chickens, which had been reared on six
different dietary regimens, were involved in
an experiment to estimate the effect of feed
withdrawal for 0, 8, and 18 h prior to
slaughter. Gains in eviscerated weights during
immersion cooling and holding in an ice pack
were estimated by weighing eviscerated car-
casses prior to their entrance into the ice
water of the cooling tank and after being held
in an ice pack for 20 h. Body weights were not
significantly affected (P < 0.05) by dietary
treatments. Compared with the control (0 h),
body weights were significantly reduced with
8 h and 18 h of feed withdrawal. These weight
losses represent a reduction in monetary
returns over feed costs of 2.0 and 8.4 cents per
bird, respectively. The increase in eviscerated
carcass weight that occurred during the
cooling and holding in an ice pack for 20 h
amounted to 6.9% and 6.5% for male and
female carcasses, respectively.

The effects of dietary protein levels, ahem-
eral light and dark cycles, and intermittent
photoperiods on the performance of chicken
broiler parent genotypes. Experimentation
was undertaken to estimate the effects of: (/)
two dietary protein levels (13.6 and 15.4%) in
breeder diets fed to commercial meat parent
genotypes; and (2) six photoperiods involving
24-h and 27-h (ahemeral) day cycles with
single-stage and intermittent lighting for
birds housed in floor pens. It was concluded
that the 13.6% protein breeder diet, which
provided 14.8 and 20.9 g of protein per bird

per d*ay and from 301 to 425 kcal of metab-
olizable energy (ME) per bird per day, was
adequate to support optimum performance.

The ahemeral light treatment 14L:13D
used from 168 to 448 days had a depressing
effect on egg production and feed efficiency
compared with the conventional 24-h-day
cycle with 14L:10D light treatment. The
14L:13D treatment, however, did result in
increased egg size and improved shell
strength. The intermittent light treatments,
whether ahemeral or 24-h cycle, resulted in
improved egg weight and shell strength. The
ahemeral intermittent treatment (10L:
12D:2L:3D) had the effect of depressing
fertility and hatchability, whereas the 24-h
intermittent photoperiod (10L:9D:2L:3D)
resulted in fertility and hatchability being
equal to or better than with other treatments.
It was concluded that the 24-h intermittent
light treatment (10L:9D:2L:3D) supported
performance which was equal to or better
than other light treatments including the 27-h
ahemeral day cycles.

The effect of several different photoperiods
on the performance of meat-parent geno-
types. A total of 4700 birds, consisting of four
commercial meat-parent genotypes, were used
in two experiments to estimate the effects of
several photoperiod treatments. In each ex-
periment, the rearing photoperiod treatments
consisted of (/) a constant 8-h period of light
per day and (2) a constant 12.5-h period of
light per day. In the first experiment birds
reared on 8 h of light per day were subjected
to three adult photoperiods: (A) increased
from 9 h at 20 wk to 16-h constant photope-
riod at 32 wk, (B) 16-h constant photoperiod
from 20 wk to end of experiment, and (C)
intermittent photoperiod 10.5D-2L-2D-9.5L.
The group reared on the 12.5-h photoperiod
were subjected to three adult photoperiods:
(D) increased from 12.5 h of light per day at
20 wk to 17 h constant at 32 wk, (E)
increased from a 12.5 h of light per day at 20
wk to 16 h at 22 wk, and (F) changed to
10.5D-2L-9.5L day cycle. Photoperiod treat-
ments were the same in experiment 2 except
that the adult treatments were introduced 1
wk earlier and treatments C and F were
changed to 9.5D-2L-2D-10.5L. There were
significant genotypic effects for practically all
traits measured except mortality. Photoperi-
ods Z), E, and F resulted in a significant delay
in sexual maturity compared to A, B, and C.
Egg production tended to be higher for

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

115

treatments A, B, and C, with treatment C
supporting the best general performance.

The effect of Nutri-Bond as a pellet binder
in chicken broiler genotypes. A total of 1360
male and female chickens were fed starter
and finisher diets containing 0, 1, 2, or 3%
Nutri-Bond in two separate experiments. A
different genotype was used in each experi-
ment. No significant treatment effects were
observed for mortality or feed conversion.
Body weights in one experiment were lower
when Nutri-Bond was fed. Monetary returns
were lower when diets contained Nutri-Bond.

The nutritional value of rapeseed meal for
layer genotypes housed in pens. A total of 600
single-comb White Leghorn (SCWL) pullets
of two commercial genotypes (300 of each)
were fed soybean meal (SM) or rapeseed
meal (RSM) during either or both the grow-
ing and laying periods. RSM can replace a
major portion (74%) of the SM of starter and
grower diets without affecting mortality or
feed consumption adversely. Differences (P <
0.05) were observed between the two geno-
types for age at sexual maturity, body weight,
egg weight, Haugh units, and specific gravity
of eggs, but not for percentage mortality, hen-
housed egg production, or feed conversion.
Feeding RSM had no effect on body weight at
497 days, egg production, feed conversion, or
Haugh units, but it significantly (P < 0.05)
reduced egg size at 497 days and egg specific
gravity. This study indicated that RSM is a
good source of dietary protein for layer
genotypes housed in pens and that it can
replace a major portion of SM in such diets
without adverse effects.

The nutritional value of rapeseed meal for
caged layers. A total of 1536 SCWL pullets
of two commercial genotypes (768 of each)
were fed soybean meal (SM), Tower, or
Candle rapeseed meal (RSM) during either
the growing or the laying period or both.
RSM can replace a major portion (74%) of
the soybean meal of starter and grower diets
without adversely affecting mortality or feed
consumption. Differences were observed
between the two genotypes for all traits
measured during the laying period, except for
mortality. Switching the birds from an SM
grower diet to a 15% RSM layer diet resulted
in a significant (P < 0.05) increase in
mortality. In general, the feeding of Tower
RSM during both the growing and laying
periods resulted in heavier birds, earlier

sexual maturity, higher egg production, and
improved feed efficiency than when diets
containing Candle RSM were fed. It is
concluded that RSM can replace a major
portion of the SM in grower and layer diets
without adverse effects, providing amino acid
and nutrition balance is maintained by
slightly increasing the amount of fishmeal
added.

The nutritional value of Tower and Candle
rapeseed meals for turkey broilers housed
under various lighting conditions. A total of
1200 poults were housed in a split-plot
arrangement to evaluate four different dietary
treatments and three light treatments. Pre-
starter and starter diets contained 0 or* 10%
Tower rapeseed meal (RSM), Candle RSM,
a combination of Tower and Candle RSM
(50:50), and 0 or 20% of these RSM treat-
ments, respectively. Grower, developer, and
finisher diets contained 0 or 30% of these
RSM treatments, respectively. The light
treatments tested were continuous (23L:1D),
intermittent (4L:2D), and total darkness.
Tower and Candle RSM, singularly or in
combination, when included in turkey diets
resulted in significantly lower mortality,
higher liveweights, improved feed conversion,
higher percentage Grade A carcasses, and
improved monetary returns. There were no
significant differences observed for any of
these traits for turkeys raised under continu-
ous or intermittent lighting or total darkness.
There was, however, some indication that the
turkeys tended to perform better under inter-
mittent lighting. No light x diet interaction
was observed for any of the traits measured,
indicating that the turkeys responded in a
similar manner regardless of the diet or light
treatment. It is concluded that RSM is a
nutritious and efficacious source of dietary
protein for turkey broilers.

Sheep

Artificial rearing of lambs. The addition of
a low level of sodium bicarbonate (1% wt/wt)
to the milk replacer increased daily feed
intake and gain of lambs weaned at 1 day of
age when the energy content of the diet was
supplemented with corn oil or corn oil plus
lactose, but not when lactose only was added.
The addition of 1 or 2% sodium bicarbonate
to the concentrate fed to 56 days of age also
increased daily feed intake and rates of gain.
There was high mortality (40%) among lambs
fed a low fat (12% fat) milk replacer with

116

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

supplemental energy supplied by lactose with
or without the addition of 1% sodium bicar-
bonate. Mortality was lower (10%) for lambs
fed the same replacer with energy supplied by
corn oil or corn oil plus lactose. Only a limited
amount of lactose can be digested by the
young lambs.

Cement kiln dust for lambs. In two earlier
trials the addition of 2% (wt/wt) sodium
bicarbonate or cement kiln dust to mash-type
diets for growing lambs has increased daily
gains. In this experiment the addition of 3%
cement kiln dust to pelleted diets containing
either 15 or 45% ground roughage did not
give a response. There was little difference in
the daily gains of lambs fed the 1 5% roughage
(0.22 kg) or the 45% roughage diet (0.20 kg)
but those fed the high roughage consumed
more feed per day and converted feed to gain
less efficiently (9.0 versus 7.4 kg feed per
kilogram of gain).

Dehydrated alfalfa pellets for ewes. Pre-
vious work has shown that dehydrated alfalfa
pellets (DAP) and limited long hay make a
satisfactory diet for pregnant and lactating

ewes. In this experiment a standard hay and
grain diet was compared with limited or ad
libitum DAP with long hay. Highest total
feed consumption and lowest weight loss to
weaning were obtained by the ewes fed DAP
ad libitum. The ewes fed limited DAP con-
sumed more feed than those fed the hay and
grain but had slightly greater weight losses.
There were no significant differences in lamb
weights due to the feeding treatment of the
ewes. With the materials used, about 1.4 kg of
DAP were required to equal the energy value
of 1 kg of barley for the ewes.

Early weaning of lambs. Lambs born in
February were weaned at either 5-6 or 9-10
wk of age, and feed consumption was com-
pared for both ewes and lambs until 2 wk
after the late weaning. Early weaning did not
result in a large difference in weight gains
(0.22 kg/day early weaned versus 0.24 kg/day
for those late weaned). After weaning, the
early weaned ewes were fed only long hay and
lost weight (0.1 kg/day). The ewes nursing
lambs were fed slightly more than necessary
to maintain weight (gain average 0.01 kg/
day). Feed costs were lower for the early
weaned lambs and ewes.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Aalders, L. E.; Hall, I. V.; Brydon, A. C. 1980.
Seed production and germination in four low-
bush blueberry clones. HortScience 15:587-
588.

Cumming, D. B.; Stark, R. 1980. The development
of a new blanching system. J. Can. Diet. Assoc.
41:39-44.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G.; McRae, K. B.
1980. The nutritional value of Tower and
Candle rapeseed meals for turkey broilers
housed under different lighting conditions.
Poult. Sci. 59:100-109.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G.; McRae, K. B.

1980. Effect of vitamins on the incidence of
mortality and acute death syndrome (flip-over)
in broiler chickens. Poult. Sci. 59:927-93 1 .

Hicklenton, P. R.; Jolliffe, P. A. 1980. Alterations
in the physiology of CO, exchange in tomato
plants grown in CO,-enriched atmospheres.
Can. J. Bot. 58:2181-21 89.

Hicklenton, P. R.; Jolliffe, P. A. 1980. Carbon
dioxide and flowering in Pharbitis nil Choisy.
Plant Physiol. 66:13-17.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. The nutri-
tional value of rapeseed meal for layer geno-
types housed in pens. Poult. Sci. 59:585-593.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. The nutri-
tional value of rapeseed meal for caged layers.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:139-147.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G.; Ramey, D.;
McRae, K. B. 1980. Influence of genotype and
diet on general performance and incidence of
leg abnormalities of commercial broilers
reared to roaster weight. Poult. Sci. 59:748-
757.

Jensen, K. I. N.; Kimball, E. R. 1980. Persistence
of dinitramine and trifluralin in Nova Scotia,
Canada. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol.
24:238-243.

Larmond, E.; Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980.
Cooking characteristics and eating quality of
broiler chicken fed squid meal. Poult. Sci.
59:2564-2566.

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

117

Lidster, P. D.; Forsyth, F. R.; Lightfoot, H. J. 1980.
Low oxygen and carbon dioxide atmospheres
for storage of Mcintosh apples. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:299-301.

Lidster, P. D.; Muller, K.; Tung, M. A. 1980.
Effects of maturity on fruit composition and
susceptibility to surface damage in sweet
cherries. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:865-871.

Lidster, P. D.; Tung, M. A. 1980. Effects of fruit
temperatures at time of impact damage and
subsequent storage temperature and duration
on the development of surface disorders in
sweet cherries. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:555-559.

Looney, N. E.; Lidster, P. D. 1980. Some growth
regulator effects on fruit quality, mesocarp
composition and susceptibility to postharvest
surface marking of sweet cherries. J. Am. Soc.
Hortic. Sci. 105:130-134.

Neilson, W. T. A.; Knowlton, A. D.; Whitman, R.
J. 1980. Capture of apple maggot adults on
Pherocon, Rebell, and sticky sphere traps. J.
Econ. Entomol. 73.

Nickerson, N. L. 1980. Promotion by tryptophan of
growth and root formation in lowbush blue-
berry pericarp callus cultures. Can. J. Bot.
58:881-885.

Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. The effects of dietary
protein levels, ahemeral light and dark cycles,
and intermittent photoperiods on the perform-
ance of chicken broiler parent genotypes.
Poult. Sci. 59:1258-1267.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. The effect of
diet, feed withdrawal and carcass chilling on
the live and eviscerated weights of broiler
chickens. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:461-464.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. Performance
of chicken broilers changed from starter to
finisher diets at different ages. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:799-801.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. The effect of
nutri-bond as a pellet binder in chicken broiler
diets. Poult. Sci. 59:659-661.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W.; McRae, K. B.

1980. The effect of several different photoperi-
ods on the performance of meat-parent geno-
types. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:21-31.

Ross, R. G.; Gaul, S. O. 1980. Persistence of
captafol applied with foliar nutrients during
fruit bud development of apple. J. Plant Pa-
thol. 2.

Townsend, L. R.; McRae, K. B. 1980. The effect of
the nitrification inhibitor nitrapyrin on yield
and on nitrogen fractions in soil and tissue of
corn (Zea mays L.) grown in the Annapolis
Valley of Nova Scotia. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:337-347.

Webster, D. H. 1980. Response of compact subsoils
to soil disturbance. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:127-
131.

Webster, D. H.; Brown, G. L. 1980. Trunk growth
of apple trees as affected by crop load. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:1383-1391.

Miscellaneous

Bubar, J. S.; Langille, J. E. 1979. Observations on
"Wallace" trefoil. Lotus Newsl. 10:8-9.

Crowe, A. D. 1980. Containment pruning in inten-
sive, medium density orchards. Compact Fruit
Tree Int. Dwarf Fruit Tree Assoc. 13:91-96.

Crowe, A. D.; Embree, C. G. 1980. Putting it all
together — System 155. Compact Fruit Tree
Int. Dwarf Fruit Tree Assoc. 1 3: 1 46- 1 50. "

Crowe, A. D.; Swain, H. 1979. Observations on
pollination and fruit set in 1979. N.S. Fruit
Grow. Assoc. Annu. Rep. 1 16:55-62.

Cumming, D. B.; Stark, R. 1980. Canada develops
new steam blancher. Food Process. Ind. (U.K.)
49:60-62.

Cumming, D. B.; Stark, R. 1980. New blancher
conserves energy, yields high quality products.
Food Prod. Manage. (U.K.) 103:18-19.

Experimental Farm, Nappan. 1980. Research Sum-
mary 1979.

Hall, I. V.; Aalders, L. E.; Craig, D. L. 1978.
Propagation of lowbush blueberries. Research
Station, Kentville, N.S. 1 1 pp.

Hall, I. V.; Aalders, L. E.; Lockhart, C. L.;
Jackson, L. P.; Wood, G. W.; Delbridge, R. W.
1979/1980. Lowbush blueberry production/La
production du bleuet nain. Agric. Can. Publ.
1477. 39pp./42pp.

Hall, I. V.; Aalders, L. E.; Brydon, A. C; Spicer,
M. A. 1977. Rooting lowbush blueberry cut-
tings. Canadex 235.21.

Hall, I. V.; Aalders, L. E.; Nickerson, N. L. 1979.
Increasing selected clones of lowbush blue-
berry. Canadex 235.20.

Hicklenton, P. R. 1980. Consider your climate
when winter storing containerized shrubs.
Nursery Notes 1:1-2.

Hicklenton, P. R. 1980. New media/fertilizer
combinations for producing containerized
shrubs. Nursery Notes 1:3.

Hicklenton, P. R. 1980. Growth regulator may help
in increasing salt tolerance. Nursery Notes 1 :3.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1979. Low protein
in grower and finisher diets affects growth and
feed efficiency of fryer roaster turkeys. Turke>
World 54:16-18.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. Adding
vitamins may reduce incidence of 'flip-over'.
Feedstuff's 52(36): 17- 18.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. Newer
rapeseed varieties can replace soybean meal.
Poult. Dig. 39:152.

Hulan, H. W.; Proudfoot, F. G. 1980. Three-stage
feeding speeds roaster growth. Poult. Dig.
39:527.

Jensen, K. I. N.; Bandeen, J. D. 1979. Triazine
resistance in annual weeds. Maize. Ciba-Geigy
Tech. Monogr., Basel, Switzerland, pp. 55-57.

Jensen, K. I. N.; Palfrey, G. D. 1980. Spring and
summer weed control in strawberries. Agdex
232/641.

Jensen, K. I. N.; Palfrey, G. D. 1980. Late-summer
and fall weed control in strawberries. Agdex
232/641.03.

Khera, G. S.; Crowe, A. D. 1980. Use of economic
criteria for selecting apple orchard systems for
Eastern Canada. Planning and Economics
Branch and Research Branch, Agriculture
Canada. 178 pp.

Langille, J. E. 1980. Forage peas show promise as
an annual forage crop. Canadex 1 25.34.

Lidster, P. D. 1980. The new low oxygen storage
system shows good potential for commercial
application. National Apple Conference Pro-
ceedings. 4 pp.

Lidster, P. D. 1980. Low oxygen storage for
Mcintosh apples. Nova Scotia Fruit Growers
Association Annual Report 1 17. In press.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. Broiler
monetary returns not affected by fat source.
Poult. Dig. 39:416.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. More 'fines'
hurt broiler weights. Poult. Dig. 39:510.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. 'Flip-over
disease' less with intermittent light. Poult. Dig.
39:525.

Proudfoot, F. G.; Hulan, H. W. 1980. Effect of high
pre-lay calcium diet on shell quality. Poult.
Dig. 39:527.

Research Station, Kentville. 1978. Annual Report
1977.

Research Station, Kentville. 1979. Annual Report
1978.

Sanford, K. H.; Whitman, R. J. 1980. Gaining
experience with the synthetic pyrethroids.
Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association An-
nual Report 1 17. In press.

Stark, R.; Hall, I. V.; Hendrickson, P. A. 1978. The.
partridgeberry of Newfoundland. Canadex
230.

RESEARCH STATION, KENTVILLE, N.S.

119

Research Station
Fredericton, New Brunswick

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

C. S. Bernard, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
L. W. Garber, B.A., M. Ed.

D. B. Gammon,1 M. A.
N. Taniguchi,1 B.L.S.

D. A. Young, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director

Administrative Officer

Library Area Coordinator

Librarian

Officer in Charge, Benton Ridge

Environmental Quality and Soils

T. L. Chow, B.Sc., Ph.D.

Soil hydrology

R. R. King, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Residue chemistry

A. A. MacLean, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Soil chemistry and environmental

quality

G. R. Saini, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Soil physics

Animal Nutrition and Livestock Feeds

P. L. Burgess, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. S. Bush, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. E. McQueen, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. W. G. Nicholson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Dairy cattle nutrition
Calf nutrition
Rumen microbiology
Meat animal nutrition

Potatoes

R. H. Bagnall, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. Boiteau, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
M. C. Clark, B.Sc, Ph.D.
W. K. Coleman, B.Sc, Ph.D.
H. De Jong, B.A., M.S , Ph.D.

W. A. Hodgson, B.Sc,
A. R. McKenzie, B.Sc.
C. D. McLeod, B.A.Sc

M.Sc.

M.Sc, Ph.D.
M.A.Sc

Virus epidemiology and resistance
Potato insect ecology
Biochemistry of disease resistance
Potato physiology
Diploid breeding and genetics of

potato

Late blight of potato
Tuber-borne pathogens of potato
Agricultural mechanization

engineering

RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B.

121

G. C. Misener, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. P. Singh, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. C. C. Tai, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
T. R. Tarn, B.Sc, Ph.D.
D. A. Young, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Potato harvesting and storage
engineering
Virus diseases of potato
Quantitative genetics of potato
Cytogenetics of potato
Potato breeding and genetics

Small Fruits

C. D. McLeod, B.A.Sc, M.A.Sc
G. W. Wood, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.

Agricultural mechanization
engineering
Blueberry pests

Departures

W. B. Collins, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D. Potato physiology

Promoted to Program Specialist (Atlantic Region),

25 August 1980
C. F. Everett, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Weed control

Retired 30 December 1980
G. R. Johnston, B.Sc, M.S. A. Potato breeding and evaluation

Retired 29 December 1980
M. E. MacGillivray, B.A., M.Sc, Potato insect ecology, aphid

D.Sc, F.E.S.C. physiology

Retired 26 December 1980

Senator Hervé J. Michaud Experimental Farm

J. M. Wauthy, B.Sc.

P. V. LeBlanc, B.Sc, B.S.A.

M. LUFFMAN, B.Sc.

Superintendent; Forage and cereal
crops

Vegetables
Fruits

'Seconded from Libraries Division. Finance and Administration Branch.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Fredericton Research Station is the main potato research center for the Research
Branch of Agriculture Canada. Scientists of diverse disciplines concentrate their efforts on
breeding, pathology, pest management, physiology and nutrition, and handling and storage
procedures. While our research continues to support the industry in the Canadian market, it is
now being called upon to provide new technology for the production of high-quality seed
potatoes for export, including new cultivars to meet the special needs of importing countries.

The livestock program deals with cattle and sheep, and our researchers are in close
collaboration with workers at the Nappan Experimental Farm of the Kentville Research
Station.

The vegetable and berry crops program is receiving more emphasis since the acquisition of
the Michaud Experimental Farm in 1978. Extensive field trials were commenced in 1980.

The environmental quality program has a broad spectrum of activities, dealing as much
with maintaining the quality of the agricultural land base as with preventing cultural practices
from polluting either the soil, the waterways, or the crops.

In 1980, four of our colleagues departed; Dr. C. F. Everett, G. R. Johnston, and Dr. M. E.
MacGillivray retired, and Dr. W. B. Collins accepted a new challenge as Program Specialist
(Atlantic Region) in Halifax.

The present report deals briefly with some of our recent research results. More complete
information is available from the Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada,
Box 20280, Fredericton, N.B. E3B 4Z7.

C. S. Bernard
Director

ANIMAL NUTRITION AND
LIVESTOCK FEEDS

Formaldehyde-treated protein supplements

Formaldehyde treatment has been em-
ployed as a method to increase the rumen
bypass of protein supplements and possibly
enhance the utilization of the large amount of
nonprotein nitrogen in grass silage. Twenty-
four cows were divided into two groups and
fed ad libitum total mixed rations (13% crude
protein) composed of grass silage and concen-
trates in a 60:40 ratio on a dry matter basis by
weight for 8 wk. The protein supplement for
each concentrate consisted of untreated or
formaldehyde-treated soybean meal. The
group fed untreated soybean meal had higher
(P <0.05) total daily dry matter intake (19.0
versus 18.1 kg per cow) but the level of milk
production and percentages of milk fat,
protein, and lactose were not affected by the
treatment. Formaldehyde treatment signifi-
cantly (P <0.01) reduced rumen acetate and
propionate levels as well as the percentages of
rumen ammonia nitrogen and blood urea.

The digestibility of dry matter and nitrogen
by sheep fed the two rations were similar,

whereas nitrogen retention was markedly
increased by formaldehyde treatment. Al-
though no differences in milk production were
detected, formaldehyde treatment of the
soybean meal favorably altered the rumen
fermentation pattern and reduced ammonia
nitrogen levels.

Plasma /3-carotene levels in dairy cows

/3-Carotene has been linked with reproduc-
tive performance in dairy cows. Twenty-four
cows in early lactation were randomized into
three groups to monitor plasma /3-carotene
levels over a 16-wk period on three different
forage feeding programs. Group A was pas-
tured, group B was fed grass silage, and group
C was fed timothy grass hay that had been
stored for approximately 12 mo. In addition to
the forages, the cows received a barley-based
concentrate fed in proportion to milk produc-
tion. Jugular blood samples were collected
and analyzed at 14-day intervals.

All cows had been fed grass silage for
several months prior, to the trial. Plasma
/3-carotene levels at the beginning of the trial
averaged 10.4 /ig/mL. Levels in cows on
pasture increased continuously and averaged
1 3.2 /ig/mL of plasma, whereas levels in cows

RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B.

123

receiving silage declined during the 1st mo of
feeding, then remained constant at 7.3 fig/
mL. Levels in cows fed stored hay dropped
sharply after 1 mo and averaged only 1.9 /ig/
mL of plasma during the last 2 mo of study,
which is below the level of 3-5 fig/mL
suggested for optimum dairy cow fertility.

Acidification of milk for calf feeding

Newborn calves were fed whole milk (C),
or whole milk treated with formalin (F),
propionic acid (PA), or formic acid (FA) to
meet ad libitum consumption. The C group
consumed the most milk and grew fastest
while on milk. They also used milk more
efficiently, consuming 10.2 kg/kg of growth,
versus 11.5 (F), 11.6 (PA), and 11.6 (FA).
There was little difference among the four
groups in consumption of calf starter or
chopped timothy hay before or after weaning.
After weaning, the C group grew slowest,
whereas the FA group grew fastest. Although
this is not an economical feeding program, it
did demonstrate that restricted intake and
growth before weaning may be compensated
by superior feed efficiency after weaning.

Densely seeded corn for silage

Dense-seeded (200 000 seeds per hectare)
was compared with normal-seeded (56 000)
corn for dry matter production and weight
gains of animals fed the silage. Densely
seeded corn gave 16% higher dry matter yield
(9710 versus 8350 kg/ha), lower grain yield
(1760 versus 2230 kg/ha), lower dry matter
content of the ear (30.6 versus 39.5%), and
lower silage dry matter digestibility by sheep
(60.7 versus 65.8%). Beef cattle fed the
normal silage consumed more dry matter per
day (4.2 versus 4.0 kg) and gained signifi-
cantly faster (1.14 versus 1.06 kg/day). Based
on the feed conversion figures obtained,
without making allowance for the contri-
bution of the supplement fed, the densely
seeded silage would support more beef pro-
duction per hectare (2092 versus 1825 kg).

Bird damage to the ears of corn grown for
silage is a serious problem. About 30% of the
grain from the ears of the corn in both of the
above seeding treatments was removed by
birds. However, because the grain made up a
smaller percentage of the total dry matter
with the densely seeded corn, dry matter loss
to birds was less with this treatment.

Ratio of potatoes to hay for silage

Good silage can be made from 5:2 or 3:1
ratios of potatoes to hay, but producers would
like to use a higher ratio to use more potatoes
and to increase the energy content of the
silage dry matter. We compared ratios of 3:1
and 5:1. There was considerable seepage from
the silo containing the 5:1 silage, but both
silages were well preserved and readily ac-
cepted by beef cattle. Ten animals were fed on
each of (1) 3:1 silage plus 2.5 kg concentrate,
(2) 5:1 silage plus 2.5 kg concentrate, or (3)
5:1 silage plus 0.5 kg concentrate.

Silage dry matter consumptions were 6.8 lb,
6.53b, and 7.32a kg/day for treatments 1, 2,
and 3; weight gains averaged 0.94b, 1.1 2a, and
0.86b kg/day. Treatment 3, because of the
more economical use of supplement, gave the
highest return over feed costs. It was con-
cluded that 5:1 ratio of potatoes to hay is
satisfactory for silage but does lead to some
seepage from the silos. The optimum ratio of
potato to hay for silage is about 4:1.

Weight loss of cattle on turnout to pasture

When cattle are turned out to pasture in
the spring they can lose up to 20% of body
weight in the first few days. It has been
suggested that the transition causes an in-
creased excretion of potassium resulting in a
reduction of body water content.

Twenty-seven heavy yearling cattle were
grouped by three's and assigned to: (/)
remain indoors on haylage and supplement,
(2) pasture with a control supplement at 1.0
kg/day, or (3) pasture with a supplement
containing potassium at 1.0 kg/day. At
slaughter it was found that approximately
half the weight loss on turnout to pasture was
accounted for by changes in gut fill. The other
half was carcass weight loss. The supplemen-
tal potassium did not have any apparent
beneficial effect on the weight changes.

Mineral content of New Brunswick forages

Over 500 samples of forages were collected
in New Brunswick in each of 1978 and 1979
and analyzed for nine minerals of nutritional
significance. The samples were separated into
grasses, legumes, and weeds and each fraction
was analyzed separately. Of the nine minerals
assayed, only potassium and iron were present
in amounts adequate for ruminant animals in
most New Brunswick forages. Calcium and
magnesium were adequate in legumes but not

124

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

in grasses. Minerals that require supplemen-
tation include sodium, phosphorus, zinc,
copper, and manganese. A mixture of com-
mercial trace mineralized salt and dicalcium
phosphate should supply adequate mineral
supplementation. No major differences were
found in mineral content of forages from
different areas of the province.

Transformations of potato glycoalkaloids by
rumen microorganisms

The increased use of cull potatoes and of
wastes from processing plants for animal feed
and renewed interest in the potential feeding
value of potato vines prompted an investi-
gation into the fate of potato glycoalkaloids in
ruminant animals. Incubation of potato gly-
coalkaloids with rumen microorganisms re-
sulted in initial hydrolysis to the alkaloid
solanidine. A substantial portion of the solani-
dine was then reduced to the 5,6-dihydro
analog 5/3-solanidan-3/3-ol. No evidence of
subsequent esterification with fatty acids or
metabolism of the nitrogen moiety was
detected.

Improved nylon bag technique reduces
variation in evaluating forages

Forage samples may be enclosed in bags
made of indigestible nylon fabric and several
of them suspended in the rumen of one
fistulated animal to be removed as required.
The extent and rate of digestion of many
forages can then be determined with only a
few fistulated animals. A newly standardized
technique includes use of a standard mesh
nylon-monofilament fabric, presoaking the
bags, careful rinsing after removal from the
rumen, and uniform treatment of the animals.

Variance components of digestibilities of
dry matter (DM) and neutral-detergent fiber
(NDF) were determined for three forages
when run in triplicate bags for both 48 and 72
h durations and repeated on two different
weeks. This plan was repeated in each of four
fistulated cows.

The variance between cows, different
weeks, and triplicate bags was exceptionally
low. As expected there was more extensive
digestion and lower variation after 72 h than
after 48 h. The components of variance were
used to calculate the expected standard errors
of the mean (SEM) digestibilities for several
combinations of numbers of animals, bags,
and weeks of replication. For example, the
expected SEM for DM digestibility (%), after

72 h, using duplicate bags in one cow on one
or two different weeks, respectively, for wheat
straw was ±2.1 and ±1.7; for alfalfa hay,
± 1.0 and ± 1.0; for timothy hay, ± 1.0 and
±0.7. With this nylon bag technique, two
bags used at the same time (week) with one
cow gave acceptable SEM for DM and NDF
digestibility for forage evaluation.

POTATO BREEDING

Predicting performance of potato clones in
different environments

It is difficult to carry out international trials
of potato clones because of the problems
involved in raising quantities of disease-free
seed and delivery to collaborators. Several
biométrie models were examined for predict-
ing performance of potato clones in different
environments. Most promising was the send-
ing of a small group of genotypes (10) as
controls to all regions for trial. The average
yield of the controls in a trial serves as a
measure of productivity, namely an environ-
mental index, for that region. The main group
of clones was tested in a few chosen regions,
and the data for each clone regressed on the
environmental indexes to establish a regres-
sion equation. This equation was then used to
predict performance of the clone in regions
where it had not been tested. Yield data of an
international series of trials sponsored by the
International Potato Center and Agriculture
Canada were used for testing the prediction
model. The accuracy of prediction appears to
be satisfactory for most of the testing sites.

Utilization of diploid germ plasm in potato
genetics

Diploid potato germ plasm is being used
both to broaden the genetic base of the
breeding population and in potato genetics
research. In a genetic study on tuber russeting
on the diploid level, progenies from crosses
where neither, one, or both parents were
classified as 'russet' were analyzed. The
observed segregation ratios fit a hypothesis of
complementary action by three independently
segregating dominant genes. It is possible,
therefore, that progenies from nonrusset
parents will contain some russet clones when,
among both parents, all three complementary
genes are present. The genotypes of several
russet and nonrusset clones have been
determined.

RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B.

125

An Andigena population changed by mass
selection

Andigena potatoes adapted to long days,
and selected for disease resistance, have been
crossed at Fredericton with Tuberosum culti-
vars to exploit the heterosis of the F, hybrids.

In the meantime the base Andigena popula-
tion, first obtained as true seed from the 1968
and 1969 crops at the Scottish Plant Breeding
Station, has been subjected to five cycles of
recurrent mass selection. In each cycle at
Fredericton 25-30% of a single-hill popula-
tion was selected for haulm type and vigor,
and intercrossed using cut stems, labeled for
identification, and bulked pollen. At harvest,
20-40% of the cutting 'mother' plants in the
field were selected for maturity, yield, and
tuber type. Seed that had set on the cut stems
of these clones was used to make up the next
generation. Thus a cycle was completed in 12
mo with no overlapping of generations and
very little selfing. There were five cycles of
such selection. Some true seed from each
generation was saved for later comparison.

In 1977 some of the Scottish seed and seed
from each Fredericton generation were
planted in the greenhouse. After a multiplica-
tion stage in the field in 1978, cultivars from
these six groups were compared in field trials
during 1979 and 1980. Early plant vigor
increased markedly between the parental and
first generation, whereas haulms improved in
maturity only in the last two generations.
Rhizomes were less persistent in attachment
to tubers in the later generations in the 1979
trial, but showed no differences among gener-
ations in 1980. Total yield increased almost
30% (663 g to 850 g per hill) from parental to
fifth generation, reflecting an increase in
tuber number but little change in mean tuber
weight. During the five cycles of selection,
tuber dormancy was shortened. This resulted
in increased sprouting in storage and need for
sprout-removal before planting and, in turn,
more stems and tubers, effectively maintain-
ing the small tuber size.

To correct these deficiencies, superior
clones are being used as to start a new
selection program, with more emphasis on
early bulking, tuber size, and longer
dormancy.

POTATO ENTOMOLOGY

Monitoring arthropod fauna on potatoes in
New Brunswick

Potato fields in 10 New Brunswick counties
were sampled in 1979 and 1980 for different
arthropod fauna. Particular note was made of
native predators and parasites that might be
useful in biological control. Five sampling
techniques were compared. Populations of
Diptera and Hymenoptera were best moni-
tored by yellow pan traps. Ground cloth and
sweep net sampling were equally satisfactory
for the Hemiptera and most families of
Coleoptera. Nocturnal arthropods such as
Carabidae, Staphylinidae, and Araneidàe
were best monitored by pitfall traps, although
the dispersal of the flying species could be
followed with the yellow pan traps. Visual
observation of arthropods provided a further
qualitative assessment of populations.

Arthropod populations were at highest
levels in late July to early August. Only
nocturnal insects and spiders were present in
large numbers throughout the season. Spiders
were more numerous than other predator
groups. Six species of primary parasites and
four species of hyperparasites were reared in
the laboratory from potato-infesting aphids.
Though relatively scarce, these parasites were
found in July and August, almost exclusively
on Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas), the
aphid most abundant during this period.

POTATO PATHOLOGY

Physalis angulata as local lesion test plant
for potato virus A

Further testing has revealed that Physalis
angulata is the more useful of three Physalis
species reported as local lesion hosts for
potato virus A (PVA). It grows rapidly and
produces large smooth leaves over a period of
several months. Local lesions developed in 4-5
days on detached leaves and 7-10 on intact
plants. Unlike P. floridana, P. angulata does
not react with distinct local lesions to potato
virus X (PVX); and it is not necessary to
detach leaves to avoid lesions due to potato
virus Y (PVY). These two viruses do eventu-
ally cause systemic mosaic symptoms, so on
intact plants, all suitable leaves should be
used for testing on one occasion. In compara-
tive tests, accuracy of P. angulata diagnosis of

126

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PVA was equal to enzyme-linked immunosor-
bent assay (ELISA). Local lesion production
of P. angulata was not significantly affected
by varying the light intensity between 2476
and 6458 lx or the temperature between 15°
and 25°C.

Effect of sprays on the detection of PVA
and PVY by ELISA

Assay of PVA and PVY by ELISA was not
affected by a number of agricultural sprays. A
fungicide (chlorothalonil), an insecticide
(methamidophos), and an oil emulsion were
each applied at 2-wk intervals, from 4 July, to
50 plants of Netted Gem potatoes infected
with PVA or PVY. A fourth plot was sprayed
with water. Foliage samples were collected on
four occasions, between 8 July and 24 August.

Control of PVY by mineral oil sprays

Control of PVY by oil sprays varied from
34 to 64% in trials during 1979 and 1980.
Degree of control depended largely on concen-
tration of the oil, but to a lesser extent on rate
and pressure of application. There was no
significant difference between eight commer-
cial oil formulations.

No significant phytotoxic effect resulted
from applications of Corntrol Oil®, except
when a combination of high oil concentration
(3% water emulsion) and rate of application
(2240 L/ha) was used.

When fungicides were mixed with oil or
applied immediately after oil, more phototox-
icity occurred than when they were applied 24
h later than oil. Fentin hydroxide was the
most phytotoxic, followed by chlorothalonil,
captafol, metiram, and mancozeb in that
order.

There were no significant differences
between oil deposits on leaves exposed to
natural rainfall and those sheltered by plastic
sheets or on leaves exposed to 3 cm versus 1
cm of artificial rain. Nor did timing of the
artificial rain have any significant effect.

Resistance to potato virus Y

Since 1968, we have maintained field
exposure plots to evaluate resistance to PVY
in potato cultivars. We used healthy seed of
the cultivars on trial and PVY-infected seed
between plots. On the basis of data collected
over 5 yr (1972-1976), we separated 32
'standard' cultivars into four groups by means
of cluster analysis: (a) resistant, (b) moder-
ately resistant, (c) susceptible, and (d) very

susceptible. Although all of the 32 'standard'
cultivars were not present in the plot every
year since 1968, there was always a sufficient
number to provide a mean percentage of
infection for each of the four classes. There
was considerable fluctuation in the overall
level of infection from year to year, but the
relative order of the group means, a, b, c, and
d, has been maintained without exception for
each year, 1968-1979. There were many
additional cultivars in the plot each year.
Most of these can be assigned to a particular
group on the basis of 3 yr of testing, not
necessarily in succession.

Potato leaf roll virus

A separate trial to evaluate cultivar resist-
ance to the potato leaf roll virus (PLRV) has
been maintained since 1971. Data for 4 yr
(1973-1976) was used to separate 21 culti-
vars into four groups similar to those used for
PVY, above. And here, too, the means of each
group have maintained the relative order a, b,
c, and d for the years 1971-1979.

Unlike PVY, the overall levels of infection
in the PLRV plot have followed two clear
trends: an increase from moderate in 1971 to
a maximum in 1973 and a decline each year
to a very low level in 1977, followed by a
slight increase in 1978 and 1979. The trend in
our trial appears to have anticipated by a year
or two the leaf roll 'epidemic' in the New
Brunswick commercial crop in the early
1970's.

Latent bacterial ring rot

It has been suggested by European workers
that Corynebacterium sepedonicum may re-
main at subclinical levels (latent) in potatoes
for several years before producing symptoms
typical of bacterial ring rot (BRR). In two
field experiments, one near Fredericton and
the other near Bologna, Italy, symptoms were
expressed within a single growing season
when infected symptomless tubers were used
as seed. Seed for both trials was derived from
a table-stock field of the cultivar Kennebec,
diagnosed in 1979 as positive to BRR. The
stem ends of 3000 healthy-appearing tubers
were tested individually for the presence of C.
sepedonicum by latex agglutination; approx-
imately 10% of those found to be latex
positive were checked and verified by either or
both the Gram stain and immunofluorescence
microscopy. Virtually 100% of the 'latent-
infected' tubers produced plants or tubers or

RESEARCH STATION. FREDERICTON, N.B.

127

both with definite visible symptoms. Symptom
severity ranged from slight wilting of the
plants and small initial external lesions on the
daughter tubers to complete wilting and early
death of the plants with no tuber production.

Immunoreactive component from potato
tubers infected with BRR

A heat-stable, nondialyzable component
was isolated by ethanol precipitation and
column chromatography from aqueous ex-
tracts of tubers infected with C. sepedonicum.
An analysis of crude extracts, based on their
capacity to cause flocculation of latex beads
sensitized with antibodies to C. sepedonicum,
gave titers of up to 300 000. Prolonged
digestion of the purified latex-positive compo-
nent with pronase at 60°C had no effect on its
reactivity with latex beads. The purified
material was also devoid of any absorption
spectrum in the ultraviolet and gave a neg-
ative reaction with ninhydrin. Preliminary
attempts to elicit the production of antibodies
to the purified component were indeterminate.

Elution of the immunoreactive material
from Bio-gel columns (P-200) as monitored
by the anthrone reaction and the latex test
showed that the active component was present
exclusively in the void volume. Sedimentation
analysis in sucrose density gradients also
attested the high molecular weight of the
latex-positive component: It cosedimented
with a marker tRNA as a single, discrete
band. Hydrolysis with dilute HC1 followed by
paper chromatography revealed three major
sugars with R{ values corresponding to ara-
binose, galactose, and glucose.

A component identical in its properties and
composition was also isolated from cell-free
filtrates of C. sepedonicum grown in asceptic
shake cultures.

Potato late blight forecasting

Computer programs developed at Frederic-
ton were used to provide New Brunswick
potato growers with forecasts on the probabil-
ity of late blight occurring within a 2-wk
period, an index of how favorable conditions
were for disease development, and advice on
spray schedules. The programs made use of
temperature and humidity data obtained from
both Environment Canada weather offices and
weather stations in growers' fields together
with disease incidence reports from potato
inspectors of the Plant Quarantine Division.
Forecasts were issued twice a week through

the New Brunswick Agriculture Information
Service.

An alternative method of forecasting was
developed based only on hourly weather data
from Environment Canada weather offices.
Records of late blight occurrence from Agri-
culture Canada sources and weather data
covering a 24-yr period were compared by
statistical analysis. A significant relationship
existed between blight occurrence and two
factors: the duration of rainfall and the
opacity of cloud cover. Other data considered
included amount and frequency of rainfall,
rain index, amount of cloud cover, duration of
fog, and dew point temperatures.

Thiabendazole residues on potato tubers

Six months after an initial analysis of 39
samples of potatoes from nine different farms
where tubers had been sprayed with thiaben-
dazole (1979 report), 10 duplicate samples
from four of these farms were reexamined.
Two of the new samples showed evidence of
storage blight. Thiabendazole analysis of
these two samples revealed 0.52 and 0.64 ppm
of tuber weight, respectively, considerably less
than the 3 ppm considered necessary for
control.

SMALL FRUITS

Yellow sticky traps for monitoring
blueberry maggot adults

Although there is considerable evidence
that adults of the blueberry maggot are
attracted to yellow sticky traps, these com-
mercially available traps are not being recom-
mended for general use. Field trials have
shown only weak correlation (r = 0.357)
between trap collections and level of fruit
infestation, and fly activity may be missed in
some fields. Except where infestations were
heavy, traps were not sufficiently effective in
detection of early emergence of flies to be
useful in the timing of insecticide
applications.

Leaftiers— a new threat to blueberry
production

Infestations of leaftiers (Tortricidae and
Gelechiidae) are becoming more common in
lowbush blueberry fields, particularly in sec-
ond-crop or neglected fields. There are at least
five species that infest blueberry. Two species
cause damage by feeding within the fruit buds

128

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

in early spring, and all species cause losses by
defoliation. Greatest losses have occurred in
Newfoundland where burning is irregular. In
second-crop fields in New Brunswick in 1980,
there was an average fruit bud loss of over
10%.

Control of blueberry thrips

Effective control of blueberry thrips,
Frankliniella vaccinii Morgan and Cati-
nathrips kainos O'Neill, was obtained in
small plot trials with single applications of
methidathion with active ingredient (ai) at 1
kg/ha or the synthetic pyrethroids Ambush
and Pounce at 0.07 kg ai/ha. The treatments
were applied on 22 May when blueberry
sprouts were less than 10 mm high. The
number of infested plants was reduced by
93%. There was no significant difference in
number of thrips per infested shoot, between
treated and untreated plots. Thus, the insecti-
cides had no effect on thrips survival after
they had moved into the foliage.

Evaluation of vine pulling

Vine pulling by a commercial machine was
evaluated by measuring tuber discoloration,
desiccation of stems and leaves, stems missed
and rerouted, and tubers exposed. Tuber
discoloration was low in each 4 yr, including
1978 when significant discoloration was noted
in tubers of plants killed by means of a
chemical desiccant. Vine killing of several
cultivars by machine pulling was rated 89-
98% for leaves and 79-98% for stems. Tubers
exposed amounted to 0.13-0.81 t/ha. A
number of the surviving stems rerouted,
though they were actually separated from
their tuber progeny.

POTATO PHYSIOLOGY AND CROP
MANAGEMENT

Tuber dormancy and changes in abscisic
acid

The levels of abscisic acid (ABA), one of
the growth-inhibiting hormones known to
have an important role in dormancy, were
monitored for 5 mo after harvest in tubers of
three potato cultivars that exhibited a short
(Sebago), intermediate (Kennebec), and long
(Nooksack) dormancy period. Levels of 'free'
and 'bound' (i.e. alkali hydrolyzable) ABA
were determined (micrograms per gram fresh

weight) by means of a modified solvent
partition and gas chromatographic technique.
During the postharvest period in cold
storage, 'free' ABA increased. The rate and
duration of this increase was proportional to
the length of the tuber dormancy period in the
three cultivars. When tubers were held at a
constant 21°C, sprout elongation rates were
inversely proportional to initial 'free' ABA
concentrations. As sprouting progressed, 'free'
ABA declined two- to three-fold. Small
amounts of 'bound' ABA were detected
during this period.

Evaluation of the plant growth regulator
Ergostim®

Ergostim®, reputed to increase tuber set
and yield in potatoes, had no significant effect
when applied twice during early tuberization
(0.35 L/ha) to plants of the moderate yielding
cultivar Fundy. Nor did it have beneficial
effect on the higher-yielding cultivars Netted
Gem and Superior. Factors considered were
marketable yield, dry matter, size distri-
bution, shape, and harvest index.

SOILS

Effects of compacting peat soils on carrot
production

Compaction of New Brunswick organic
soils by rolling before or before and after
seeding of carrots increased water-holding
capacities and resulted in improved germina-
tion, but did not increase marketable yield
except where water table was lowest, namely
at 90 cm below the surface. Improved germi-
nation over water tables of 70 and 80 cm
below the surface was probably offset by
decreased aeration of the compacted peat.

Bulk densities of surface soils (0-7.6 cm)
were 0.176 and 0.178 g/cm\ respectively, for
once- and twice-compacted seedbeds, against
0.137 g/cm3 for uncompacted control seed-
beds. The saturated hydraulic conductivities
of the compacted surface soils were 8-10
times less than control soils. Compacted soils
retained 20-25% more water than controls at
a matric water potential of -80 cm of water.
During the growing season compacted surface
soils (0-3 cm) contained 6% more water than
control samples, and within the same compac-
tion treatments the soil 70 cm above the water
table had 12% more moisture than that 90 cm
above the water table.

RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B.

129

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Boiteau, G. 1980. A white color morph of the
Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decem-
lineata (Say). Can. Entomol. 1 12:975.

Boiteau, G.; Bradley, J. R., Jr.; Van Duyn, J. W.
1980. Bean leaf beetles: temporal and macro-
spatial distribution in North Carolina. J. Ga.
Entomol. Soc. 15:151-163.

Boiteau, G.; Bradley, J. R., Jr.; Van Duyn, J. W.
1980. Bean leaf beetle: seasonal history of the
overwintering population in Eastern North
Carolina. J. Ga. Entomol. Soc. 15:138-151.

Bush, R. S.; McQueen, R. E.; Nicholson, J. W. G.
1980. Chemical changes in bovine colostrum
preserved with formalin or by fermentation. J.
Dairy Sci. 63:464-470.

Bush, R. S.; Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Effects of
ammonium perchlorate on the growth of Hol-
stein calves. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:791-793.

Coleman, W. K.; Huxter, T. J.; Reid, D. M.;
Thorpe, T. A. 1980. Ethylene as an endoge-
nous inhibitor of root regeneration in tomato
leaf discs cultured in vitro. Physiol. Plant.
48:519-525.

King, R. R. 1980. Analysis of potato glycoalkaloids
by gas-liquid chromatography of the alkaloid
components. J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem.
63:1226-1230.

King, R. R. 1980. Additive Pummerer initiated
functionalization of allylic methyl groups in
acrylic acid derived systems. J. Org. Chem.
45:5347-5350.

Kogan, M.; Waldbauer, G. P.; Boiteau, G.; East-
man, C. 1980. Sampling bean leaf beetles on
soybean. Kogan, M.; Herzog, D., eds. Sam-
pling methods of soybean entomology.
Springer-Verlag, N.Y. pp. 201-236.

Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Feeding and nutrition of
young lambs. Church, D. C, ed. Practical
nutrition. Digestive physiology and nutrition of
ruminants. 2nd ed. Vol. 3.

Saini, G. R.; Grant, W. 1980. Long-term effects of
intensive cultivation on soil quality in the
potato-growing areas of New Brunswick
(Canada) and Maine (USA). Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:421-428.

Singh, R. P.; Drew, M. E.; MacGillivray, M. E.
1980. A note on Virazole as a systemic steri-
lant for aphids (Aphididae). Can. Entomol.
112:633-636.

Singh, R. P.; McDonald, J. G. 1980. A chlorotic
mosaic of fall hawkbit (Leontodon autum-
nalis). Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60:4.

Tai, G. C. C; De Jong, H. 1980. Multivariate
analysis of potato hybrids. I. Discrimination
between tetraploid-diploid hybrid families and
their relationship to cultivars. Can. J. Genet.
Cytol. 22:227-235.

Tai, G. C. C; Tarn, T. R. 1980. Multivariate
analyses of potato hybrids. II. Discrimination
between Tuberosum-Andigena hybrid families
and their relationship to their parents. Can. J.
Genet. Cytol. 22:279-286.

Young, D. A.; Clark, D. J.; Tai, G. C. C. 1980. An
information storage and retrieval system for
potato breeding data. Am. Potato J. 57:21-32.

Miscellaneous

Bagnall, R. H. 1980. Potato virus S. [In Spanish].
Hooker, W. J., ed. Compendio de enfer-
medades de la papa. Centro Internacional de la
Papa, Lima, Peru. pp. 104-106.

Bernard, C; Fahmy, M.; McQueen, R. E.; Crober,
D. 1980. Animal germ plasm in North Amer-
ica. Symposium on Agriculture in the year
2000. Macdonald College (Mar.).

Boiteau, G. 1980. Some factors affecting the control
of potato virus Y by mineral oil sprays. Joint
Meeting Entomological Society of Quebec and
Entomological Society of Canada, Quebec City
(abstract), p. 62

Boiteau, G. 1980. Researcher tells growers to
examine fields before spraying. Pfizer Potato
Grower (Apr.).

Burgess, P. L. 1980. The use of buffers in dairy
rations. Canadex 410.52.

Burgess, P. L. 1980. Rye grain for Maritime
livestock and poultry. Farm Focus 8(9)(8
Oct.).

Burgess, P. L. 1980. Anim. Prod. Pointers: 243
Protec: a new additive for dairy rations; 257
Winter feeding of dairy goats; 262 Energy
levels in swine rations.

Burgess, P. L.; Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Effect of
suboptimal nitrogen levels into total mixed
rations for dairy cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:517 (abstract).

Burgess, P. L.; Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Yield and
feeding value of densely planted corn for
silage. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60 (abstract).

Bush, R. S. 1980. Cement kiln dust in livestock
rations. News and Features, Agric. Can.,
1873:9-10.

Bush, R. S. 1980. Anim. Prod. Pointers: 242 Calf
starter and grower rations; 244 Cement kiln
dust for ruminant rations'1 248 Twelfth annual
Maritime cattlemens' field day; 256 Win do

RESEARCH BRANCH RF PORT 1980

animals need minerals? 259 Calf scours; 260
The need for water by animals.

Bush, R. S.; McQueen, R. E.; Nicholson, J. W. G.
1980. Metabolism of colostrum during fermen-
tation or chemical preservation. J. Dairy Sci.
62 (Suppl. 1):228 (abstract).

Bush, R. S.; Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Effect of
ammonium perchlorate on growth in rumi-
nants. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:573 (abstract).

Bush, R. S.; Nicholson, J. W. G.; Maclntyre, T.
M.; McQueen, R. E. 1980. Candle and Tower
canola meals in lamb, sheep, and beef steer
rations. 6th Progress Report, Canola Council
of Canada. Publ. 57. pp. 210-214.

De Jong, H.; Tai, G. C. C; Johnston, G. R.;
Russell, W. A.; Proudfoot, K. G. 1980. Yield
potential and genotype-environment interac-
tion of tetraploid-diploid (4jc-2x) potato hy-
brids. Am. Potato J. 57:475-476 (abstract).

MacGillivray, M. E. 1980. Aphids. [In Spanish].
Hooker, W. J., éd. Compendio de enfer-
medades de la papa. Centro Internacional de la
Papa, Lima, Peru. pp. 142-143.

McDonald, J. G.; Singh, R. P. 1980. Comparison of
ELISA with LAT for the post-harvest indexing
of seed tubers for potato viruses X and S. Am.
Potato J. 57:488-489 (abstract).

McKenzie, A. R.; Lawrence, C. H. 1980. Leak,
watery wound rot. [In Spanish]. Hooker, W.
J., ed. Compendio de enfermedades de la papa.
Centro Internacional de la Papa, Lima, Peru,
pp. 54-55.

McQueen, R. E. 1980. Anim. Prod. Pointers: 246
Additives for better silage; 249 Cut forage
crops early; 251 Silo filler's disease; 258 Sam-
pling farm feeds for analysis.

McQueen, R. E. 1980. Silage additives. Canadex
400.62.

McQueen, R. E. 1980. It pays to cut early.
Canadex 120.50.

McQueen, R. E.; Bush, R. S.; Nicholson, J. W. G.
1980. Variability of forage digestion in nylon
bags suspended in the rumen. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60 (abstract).

McQueen, R. E.; Reade, A. F. 1980. Changes in
composition and digestibility of poplar by
fungal fermentation. Can. J. Anim. Sci.

60:571-572 (abstract).

McQueen, R. E.; Seoane, J. R.; Nicholson, J. W.
G.; McRae, K. B. 1980. Effect of urea phos-
phate, urea-form or urea on rumen and blood
ammonia. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:572
(abstract).

MiSener, G. C. 1980. Developments for potato
machinery. Proceedings Extension Potato
School, Maine, pp. 28-30.

Misener, G. C; McMillan, L. P. 1980. Potato
planters — seed placement. Canadex 742.

Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Out of the dark. News
and Features, Agric. Can. 1900:5-7.

Nicholson, J. W. G. 1980. Anim. Prod. Pointers:

239 Reducing costs of beef calf production;

240 Processing low-quality roughage for cattle;

241 Creep feeding beef calves; 245 Foods of
animal origin; 250 Keeping feed potatoes
through the summer; 252 Feeding whole grain
to cattle and sheep; 253 Quebec heavy veal
program; 254 A new bulletin on problem feeds;
255 Light control to boost animal production.

Nicholson, J. W. G.; McQueen, R. E. 1980. Anim.
Prod. Pointers: 261 What to do with moldy
feed erain.

Nicholson, J. W. G.; McQueen, R. E. 1980.
Problem feeds for livestock and poultry in
Canada. Agric. Can. Publ. 1701. 19 pp.

Nicholson, J. W. G.; McQueen, R. E. 1980.
Tetraploid red clover silage and monensin for
growing beef cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 51 (Suppl.
1):385 (abstract).

Nicholson, J. W. G.; McQueen, R. E.; Burgess, P.
L. 1980. Effect of cold on digestibility of
chopped or pelleted hay by sheep. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:571 (abstract).

Nicholson, J. W. G.; Misener, G. C; McQueen, R.
E. 1980. Preservation and feeding of potato-
hay mixtures ensiled in winter. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60 (abstract).

Saini, G. R. 1980. Strengthened plant roots bore
into dense soil. Crops and Soils Mag. 32(8):5-
6.

Saini, G. R. 1980. Pedogenetic and induced com-
paction in agricultural soils. Agric. Can. Re-
search Station, Fredericton, N.B. Agriculture
Canada. Tech. Bull. 1. 32 pp.

Saini, G. R. 1980. Erosion — the problem, predic-
tion and challenge. Atlantic Plant Food Educa-
tion Seminar Sum. pp. 18-25.

Saini, G. R.; Chow, T. L. 1980. Rainfall distri-
bution and potato production in New Bruns-
wick. Can. Agric. 25(2):23.

Singh, R. P. 1980. Viroid discovery. Letter to the
Editor. Plant Dis. 64:418.

Singh, R. P. 1980. Viroid discovery. Letter to the
Editor. Plant Dis. 64:964.

RESEARCH STATION, FREDERICTON, N.B.

131

Singh, R. P.; Fernow, K. H. 1980. Potato spindle
tuber viroid. [In Spanish]. Hooker, W. J., ed.
Compendio de enfermedades de la papa. Cen-
tro Internacional de la Papa, Lima, Peru. pp.
123-125.

Tarn, T. R. 1980. Potato genetic resources and the
United States Potato Introduction Project.
Plant Gene Resourc. Can. Newsl. 9:1-2.

Wood, G. W. 1980. Management of lowbush
blueberry insects. Proceedings 4th North
American Blueberry Research Workshop Con-
ference (1979). pp. 170-174.

Wood, G. W. 1980. Bee toxicology from feni-
trothion aerosols. Environmental surveillance
in New Brunswick 1978-1979. Effects of spray
operations for forest protection. Department of
Forest Resources, University of New Bruns-
wick, p. 60.

Wood, G. W. 1980. Fenitrothion movement in air.
Environmental surveillance in New Brunswick
1978-1979. Effects of spray operations for
forest protection. Department of Forest Re-
sources, University of New Brunswick, p. 68.

Wood, G. W. 1980. Review of pollination and forest
spraying. Environmental surveillance in New
Brunswick 1978-1979. Effects of spray opera-
tions for forest protection. Department of
Forest Resources, University of New Bruns-
wick, p. 36.

Wood, G. W. 1980. Pollination surveys in blueberry
fields, 1979. Environmental surveillance in
New Brunswick 1978-1979. Effects of spray
operations for forest protection. Department of
Forest Resources, University of New Bruns-
wick, p. 40.

Young, D. A. 1980. New development in potato
breeding. Proceedings 8th Annual Meeting
Prairie Potato Council, pp. 14-20.

132

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

QUEBEC REGION
RÉGION DU QUÉBEC

Mr. J.-J. Jasmin

Dr. R. Bouchard Mr. J. R. Frappier

EXECUTIVE OF THE QUEBEC REGION
L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA RÉGION DU QUÉBEC

Director General

Directeur général

J.-J. Jasmin, B.Sc. (Agr.), M. Se.

Program Specialist

Spécialiste en programmes

R. Bouchard, B.A., B.S.A., M.Sc, PhD.

Chief, Finance and Administration

Chef, finances et administration

J.R. Frappier, B.A.

QUEBEC REGION 135

PREFACE

La région du Québec compte trois stations de
recherche et trois fermes expérimentales. Ces
établissements ont comme mission de desservir
l'ensemble de l'industrie agricole du Québec. En
1980, le budget de la région était de $1 1 millions
avec un personnel scientifique de 76 chercheurs et
un effectif total de 300 personnes. Jusqu'en août
1980, le Québec faisait partie de la région adminis-
trative de l'Est. La province est maintenant consti-
tuée en une région administrative distincte possé-
dant sa propre administration.

L'agriculture de la région repose sur les produc-
tions animales et son potentiel de production
fourragère dicte en grande partie l'évolution de ses
industries. Actuellement, il y a une augmentation
constante des productions céréalières et horticoles.
La production laitière demeure la première produc-
tion agricole du Québec. Toutefois, la stabilisation
de la production nationale de lait force les agricul-
teurs à diversifier leurs produits vers de nouveaux
secteurs. La production porcine est la deuxième en
importance dans la région et le Québec se classe au
premier rang au niveau national.

Dans les différents établissements de la région,
on poursuit 1 1 programmes de recherches qui ont
trait à la productivité des sols, aux cultures céréaliè-
res et horticoles, et aux productions animales. Les
recherches sont orientées vers la solution de problè-
mes que les producteurs agricoles de la région
rencontrent tout en tenant compte des aspects de
complémentarité avec les programmes nationaux.

La qualité des fourrages joue un rôle important
dans l'économie de la production du lait et de la
viande étant donné l'impact des fourrages sur
l'utilisation des suppléments fabriqués à partir de
céréales qui doivent être importés de l'extérieur. La
station de Sainte-Foy vient d'homologuer un culti-
var de luzerne appelé Apica qui possède des
caractères supérieurs de rusticité. Deux nouvelles

variétés de blé et une d'orge ont été homologuées,
soit Anka et Casavant pour le blé et Sophie pour
l'orge. On a réalisé des progrès importants au
niveau de l'inoculation de la luzerne et de la survie
des plantes à l'hiver.

Les recherches fruitières sont orientées vers la
pomme, la fraise, la framboise et le bleuet. Les
activités de la station de Saint-Jean sont suivies de
très près par les horticulteurs du Sud-ouest québé-
cois qui y reçoivent un support technique constant.
Les perspectives d'avenir de ces productions sont
très intéressantes. Quelques projets touchent la
production de la prune et de la poire. La région
assume également la responsabilité du programme
national de gestion des sols organiques. La station
de recherches de Lennoxville a mis au point" un
système intégré pour la production de veaux lourds
à partir de veaux mâles issus du cheptel laitier. Plus
de 35 000 veaux seront engraissés jusqu'au poids de
165 kg selon un programme d'alimentation «aux
grains» par de nouveaux producteurs au Québec.
On a entrepris un programme de recherches en
floriculture à la ferme expérimentale de L'Assomp-
tion. Les fermes expérimentales de Normandin et
de La Pocatière, en plus de fournir un support de
recherches à la station de Sainte-Foy, sont actives
dans les secteurs propres à l'agriculture de leur
milieu géographique.

Les programmes de recherches réalisés en sta-
tions sont appuyés par un programme dynamique
de recherches à contrat qui permet à l'industrie
agricole de s'engager dans le secteur de la recherche
et du développement et dans la prise en main de la
solution de leur problème technologique.

Il est possible de rejoindre le personnel du bureau
régional en s'adressant à Agriculture Canada,
Direction générale de la recherche, 3194 chemin
Sainte-Foy, Sainte-Foy, Québec, G 1 X 1 R4.

J.-J. Jasmin

136

RI SI ARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PREFACE

The Quebec Region comprises three research
stations and three experimental farms. These estab-
lishments are designed to serve the whole of
Quebec's farm industry. In 1980, the Region's
budget amounted to $1 1 million. The scientific staff
consisted of 76 researchers, and total staff num-
bered 300. Until August 1980, Quebec belonged to
the Eastern Region. The province now forms a
separate region with its own administration.

Agricultural activity in the Region is based on
livestock production, and the Region's forage pro-
duction potential dictates to a great extent the
development of its industries. The production of
grain and horticultural crops is constantly increas-
ing. Dairy production remains the leading agricul-
tural industry in Quebec. However, the stabilization
of domestic milk production is forcing farmers to
diversify into new areas with their product. Hog
production is the second most important industry in
the Region, and Quebec ranks first in the country as
a whole.

The Region's various establishments are carrying
out 1 1 research programs, centering on soil produc-
tivity, grain and horticultural crops, and livestock
production. Research is geared to solving problems
faced by farm producers in the Region, while taking
into account national programs.

Forage quality plays an important role in the
milk and meat production economy, because it
affects the need for supplements (which are manu-
factured from imported grains). The Sainte-Foy
Station has just released an alfalfa cultivar called
Apica, which has superior hardiness characteristics.
Two new varieties of wheat (Anka and Casavant)

and one of barley (Sophie) have been released.
Significant progress has been made in alfalfa
inoculation and the winter survival of plants.

Fruit research is centered on apples, strawber-
ries, raspberries, and blueberries. The activities of
the Saint-Jean Station are watched closely by
horticulturists in southwestern Quebec, who receive
the Station's continuous technical support. The
prospects for these crops are very attractive. A few
projects concern the production of plums and pears.
The Region also assumes responsibility for the
national organic soils management program. The
Lennoxville Research Station has developed an
integrated system for heavy-calf production using
bull dairy calves. New producers in Quebec are
expected to fatten more than 35 000 calves to a
weight of 165 kg under a grain-feeding program. A
floriculture research program has been undertaken
at the L'Assomption Experimental Farm. The
experimental farms at Normandin and La Pocat-
ière, in addition to supporting research at the
Sainte-Foy Station, are active in projects specific to
the agriculture of their geographic areas.

The research programs carried out in the stations
are supported by a dynamic contract research
program, which enables the farm industry to
become involved in research and development and
to take charge of its technological problems.

The staff of the regional office may be contacted
by addressing inquiries to: Agriculture Canada,
Research Branch, 3 1 94, chemin Sainte-Foy, Sainte-
Foy, Quebec, G 1 X 1R4.

J. -J. Jasmin

QUEBEC REGION

137

Station de recherches
Lennoxville, Québec

CADRES PROFESSIONNELS
Administration

Y. Martel, B.A.
H. Rouleau

B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

Directeur

Agent d'administration

Productions animales

J. Dufour, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

A.M. B. de Passillé, B.Sc, M.Sc.

M. H. Fahmy, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. Flipot, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

B. Lachance, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

G. Lalande, B.A., B.S.A.

G. Pelletier, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. Roy, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Chef de section; physiologie de la
reproduction
Étiologie, porcs
Génétique, moutons
Nutrition, bovins
Nutrition, jeunes ruminants
Régie, bovins de boucherie
Physiologie animale
Génétique, bovins

Productions végétales et sols

J.L. Dionne, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.
G. Barnett, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.
W. Mason, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
A. Pesant, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Chef de section; fertilité des sols
Régie, légumineuses et maïs
Régie, graminées
Physique des sols

Départ

R. Bouchard, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
Promu Spécialiste en programme au Bureau
régional

Nutrition, bovins laitiers

STATION DE RECHERCHES. LENNOXVILLE, QUÉBEC

139

AUX ETUDES

L. Guilbault, B.Sc, M. Se, D.E.A. (Nut.) Physiologie de la reproduction

D. Petitclerc, B.Sc., B.Sc. (Agr.), M. Se. Physiologie de la lactation

S. Pommier, B.Sc, M.Sc. Spécialiste en viandes

140 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

La station de recherches à Lennoxville concentre ses efforts sur la production animale,
notamment l'évaluation des croisements de bovins, l'amélioration des systèmes d'alimentation
des vaches laitières, les techniques d'élevage de jeunes ruminants et l'amélioration de la
prolificité des races de moutons au Québec. On poursuit également des recherches en
productions végétales et en sols dans le but de développer des pratiques culturales susceptibles
d'augmenter les rendements du maïs ensilage et des fourrages.

On peut obtenir des renseignements plus complets en écrivant directement aux chercheurs
à l'adresse suivante: Station de recherches, Agriculture Canada, C.P. 90, Lennoxville (Québec)
JIM 1Z3.

Yvon Martel
Directeur

PRODUCTIONS ANIMALES

Bovins laitiers

Qualité du foin de mil et quantité de
moulée sur la performance de la vache laitiè-
re. On a évalué l'effet de deux stades de
maturité du foin de mil et de deux niveaux du
concentré dans la ration de vaches en lacta-
tion sur l'ingestion et la digestibilité de diffé-
rents nutriments et sur la production et la
composition du lait. L'allocation journalière
du concentré était faite soit au taux de 1 kg
pour 4 kg de lait produit par jour ou de 1 kg
pour 6 kg. Le foin 1 en était au début de
l'épiaison à la récolte qui a eu lieu à la mi-juin
tandis que le foin 2 en était à la fin de la
floraison lorsque récolté au début de juillet.
Le foin haché était le seul fourrage et était
servi à volonté. Les pourcentages de la protéi-
ne brute (12,4 contre 7,8%) et de la ligno-
cellulose (39,8 contre 41,4%) démontrent qu'il
existait une différence assez importante entre
les foins.

On ne retrouvait aucune différence dans la
production totale du lait entre les deux ap-
ports du concentré. Les performances des
vaches recevant le foin 1 ont été de 15 à 35%
supérieures (P < 0,05) à celle du foin 2. Ceci
était surtout vrai pour la production du lait
corrigé à 4% de matière grasse et ajusté pour
le nombre de jours en lactation (17,3 contre
12,7 kg/jour). Aucune différence significative
n'a été enregistrée pour les pourcentages du
gras et de la protéine.

La qualité du foin a eu un effet significatif
sur les coefficients de la digestibilité apparente
des nutriments tandis que les niveaux du
concentré n'en ont eu aucun. Nous avons

observé une forte amélioration de la digestibi-
lité du foin de mil récolté au début de l'épiai-
son en comparaison de celui récolté en fin de
floraison. Le calcium était le seul nutriment
où la différence entre les deux foins n'était pas
significative.

L'efficacité de l'utilisation de l'énergie bru-
te était de 11% plus élevée pour la ration au
foin 1 que celle au foin 2. L'ingestion d'éner-
gie digestible de la ration au foin 1 était plus
élevée d'environ 50 MJ par jour que de celle
du foin 2. Les vaches recevant le foin 1 et le
concentré au niveau de 1 pour 4 ont consom-
mé une quantité plus élevée d'énergie digesti-
ble sans produire plus de lait. Cette consom-
mation s'est traduite en un gain corporel plus
élevé des vaches soit 45 kg pour celles de ce
groupe contre 32 kg pour celles des trois
autres groupes.

Les résultats indiquent donc que le stade de
maturité du foin de mil s'avère très important
dans la valeur nutritive du fourrage pour la
vache laitière. La digestibilité des nutriments
est meilleure et la production laitière est
optimale.

Influence du niveau d'énergie de la ration
sur la production et la composition du lait.
L'effet des niveaux d'énergie durant les pério-
des pré-partum et post-partum sur la produc-
tion et la composition du lait a été mesuré
chez 90 vaches laitières. Durant la période de
tarissement, qui était d'environ 60 jours, les
vaches recevaient de l'ensilage d'herbe à vo-
lonté et des concentrés dosant 14% de protéi-
nes. Les quantités de concentrés allouées par
vache étaient 0,25 et 0,75% du poids vif de
l'animal pour les groupes bas (B) et haut (H)

STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXVILLE, QUÉBEC

141

respectivement. Durant la période de lacta-
tion, les vaches étaient alimentées avec 4,5 kg
de foin, de l'ensilage de maïs à volonté et des
concentrés dosant 18% de protéines. Les
quantités de concentrés, pendant les 112 pre-
miers jours de lactation, étaient les suivantes:
0,25% (B), 0,75% (M) du poids vif de l'ani-
mal et à volonté (H). À partir du 112e jour
jusqu'à la fin de la lactation, les concentrés
étaient donnés sur une base de production
laitière journalière. Les vaches recevaient 1
kg de concentré pour chaque 4 kg de lait
produit.

Les niveaux de concentrés durant la période
pré-vêlage n'ont pas eu d'influence significa-
tive sur la production laitière et sur la compo-
sition chimique du lait. Par contre, une aug-
mentation des niveaux du concentré durant la
période post-partum a favorisé significative-
ment non seulement une plus grande produc-
tion laitière mais aussi une augmentation des
quantités produites de protéines et de gras. La
production laitière a augmenté de 12 et 23%
en augmentant les niveaux du concentré. Les
rendements en protéines et en gras étaient de
16 et 30% plus grands pour les niveaux M et
H respectivement. Les pourcentages de pro-
téines et de gras du lait ne variaient pas de
fa]on significative entre les traitements. La
durée de la lactation a varié entre 256 jours
pour les vaches alimentées au haut niveau du
concentré durant la période pré-vêlage et au
bas niveau durant le post-partum (groupe
HB) et 302 jours pour celles du groupe HM.
À partir de ces résultats, il n'est pas nécessai-
re de suralimenter les vaches durant les 60
jours précédant le vêlage. L'addition de con-
centrés à la ration devrait donc se faire durant
la période de lactation.

Alimentation du veau lourd d'abattage
nourri d'aliments d'allaitement ou de grains.
On a mesuré les effets de trois modes d'ali-
mentation du veau sur le taux de croissance,
l'efficacité alimentaire et les caractéristiques
de la carcasse à 88 ou 108 kg. Une première
diète consistait exclusivement en un aliment
d'allaitement; la deuxième était un aliment
d'allaitement jusqu'à 5 semaines et du con-
centré du début jusqu'à l'abattage; et la
troisième diète était un aliment d'allaitement
jusqu'à 5 semaines, du concentré du début
jusqu'à 8 semaines et par la suite du maïs
entier et un supplément protéique-minéral-
vitaminé jusqu'à l'abattage. Les traitements
alimentaires n'ont pas eu d'effet significatif (P
> 0,05) sur le gain quotidien. L'efficacité

alimentaire était 8% meilleur pour les veaux
abattus à un poids plus léger. Les veaux
nourris au maïs entier ont été significative-
ment (P < 0,01) plus efficaces que les veaux
nourris au concentré (2,84 contre 3,07). Le
rendement de la carcasse a été significative-
ment (P < 0,01) plus élevé pour les veaux à
l'aliment lacté que pour les veaux au grain
(56,4 contre 53,8%). La viande des veaux
nourris d'aliments d'allaitement a été plus
pâle (P < 0,01) que la viande des veaux au
grain (66,7 contre 48,2 unités). Les veaux
abattus à un poids plus léger avait une colora-
tion du muscle plus pâle (P < 0,01) que ceux
abattus plus lourd (58,8 contre 50,0 unités).
L'introduction de grain dans les diètes a
réduit respectivement de 37 et 46% le coût de
l'alimentation des veaux abattus au poids de
88 et 108 kg de carcasse.

Bovins de boucherie

Possibilité de gémellage grâce à une ration
riche en énergie avant une alimentation au
P. M. S. G. chez la taure. Nous avons essayé de
produire des ovulations multiples limitées (de
deux à quatre corps jaunes) chez les taures, en
les alimentant avec une nourriture riche ou
pauvre en énergie, pendant un cycle oestral, et
en leur injectant une faible dose de P.M. S. G.
au 16e jour de ce cycle. Nous avons obtenu des
ovulations multiples chez 52% des 19 taures
croisées laitières x bouchères, auxquelles on
avait injecté 1200 U.I. de P.M.S.G. La rela-
tion du nombre de taures qui ont ovulé entre
deux et quatre follicules par rapport à celles
qui en ont ovulé un et plus de quatre a été plus
élevée (P < 0,05) chez les taures alimentées
avec un régime riche en énergie que chez
celles nourries avec un régime pauvre. Durant
la période de 36 à 96 h après l'injection de
P.M.S.G. et avant l'oestrus, la concentration
de E2-17/3 fut moindre chez les taures ayant
un follicule en croissance se développant et un
corps jaune que chez celles en ayant deux (P
< 0,01). Les taures ayant plus de deux
follicules se développant en corps jaunes ont
eu plus de E2-l 7/3 que celles qui éventuelle-
ment en formaient deux (P < 0,01). De plus,
chez les taures ayant plus de deux follicules,
la concentration de E:-17/3 augmentait régu-
lièrement jusqu'à au moins 96 h après l'injec-
tion de P.M.S.G., tandis que chez les taures
ayant un ou deux corps jaunes, la concentra-
tion se stabilisait à 60 h après l'injection. La
concentration de progestérone était plus faible
chez les taures qui développaient plus de deux

142

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

corps jaunes que chez celles en ayant un ou
deux {P < 0,05).

L'influence de l'ouverture pelvienne et de la
taille du veau sur les difficultés de vêlage de
vaches croisées. On a utilisé, dans deux expé-
riences, 164 vaches croisées représentant huit
croisements issus de taureaux Charolais, He-
reford, Limousin et Maine-Anjou et de vaches
Holstein et Ayrshire pour étudier les diffi-
cultés de vêlage à la première et deuxième
mise-bas. Les vaches croisées étaient saillies
la première fois à 12 mois par un taureau
Angus, un taureau Limousin, ou un taureau
Chianina représentant, respectivement, un pe-
tit, moyen et grand format. Pour la seconde
mise-bas elles étaient saillies par deux tau-
reaux de grand format, soit le même Chianina
et un Simmental. Le but de l'étude était de
mesurer l'influence de la morphologie de la
mère et de son veau sur l'incidence des diffi-
cultés de vêlage.

Au premier vêlage, il a fallu assister 23,1%
de toutes les parturitions, sans toutefois y
détecter de différence parmi les groupes géné-
tiques; alors qu'au deuxième vêlage 4, 12, 20
et 36% {P < 0,05) d'assistance fut nécessaire
aux croisements où le père de la vache appar-
tenait aux races Limousin, Charolais, Here-
ford et Maine-Anjou respectivement. Les va-
ches qui ont eu des difficultés de vêlage à
chacune des deux mises-bas avaient une ou-
verture pelvienne plus petite à la première
saillie, à 150 et 270 jours de la première
gestation que celles qui n'ont pas eu de diffi-
culté. Le rapport entre l'ouverture pelvienne
et le poids de la vache était toujours plus petit
pour les vaches nécessitant des assistances aux
deux vêlages consécutifs.

Les vaches dont l'ouverture pelvienne était
normale et dont le premier ou deuxième
vêlage était difficile avaient des veaux qui
pesaient environ 5 kg de plus à la naissance
que celles dont les vêlages étaient faciles. La
taille du père du veau augmentait, au premier
vêlage, l'incidence des difficultés de vêlage (P
< 0,05), de 24 et 21 points pour les taureaux
de grand et moyen format respectivement par
rapport au taureau de petit format. Les veaux
mâles de la deuxième parité ont nécessité
quatre fois plus d'assistance à la naissance
que les veaux femelles (P < 0,05). Les
premières et secondes parturitions ont nécessi-
té respectivement 54,2 et 13,8% d'assistance
chez les vaches qui avaient été saillies les deux
fois par le même taureau Chianina (P <
0,05). Les dimensions du veau les plus reliées

aux difficultés de vêlage étaient la circonfé-
rence du nez et de la tête qui étaient, respecti-
vement, de 1,3 et 1,6 cm de plus que chez les
veaux nés sans difficulté de vêlage (P < 0,01 ).

L'intervalle moyen entre le vêlage et la
première chaleur a été de 88,0 jours et le
nombre moyen d'inséminations par concep-
tion a été de 2,3 après un vêlage difficile, soit
14 jours (P < 0,05) et 0,4 insémination de
plus (P < 0,05) qu'après un vêlage sans
difficulté.

Moutons

Paramètres génétiques de la date d'agnela-
ge chez les moutons D.L.S. Nous avons com-
mencé, en 1965, un programme de sélection
ovine de sujets croisés, en combinant des
gènes de la race Dorset d'Australie et des
races Leicester et Suffolk du Canada. Nous
avions comme objectif de créer une nouvelle
race ayant une longue saison d'accouplement
et pouvant se reproduire en tout temps de
l'année. Nous avons utilisé un seul critère de
sélection, c'est-à-dire, un index basé sur la
date de parturition des deux premiers agnela-
ges consécutifs aux périodes d'accouplement
qui s'étendent entre juin et novembre. On
sélectionnait, d'une part, en ligne directe chez
les mâles, puisqu'on n'utilisait que les béliers
issus des brebis les mieux quotes et, d'autre
part, en ligne indirecte chez les femelles,
puisqu'on ne sélectionnait que les brebis de la
meilleure moitié de la population gardée pour
un troisième agnelage. On a recueilli des
données sur environ 1300 brebis qui représen-
taient quatre générations de sélection. Nous
nous sommes servis de différentes méthodes
pour calculer la répétabilité et l'héritabilité de
la date d'agnelage.

Nous avons trouvé une corrélation pour la
date d'agnelage de 0,33, 0,25 et 0,13, respecti-
vement, entre le premier et le second, le
premier et le troisième, et le deuxième et le
troisième agnelage. Nous avons estimé l'héri-
tabilité à 0,14 chez les demi-frères paternels
et à 0,43 chez les demi-frères maternels. La
corrélation entre 86 paires de frères a donné
une héritabilité estimée de 0,70. On a aussi
estimé à 0,40 ± 0,07 l'héritabilité obtenue de
la régression entre-pères de 693 paires de
mère-fille.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXV1LLE, QUÉBEC

143

PRODUCTIONS VEGETALES ET
SOLS

Pollution et agriculture dans le bassin de
la rivière Saint-Franjois. La station de re-
cherches à Lennoxville a poursuivi une étude
pour évaluer la teneur en azote, phosphore et
potassium dans les cours d'eau du bassin de la
rivière Saint-Fran]ois et pour préciser l'im-
plantation de l'agriculture dans la pollution
des eaux du bassin par ces éléments. De mai à
novembre 1979, 69 sites ont été visités six fois
chacun. En plus des échantillons d'eau, on a
recueilli des échantillons de sol et de plantes
chez quelques cultivateurs de la région afin de
pouvoir établir un bilan. On a aussi échantil-
lonné le fond des rivières de manière à suivre
le cycle de ces éléments. Les analyses chimi-
ques effectuées (N total, N-N03, P total et K)
sur chacun des échantillons d'eau ont permis
d'établir la condition des eaux du bassin
Saint-Fran]ois en fonction de la variabilité
spatiale (évolution des concentrations de la
source à l'embouchure) et de la variation
temporelle (mensuelle). Des résultats complé-
mentaires ont été de plus obtenus du ministère
des Richesses naturelles, des bureaux régio-
naux de Rock Forest et de Nicolet (MAPAQ)
et en consultant l'annexe de statistiques du
ministère de l'Agriculture du Québec.

Les résultats obtenus démontrent une aug-
mentation significative des concentrations en
éléments nutritifs dans les eaux de la Saint-
Fran]ois pour les secteurs urbains de Sher-
brooke et de Drummondville. La région du lac
Saint-Pierre, plus précisément entre Saint-
Joachim et Saint-Elphège, contient des quan-
tités de phosphore et de potassium plus éle-
vées que celles observées à Drummondville.
Par contre, la rivière Saint-Franjois en amont
de Sherbrooke contient les plus basses concen-
trations en N, P et K. Cette région à caractère
agricole, récréatif et forestier surtout ne sem-
ble pas détériorer ses eaux par les applications
d'engrais vu la teneur faible en P.

Le bilan des éléments nutritifs pour le
bassin Saint-Fran]ois démontre clairement
que les engrais azotés et potassiques épandus
en 1979 ne couvrent pas les prélèvements des
cultures, c'est-à-dire que le sol a dû fournir
une certaine quantité d'azote et de potassium.
Pour les engrais phosphatés, l'application fai-
te en 1979 correspond à 2,5 fois les prélève-
ments. Mais les sols acides retiennent forte-
ment la majeure partie de ce phosphore qui
s'est transformé en une forme insoluble. Les

bilans particuliers des producteurs visités ap-
puient ces observations. En effet, les bilans
calculés prouvent que les engrais sont retenus
par les sols ou utilisés par les plantes qui
doivent puiser à même les réserves plutôt
moyennes du sol les compléments à leurs
besoins. Ceci indique donc que les fertilisants
peuvent difficilement atteindre les cours d'eau
puisqu'ils sont captés soit par les cultures soit
par les sols. L'étude démontre de plus que les
engrais organiques doivent entrer dans les
préoccupations des chercheurs agricoles de
fa]on à établir leur niveau d'efficacité une fois
appliqués au sol. Les producteurs, avec une
information d'appoint, pourraient tirer les
avantages de ces engrais peu coûteux tout en
évitant d'altérer l'environnement. Enfin, il est
démontré une fois de plus qu'il est urgent de
construire des usines de filtration dans les
centres urbains et au niveau des industries
pour améliorer la qualité des cours d'eau qui
servent trop souvent d'égouts à ciel ouvert.

Évaluation de la qualité du maïs-ensilage
au cours de sa maturation. L'évolution de la
teneur en glucides non-structuraux (total
nonstructural carbohydrates — T.N.C.) a été
suivie chez des cultivars de maïs hâtifs,
moyens et tardifs, pendant une période s'éta-
lant de la mi-août à la fin de septembre. La
teneur en T.N.C. des tiges et des feuilles a
chuté de son niveau initial de 30% à une
teneur inférieure à 10% tard à l'automne. Au
cours de la même période le T.N.C. moyen
des épis s'est accru de 60% à 70% en fin de
septembre. Cependant, le contenu en T.N.C.
a régressé graduellement à son niveau initial
suite à une gelée mortelle. La teneur en
T.N.C. des tiges et des feuilles a augmenté
jusqu'au début de septembre mais a diminué
graduellement pendant le reste de la saison.
Chez les cultivars moyens et tardifs, ces
diminutions ont été plus que compensées par
les accroissements de rendements en T.N.C.
des épis qui se sont continuées jusqu'aux
dernières gelées mortelles. La teneur en
T.N.C. des épis et le rendement total en
T.N.C. des cultivars hâtifs ont atteint leur
optimum après le stade pâteux-dur, au début
de septembre.

On a poursuivi cette expérience pendant
trois ans et on a observé une variation considé-
rable du niveau de T.N.C. d'année en année.
Ces niveaux étaient bas chez tous les cultivars
en 1979, année pendant laquelle le maïs-
ensilage a souffert d'une pauvre fermentation.

144

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PUBLICATIONS

Recherche

Bouchard, R.; Lachance, B.; Roy, G. 1980. Addi-
tion of dry skim milk to whole milk in vealer
rations. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:535-537.

Bouchard, R.; Laflamme, L.F.; Lachance, B.; Roy,
G.L. 1980. Levels of protein and fat and type
of protein in vealer rations. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:523-530.

Dionne, J.L. 1980. Effet du magnésium et du pH du
sol sur la luzerne cultivée en serre dans trois
types de sol du Québec. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:275-284.

Fahmy, M. H.; Maclntyre, T. M; Chancey, H.W.R.
1980. Date of lambing and reproductive per-
formance of Newfoundland and "DLS" breeds
of sheep raised under extensive management in
Nova Scotia. J. Anim. Sci. 5 1 (5): 1 078- 1086.

Pelletier, G.; Bouchard, R. 1978. Évaluation de la
fèverole et du pois traités ou non-traités à la
formaldehyde comme source de protéines pour
la vache laitière. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 58:659-
669.

Potvin, N.; Bergeron, J.-M.; Genest, J. 1978. Com-
paraison de méthodes de répression d'oiseaux
s'attaquant au maïs fourrager. Can. J. Zool.
56:40-47.

Vinet, C; Bouchard, R.; St-Laurent, GJ. 1980.
Effects of stage of maturity of timothy hay and
concentrate supplementation on performance
of lactating dairy cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:511-521.

Divers

Barnett, G.M. 1980. Les conséquences agronomi-
ques. Pages 139-187 dans: Colloque sur les
fumiers, 9 octobre 1980. C.P.V.Q., MAPAQ.

Batra, T.R.; McAllister, A.J.; Chesnais, J.P.; Daris-
se, J.P.F.; Lee, A.J.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. Comparison of several pu-
reline bull groups for reproductive traits and
calving ease of their daughters. J. Dairy Sci. 63
(Suppl. l):97-98. (Résumé)

B. de Passillé, A.M. 1980. Le comportement du
porcelet. Pages 41-51 dans: Symposium de la
production porcine: L'efficacité dans les mater-
nités, Québec, 22 mai 1980. C.P.A.Q.,
MAPAQ.

Beauchemin, K.; Lachance, B.; St-Laurent, G.
1980. Carcass study of heavy veal calves fed
milk-replacer or grain. J. Anim. Sci. 51
(Suppl. 1):344. (Résumé)

Beauchemin, K.; Lachance, B.; St-Laurent, G.
1980. Performance of heavy calves fed milk-
replacer or grain. J. Anim. Sci. 51 (Suppl.
1):344. (Résumé)

Beauchemin, K.; St-Laurent, G.; Lachance, B.
1980. Alimentation et régie du veau lourd
d'abattage nourri d'aliments d'allaitement ou
de grains. Journées de recherche bovine,
Drummondville, 17-18 septembre 1980. C-
P.A.Q., MAPAQ. (Résumé)

Carrier, F. 1980. Agriculture contre azote, phos-
phate, potassium dans le bassin Saint-Fran]ois.
Agric. Can., station de recherches, Lennoxvil-
le, Québec. 206 p.

Chesnais, J.P.; Batra, T.R.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Hick-
man, C.G.; Lee, A.J.; McAllister, A.J.; Roy,
G.L.; Vesely, J.A.; Winter, K.W. 1979. Com-
parison among eight strains of bulls for the
milk production of their daughters. J. Dairy
Sci. 62 (Suppl. 1 ): 1 86. (Résumé)

Chesnais, J. P.; McAllister, A.J.; Batra, T.R.; Daris-
se, J.P.F.; Hickman, C.G.; Lee, A. J.; Roy,
G.L.; Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K.A. 1980. Foun-
dation animal performance in the National
Dairy Breeding Project. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:560. (Résumé)

Dionne, J.L. 1980. En sols acides, les plantes meu-
rent d'intoxication. Bull. Agric. (février):56.

Dionne, J.L. 1980. La luzerne demande aussi du
magnésium. Bull. Agric. (mars):79, 82 et 85.

Dionne, J.L. 1980. La réaction du sol en relation
avec la croissance des végétaux. Pages 19-33
dans: Rapport de la journée d'information sur
la chaux agricole, Saint-Hyacinthe, 18 octobre
1979. C.P.V.Q., MAPAQ, Agdex 534.

Dufour, J. 1980. Pour des brebis plus prolifiques.
Bull. Agric. (janvier):l 16-1 17.

Dufour, J. 1980. Quand les brebis produiront à
l'année longue. Bull. Agric. (août):32, 34-35.

Dufour, J.J.; Adelakoun, V.; Matton, P. 1980. Pro-
babilité accrue de gémellité par une ration
riche en énergie servie avant une stimulation à
la PMSG, et des concentrations hormonales
stéroïdiennes lors d'ovulations simples, doubles
et multiples chez les bovins de boucherie. Jour-
nées de recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-
18 septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

Dupuis, G.; Rony, D.; Flipot, P.; Lalande, G. 1980.
Utilisation des fientes de poules et pomme de
terre dans l'alimentation des bouvillons. Jour-
nées de recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-
18 septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXVILLE, QUÉBEC

145

Fahmy, M. H. 1978. Une lignée de porcs résistants
à l'anémie? Bull. Agric. (mars): 1 24-126.

Fahmy, M. H. 1979. La truie hybride réchappe plus
de porcelets. Bull. Agric. (avril):40.

Fahmy, M. H. 1979. Research review. Sheep Can.
Mag. 4(1):40.

Fahmy, M.H. 1979. Research review. Sheep Can.
Mag. 4(3):36.

Fahmy, M.H. 1979. Research review. Sheep Can.
Mag.4(4):46-47.

Fahmy, M.H. 1979. The performance of eight
breeds of swine in crossbreeding. West. Hog J.
(Winter):36.

Fahmy, M.H. 1980. Bientôt au Canada, les races
ovines Romanov et Bleu du Maine. Bull. Agric.
(mars):98et 101.

Fahmy, M.H. 1980. Quelles races utiliser dans le
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Fahmy, M.H. 1980. Research review. Sheep Can.
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Fahmy, M.H. 1980. Research review. Sheep Can.
Mag. 5(3):43.

Fahmy, M.H.; Cossette, M. 1980. Les petits sont
éliminés par les gros. Bull. Agric. (mai):IOP,
12P et 14P.

Fahmy, M. H.; Cossette, M. 1980. Pour améliorer
ses chances d'avoir de grosses portées à sevrer.
Bull. Agric. (mars):24P et 26P.

Flipot, P.; Genest, J.; Mason, W. 1980. Moins de
viande à l'acre en semant le mais plus dense.
Bull. Agric. (avril):! 30 et 133.

Flipot, P.; Mason, W.; Lalande, G. 1980. Effet du
stade de maturité des herbages sur les perfor-
mances des taurillons Hereford. Journées de
recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-18 sep-
tembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ. (Résumé)

Fournier, L.; Roy, G.L. 1980. Amélioration de la
productivité par les croisements. Pages 49-57
dans: Symposium production viande bovine: La
productivité de l'entreprise vache-veau, 17
avril 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.

Jubinville, J.; Bouchard, R.; Bruneau, Y.; Dionne,
J.L.; Perron, M.; Roy, G. 1978. Pâturage, ou
non. Aspect technique et économique. Pages
35-45 dans: Symposium bovins laitiers: C'est
une question de régie, Québec, 28 septembre
1978. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.

Lachance, B. 1980. Est-il possible de produire du
veau lourd en santé? Bull. Agric. (septem-
bre):!^, 1 19 et 122.

Lachance, B. 1980. 1973-1980. Projets de recher-
che sur le veau. Nouvelles de la recherche
(février). 4 feuillets.

Lachance, B.; Beauchemin, K. 1980. Digestibilité
du maïs entier (rond). Hebdoveau 1 (37):2.

Lachance, B.; Beauchemin, K. 1980. Veaux de
grain — au maïs entier (rond). Hebdo veau 1
(36):2.

Lachance, B.; Bouchard, R.; Roy, G. 1980. L'in-
fluence de la qualité du foin et des aliments
d'allaitement sur les performances des génisses
laitières de la naissance à 4 mois. Journées de
recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-18 sep-
tembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ. (Résumé)

Lachance, B.; St-Laurent, G. 1980. Finis, .les
«veaux de lait» d'autrefois. Bull. Agric.
(août):59, 62 et 89.

Lalande, G. 1980. Doit-on faire vêler les génisses
destinées à la boucherie avant de les abattre?
Bull. Agric. (septembre):32 et 34. (Publié sous
le nom de G. Roy).

Lalande, G. 1980. Ensilage de mais et ensilage de
luzerne, deux aliments qui se complètent. Bull.
Agric. (janvier):35-36

Lalande, G.; Dufour, J.J.; Flipot, P. 1980. Perfor-
mance bouchère et économique des taures de
boucherie primipares destinées à l'abattage.
Journées de recherche bovine, Drummondville,
17-18 septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

Lee, A.J.; McAllister, A.J.; Batra, T.R.; Chesnais,
J.P.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Harris, D.L.; Roy, G.L.;
Vesely, J.A.; Winter, K.A. 1980. First lacta-
tion performance in pureline and crossline dai-
ry cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:561. (Résumé)

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T.R.; Chesnais,
J. P.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. Breed group differences for
growth in pureline foundation phase of the
National Dairy Cattle Breeding Project. J.
Anim. Sci. 51 (Suppl. 1 ):122. (Résumé)

McAllister, A.L.; Batra, T.R.: Chesnais. J. P.; Da-
risse, J.P.F.; Emsley, J. A.; Lee, A. J.; Nagai. J.;
Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.; Winter. K.A. 1978.
The National Cooperative Dairy Cattle Bree-
ding Project. Agric. Can., Anim. Res. Inst..
Tech. Bull. 1.46 p.

MAPAQ (en collaboration). 1979. Guide d'établis-
sement: élevage spécialisé: veau de lait, veau de
grains, veau d'embouche (type laitier ou croi-
sé). Éditeur officiel, Québec. 115p.

MAPAQ (en collaboration). 1979. Viande bovine.
C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ. Agdex 420.

146

RESEARCH BRWCH REPORT l^SO

MAPAQ (en collaboration). 1980. Guide d'établis-
sement: élevage spécialisé: veau de lait, veau de
grains, veau d'embouche (type laitier ou croi-
sé). Éditeur officiel, Québec. 100 p.

MAPAQ (en collaboration). 1980. Mouton. C-
P.A.Q., MAPAQ. Agdex 430.

Mason, W. 1980. Les ruminants préfèrent-ils une
variété de mil à une autre? Bull. Agric.
(juin):6.

Matton, P.; Adelakoun, V.; Dufour, JJ. 1980. Ni-
veau de la progestérone plasmatique et lutéale
et sécrétion «in vitro» de progestérone par le
corps jaune suite à une stimulation au HCG
dans le cas de rétention placentaire. Journées
de recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-18
septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

Maurasse, C; Matton, P.; Dufour, JJ. 1980. Ef-
fects of feeding regimes on ovarian follicular
population in heifers. J. Anim. Sci. 51 (Suppl.
l):302-303. (Résumé)

Maurasse, C; Matton, P.; Dufour, J.J. 1980. In-
fluence du niveau alimentaire accru pendant
une courte période sur le développement folli-
culaire chez la vache. Journées de recherche
bovine, Drummondville, 17-18 septembre
1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ. (Résumé)

Parent, G.; Fahmy, M. H.; Pelletier, N. 1980. L'uti-
lisation judicieuse du potentiel génétique des
brebis. Pages 23-37 dans: Symposium sur la
production ovine: Une priorité oubliée, novem-
bre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.

Pelletier, G.; Dunnigan, J. 1980. Effects of gluco-
corticoids on the development of digestive en-
zymes of the abomasal mucosa and pancreas in
the newborn dairy calf. J. Anim. Sci.
51 (Suppl. 1):388. (Résumé)

Pelletier, G.; Roy, G.; Dionne, J.L.; Genest, J.
1980. Comparaison de différents systèmes
d'alimentation pour la vache laitière. Journées
de recherche bovine, Drummondville, 17-18
septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

Pesant, A. 1980. Comment notre luzerne s'accom-
mode de cet hiver pas comme les autres. Bull.
Agric. (mars):10 et 1 2.

Pesant, A. 1980. La luzerne s'en tire assez bien.
Bull. Agric. (avril):6.

Pesant, A. 1980. La motoneige laisse des traces.
Bull. Agric. (février):64, 66, 69-70.

Pesant, A. 1980. Les dangers de la culture du maïs
en sols accidentés. Bull. Agric. (avril): 141.

Pesant, A.; Mehuys, G.; Dubé, A. 1980. L'érosion
du sol par l'eau au Québec. Pages 62-74 dans:
8e Colloque de Génie rural: Érosion et conser-
vation des sols. Université Laval, Québec.

Plante, C; Martin, R.; Fillion, R.; Lachance, B.
1978. La génisse laitière: productrice de de-
main. Pages 47-63 dans: Symposium bovins
laitiers: C'est une question de régie, Québec,
28 septembre 1978. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.

Rony, D.D.; Dupuis, G.; Pelletier, G. 1980. Répon-
ses de digestibilité avec des moutons et perfor-
mance de bouvillons alimentés avec des fourra-
ges conservés en silo-presse et en silo-tour.
Journées de recherche bovine, Drummondville,
17-18 septembre 1980. C.P.A.Q., MAPAQ.
(Résumé)

Roy, G.L. 1980. Des lactations artificielles? Bull.
Agric. (avril): 133- 134.

Roy, G.L.; Dionne, J.L.; Pelletier, G.; Genest, J.
1980. Pâturage versus ensilage pour la produc-
tion de lait. Journées de recherche bovine,
Drummondville, 17-18 septembre 1980. C-
P.A.Q., MAPAQ. (Résumé)

Roy, G.L.; McAllister, A.J.; Batra, T.R.; Chesnais,
J.P.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Lee, A.J.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. Calving ease and repro-
duction in pureline and crossline dairy cattle.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:560-561. (Résumé)

Winter, K.A.; McAllister, A.J.; Batra, T.R.; Ches-
nais, J. P.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Emsley, A.B.; Lee,
A.J.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J. A. 1980. Heifer
growth in pureline and crossline dairy cattle.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:560. (Résumé)

STATION DE RECHERCHES, LENNOXVILLE, QUÉBEC

147

Station de recherches
Sainte-Foy, Québec

CADRES PROFESSIONNELS

S.J. Bourget, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S., Ph.D. Directeur

C. Gagnon, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Directeur adjoint

R. Labelle Services administratifs

Support scientifique

P. Venne,1 B. Bibl., M.L.S. Bibliothèque

Amélioration des plantes

J.M. Deschênes, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Chef de la section; écologie

M. Bernier-Cardou, B.Sc, M.Sc. Statistiques

M.R. Bullen, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Génétique des plantes fourragères

J.P. Dubuc, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Génétique des céréales

A. Légère, B.Sc, M.Sc. Malherbologie

R. Michaud, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Génétique des légumineuses

J.C. St-Pierre, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Physiologie des plantes fourragères

J. Surprenant, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Génétique des graminées

fourragères

Physiologie des plantes

R. Paquin, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Chef de la section; survie à l'hiver

R. Bolduc, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D. Résistance au froid, cytologie

H.J. Hope, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Résistance au froid, mécanisme

C. Willemot, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Résistance au froid, mécanisme

Phytoprotection

C. Gagnon, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Chef de la section; maladies des

légumineuses
L. Bordeleau, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Microbiologie

A. Comeau, B.Sc, Ph.D. Entomologie

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC 149

L. Couture, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
C. Richard, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.Sc
J. Santerre, B.A., B.Sc, M.Sc

Maladies des céréales
Maladies des légumineuses
Nématologie

Sols

C. De Kimpe, B.A., Ing. Chim. et Ind. agr.,
D.Sc.

D. Isfan, B.Sc, Ph.D.

M. Laverdière, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. Zizka, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Chef de la section; genèse

Chimie et fertilité
Pédogénèse et minéralogie
Fertilité

Economie

J.V. Lebeau,2 B.S.A., M.Sc.

Rentabilité des bovins laitiers

Ferme expérimentale, La Pocatière

J.E. Comeau, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.
L. Belzile, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.
A. Frève, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.
R. Rioux, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Régisseur

Plantes fourragères
Pommes de terre
Herbicides et malherbologie

Ferme expérimentale, Normandin

J.P.F. Darisse, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.
R. Drapeau, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc.

Régisseur; bovins laitiers et céréales
Plantes fourragères

Départ

Y. Martel, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

Promu Directeur de la station de recherches à
Lennoxville

Chimie et fertilité des sols

CHERCHEUR INVITE

H. Antoun, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

150

Écologie du Rhizobium

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

André Bouchard

(patron, J.M. Deschênes)
Michel Germain

(patron, J.M. Deschênes)
Claudel Lemieux

(patron, J.M. Deschênes)
Yves Polynice

(patron, J.M. Deschênes)
Louis Vézina

(patron, R. Paquin)
Benoît Landry

(patron, A. Comeau)
Yves Dion

(patron, A. Comeau)
Jacques Surprenant

(patron, C. Richard)
Danielle Prévost

(patron, L. Bordeleau)

JOHANNE STEVEY

(patron, L. Bordeleau)
Carole Lafrenière

(patron, L. Bordeleau)
Renée Sauvageau

(patron, L. Bordeleau)
Serge Laberge

(patron, L. Bordeleau)

ETUDIANTS

Étudiants à la maîtrise

Biologie des mauvaises herbes

Régie des plantes fourragères

Écologie des mauvaises herbes

Écologie des jachères

Physiologie

Biochimie

Amélioration et pathologie
végétale
Phytopathologie

Microbiologie

Biochimie

Microbiologie

Étudiant au doctorat

Esam Seddyk

(patron, C. De Kimpe)

Pédogénèse, chimie du sol

'Détaché de la Direction générale des affaires financières et administratives, Division des bibliothèques.
!Détaché de la Direction générale de la commercialisation et de l'économie.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC

151

INTRODUCTION

La station de recherches de Sainte- Foy et ses fermes expérimentales de La Pocatière et
Normandin forment un imposant groupe d'établissements voués au progrès de l'agriculture de
l'est du pays et surtout du centre du Québec, du Bas Saint-Laurent et du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-
Jean. Les principaux intérêts de recherches portent sur les plantes fourragères, les céréales et
les sols. On poursuit également d'importants travaux de recherches en génétique des ovins et
des bovins laitiers de même qu'en horticulture aux fermes de La Pocatière et de Normandin.

On compte parmi les principales réalisations de la station l'homologation de trois variétés
d'avoine, l'homologation d'une variété d'orge en collaboration avec l'université Laval et
l'homologation d'une quatrième variété d'avoine en coopération avec la station de recherches à
Charlottetown. La découverte d'une nouvelle souche de Rhizobium meliloti a également
révolutionné le domaine des inoculants pour la luzerne au Québec. À l'automne 1981, un
nouveau cultivar de luzerne sera homologué. Ce dernier offre une bonne résistance aux
maladies et aux conditions hivernales néfastes.

Des renseignements plus complets sont disponibles en vous adressant à: Station de
recherches, Agriculture Canada, 2560 boulevard Hochelaga, Sainte- Foy (Québec) Gl V 2J6.

S.J. Bourget
Directeur

LES PLANTES

Les légumineuses fourragères

De nouveaux cultivars de luzerne soumis
aux essais d'évaluation ont été proposés au
comité des herbages du C.P.V.Q. pour être
inclus dans les recommandations. Un cultivar
expérimental créé à la station à Sainte-Foy,
SQ Syn-2, sélectionné pour la survivance à
l'hiver, a montré 10% plus de persistance que
le cultivar (cv.) Iroquois, 14% plus que le cv.
Saranac et 20% plus que le cv. Thor. Un
champ a été établi à la ferme expérimentale à
Indian Head (Sask.) pour la production de
semence de sélectionneur. L'homologation de
ce cultivar sous le nom Apica a re]u l'appro-
bation du comité canadien d'experts en plan-
tes fourragères. Un second cultivar expéri-
mental, Mn Syn-2, également soumis aux
mêmes essais a montré beaucoup de vigueur
et une bonne survivance à l'hiver. Son évalua-
tion sera poursuivie.

L'évaluation de lots de semence de luzerne
vendue dans le commerce et en provenance
d'Australie et d'Argentine a révélé que ces
luzernes ne persistaient à peu près pas sous
nos conditions. Une mise en garde fut émise
aux producteurs.

Au cours du printemps, plus de 200 plants
de luzerne furent prélevés dans les champs
fortement endommagés par l'hiver pour cons-
tituer une nouvelle pépinière de plants qui
serviront dans de futurs croisements.

La sélection pour la résistance au flétris-
sement bactérien s'est poursuivie. Les plants
résistants sélectionnés en 1979 du cv. Grimm
furent soumis à des croisements, et des pépi-
nières de discordance furent établies à La
Pocatière et à Normandin en vue de dévelop-
per de nouvelles populations.

Une méthode, mise au point pour la sélec-
tion de luzerne résistante au pourridié fusa-
rien, est maintenant utilisée pour la sélection
des cultivars Angus, Iroquois, Saranac AR et
Titan. Le progrès réalisé par deux cycles de
sélection chez ces quatre cultivars sera évalué.
L'évaluation du degré de résistance à cette
maladie, réalisée chez 12 cultivars et 2 li-
gnées, montre une différence entre les culti-
vars quant au niveau de résistance à cette
infection. Cette résistance semble fortement
reliée au potentiel de survivance à l'hiver des
cultivars.

L'évaluation au champ de la résistance à la
tache leptosphaerulinienne a révélé une très
légère augmentation chez la descendance de
plants sélectionnés, comparativement à une
population non sélectionnée à cette fin.

La sélection pour la résistance à la tige
noire a rapporté jusqu'ici 122 plants montrant
de la résistance.

L'enquête sur le flétrissement verticillien
n'a pas révélé la présence de cette maladie au
Québec en 1980.

Les études d'influence réciproque de l'infec-
tion et de la résistance au froid montrent

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

d'une part que le pourridié et le flétrissement
fusarien affectent l'endurcissement au froid
de la luzerne, d'autre part que les dégâts
causés par le gel est un facteur important
dans la pénétration des champignons dans la
racine et le développement de la maladie.

Mauvaises herbes. Les études sur la biolo-
gie de l'ortie royale montrent que: a) le poids
sec par plant est fonction du moment d'appa-
rition de celui-ci, les plants hâtifs étant les
plus lourds; b) le poids sec et la quantité de
graines produites par plant varient de fa]on
inversement proportionnelle à la densité de la
population; c) les plants tardifs produisent
davantage de graines par unité de poids sec
que les individus hâtifs; l'effort de reproduc-
tion serait donc plus grand chez les plants
tardifs; d) les individus tardifs, bien qu'en
apparence plus chétifs, atteignent la maturité
au même moment que les plants hâtifs, ils
complètent donc leur cycle vital en un temps
plus court que les hâtifs; e) la production de
matière sèche par unité de surface augmente
de fa]on constante jusqu'au moment de la
floraison, peu importe la densité.

Les résultats d'essais d'herbicides dans les
mélanges fourragers montrent qu'aucun des
herbicides utilisés ne donne un contrôle satis-
faisant, à l'exception du 2,4-DB et du TF-
1 169 en mélange.

Fixation d'azote. Nous avons déterminé
qu'il n'existe pas de lien génétique direct entre
l'activité du nitrate reductase chez Rhizo-
bium meliloti et son activité nitrogénasique
en symbiose avec la luzerne. Cependant, l'ef-
ficacité symbiotique à fixer de l'azote est en
corrélation avec l'efficacité métabolique des
Rhizobium en système hétérotrophe en cultu-
re pure. Le soufre et le niveau d'azote minéral
influencent la nodulation et la fixation dans le
système luzerne- Rhizobium. Nous avons aus-
si identifié l'antifongique endomycine, produit
par un actinomycète, dans le système écologi-
que pour contrôler la fusariose chez la
luzerne.

La survivance à l'hiver

Influence du climat. L'endurcissement au
gel de la luzerne est en relation étroite avec
l'abaissement de la température de l'air. La
plante continue à s'endurcir sous la neige. Le
maximum de résistance est atteint entre jan-
vier et mars. La perte de résistance commence
à la disparition de la neige, dépend de la
température de l'air et du sol, et s'échelonne
sur quatre à six semaines ce qui empêche les

dommages causés par les gelées tardives.
L'humidité des sols argileux ne varie que de
24 à 35% au cours de l'automne. La luzerne
dont les racines sont prises dans la glace à
-2°C résiste trois semaines à ce traitement, le
blé d'hiver, une semaine.

Il y a corrélation entre l'accumulation de la
proline dans les collets de la luzerne et la
résistance à la gelée à l'automne jusqu'à la
perte du feuillage ainsi qu'au printemps. La
perte du feuillage arrête l'accumulation de la
proline et du pourcentage de la matière sèche
des collets. Le dosage de la proline ne peut
cependant être utilisé comme mesure de la
résistance au gel, mais pourrait être utilisé
dans un programme de sélection. La proline
s'accumule dans les collets maintenus à 1°C,
même si le feuillage est à 20°C. Le contraire
n'est pas vrai. Après une semaine d'endurcis-
sement, la proline ne s'accumule plus dans les
collets séparés des parties aériennes et main-
tenus à 1°C pendant deux semaines. Cepen-
dant elle continue à s'accumuler dans ces
parties aériennes après séparation.

Au chapitre de la télédétection, le radar et
la photo infrarouge ont été comparés. L'infra-
rouge a permis d'établir des concordances
avec la température des sols.

Physiologie de la résistance. Une méthode
de germination des plantules de luzerne a été
mise au point en conditions aseptiques en
présence de Sisthane, un fongicide systémi-
que. Des plantules âgées de 2 jours peuvent
être endurcies de cette façon.

La gelée favorise le développement de la
pourriture des racines et de la flétrissure
fusarienne, et ces maladies réduisent la résis-
tance à la gelée de la luzerne.

La résistance au gel de 16 lignées de dacty-
le est en corrélation avec leur résistance à
l'hiver.

Biochimie de la résistance. Le sucrose sta-
bilise directement la fixation de la phosphata-
se acide aux membranes cellulaires au cours
de l'endurcissement au gel du blé d'hiver. Les
méthodes d'ultragel rapide des tissus et de
coupes cryogéniques au moyen de microtomes
cryostatiques ont été étudiées dans le but
d'observer directement des plants gelés par
congélation programmée ou ramenés du
champ en hiver. Une méthode enzymologique,
le dosage de la phosphatase acide, est en
bonne voie d'être mise au point pour la sélec-
tion génétique de plantes qui résistent au gel.

Quand la plante s'endurcit au gel, les pro-
téines qu'elle élabore sont de plus en plus

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC

153

résistantes à l'hydrolyse par les enzymes de la
plante non endurcie. Un pic d'hydrolyse des
protéines provenant de plantes endurcies,
après 2 à 3 jours de désendurcissement, sug-
gère que certaines protéines synthétisées par
la plante sont essentielles au maintien de la
résistance au gel.

Les céréales

Amélioration du blé. Deux nouvelles varié-
tés de blé ont été homologuées en 1980, soit
Ankra et Casavant. Ces variétés sont promet-
teuses pour l'agriculture québécoise. Ankra
est une variété adaptée à toutes les régions;
son rendement est supérieur à ceux de Opal et
de Glenlea tandis que sa maturité, sa hauteur,
son poids de 1000 grains, sa densité et la force
de sa paille sont intermédiaires entre ceux de
Opal et de Glenlea. La variété Casavant offre
un rendement de 3% supérieur à Laval 19 et
de 8% supérieur à Concorde; ces deux variétés
ont un meilleur rendement qu'Opal. De plus,
son grain est lourd et dense, sa paille a la
force de celle de Concorde et elle arrive à
maturité 2 jours plus tard.

La variété Laval 19 a été inscrite dans les
recommandations du Conseil des production?
végétales car son comportement dans 18 sites
d'essais pendant deux ans a démontré sa
supériorité sur les témoins déjà recommandés
au Québec.

Amélioration de l'orge et de l'avoine. Une
nouvelle variété d'orge, Sophie, a été homolo-
guée en 1980. Elle provient d'un effort con-
joint de la station à Sainte-Foy et de l'univer-
sité Laval. Cette variété offre un rendement
de 2% supérieur aux témoins et elle est de 4
jours plus tardive. Ses caractéristiques en font
une candidate idéale pour les mélanges céréa-
liers avec des variétés de blé et d'avoine, telles
Casavant, Lamar et Manie, dont les maturités
sont plus tardives.

Deux lignées évaluées en 1980, QB1 79.95
et QB513.101, semblent très prometteuses car
elles ont donné un rendement de 7% supérieur
au meilleur témoin sur une paille plus forte
tout en étant 2 jours plus hâtives.

Pour l'avoine, les variétés Manie et Oxford
ont été recommandées aux agriculteurs par le
Conseil des productions végétales du Québec.
Dans les Maritimes, la lignée QO151.103,
produite à la station à Sainte-Foy, est une
amélioration substantielle car toutes les ca-
ractéristiques importantes, telles le rende-
ment, la force de paille, la grosseur et le poids

des grains, le pourcentage d'écale et sa tolé-
rance à Septoria sont améliorées. Elle fera
l'objet d'une homologation en 1981.

Résistance aux maladies. Une importante
source de résistance au virus de la jaunisse
nanisante de l'orge (V.J.N.O.) a été identifiée
dans la variété Norrland. Les efforts visent à
transférer cette résistance dans les variétés
adaptées à nos conditions de croissance.

Les espèces voisines de nos céréales com-
munes font l'objet de recherches intensives
pour trouver d'autres gènes majeurs de résis-
tance au V.J.N.O. La production d'antisé-
rums spécifiques au V.J.N.O. permet une
identification rapide et efficace de la présence
du virus dans une plante.

Les recherches effectuées sur les maladies
fongiques ont permis d'identifier l'immunité
de OA421.7 à la rouille tandis que Fiddler est
résistant. Le développement de la tache septo-
rienne de l'avoine et de la rayure réticulée de
l'orge est moindre dans des mélanges 50%
d'avoine et 50% d'orge. Le fongicide Q-5177
est le plus valable chez l'orge et l'avoine pour
le contrôle des Fusarium spp.

Biologie et écologie des mauvaises herbes.
Les régions 04 et 12 du Québec ont fait l'objet
d'inventaire et d'évaluation de pertes en 1980.
Les résultats sommaires démontrent un faible
taux d'utilisation d'herbicides, l'importance
des antécédents culturaux sur les populations
de mauvaises herbes et aussi l'importance du
chiendent, des mauvaises herbes à feuilles
larges et des graminées vivaces dans les
champs de céréales.

LES SOLS

La fertilité

Amendements organiques. Une expérience
a été menée en serre pour étudier l'effet d'un
compost fait de sciure de bois et de lisier de
porcs sur les rendements du mil. L'équivalent
d'une application de 224 t/ha de compost sur
un loam sablo-graveleux Saint-André a fait
passer les rendements résultant de 3 coupes de
mil de 3,5 g/pot pour le traitement témoin à
12,3 g/pot. Lorsque le compost seul a été
utilisé comme milieu de culture, le rendement
a été de 22,0 g/pot.

La valeur fertilisante d'un compost fores-
tier a été comparée à celle du fumier de vache
dans une expérience en serre sur le sol Ka-
mouraska. Des doses de 0, 100, 200, 400 et
800 kg N/ha ont été ajoutées au sol. La plante

154

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

témoin est le mil. Pour la première coupe faite
sur les pots ayant le compost, les rendements
décroissent de 3,78 à 2,28 g/pot pour les pots
ayant reçu 0 et 800 kg N/ha, alors que pour la
deuxième coupe, les rendements diminuent de
2,41 à 1,88 g/pot. Après la deuxième coupe, il
y a eu addition d'engrais et lors de la troisiè-
me coupe, les rendements ont augmenté de
6,9 à 8,46 g/pot pour les doses de 0 et 800 kg
N/ha sous forme de compost. Dans le cas du
sol ayant reçu des doses croissantes de fumier
de vache, il y a eu un effet positif lors des trois
coupes. Ainsi, lors de la première coupe, les
valeurs augmentent de 3,78 à 5,37 g/pot pour
les doses de 0 et 800 kg N/ha, les rendements
passent de 2,41 à 3,60 g/pot pour ces mêmes
doses lors de la deuxième coupe et enfin lors
de la troisième coupe, mais après addition
d'engrais, de 6,90 à 9,02 g/pot pour les
mêmes quantités de fumier. Les rendements
obtenus avec le fumier de vache sont dans
tous les cas supérieurs à ceux obtenus avec le
compost forestier.

La pédogénèse

Sols à texture légère. L'effet du modelage
des champs en planches sur l'hétérogénéité
des propriétés des sols a été évalué dans six
champs de maïs en monoculture. L'épaisseur
de l'horizon Ap varie de 15 à 41 cm. La
teneur en matière organique varie de 10 à 250
t/ha et influence la densité apparente et réelle
du sol. La teneur maximale en eau disponible
entre 33,3 kPa et 1,5 MPa dans les horizons
Ap est comprise entre 0,5 et 4 cm d'eau. Pour
l'ensemble des champs, les rendements en
grain varient de 1626 à 10 231 kg/ha. À
l'intérieur d'un champ, les différences attei-
gnent cependant 74%. Les rendements les plus
élevés ont été observés sur les sites élevés,
moyens ou intermédiaires des planches et ne
peuvent être expliqués de manière satisfaisan-
te par l'hétérogénéité du sol.

Le travail entrepris sur les sols sableux
d'origine éolienne et deltaïque, et dont il avait
déjà été question dans le rapport précédent, a
été poursuivi. On a ajouté trois autres séries
de sols. Sur les treize profils étudiés, neuf ont
été classés dans l'ordre podzolique et quatre
dans l'ordre brunisolique.

Cependant, pour 12 profils, la valeur du pH
mesuré dans NaF est supérieure à 10,2, qui
est la limite pour les sols podzoliques. Diver-
ses formes d'aluminium ont donc été identi-
fiées dans les solutions de dithionite-citrate-
bicarbonate, oxalate et pyrophosphate. Ce

sont les valeurs de Al dans l'oxalate qui sont
le mieux reliées au pH NaF. Le développe-
ment des profils est relié à la composition
minéralogique et à la migration plus ou moins
rapide des complexes organo-métalliques.
Pour les 13 sols, le taux d'absorption du
phosphore varie de 23 à 397 //,g P/g de sol
dans les horizons A, de 301 à 1578 /ig P/g de
sol dans les horizons B et de 71 à 296 /ig P/g
de sol dans les horizons C. Ces valeurs sont
reliées à Al0 et Alp dans les horizons A, à Alp
et Corg dans les horizons B et à (Al -I- Fe)0
dans les horizons C.

Les valeurs de la capacité d'échange de la
matière organique passent de 168 méq/100 g
dans l'horizon A, à 293 méq/100 g dans
l'horizon B et à 138 méq/100 g dans l'horizon
C. Les valeurs ont été comparées à celles
obtenues pour les sols gleysoliques de basses
terres. Elles sont plus élevées à cause d'un
plus grand degré de transformation de la
matière organique. Pour la fraction argileuse,
les valeurs moyennes de la C.É.C. dans les
horizons A, B et C sont de 76, 40 et 53 méq/
100 g. Elles sont plus élevées dans l'horizon A
à cause de la présence de minéraux 2/1
gonflants à charge élevée.

Mise en culture des sols. Des mélanges de
sols, en proportions diverses, ont été effectués
à partir d'horizons L-H, Ae, Bhf et Bf de
deux sols podzoliques, afin de simuler l'effet
du labour à différentes profondeurs. Les mé-
langes ainsi obtenus au départ avant tout
amendement possèdent les caractéristiques
suivantes:

• pH(H20)de3,79à4,85

• carbone organique de 2,4 à 3 1 %

• cations échangeables (K, Ca, Mg) de 0,15 à
11,82 méq/100 g

• phosphore assimilable de 45 à 580 kg/ha

• azote total de 0, 1 2 à 1 ,36%

• Fe et Al (dans dithionite) Fed de 0,22 à
3,52%; Ald de 0,06 à 1,70%

• Fe et Al (dans oxalate) Fe0 de 0,14 à 3,00%;
Al0 de 0,05 à 2,46%

•Fe et Al (dans pyrophosphate) Fe de 0,13 à
2,24%; Alp de 0,04 à 1,84%

Les mélanges ont été subdivisés avant
d'être amendés à pH 5,5 dans certains cas,
pour être ensuite incubés à une température
de 40°C au taux de saturation, ou mis en pot
pour semis d'orge. Un dispositif expérimental
destiné à tenir compte des paramètres à étu-
dier (mélange, chaulage, fertilisation) a été
mis au point et une première récolte a été
obtenue.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC

155

Les rendements en grain varient de 0,14 à
15,86 g/pot pour le sol Laurentide et de 0 à
20,25 g/pot pour le sol Leeds. Les rendements
les plus élevés correspondent aux mélanges les
plus riches en matière organique.

Propriétés physiques des sols. L'analyse
statistique des propriétés physiques de 21 sols
du Québec a montré que la matière organique
a un effet significatif sur les propriétés suivan-
tes: densité réelle des particules, rétention
d'eau à 33,3 kPa et 1,5 MPa, limites de
liquidité et de plasticité, densité maximum
lors de la compaction et minimum lors du
tassement, teneur en eau pour le maximum et
le minimum de densité. D'autre part, le conte-
nu en argile a un effet significatif sur la
rétention d'eau à 33,3 kPa et 1,5 MPa, l'indi-
ce de plasticité, les pourcentages d'agrégats
stables dans l'air et dans l'eau, les densités
maximum et minimum en compaction et tas-
sement, sur la conductivité hydraulique satu-
rée au minimum de tassement.

FERME EXPERIMENTALE
LA POCATIÈRE

Les céréales

Biologie et écologie des mauvaises herbes.
Un inventaire des mauvaises herbes présentes
dans les cultures céréalières du comté de
Kamouraska a débuté en 1980. Cent six
champs ont été visités et 120 espèces de
mauvaises herbes identifiées. Les espèces re-
trouvées dans plus de 50% des champs sont le
chiendent, la vesce jargeau, le chénopode
blanc, l'ortie royale, le pissenlit, la stellaire
graminoïde, la renouée liseron et la spargoute.
Le chiendent était présent dans 90% des
champs avec une densité moyenne de 39 tiges
par mètre carré.

Régie. L'azote dans l'orge a quadruplé la
phytomasse du chénopode blanc alors que
celle de la spargoute et de l'ortie royale a été
peu affectée. Le propanil (1,0 kg/ha), le
metribuzin (0,3 kg/ha) et le diclofop-méthyl
(0,7 kg/ha) ont assuré une excellente répres-
sion de la sétaire glauque dans l'orge.

Les plantes fourragères

Chiendent. La répression du chiendent a
amélioré l'établissement et la persistance du
trèfle rouge et de la luzerne. En 1980, la
couverture des légumineuses était de 35%
dans la parcelle témoin et de 88% dans la
parcelle où le chiendent avait été réprimé avec

le BAS 9052 en 1979 à l'établissement. Sur
les semis de 1980, à la première coupe, la
couverture de la luzerne était de 52% dans le
témoin et de 97% lorsque le chiendent a été
réprimé avec le BAS 9052 ou le TF 1 169. En
septembre, la couverture de la luzerne était de
35% dans le témoin et de 93% dans les
parcelles traitées avec les herbicides.

Biologie et écologie des mauvaises herbes.
Un inventaire des mauvaises herbes présentes
dans les prairies de première année de produc-
tion dans le comté de Kamouraska a été mené
en 1980. Le chiendent, la céraiste vulgaire, le
plantain majeur et la stellaire graminoïde
étaient présents dans tous les champs visités.
Le chiendent était la mauvaise herbe la plus
importante avec une densité de 224 plants par
mètre carré.

Dans le maïs à ensilage, 52 espèces de
mauvaises herbes ont été dénombrées. Le
chiendent est la mauvaise herbe la plus impor-
tante (29 tiges par mètre carré) suivi de la
prêle des champs (27 tiges par mètre carré).
Les autres espèces relativement importantes
sont la sétaire glauque, la vesce jargeau, le
pissenlit, le chénopode blanc, le pied-de-coq et
l'ortie royale.

Régie du semis. En semis direct, l'étude du
degré d'établissement de quatre espèces four-
ragères effectuée en période de sécheresse sur
trois types de sol a été variable. Sur le loam
graveleux Saint-André, le mil et le trèfle
rouge se sont les mieux implantés, la luzerne
s'y est très peu implantée et le brome pas du
tout. Sur l'argile Kamouraska, c'est le trèfle
rouge qui s'est le mieux établi, suivi de la
luzerne et du mil, avec une absence quasi
totale du brome. Sur l'argile Du Creux, la
meilleure espèce a été le mil suivi de près par
le trèfle rouge, puis de la luzerne et finalement
du brome dont la présence a été encore une
fois très faible. Il semble que le brome soit
l'espèce la moins apte à s'implanter en semis
direct.

Régie de coupe. Les semis de trèfle rouge
du printemps de 1978 soumis à différents
régimes de coupe ont subi au cours de l'hiver
1979-1980 des dommages très sérieux. Sur
l'argile Kamouraska la destruction du semis a
été complète. Les résultats obtenus sur le
loam graveleux Saint-André ont montré que
la survie du cultivar Hungaropoli était supé-
rieure à celle de Lakeland.

Besoins en azote. Les besoins en azote des
graminées fourragères peuvent être satisfaits

156

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

soit par des applications d'engrais azotés soit
en les cultivant en présence de légumineuses.
Le mil et la luzerne ont été semés selon
différents modes de semis et ont reçu des doses
variables d'azote minéral. Le rendement de la
luzerne pure a été légèrement influencé par
les applications d'azote peu importe le mode
de semis. La réponse du mil pur aux applica-
tions d'engrais azotés a été linéaire. Toutes les
associations mil-luzerne ont répondu faible-
ment aux applications d'azote minéral.

Les pommes de terre

Les herbicides. Le buttage à la levée a
réduit l'activité du metolachlor d'un mois.
L'activité de l'EPTC n'a pas été réduite. Le
buttage à la levée a fait augmenter les mau-
vaises herbes surtout entre les rangs par
rapport au buttage au début de la floraison.
Plusieurs herbicides, tels que l'alachlor et le
metolachlor, donnent une excellente répres-
sion des graminées annuelles lorsqu'appliqués
avant la levée. Après la levée, nous avons
obtenu des résultats très prometteurs avec le
diclofop-méthyl, le BAS 9052 et le TF 1 169.

Les défanants. Il est encore difficile de
prévoir les effets des défanants d'année en
année. Leur activité est réduite par une fertili-
sation élevée en azote. L'éthephon n'a pas
réussi à corriger cette situation.

Sélection de lignées. L'essai avancé d'adap-
tation et l'essai d'adaptation auront quatre et
onze lignées provenant des lignées sélection-
nées à La Pocatière en 1979 et 1980. En 1980,
1579 nouvelles lignées provenant de Frederic-
ton (N.-B.) et sélectionnées au stade de qua-
tre buttes (F2) ont été plantées sur deux sols.
À l'arrachage, 162 lignées ont été sélection-
nées.

L'essai hâtif effectué en collaboration avec
les stations provinciales a permis de tester 22
lignées. Les résultats de rendement et de
croustille comparés aux quatre témoins ont
permis de déterminer les meilleures (7) à La
Pocatière.

Les arbres fruitiers. Les pommiers ont
produit des fruits de très bonne qualité en
1980. Les meilleurs rendements sont obtenus
lorsque la greffe est faite l'année après l'im-
plantation du porte-greffe.

Les pruniers ont eu une très bonne floraison
mais les fleurs ont avorté entraînant des ren-
dements pratiquement nuls (quelques fruits
par arbre). De plus, les cultivars Crescent,

Gfeenville, Lanark et Pipestone ont été les
plus sensibles à la criblure des feuilles.

Les poiriers plantés en 1944 ont donné de
bons rendements (221,3 kg/arbre) et c'est
Phileson qui a produit le plus (302,0 kg/
arbre).

FERME EXPERIMENTALE
NORMANDIN

Les céréales

Blé de printemps. Un peu plus de 3200
sélections d'épis ont été faites dans du maté-
riel en générations F2 à F5 et elles viennent
s'ajouter aux 9 lignées en essais préliminaires,
aux 26 observations avancées et aux 21 en
essais coopératifs et qui ont été identifiées
pour leur précocité et leur rendement en
grain. Quelques sélections ont produit plus
que le groupe témoin, ce qui laisse prévoir des
possibilités d'homologation à court terme.

Le blé Glenlea est moins exigeant en fumu-
re azotée que le blé Opal, d'après les résultats
de 3 ans. En effet, son rendement a été le plus
élevé à la suite d'un apport de 90 kg/ha de N
fractionné à parts égales au semis et au
tallage, alors qu'Opal a mieux répondu avec
120 kg/ha de N apportés aux mêmes périodes.
Les deux cultivars ont produit plus de grain à
la suite de ce mode de fertilisation qu'à des
taux supérieurs ou inférieurs de N au semis
seulement ou en application fractionnée. La
qualité du grain n'a pas été affectée par les
taux et périodes de fumure.

L'orge. Les rendements de l'orge cv. Lau-
rier ont été de 2605 et 2970 kg/ha pour des
taux de semis respectifs de 130 et 90 kg/ha; le
taux de semis le plus élevé a fait diminuer la
production de 12,3% par rapport au taux
normal.

L'influence de quatre époques de labour,
soit le 15 août, 15 septembre, 15 octobre et 15
mai, n'a pas été significative sur la production
de l'orge cv. Loyola, mais le labour de prin-
temps a fait diminuer la qualité du grain par
rapport aux labours de fin de saison. Par
ailleurs, il y a eu augmentation de la biomasse
de mauvaises herbes annuelles avec le retard
des dates de labour et une diminution parallè-
le des vivaces. La densité des mauvaises her-
bes était de 121, 119, 79 et 98 plants par
mètre carré respectivement, pour les dates
mentionnées.

La régie de la gourgane. Depuis 1978, on a
démontré que sous nos conditions climatiques

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC

157

il est préférable de semer la gourgane entre le
10 et le 20 mai, car plus tôt, la production de
graines diminue de 400 kg/ha et, après le 20
mai, la diminution atteint 900 kg/ha par
rapport à la période précitée.

Des observations sur la production de grai-
nes et certaines données météorologiques ont
été faites dans le but d'établir une corrélation
possible entre production et facteurs climati-
ques, entre autres, la pluviométrie et la
nébulosité.

L'exploitation de trois graminées fourragè-
res. On a étudié l'influence de cinq stades de
croissance durant trois années sur les rende-
ments et les compositions organique et miné-
rale des fléoles Climax et Drummond, des
bromes Saratoga et Canadien et des dactyles
Hercules et Rideau. Au premier cycle de
végétation, le rendement en matière sèche des

six cultivars a augmenté progressivement jus-
qu'au stade de la grenaison. La plus haute
production annuelle a été atteinte chez la
fléole et le brome lorsque la première coupe a
été prélevée au stade de la floraison. Chez le
dactyle, il n'y a pas eu de différence significa-
tive dans les rendements totaux du stade de la
montaison au stade de la grenaison. La protéi-
ne brute, les matières grasses et les cendres
ont baissé, et la fibre brute a augmenté gra-
duellement avec l'avancement en âge des
plantes. Tous les cultivars, en vieillissant,
contenaient de moins en moins de phosphore
et de potassium. En règle générale, les varia-
tions dans les teneurs en calcium, sodium, fer,
cuivre, manganèse et zinc n'étaient pas reliées
aux stades de croissance. À l'intérieur de
chaque espèce, il n'y a eu que quelques diffé-
rences significatives entre les cultivars au
point de vue rendement et composition
chimique.

PUBLICATIONS

Recherches

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caractérisation partielle d'un antibiotique qu'il
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Antoun, H.; Bordeleau, L.M.; Prévost, D.; Lachan-
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nitrate reductase and symbiotic nitrogen fixa-
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Boivin, B. 1980. A Survey of Canadian herbaria.
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Bolduc, R. 1980. Une méthode enzymologique à
appliquer pour la sélection de plantes résistan-
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Bordeleau, L.M.; Lalande, R.; Antoun, H. 1980.
Oxygen and mannitol consumption of Rhizo-
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Bullen, M.R. 1980. A photo box for the analysis of
canopy in layers. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:771-

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Couture, L. 1980. Assessment of severity of foliage
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De Kimpe, C.R.; Laverdière, M.R. 1980. Amor-
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158

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Paquin, R.; Ladouceur, G. 1980. Efficacité des
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Paquin, R.; Mehuys, G. 1980. Influence of soil
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Rioux, R.; Comeau, J.E. 1980. Influence des sytè-
mes de culture sur la croissance et le rende-
ment des pommes de terre. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:591-598.

St-Pierre, C.A.; Dubuc, J.P. 1980. Le blé d'autom-
ne pour border les parcelles d'orge. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:273-275.

Surprenant, J.; Richard, C; Guibord, M.O'C; Ga-
gnon, C. 1980. Étude de quelques aspects de
l'évaluation des pertes dues aux maladies chez
la luzerne. Phytoprotection 61:1-8.

Werner, P. A.; Rioux, R. 1979. Agropyron repens.
dans: Mulligan, G. A. (éd.). La biologie des
mauvaises herbes du Canada, communications
1 à 32. Agric. Can. Publ. 1693. Ottawa, p.
266-280.

Willemot, C. 1979. Chemical modification of lipids
during frost hardening, dans: Lyons, J.M.;
Graham, D.; Raison, J.K. Low temperature
stress in crop plants. Academic Press, New
York. p. 411-431.

Willemot, C. 1980. Sterols in hardening winter
wheat. Phytochemistry 19:1071-1073.

Willemot, C; Pelletier, L. 1980. Effect of light and
temperature on linolenic acid levels and frost
resistance of winter wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:649-656.

Divers

Batra, T.R.; McAllister, A.J.; Chesnais, J. P.; Daris-
se, J.P.F.; Lee, A.J.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. Comparison of several pu-
reline bull groups for reproductive traits and
calving ease of their daughters. J. Dairy Sci. 63
(Suppl. 1):97 (Résumé).

Belzile, L. 1979. Degré de réalisation du potentiel
de productivité des terres agricoles (fourrages
et céréales) du comté de Kamouraska. Serv.
Can. Faune. 20 p.

Belzile, L. 1979. Évaluation de cultivars de dactyle
pour le Québec. Bull. C.P.V.Q. 12 p.

Belzile, L. 1980. Le rendement du dactyle semé
dans l'argile de Kamouraska. Can. Agric.
25(3):21-22.

Belzile, L. 1980. Winter survival on alfalfa (1978-
79) at La Pocatière. dans: Ouellet, CE. Survey
report on the winter survival of alfalfa ( 1 978—
79). Agrometeorol. Sect., Land Resour. Res.
Inst., Res. Branch, Agric. Can., Ottawa Misc.
Bull. 14.

Belzile, L. 1980. Compte-rendu du voyage du comi-
té des herbages du C.P.V.Q. .dans les Mariti-
mes. 12 p.

Belzile, L; Desjardins, R. 1979. Revue de littératu-
re sur l'établissement des plantes fourragères.
C.P.V.Q. 134 p.

Bolduc, R. 1979. Technique pour l'échantillonnage
des cultures dans le sol gelé. Can. Agric.
24(4):19-21.

Chesnais, J.P.; McAllister, A.J.; Darisse, J.P. F.;
Lee, A.J.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.; Winter,
K.A. 1980. Milk, protein and fat yield during
the first three lactations of foundation phase
cows in the National Cooperative Dairy Cattle
Breeding Project. Can. Soc. Anim. Sci. Annu.
Meet. (Résumé).

Chesnais, J. P.; Batra, T.R; Darisse, J.P.F.; Hick-
man, CG; Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Roy,
G.L.; Vesely, J.A.; Winter, K.A. 1979. Com-
parison among eight strains of bulls for the
milk production of their daughters. J. Dairy
Sci. 62 (Suppl. 1 ):1 86 (Résumé).

Comeau, A. 1980. Un ennemi méconnu des céréa-
les: le virus de la jaunisse nanisante de l'orge.
Le meunier québécois, avril 1980, p. 14 et 18.

Comeau, A. 1980. La résistance au virus de la
jaunisse nanisante de l'orge chez Avena steri-
lis. Bull, des Ressources phytogénétiques du
Canada (PGR) no 8, avril 1980, p. 6-7.

Comeau, J.E.; Rioux, R. 1980. Les pommes de
terre, faut les connaître. Bull. Agric, mars
63:20-25.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SA1NTE-FOY, QUÉBEC

159

Couture, L. 1979. Évaluation de traitements de
semences chez l'orge. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979,
p. 464-465.

Couture, L. 1979. Évaluation de traitements de
semences chez l'avoine. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979,
p. 491-492.

Couture, L. 1980. Mélanges céréaliers et maladies.
Can. Agric. 25(2):18-20.

Deschênes, J.M. 1 980. The effect of various herbici-
des including BAS-9052, Bentazone, TF-1169
and 2, 4 - DB on weed control for the establi-
shment of a mixture of alfalfa and timothy.
G.N.C. Eastern Canada, p. 29-31.

Deschênes, J.M. 1980. TF-1169 and Agral 90 on
plots heavily infested with quack grass. Com.
d'experts sur la malherbologie de l'est du
Canada, p. 335.

Deschênes, J.M. et al. 1980. Mauvaises herbes,
renseignements généraux sur la répression.
C.P.V.Q. Agdex 640, 35 p.

Drapeau, R. 1979. Évaluation de cultivars de trèfle
rouge et de trèfle blanc. Bull. C.P.V.Q. 1 2 p.

Drapeau, R.; Laliberté, C. 1979. Résultats d'essais
en plantes fourragères à Normandin. Ferme
expérimentale, Agric. Can., Normandin, Qué-
bec. 41 p.

Drapeau, R. 1980. Winter survival of alfalfa
(1978-79) at Normandin. dans: Survey report
of the winter survival of alfalfa. Misc. Bull. 4,
Agrometeorol. Sect., Land Resour. Res. Inst.,
Agric. Can., Ottawa.

Dubuc, J. P. 1980. Rapport d'amélioration de l'orge.
Groupe du Québec, janvier, 1 68 p.

Dubuc, J.P. 1980. Rapport d'amélioration de l'avoi-
ne. Groupe du Québec, janvier, 166 p.

Dubuc, J.P. 1980. Catalogue des stocks génétiques.
Station de recherche, Agric. Can., Ste-Foy,
Québec, 17 p.

Dubuc, J. P. 1980. Document d'analyse de la situa-
tion des programmes d'amélioration, le marché
et son potentiel versus l'implication des compa-
gnies en amélioration des céréales. Comité des
céréales (C.P.V.Q.), septembre, 5 p.

Frève, A. 1979. Mise au point d'une méthode de
sélection de la luzerne pour la résistance au
Fusarium roseum var. acuminatum. Thèse de
maîtrise, université Laval, Québec. 74 p.

Frève, A. 1980. Essais régional hâtif 1979. p. 19-22,
dans: Banville, G.J. éd. Rapport annuel 1979
des essais régionaux de pommes de terre au
Québec. Station de recherches sur la pomme
de terre, Les Buissons, comité du Saguenay.
Mars.

Gaudette, A.; Zizka, J. 1980. Valeurs fertilisantes
des excréments d'animaux à la ferme. Colloque
sur les fumiers, C.P.V.Q. Saint-Hyacinthe, 9
octobre 1980, p. 4-32.

Hope, H.J. 1980. The use of proteases to detect
frost hardiness associated changes in protein
synthesis by winter wheat seedlings. Proc.
CSPP20:23.

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T.R.; Chesnais,
J. P.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. Breed group differences for
growth in pureline foundation phase of the
National Cooperative Dairy Cattle Breeding
Project. Abstr. 72 Annu. Meet. Am. Soc.
Anim. Sci. p. 122.

Lemay, F.; Rioux, R. 1980. Inventaire des mauvai-
ses herbes, comté de Kamouraska, 1980. Com.
d'experts sur la malherbologie, Rapport de
recherches, p. 603.

Lemieux, C; Morriset, P.; Deschênes, J.M. 1980.
Patrons de mortalité dans des populations vé-
gétales pures et mixtes à haute densité, Ann.
ACFAS. Mai.

McAllister, A.J.; Batra, T.R.; Chesnais, J.P.; Daris-
se, J.P.F.; Lee, A.J.; Roy, G.L.; Vesely, J.A.;
Winter, K.A. 1980. The Canadian dairy cattle
selection and crossbreeding project. Nordic
Symposium on Crossbreeding in Dairy Cattle.
Edinburgh.

Michaud, R. 1979. Évaluation de cultivars de luzer-
ne pour le Québec. Rapport du C.P.V.Q., 69 p.

Michaud, R. 1980. Attention aux luzernes sans
nomé Bull. Agric, février 1980, p. 56 et 61.

Michaud, R.; Richard, C; Willemot, C; Frève, A.
1979. Breeding for root and crown rot in alfal-
fa. Comptes rendus de la "Third Eastern Fora-
ge Improvement Conference", Ottawa, p. 44.

Paquin, R. 1979. Use of the synthetic aperture
radar in assessment of winter damages to crops
and as a tool for crop identification. Proc.
Agric. Working Group, Can. Adv. Com. on
Remote Sensing 8:21-22.

Paquin, R. 1980. Les plantes survivront-elles à
l'hiver de 1979-80? Nouvelles de la recherche
80.03.03.2F; La Terre de Chez Nous 51(2):14;
Le Meunier québécois 14(7):9.

Paquin, R. 1980. Influence of environment upon
acclimation and frost resistance of alfalfa.
Proc. CSPP, Univ. of Calgary, juillet 14-17, p.
3.

Paquin, R. 1980. Crop classification study using
SAR. dans: The airborne SAR project, a com-
ponent of the Canadian SURSAT program by
Intera Environments Consultants Ltd. Report
ASP-80-l:42.

160

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Richard, C; Willemot, C. i 980. La luzerne malade Rioux, R. 1980. Onze rapports sur des essais de
plus endommagée par le froid? Bull. Agric. différents herbicides sur plusieurs mauvaises

Mars, p. 85-87. herbes et plantes cultivées. Com. d'experts sur

la malherbologie, Rapport de recherches, p. 15,

Rioux, R. 1980. Nuisibilité du chiendent dans l'or- 38-39, 206, 225-226, 244, 349-350, 403, 432.

ge. Phytoprotection 61:114.

Turnbull, J.E.; Munroe, J.A.; Darisse, J.P.F.; Wil-

Rioux, R. 1980. Interférence des mauvaises herbes son, G. 1979. Should silo foundations be placed

dans les pommes de terre. Phytoprotection below frost? ASAE Paper no. 79-4506, ASAE

6 1 : 1 20. Winter Meet., New Orleans.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC 161

Station de recherches
Saint- Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec

CADRES PROFESSIONNELS

C.B. Aube, B.Sc.
M. Hudon, L.Sc

Y. BONNEAU

R. Thériault, B.Sc

(Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
(Agr.), M.Sc. (Ent.)

Doc.Ing.

Directeur
Directeur adjoint
Services administratifs
Génie agricole

I. Wallace, B.A., M.L.S.

Support scientifique

Bibliothèque

Cultures fruitières

G.L. Rousselle, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Chef de section; génétique

L. Bérard, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

N.J. Bostanian, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

L.J. Coulombe, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

R.L. Granger, B.Sc, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

M. Lareau, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

R.O. Paradis, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

I. Rivard, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc.

Physiologie de la sénescence
Acarologie-entomologie
Phytopathologie
Physiologie
Gestion des cultures
Écologie de la faune entomologique
Écologie et contrôle de la faune
entomologique

Cultures maraîchères

P. Martel, B.A., B.Sc, Ph.D.

Chef de section; toxicologie

G. Bélair, B.Sc.

Nématologie

A. Bélanger, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Chimie des pesticides

D. Benoît, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Malherbologie

R. Bernier, B.A., B.Sc. (Agr.)2

Gestion des cultures

J.A. Campbell, B.A., B.Ed., M.Sc.

, Ph.D.

Chimie des sols

M.S. Chiang, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc,

Ph.D.

Génétique

R. Crête, L.S.A., M.Sc.

Phytopathologie

J. Millette, B.Sc (Agr. Eng.), M.Sc.

Hydrologie

L. Parent, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Physique des sols

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUÉBEC

163

B. Vigier, B.Sc. (Agr.)

Gestion des cultures

Ferme expérimentale, L'Assomption

P.P. Lukosevicius, Diplomlandwirt, M.Sc., Ph.D. Surintendant

N. Arnold, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Physiologie

M. Dupré, B.A., 3S.A. Protection

M. Lamarre, B.Sc. (Agr.) Phytotechnie

I.S. Ogilvie, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D. Génétique

Départ

J.J. Jasmin, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc. Directeur

Promu Directeur général au Bureau régional de la
Région du Québec

GOUVERNEMENT DE LA PROVINCE DE QUÉBEC

Protection des vergers

M. Mailloux, B.S.A., M.Sc. Entomologie

'Détaché de la Direction générale des aiïaircs financières et administratives. Division des bibliothèques,
actuellement en Haïti sur un projet de TACDI.

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

Ce rapport résume les principaux résultats de recherches obtenus à la station de
recherches à Saint- Jean-sur-Richelieu et à la ferme expérimentale de L'Assomption. Saint-
Jean est responsable de la recherche sur le maïs, les légumes, les fruits et les petits fruits ainsi
que sur la gestion des sols organiques et poursuit ses travaux à Sainte-Clothilde, Frelighsburg,
L'Acadie et Farnham. La région de Saint-Jean, située au sud de Montréal, est caractérisée par
la présence de sols organiques et minéraux dont une partie est située en bordure des
Appalaches, ce qui favorise une agriculture variée. La ferme expérimentale de L'Assomption,
située à quelque 80 km au nord de Saint-Jean, est responsable de la recherche sur le tabac, les
plantes ornementales et l'amélioration du maïs; la ferme à L'Assomption possède du terrain à
Lavaltrie pour ses travaux sur le tabac.

L'année 1980 a été marquée par l'attribution de contrats à des conseils pour préparer les
plans du nouvel édifice laboratoire-bureau qui devrait être terminé en 1983. Ce rapport donne
les grandes lignes de nos réalisations en 1980. Ces réalisations sont caractérisées par des
progrès substantiels dans l'amélioration des crucifères et du tabac, la gestion du maïs et la
protection des arbres fruitiers et des légumes. Pour de plus amples renseignements sur nos
réalisations, pour des tirés-à-part de nos publications, vous pouvez communiquer avec la station
de recherches, Direction générale de la recherche, Agriculture Canada, Saint-Jean-sur-
Richelieu, C.P. 457, Province de Québec, J3B 6Z8.

Claude B. Aube
Directeur

ARBRES FRUITIERS

Conduite des pommiers nains et semi-nains

À Frelighsburg, on trouve les cultivars
Mcintosh et Spartan greffés sur M9, M7,
Ottawa 3 et M26 qui composent des pom-
miers plantés à 740, 1480 et 2960 unités par
hectare. Ces arbres formés en «cloche étroi-
te», «palmette oblique», «palmette de Van
Roechoudt» et «cône de plein vent» ont donné
leur quatrième récolte en 1980.

Cette année, les plus hauts rendements
proviennent d'arbres de Spartan/Ottawa 3
plantés à 2960 unités par hectare et formés en
cloche étroite. Cette combinaison qui permet
d'obtenir un bénéfice net de $3438/ha atteint
presque le seuil de rentabilité avec un rende-
ment de 23 051 kg/ha. La combinaison Spar-
tan/M9 à 2960 unités par hectare en cloche
étroite est la deuxième en importance. Son
rendement est de 20 424 kg/ha. Par contre,
McIntosh/M9 en palmette de Van Roechoudt
à 740 pommiers par hectare avec un rende-
ment de 555 kg/ha est la combinaison la
moins rentable. Les pommiers de Spartan en
cône de plein vent à 1480/ha donnent une
moyenne générale de 13 500 kg/ha.

Evaluation de cultivars

Poiriers. À Frelighsburg, en 1980, des poi-
riers de 1 1 ans provenant de cultivars ou
sélections Krôl Sobiesky, Beauté Flamande,
Phileson, Enie, Miney, Moe, Meney, 066-
0361, Patten, O-301 et Païersmith ont rappor-
té respectivement 54, 50, 38,4, 29,6, 26,5,
22,8, 16,2, 5,2, 5,0 et 1,5 kg en moyenne par
arbre. Cet automne à La Pocatière, des poi-
riers âgés de 20 ans provenant de cultivars
Favorite de Clapp, Beurré Bosc et Bartlett
donnent respectivement une moyenne de 76,
28,4 et 9,6 kg par arbre tandis que d'autres
poiriers âgés de 36 ans provenant de cultivars
Phileson, Miney, Favorite de Clapp, Menie,
0-291 ont une récolte de 287,9, 264, 196,1,
157,8 et 48,8 kg en moyenne par arbre. Dans
le but d'évaluer 25 nouveaux cultivars, des
parcelles de poiriers sont plantées à Frelighs-
burg et Rockburn cette année.

Pruniers. L'hiver de 1979-1980 s'est avéré
l'un des plus destructeurs des pruniers de la
région de Frelighsburg. Ainsi dans un verger
expérimental de 3 ans contenant 30 cultivars
et sélections, 10 ont subi de très graves pertes
par le froid. Aucun de ces arbres n'a encore
commencé à rapporter. Dans un autre verger
expérimental composé de pruniers de 5 ans à
La Pocatière, les cultivars et sélections qui

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUÉBEC

165

commencent à rapporter cette année sont:
Reine Claude, Damas Bleue, V-33024, Brad-
shaw, V-33028, Early Italian et Grosse Bleue.
Les quatre premiers se montrent particulière-
ment précoces et rapportent une moyenne de
3 à 5 kg par arbre.

Griottiers. À Frelighsburg, des arbres de 10
ans provenant de cultivars Marasca di Os-
theim, Montmorency, Suda Hardy, North
Star et English Morello rapportent respective-
ment une moyenne de 33,4, 29,3, 28,9, 16,6 et
4,1 kg par arbre. Le cultivar North Star se
montre très sensible au mildiou. Les deux
cultivars dont les noyaux des fruits s'enlèvent
le mieux sont Marasca di Ostheim et
Montmorency.

Protection des pommeraies

Maladies. Chacun des sept différents pro-
grammes de fongicides appliqués en eradica-
tion à six reprises au cours de la saison ont
réussi à réprimer suffisamment la tavelure sur
le feuillage des pommiers, mais seuls le Bay-
core 50 WP utilisé aux taux de 1,2 et 1,6 kg/
ha et le CGA 6425 1 1 OWP à 1 ,0 kg/ha ont pu
fournir plus de 95% de fruits sains à la récolte.
Dans une autre série d'essais, ces deux mêmes
produits ont manifesté un pouvoir d'éradica-
tion de la maladie comparable à celui du
fongicide Easout 70WP.

Insectes. Observée sur le pommier surtout
au printemps, la punaise terne s'attaque alors
aux bourgeons. Les dégâts sur les fruits plus
tard dans la saison seraient attribuables prin-
cipalement aux larves de la punaise de la
pomme et de la lygide du pommier ainsi que,
à un moindre degré, à celles de Heterocordy-
lus malinus (Reuter) et de la punaise de la
molène. Toutefois, l'imputation des piqûres à
une espèce de punaise en particulier demeure
souvent difficile.

Appliqués aux stades du pré-bouton rose et
du calice, les pyréthrinoïdes Ambush, Bel-
mark et Ripcord se sont avérés également
efficaces pour réduire simultanément les dé-
gâts des punaises et du charançon de la prune
sur les pommes, mais le fait d'effectuer une
troisième application 2 semaines après le
calice n'a pas amélioré la répression des pu-
naises.

Suite à l'application du diméthoate sur des
pommiers Cortland au stade du bouton rose
pour prévenir les dégâts de la punaise terne
sur les bourgeons à fruit, le nectar extrait des
fleurs 5 et 6 jours après le traitement conte-
nait respectivement 5,20 et 3,32 ppm du

produit insecticide. Comme la dose létale de
diméthoate pour les abeilles est estimée à 95
ng par ouvrière, un taux de 3 à 5 ppm de cet
insecticide dans le nectar des fleurs serait
considéré comme fatal aux abeilles butineu-
ses. En conséquence, pour protéger ces insec-
tes pollinisateurs, l'emploi de ce produit en
période pré-florale sur les pommiers devrait se
faire au moins une semaine avant l'éclosion
des fleurs, c'est-à-dire normalement avant
l'apparition du bouton rose.

Par ailleurs, une étude effectuée dans un
verger expérimental à Frelighsburg a permis
de démontrer la grande importance des insec-
tes pollinisateurs (abeilles domestiques et
abeilles sauvages) pour l'obtention d'une, ré-
colte commercialement rentable et de déter-
miner l'influence de certains facteurs abioti-
ques, comme la température, l'humidité
relative, le vent, et autres, sur l'activité de ces
précieux auxiliaires.

PETITS FRUITS

Bleuet. Même après un hiver sans neige et
des températures minimum atteignant -26°C,
la productivité de la plupart des cultivars de
bleuet en corymbe à l'essai s'est accrue en
1980 pour atteindre des rendements allant
jusqu'à 25 000 kg/ha. Les cultivars Bluecrop,
Blueray et Berkeley s'avèrent toujours les plus
productifs. Les observations cytologiques de
plusieurs clones indigènes de bleuet en corym-
be ont révélé que ces derniers étaient tétra-
ploïdes, mais que certains semblaient posséder
une certaine instabilité à ce niveau.

Framboise. Le cultivar Festival s'est encore
avéré le plus productif suivi de 70-11, 69-4
(sélection de Kentville), Matsqui et Haida.
Newburg, le cultivar le plus répandu au Qué-
bec, a été le moins productif. Le courbage des
tiges durant l'hiver, la production bis-annuel-
le, l'irrigation et l'apport de fumier n'ont pas
modifié de façon significative la productivité
de Willamette, Newburg et Festival. Les
traitements de fertilisation à l'azote ont été les
seuls à contribuer à une augmentation des
rendements.

LEGUMES

Amélioration génétique des crucifères,
résistance à la hernie

Deux lignées, issues d'une troisième généra-
tion de rétrocroisements entre le rutabaga,

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Brassica napus L., et le chou, B. oleracea L.
var. capitata L., ont produit plus de 70% de
plants résistants aux races 2 et 6 de Plasmo-
diophora brassicae Wor., organisme causant
la hernie des crucifères, lors d'essais en plein
champ en 1980. Ces plants résistants avaient
une pomme de grosseur moyenne, ferme, et de
couleur vert bleu foncé. De plus les tissus
foliaires de la pomme contenaient moins
d'ions thiocyanate (SCN"), précurseurs à la
formation de la goitrine qui peut causer le
goitre, que les tissus de plants infectés par la
hernie. Nous espérons produire à la station à
Saint-Jean des cultivars de crucifères résis-
tants à la hernie et à basse teneur en SCN".

Des croisements résistants à plusieurs races
de P. brassicae ont été effectués avec le
brocoli et le chou-fleur, et il reste à en amélio-
rer les qualités horticoles.

L'irradiation aux rayons gamma de semen-
ce de la lignée consanguine 8-41 qui est
résistante à la race 6 a produit un mutant
résistant à la race 2 de l'organisme causant la
hernie. La progéniture issue de cette mutation
a donné des plants résistants aux deux races
au cours des essais effectués en plein champ
en 1980.

Il est à noter que les gênes responsables de
la résistance et qui ont été transférés du
rutabaga au chou sont dominants tandis que
ceux produits par l'irradiation aux rayons
gamma sont récessifs. La production d'hybri-
des F, pour l'industrie sera plus facile en
utilisant le transfert de gênes résistants
dominants.

Gestion des sols organiques

De meilleurs rendements de carottes ont été
obtenus par le contrôle des niveaux de la
nappe phréatique et l'emploi de méthodes
culturales appropriées tout en réduisant l'af-
faissement du sol organique. Les rendements
d'oignons vendables ont été augmentés en
irriguant les cultures. L'insecticide isofenphos
appliqué sous forme granulaire au semis a été
très efficace pour contrôler la mouche de
l'oignon dans différents sols organiques et
persiste à 50% de la dose appliquée à la
récolte. À la récolte, 0,003 et 0,010 ppm
d'isofenphos sont retrouvés dans les bulbes
d'oignon alors que 3 et 8 ppm sont retrouvés
dans les racines traitées aux taux respectifs de
2 et 4 kg i.a./ha. Le manque d'oxygène crée
un stress aux cultures de carottes et ce stress a
été repéré au Northern Arm Bog et à Colinet

à Terre-Neuve ainsi qu'à Farnham et Sainte-
Clothilde au Québec. Ce stress dû au manque
d'oxygène est diminué par un meilleur draina-
ge et un meilleur choix des pratiques cultura-
les comme la culture sur billon.

Protection des légumes

Le Birlane s'est avéré supérieur à cinq
autres insecticides à l'essai pour la répression
de la mouche du chou. Tous les insecticides
testés incluant le Birlane ont été efficaces
contre la mouche de l'oignon.

Les populations de doryphore de la pomme
de terre des différentes régions du Québec
sont toutes résistantes au DDT et certaines au
carbaryl (Sevin). Les populations de la région
de Compton sont résistantes à tous les pestici-
des à l'exception des pyréthrinoïdes de synthè-
se.

Les nématicides oxamyl et aldicarb appli-
qués dans le sillon pour la carotte et à la volée
pour la laitue ont donné les meilleurs résultats
pour la répression du nematode cécidogène.
Pour une même population de nematodes, la
carotte GoldPak est la plus sensible, l'épinard,
la laitue et l'oignon sont plus tolérants.

MAÏS

Gestion de la production

Parmi les façons culturales, ce sont la
méthode conventionnelle, le semis sur billon et
le non-travail du sol qui ont donné les meil-
leurs rendements en comparaison de ceux
obtenus avec le labour-hersage fait soit à
l'automne, soit au printemps; cependant avec
la méthode conventionnelle, un plus faible
pourcentage d'humidité des grains à la récolte
fut observé.

TABAC

Production

Cultivars. Lors d'essais préliminaires de 22
lignées de tabac à cigare, les lignées L64-224
et L64-279 ont démontré une plus forte résis-
tance au pourridié noir que le cultivar
RH211.

Fertilisation. On a démontré que sur le sol
Soulanges, les engrais azotés influencent le
rendement, la qualité et le revenu. Le nitrate
de potasse procure le moins bon rendement.
Pour la qualité, l'urée et le phosphate d'am-
moniaque donnent des revenus identiques. Les

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUÉBEC

167

sources de phosphore et de potassium n'ont
pas eu d'influence sur les critères étudiés.

Sur le sol Uplands, les sources d'azote, de
phosphore et de potassium n'ont pas eu d'in-
fluence significative sur le rendement, la qua-
lité et le revenu.

Protection

Nematodes. Des essais de quatre nématici-
des chez cinq producteurs démontrent que les
nématicides fumigants améliorent nettement
le rendement lorsque la population est élevée.
Lorsqu'il y a association nématodes-champi-
gnons, les nématicides qui contiennent de la
chloropicrine s'avèrent les meilleurs.

La multiplication de Pratylenchus pene-
trans (Cobb) Filipjev et Stekh. dans 10 types
de sol à tabac à cigarette semble être reliée
directement au type de sol. La multiplication
des nematodes dans la rhizosphère des plants
de tabac suite à l'application de nématicides
fumigants est demeurée inexistante dans les
premiers 8 cm de profondeur durant toute la
saison de végétation. Dans la bande traitée, la
population augmente peu, mais beaucoup
dans celle non traitée.

Vers gris. Nous avons poursuivi et amélioré
l'élevage massif des vers gris au laboratoire en
vue surtout de la production des virus en
quantité suffisante pour les travaux en plein
champ et au laboratoire. De plus, nous avons

poursuivi l'étude de paramètres pouvant amé-
liorer la production de virus pour infection de
cultures cellulaires. La pathogénicité du virus
de la polyédrose nucléaire d'Agrotis segetum
pour les larves de vers gris en fonction des
stades I, III et V a été évaluée et quantifiée au
laboratoire.

Les effets synergétiques antagonistes de
mélange de virus ont été évalués au laboratoi-
re. Des larves ont été infectées simultanément
par le virus de la polyédrose cytoplasmique
(C.P.V.) d'Euxoa scandens (Riley) et par le
virus de la polyédrose nucléaire (N.P.V.),
d'A segetum. La mortalité des larves a été
évaluée et comparée à celle due à un seul
virus.

Des larves du troisième stade d'£. scandens
ont été infectées au laboratoire par le C.P.V.
et traitées par un insecticide (Ambush) à
différents temps post-infection (de zéro à 3
semaines). Des mortalités dues à l'insecticide
ont été significativement plus élevées dans le
cas des larves infectées en particulier depuis 4
à 7 jours.

Pour la première fois, le virus de la polyé-
drose nucléaire d'/L segetum a été expérimen-
té en plein champ sur les larves d'£\ scandens
de troisième stade. Des traitements en tuyau
par différentes doses de virus ont été pratiqués
et les mortalités larvaires ont été enregistrées
à différents temps. Les résultats prouvent
l'efficacité du N.P.V. pour tuer les larves.

PUBLICATIONS

Recherche

Arnold, N.P. et al. 1980. A kiln for curing small
lots of flue-cured tobacco. The Lighter
50(3):28-31.

Bostanian, N.J.; Paradis, R.O.; Pitre, D. 1980.
Essais de lutte chimique contre le puceron
lanigère du pommier, Eriosoma lanigerum
(Hausm.) dans le sud-ouest du Québec. Phyto-
protection 61(l):35-38.

Bostanian, N.J.; Paradis, R.O.; Pitre, D. 1980.
Pesticide evaluations against the European red
mite, Panonychus ulnii (Koch), infesting
young apple trees in a greenhouse. Phytopro-
tection61(2):61-64.

Bostanian, N.J.; Paradis, R.O.; Pitre, D.; Price,
K.C. 1980. Action de nouveaux pesticides con-
tre le tétranyque à deux points, Tetranychus
urticae Koch sur des fraisiers en serre. Phyto-
protection 61(l):30-34.

Campbell, J.A.; Millette, J.A.; Roy, M. 1980. An
inexpensive instrument for measuring soil wa-
ter table levels. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:575-577.

Chiang, B.Y.; Chiang, M.S.; Grant. W.F.; Crête,
R. 1980. Transfer of resistance to race 2 of
Plasmodiophora brassicae from Brassica na-
pus to cabbage {B. oleracea ssp. capitata). IV.
A resistant 18-chromosome B, plant and its B:
progenies. Euphytica 29:47-55.

Chiang, M.S.; Perron, J. P. 1980. Effects of seedling
density and soil moisture on attractiveness of
egg laying by the onion maggot. Phytoprotcc-
tion61(l):9-l2.

Coulombe, L.J.; Jacob, A. 1980. Eradication au-
tomnale de Venturia inaequalis pour réduire le
nombre de traitements contre la tavelure du
pommier la saison suivante. Phytoprotection
61(2):48-54.

168

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT WS0

Crête, R.; Chiang, M.S. 1980. Screening Brassicas
for resistance to clubroot, Plasmodiophora
brassicae Wor. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60( 1 ): 1 7-
19.

Hudon, M.; Chiang, M.S.; Shapiro, I.D.; Perever-
zev, D.S. 1980. Sovieto-Canadian entomologi-
cal investigations on the influence of resistant
and susceptible maize inbred lines on the fe-
cundity of the European corn borer Ostrinia
nubilalis (Hbn.). Ann. Soc. Entomol. Québec
25(l):36-54.

Hudon, M.; Martel, P. 1980. État des insectes
nuisibles dans certaines cultures du sud-ouest
du Québec en 1978. Ann. Soc. Entomol. Qué-
bec 25(2):68-71.

Khan, S.U.; Hamilton, H.A. 1980. Extractable and
bound (nonextractable) residues of prometryn
and its metabolites in an organic soil. Agric.
Food Chem. 28(1): 126.

Kozumplik, V.; Lamarre, M. 1980. Effects of plan-
ting distance, stage and height of topping on
some morphological characteristics of cigar to-
bacco. Arh. Poljopr. Nauke 32(1 18): 101-1 1 1.

Lamarre, M. 1980. L'influence du stade et du mode
d'application de certains drageonnicides sur la
composition du tabac à cigarette. Le Briquet
50(2):23-26.

Laporte, G. 1980. Influence des précipitations sur le
rendement du tabac à cigare. Le Briquet
50(3):25-28.

Lukosevicius, P.P. 1980. Tobacco culture in Que-
bec. The Lighter 50(3):5-l 1.

Mathur, S. P.; Bélanger, A.; Hamilton, H. A.; Khan,
S.U. 1980. Influence on microflora and persis-
tence of field-applied disulfoton, permethrin
and prometryn in an organic soil. Pedobiologia
20:237-242.

Ogilvie, I.S.; Kozumplik, V. 1980. Genetic analysis
of quantitative characters in cigar and pipe
tobacco, Nicotiana tabacum. I. Morphological
characters. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:173-182.

Ogilvie, I.S.; Laporte, G.; Hergert, G. 1980. Me-
chanization of harvesting and curing of stalk-
cut air-cured tobacco. The Lighter 50(3): 17-

25.

Parent, L.E.; Pauzé, F.J.; Bourbeau, G.A. 1980.
Méthode nouvelle de préparation de coupes
minces des tourbes et des gyttja. Can. J. Soil
Sci. 60:487-496.

Pion, S.; de Oliveira, D.; Paradis, R.O. 1980.
Agents pollinisateurs et productivité du fraisier
'Redcoat' Fragaria x ananassa Duch. Phyto-
protection61(2):72-78.

Rivard, L; Paradis, R.O.; Mailloux, M. 1980. Les
ravageurs des cultures fruitières du Québec en
1979. Ann. Soc. Entomol. Québec 25(2):77-80.

Vigier, B.; Campbell, J.A. 1980. Calibration of a
single gamma probe for measuring wet bulk
density in organic soil. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:133-
135.

Vigier, B.; Raghaven, G.S.V. 1980. Soil compaction
efTect in clay soils on common root rot in
canning peas. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60(4):42-

45.

Vrain, T.C.; Rousselle, G.L. 1980. Distribution of
plant-parasitic nematodes in Quebec apple or-
chards. Plant Dis. 64:582-583.

Divers

Bélanger, A. 1980. Effet des pluies acides sur les
terres agricoles. Le Richelieu Agric. , hebdo.,
Saint-Jean (Québec) (avril 1980).

Coulombe, L.J. 1980. Vous les voulez belles et
bonnes? Bull. Agric. (avril), p. 1 1 8, 1 20, 1 2 1 .

Coulombe, L.J. 1980. Framboisiers et gadeliers «ne
viennent pas tout seuls». Bull. Agric. (mai), p.
16, 17, 18,21.

Hudon, M. 1980. Assisting the Canadian seed corn
industry. Can. Agric, hiver 1980.

Hudon, M.; Vigier, B. 1980. En sol argileux, c'est
labour d'automne et hersage de printemps.
Bull. Agric. (mai), p. 58 et 60.

Lareau, M.J. 1980. On cultivera un jour des
bleuets. Bull. Agric. (juin).

Lareau, M.J.; Granger, R.L. 1980. Moins de fraises
cette année. Le Richelieu Agric. 4:29.

Lareau, M.J. 1980. La culture du bleuet au Qué-
bec. Station de recherches, Saint-Jean (Qué-
bec) Bull. Tech. 14,27 p.

Miiller, D.I.; Granger, R.L. 1980. Put your apple
trees in "tip top shape". Am. Fruit Grow.
100(1 1):9.

Martel, P. 1980. Gare aux doryphores de la pomme
de terre. Nouvelles et articles documentaires.
N° 1875. (30 mai 1980) p. 7-8.

Paradis, R.O. 1980. Lutte dirigée contre les insec-
tes. Nouvelles et articles documentaires. N°
1879. (juin 1980) p. 7-9.

Parent, L; Jasmin, J.J. 1980. Guide d'utilisation des
tourbières au Québec et dans les Maritimes.
Station de recherches, Saint-Jean (Québec)
Bull. Tech. 15,41 p.

Rayment, A. F.; Campbell, J.A. 1980. The influence
of different drainage techniques on water out-
flow, soil aeration and crop growth on a New-
foundland peat soil. 6th Int. Peat Congress,
Duluth, Minn., August 17-23, 1980.

Rivard, I. 1980. Les pomiculteurs sont-ils si mal
servis? La Terre de Chez-Nous, mars 1980, p.
3 et 24.

STATION DE RECHERCHES, SAINT-JEAN, QUÉBEC

169

ONTARIO REGION
RÉGION DE L'ONTARIO

C2s

Dr. J. J. Cartier

Dr. H. Baenziger Mr. G. B. Matthews

EXECUTIVE OF THE ONTARIO REGION
L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA RÉGION DE L'ONTARIO

Director General
Directeur général

J. J. Cartier, B.A., B.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Specialist
Spécialiste en programmes

H. Baenziger, Ing. Agr., M. Se, Ph.D.

Chief, Finance and Administration
Chef, finances et administration

G. B. Matthews

ONTARIO REGION m

PREFACE

In the reorganization of the Branch in August
1980, the research stations at Harrow, Delhi,
Vineland, and Ottawa; the London and Animal
research institutes; and the experimental farms at
Smithfield, Kapuskasing, and Thunder Bay were
brought together to form the new Ontario Region.
The two research institutes were renamed research
centres. Dr. J. J. Cartier was named Director
General. The total staff of the region numbers
about 780; the total budget is approximately $27
million.

The Animal Research Centre conducts research
in nine program areas, including animal waste
utilization, trace mineral and beef cattle nutrition,
dairy cattle breeding and production, dairy cattle
nutrition, swine production, poultry breeding, poul-
try nutrition, sheep production, and animal feed
safety and nutrition. Beef cattle nutrition is carried
out cooperatively with the Experimental Farm at
Kapuskasing, and one of the thrusts of this research
is to develop improved systems of beef production in
the clay belt of northern Ontario and western
Quebec.

The Ottawa Research Station carries out plant
breeding programs in cereal crops, forage crops,
soybeans, and ornamentals. These programs are
supported by research in various aspects of produc-
tion technology and feature disciplines such as plant
pathology and physiology, entomology, cytogenet-
ics, and weed science. A highlight during 1980 was
the substantial strengthening of the genetic engi-
neering team, to provide needed backup for the
breeding programs of the future.

The London Research Centre's major objectives
are in the areas of integrated pest management and
environmental quality. Integrated pest management
research aims to improve methods for the control of
important insect pests in field crops and stored
products while reducing the amount of chemicals
used. Improvements are also developed in plant
disease control methods. Environmental quality
research aims at elucidating factors that influence
pesticide behavior, persistence, and ultimate fate in
the environment. It also attempts to clarify the
effects of pesticides on nontarget organisms in the
soil and to assess the ecological impact of these
effects.

The Vineland Research Station research pro-
gram focuses on integrated pest management proce-
dures for orchard and vegetable crops, grapes, and
some forage crops. The primary objective is to
reduce the amount of chemical pesticides used
while maintaining the quality and quantity of
produce. A 1980 highlight for Vineland was the
organization and successful staging of the seventh
meeting of the International Council for the Study
of Viruses and Virus Diseases of the Grapevine.

The primary mandate of the Delhi Research
Station is to provide research support to the tobacco
industry in Ontario. However, results of research
are often applicable to tobacco production in
Quebec and in the Maritime Provinces. The pro-
gram at Delhi is directed toward development of
more efficient production technology, improved
cultivars, and improved tobacco quality. During
1980 plans were formulated and approved for a
research program on alternate crops for tobacco
soils. Initially, this research will focus on peanut
production technology and on certain aspects of
peanut quality.

The Harrow Research Station has one of the
most diverse programs in the Ontario Region. It
features breeding and production research in corn,
soybeans, winter wheat, field beans, and burley
tobacco, as well as in a variety of horticultural crops
including several tree fruit and vegetable species.
Improvement of pest control procedures, including
those for weed control, are important objectives of
research in most of these crops. During 1980,
Harrow Research Station scientists organized an
international workshop on peach canker, in an
effort to find new approaches to this serious
problem.

Two Ontario Region establishment directors
retired at the end of 1980: Dr. J. M. Fulton,
Director at Harrow; and Dr. A. J. McGinnis,
Director at Vineland. Dr. S. R. Miller was ap-
pointed Superintendent at the Smithfield Experi-
mental Farm.

Detailed information on the various station
programs may be obtained by writing to the
establishments concerned or by addressing inquiries
to Ontario Region Headquarters, Research Branch.
Agriculture Canada, Experimental Farm, Ottawa,
Ont. K1A0C6.

J. J. Cartier

174

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

PREFACE

Lors de la restructuration de la Direction géné-
rale, en août 1980, les stations de recherche
d'Harrow, de Delhi, de Vineland et d'Ottawa,
l'Institut de recherche de London, l'Institut de
recherche zootechnique et les fermes expérimenta-
les de Smithfield, de Kapuskasing et de Thunder
Bay ont été regroupés pour constituer la nouvelle
région de l'Ontario. Les deux instituts de recherche
seront dorénavant appelés centres de recherche. M.
JJ. Cartier a été nommé directeur général de cette
région. Le nombre total d'employés s'établit à
environ 780 et le budget se chiffre à environ $27
millions.

Le Centre de recherche zootechnique englobe
neuf grands domaines de recherches: la valorisation
des déchets d'origine animale; les oligo-éléments et
la nutrition des bovins de boucherie; l'élevage et la
production des bovins laitiers; la nutrition des
bovins laitiers; la production du porc; l'élevage de la
volaille; la nutrition de la volaille; la production du
mouton et l'innocuité et la valeur nutritive des
aliments pour animaux. Les recherches sur la
nutrition des bovins de boucherie réalisées en
collaboration avec la Ferme expérimentale de
Kapuskasing ont notamment pour objectif de met-
tre au point des systèmes améliorés de production
du boeuf dans la région de l'enclave argileuse du
Nord de l'Ontario et de l'Ouest du Québec.

La station de recherche d'Ottawa s'intéresse à
l'amélioration des céréales et des cultures fourragè-
res, du soja et des plantes ornementales. La réalisa-
tion de ces programmes est appuyée par des travaux
intéressant divers aspects des techniques de produc-
tion et utilisant des disciplines telles que la patholo-
gie et la physiologie végétales, l'entomologie, la
cytogénétique et la malherbologie. Un des faits
saillants de l'année 1980 a été le renforcement
substantiel de l'équipe de recherches en génétique
destinée à appuyer les futurs programmes
d'amélioration.

Les principaux objectifs poursuivis par le Centre
de recherche de London relèvent de la lutte antipa-
rasitaire intégrée et de la qualité de l'environne-
ment. La recherche sur la lutte antiparasitaire
intégrée vise à améliorer les méthodes de lutte
contre les ravageurs les plus importants des cultures
et des produits entreposés, tout en diminuant la
quantité d'insecticides chimiques utilisés. Des amé-
liorations sont aussi apportées dans les méthodes de
lutte contre les maladies des plantes. Les recherches
dans le domaine de la qualité de l'environnement
visent à déterminer les facteurs qui influent sur le
comportement des pesticides, leur rémanence et
leur devenir dans l'environnement. Elles cherchent
aussi à déterminer les effets des pesticides sur les
organismes inoffensifs ou utiles du sol et à évaluer
l'incidence écologique de ces effets.

Le programme de la station de recherche de
Vineland met surtout l'accent sur les méthodes de
lutte antiparasitaire intégrée dans les vergers, les
cultures maraîchères, les vignobles et certaines
cultures fourragères. Le principal objectif visé est
de diminuer la quantité de pesticides chimiques
utilisés tout en maintenant la qualité et la quantité
du produit. Un des faits saillants en 1980 à
Vineland a été l'organisation et la tenue de la
septième conférence du Conseil international sur
l'étude des virus et des viroses de la vigne.

La station de recherche de Delhi s'occupe princi-
palement du tabac, au profit de l'industrie du tabac
de l'Ontario. Toutefois, les résultats de ses recher-
ches s'appliquent souvent à la production de tabac
du Québec et des Maritimes. La station concentre
ses efforts sur la mise au point de méthodes de
production plus efficaces et de cultivars améliorés,
ainsi que sur l'amélioration de la qualité du tabac.
L'année 1980 a vu la planification et l'approbation
d'un programme de recherches portant sur les
cultures de rechange pour les terres à tabac. Au
début, la recherche mettra l'accent sur les techni-
ques de production d'arachides et sur certains
aspects de la qualité de ce produit.

Le programme de la station de recherche d'Har-
row est un des plus diversifiés de la région. Il
comporte la recherche sur l'amélioration et la
production du mais, du soja, du blé d'hiver, du
haricot de grande culture, du tabac Burley ainsi que
toute une gamme de cultures horticoles, dont
plusieurs espèces d'arbres fruitiers et de légumes.
L'amélioration des méthodes de lutte antiparasitai-
re, notamment contre les mauvaises herbes, compte
parmi les objectifs importants de la recherche pour
la plupart de ces cultures. En 1980, les chercheurs
de la station ont organisé un atelier international
sur le chancre de la pêche, afin de trouver de
nouvelles méthodes pour lutter contre cette grave
maladie.

Deux des directeurs de la région ont pris leur
retraite à la fin de 1980: M. J.M. Fulton, directeur
de la station d'Harrow; et M. A.J. McGinnis,
directeur de la station de Vineland. M. S.R. Miller
a été nommé régisseur de la ferme expérimentale de
Smithfield.

Pour de plus amples renseignements sur les
programmes des diverses stations de notre région,
prière d'écrire aux établissements de recherche
concernés ou de s'adresser à l'Administration cen-
trale de la région de l'Ontario, Direction générale
de la recherche, Agriculture Canada, Ferme expéri-
mentale, Ottawa (Ontario) Kl A 0C6.

JJ. Cartier

ONTARIO REGION

175

Animal Research Centre
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administration

R. S. Gowe, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
S. C. Thompson, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.
D. A. Léger, B.Sc.
D. L. Blakely, B.A.

J. R. Harrison, B.Sc.
G. R. Ford

Director

Deputy Director
Assistant to the Director
Chief, Administration and

Resources
Administrative Officer, Finance
Administrative Officer, Personnel

Scientific Support

K. G. Hilson,1 B.Sc., M.Sc.

K. B. Last1

H. M. Mucha1

A. Saboui2

I. G. Smith,3 B.Math.

S. G. Dykstra,4 B.A., B.L.S.

K. E. Hartin, D.V.M.

Project Manager; Computer
services
Systems and programming
Systems and programming
Systems and programming
Systems and programming
Librarian
Veterinarian

Animal Waste Utilization Program

N. K. Patni, B.Ch.E., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Livestock waste
utilization and farm pollution
abatement

Trace Mineral and Beef Cattle Nutrition Program

M. Ivan,5 Ing., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Nutrition and
metabolism of trace minerals, Mn,
Cu, Zn, Fe

animal research centre

177

M. Hidiroglou, D.V.M., Dip. Nutr.
D. M. Veira, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Vitamin D nutrition
Beef cattle nutrition

Dairy Cattle Breeding and Production Program

A. J. McAllister, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

T. R. Batra, B.V.Sc., M.V.Sc., M.S., Ph.D.

A. J. Hackett, D.V.M., M.Sc., Ph.D.
A. J. Lee, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

C. Y. Lin,6 B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
G. J. Marcus, B.A., Ph.D.
J. Nagai, B.Sc, D.Agr.

Program Chairman; Dairy cattle

breeding and production, applied

quantitative genetics
Dairy cattle breeding, applied

quantitative genetics
Female reproductive physiology
Dairy cattle breeding and

production, applied quantitative'

genetics
Dairy cattle breeding, applied

quantitative genetics
Maternal-embryonic physiological

interactions
Quantitative genetics, mice

Dairy Cattle Nutrition Program

F. D. Sauer, D.V.M., M.S., Ph.D.

A. S. Atwal,7 B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. D. Erfle, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
K. J. Jenkins, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. R. Lessard, B.A., B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
S. Mahadevan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. M. Teather, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Rumen
metabolism and nutrition

Forage evaluation and nutrition

Rumen metabolism and nutrition

Calf nutrition

Forage conservation and nutrition

Rumen physiology and ruminant
nutrition

Rumen microbiology

Swine Production Program

J. I. Elliot, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. F. Fortin, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.
D. G. Fraser,8 B.A., Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Sow nutrition
and artificial rearing
Carcass evaluation
Animal behaviorism — swine, sheep,
cattle
D. W. Friend, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Sow nutrition and reproduction

H. A. Robertson,9 B.Sc, Ph.D., C.Chem., F.R.I.C, Female reproductive physiology
F.R.S.E.

N. K. Sarkar, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.Sc Protein biochemistry

178

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Poultry Breeding Program

J. S. Gavora, Ing., C.Sc.

J. R. Chambers, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. W. Fairfull, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. S. Gowe, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

A. A. Grunder, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

K. G. Hollands, B.A., B.S.A., M.S.A.
C. P. W. Tsang, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Egg stock

breeding and management, broiler

breeding, disease resistance

genetics

Broiler breeding, goose research
Egg stock breeding and

management
Egg stock breeding and

management
Broiler breeding, eggshell quality

genetics, goose research, disease

resistance genetics
Eggshell quality genetics, disease

resistance genetics
Eggshell quality genetics

Poultry Nutrition Program

R. M. G. Hamilton, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

N. A. G. Cave, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

I. R. Sibbald,10 B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Nutrition and
physiology, eggshell quality

Amino acids and proteins, broiler
breeder nutrition and management

Avian energetics and feedingstuff
evaluation

Sheep Production Program

D. P. Heaney, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

L. Ainsworth, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. S. Fiser, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. A. Langford, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. N. P. Shrestha," B.V.Sc.A.H., M.S., Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Nutrition and
intensive management
Female reproductive physiology
Male reproductive physiology
Male reproductive physiology
Breeding and intensive management

Animal Feed Safety and Nutrition Program

H. L. Trenholm, B.Sc, Ph.D.

M. H. Akhtar, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
E. R. Farnworth, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

T. S. Foster, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. K. G. Kramer, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Chairman; Mycotoxins,

toxicology

Pesticide metabolism and residues
Lipids and mycotoxins nutrition

and biochemistry

Pesticide metabolism and residues
Lipid chemistry and biochemistry

animal research centre

Departures

J. P. Chesnais, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Dairy cattle breeding, applied

Transferred to Animal Production quantitative genetics

Division, Food Production and Inspection Branch,

January 1980
W. A. Jordan, B.S.A. Beef cattle management

Retired December 1980

VISITING SCIENTISTS

K. Saio, B.Sc, B.Agr., D.Agr. Biométrie aspects of animal

Faculty of Agriculture, breeding programs

University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
M. J. Schang, Ing., M.Sc. Feedingstuff evaluation

Instituto Nacional de Tecnologia Agropecuraria,

Pergamino, Argentina

Agriculture Institute of Canada exchange fellow

H. C. Patterson, B.Sc, M.Sc Sheep and goat production

Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer
Affairs, St. Michael, Barbados

Canadian Executive Service overseas fellow

L. A. F. de Avila, D.V.M. Swine and broiler chicken

Sadia-Concordia S.A. Industriae production
Comercio, Concordia, Brazil

International Atomic Energy Agency training fellow

B. Sakala Hormone radioimmunoassay
National Council for Scientific procedures

Research, Lusaka, Zambia

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council postdoctorate fellow

R. J. Boila, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Nonprotein nitrogen sources and

1978-1980 ruminant function

P. M. Hocking, B.Agr., Ph.D. Dairy cattle crossbreeding
1980-1981

C. Shorrock, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Beef cattle nutrition and
1980-1981 management

180 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Graduate students

J. A. Carnegie, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Reproductive physiology

D. V. Gill, B.Sc., Ph.D. Reproductive physiology

F. Levine, B.Sc. Reproductive physiology

'Seconded from Data Processing Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

'Appointed May 1980.

'Appointed June 1980.

4Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

-On transfer of work at Laboratoire des Maladies Nutritionnelles, l'Institut National de la recherche agronomique,

Beaumont, France, from August 1980 to July 1981.
'Appointed September 1980.
'Appointed December 1980.
"Appointed December 1980.
9On leave at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Kartoum, Kartoum, Sudan, from February to March

1980.
"'On transfer of work at the Animal Research Council, Poultry Research Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, from

August 1979 to July 1980.
"Appointed September 1980.

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

INTRODUCTION

The Animal Research Centre (ARC) is the main Canadian center for breeding and
genetics research with dairy cattle, sheep, and poultry; it also has major research programs in
the nutrition of dairy cattle, swine, sheep, beef, and poultry; as well, ARC has research
programs in animal waste utilization and management, trace minerals, ruminant digestive
physiology, and animal feed safety and nutrition. The nine research program teams are
multidisciplinary and are comprised of scientists with a broad range of scientific expertise.
Both applied research and basic research that is directly related to the solution of the problem
is carried out within these teams.

The Animal Research Centre continues to devote a large effort to studying the problems
of intensively housed and managed cattle, sheep, swine, and poultry. Scientists of several
disciplines — in particular genetics, nutrition, and reproductive physiology — are involved in
both multidisciplinary as well as unidisciplinary studies to resolve the numerous problems
associated with improving the productivity of intensively housed animals.

Increasing emphasis is being placed on animal behavior and its relationship to intensive
housing systems. An ethologist position was added to the scientific staff of the Centre in 1980.

Research staff have also been added to the Dairy Cattle Nutrition Team to augment the
applied program, to the Sheep Production Team to include a quantitative geneticist, and to the
Dairy Cattle Breeding and Production Team to include another geneticist. This will strengthen
the work on forage utilization for dairy cattle and the breeding programs for dairy cattle and
sheep.

Increasing effort is being devoted to the transfer of results from the researcher to the
farmer-user. This thrust is typified by the publication this year of a technical bulletin entitled
Research for an intensive total confinement sheep production system, which summarizes the
research program in sheep production over the last 10 yr and relates it to on-farm use. Many of
the techniques on controlled reproduction that were developed at the Centre are now being
evaluated in field trials in two Canadian provinces. They are being widely accepted by sheep
producers.

This annual report highlights research progress in the various scientific programs.
Significant advances were made in 1980 in the following areas: formic acid-preserved alfalfa
silage can replace soybean meal in dairy cattle rations and produce significant savings in feed
costs per lactation; urea can substitute for soybean meal in higher protein dairy cattle feeds
and yield major savings; dietary protein can be reduced toward the end of the laying cycle in
hens without decreasing poultry egg production; a minimal-disease sheep flock has been
established by hysterectomy, which will be a vital tool in assessing the effects of clinical and
subclinical diseases on sheep production; reentrant cannulas have been developed and tested for
sheep and calves to substantially increase information on ruminant digestive physiology;
research with soluble fish protein concentrate shows its usefulness in swine and calf diets; and
research on mycotoxins was expanded from a program in zearalenone to include vomitoxin, a
fungus toxin contaminant of wheat of current concern in Eastern Canada.

The staff at the Centre are the scientific authorities for a number of federal contract
research programs and projects with private companies and universities. Contract research
plays an important role, together with government in-house research, in solving problems
facing Canadian agriculture. The Centre supervised contract research programs in the areas of
reproductive physiology, swine nutrition, ruminant nutrition, and livestock feed from waste.
Some of this work is described in this report.

Two of the Centre's researchers received major honors in 1980. In July, the Gustav
Bohstedt Award was presented to Dr. Michael Hidiroglou by the American Society of Animal
Science on behalf of the Salt Institute. The award recognized his significant contributions in
mineral and trace mineral research. In October, the Minister of Agriculture presented the
federal government's Merit Award to Dr. Robb S. Gowe. This major award recognized his
outstanding scientific achievements as a poultry geneticist as well as his management and
leadership of the Animal Research Centre and the development of the Centre's facilities at the
Greenbelt Farm.

182 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Detailed information on the research accomplishments, methodology, and results can be
obtained from the publications listed at the end of this report. Reprints of these publications
and copies of this report are available on request from the Animal Research Centre,
Headquarters Building, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. Kl A 0C6.

R. S. Gowe
Director

WASTE UTILIZATION PROGRAM

Pipeline transportation of liquid manure

Field trials on pumping dairy cattle liquid
manure (DCLM) from a livestock barn to a
remote, plastic-lined and plastic-covered 1000
m3 field storage were conducted. Four differ-
ent commercially available pumps were used
to pump DCLM, with 4.8-9.7% total solids
content, through a buried 900-m long, 100-
mm diameter high-density polythene pipeline.
Only one pump with 1100 kPa discharge
pressure was able to pump DCLM with a
solids content greater than 8%. Pressure drops
due to friction ranged from 31 to 99 m of
water column per 1000 m of straight pipe and
were greater than previously published values
for 100-mm diameter plastic pipes. The
remote field storage was found to be unsuit-
able for use in very cold weather owing to
freezing in the manure-removal pipes.

Effect of rate and time of manure
application on soil, drainage water, and
corn crop

In a 6-yr cooperative study with Engineer-
ing and Statistical Research Institute and
Land Resource Research Institute, DCLM
was applied yearly at three rates of manure
nitrogen (N) (224, 560, and 879 kg/ha) and
four different schedules (spring, fall, winter,
and half in spring - half in fall) to sandy clay
loam soil in continuous corn production. Two
control plots, one with chemical fertilizer N at
134 kg/ha and the other with no treatment,
were also studied. At harvest inorganic N in
the top 120-cm soil layer was related to both
cumulative and annual N inputs. Bicarbonate
extractable P and exchangeable K increased
in the surface soil of the plots with the two
higher rates of DCLM. Tile effluent nitrate N
concentration in the plot that received the
highest rate of DCLM was little different
from the plot receiving chemical fertilizer N.
Neither rate nor time of application of
DCLM significantly affected corn yields.

Groundwater quality near concrete manure
tanks and under heavily manured cropland

Leakage of nitrate and ammonia N, ortho-
phosphate, and K from below-grade, rein-
forced concrete liquid-manure storages, which
were built with unsealed wall-to-floor joints,
was found to be small after 10 yr of continu-
ous use. However, heavy applications of liquid
manure for 3-4 yr to well-drained sandy soil
resulted in nitrate and ammonia N concentra-
tions in groundwater well above drinking-
water standards.

Feed from waste

Contract research was conducted on waste
utilization for feed. At the University of
Waterloo, a process for converting crop
residues into fungal {Chaetomium cellulolyti-
cum) single-cell protein (SCP) for animal
feed was further refined. The SCP nutritive
quality compared favorably with casein in
feeding trials on rats and mice. Nutritional
evaluation of steamed cereal straw by
STAKE Technology Ltd. established that
processed straw could be successfully incorpo-
rated into rations for dairy cows and beef
steers. Processing conditions were established.

TRACE MINERAL AND BEEF
CATTLE NUTRITION PROGRAM

Beef production in the northern clay belt
area of Ontario

In studies at the Kapuskasing Experimental
Farm, Shorthorn x Hereford steers and bulls
were fed ad libitum from weaning until
market weight on direct-cut formic acid-
treated grass silage (DFGS) (first cut) with
supplements of high-moisture barley at levels
of 0, 0.5, 0.9, and 1 .3 kg dry matter (DM) per
100 kg liveweight. Based upon final weights
taken at slaughter and allowing for losses due
to shipping, these levels of barley supplemen-
tation resulted in daily liveweight gains of
0.72, 0.84, 1.03, and 1.12 kg; and in feed-to-
gain ratios of 8.47, 8.05, 6.95, and 6.55. The

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

183

animals required 257, 217, 193, and 171 days
to reach market weight, respectively. At all
levels of dietary energy, bulls grew 9.0%
faster and required 7.8% less feed per unit
gain. It was possible on all feeding programs
to attain a carcass grade of Canada Al or A2
with both bulls and steers.

The potential of growing Holstein steers to
240 kg was examined during a 98-day sum-
mer feeding trial. Pasture was fertilized with
N at 80 kg/ha and stocked at the rate of 3.0
or 4.2 steers per hectare. The higher stocking
rate resulted in lower average daily gains
(1.05 versus 1.22 kg) but greater output per
hectare (431.9 versus 354.3 kg). At the same
time, another group of steers was fed in a
feedlot on either DFGS (first cut) or on a
40:60 mixture of the DFGS plus barley.
Average daily gains were 1.32 and 1.6 kg and
feed-to-gain ratios were 5.70 and 5.40 on the
two diets, respectively. Considering only the
yield of the first cut of DFGS (DM at 3.37
t/ha), the liveweight gain from the DFGS fed
to the feedlot group was 453.4 kg/ha, which
was 5% greater than best gain of the two
pasture groups.

Digestion of corn and alfalfa silage

The digestion of silage in the stomach and
small intestine was investigated with sheep
prepared with reentrant cannulas in the
proximal duodenum and proximal ileum. The
silages studied were corn silage (CS); CS with
0.6% urea added on a fresh-weight basis at
the time of ensiling; direct-cut alfalfa silage
treated with formic acid, which was added at
5 g of acid per kilogram of fresh alfalfa at the
time of cutting; and wilted alfalfa silage. Urea
treatment of CS increased the crude protein
(CP) from 8.1 to 13.2% and had no effect on
organic matter digestion but increased diges-
tion of protein in the small intestine by
increasing microbial synthesis in the stomach.
The alfalfa silage was made from first cut
(bud stage) and contained 23% CP. Com-
pared to wilting, treatment of alfalfa with
formic acid reduced the digestion of protein in
the stomach and increased the small intestine
protein digestion, but this shift in protein
digestion site was not due to changes in
microbial output from the stomach.

Manganese studies

Three groups of wethers were each fed a
practical diet containing 20, 300, or 3000 ppm
Mn for 8 wk. Average daily gains and feed-to-
gain ratios of sheep fed the 20 and 300 ppm
Mn diets were similar, but gain was lower and
the ratio higher for the 3000 ppm Mn diet.
Feed intake was approximately the same for
all treatments. Increased dietary Mn raised
its concentration in soft tissues and bile. Liver
concentration of Cu increased and concentra-
tion of Zn decreased with increasing dietary
Mn.

Metabolism of vitamin D, in sheep

The major form of circulating vitamin D3"is
its metabolite 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OH
D3), as determined from the metabolic profiles
of sheep plasma 3 days after administration of
either isotopically labeled vitamin D3 or 25-
OH D3 or both. The uptake of radioactive 25-
OH D3 by the plasma was more rapid in sheep
housed indoors than outdoors. Plasma and
tissue radioactivities were greater in sheep
dosed with labeled 25-OH D3 than with
equivalent amounts of labeled vitamin D3.
Placental transmission of intravenously ad-
ministered label given as vitamin D3 and its
25-OH D3 metabolite was studied in gestating
ewes. Radioactivity concentrations were
higher in tissues of animals dosed with
vitamin D3 than in tissues of animals given 25-
OH D3. Tissue concentration was greater in
the ewe than in the fetus. The amount of
isotope transferred to the fetus varied greatly
among individual ewes and this may be
related to the state of vitamin D nutrition of
the dams.

DAIRY CATTLE BREEDING AND
PRODUCTION PROGRAM

National cooperative dairy cattle breeding
project (NCDCBP)

Further comparisons of bulls used in the
pure line foundation matings have been
completed for the areas of heifer body mea-
surements, heifer calving ease, and lactation
yields through three lactations. The highly
selected bulls of the breed groups in the
Ayrshire-based A line (Research Branch,
Finnish, U.S., and Canadian Ayrshire, Brown
Swiss, and Norwegian Red) and the Holstein-
based H line (Research Branch, U.S., and
Canadian Holstein) were chosen to broaden

S 4

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT NS0

the genetic base of the two-parent pure lines
and were not a random sample of the popula-
tions from which they were chosen.

Heifers from the H line were significantly
larger than those of the A line for all body
measurements (withers height, heart girth,
chest width and depth, hook width, and
shoulder-to-hook length) at all ages except for
rump length at 82 wk of age. The volume of
data permitted statistical detection of very
small differences between the lines because
there were 496 H line heifers and 344 A line
heifers. Generally, differences were small in
the various body measurements among the
daughters representing the different Holstein
strains in North America and of little practi-
cal importance. Progeny of the two Brown
Swiss bulls tested were consistently larger
than progeny of other sire groups in the A
line, but only significantly so for withers
height at all ages and 82-wk rump length.
They were followed closely by progeny of the
Norwegian Red and Finnish Ayrshire sires
with daughters of Research Branch, Cana-
dian, and U.S. Ayrshire being similar but
slightly smaller in size. The daughters of the
Canadian Ayrshire bulls tended to be a little
larger than Research Branch and U.S. Ayr-
shire progeny.

The average superiority of the Holstein-
based H line over the Ayrshire-based A line
over the first three lactations was 1400 kg for
mature equivalent (ME) milk yield, 39 kg for
ME protein yield, and 56 kg for ME butterfat
yield. There were no significant differences in
these traits among the bull groups in the A
line but in the H line both the U.S. and
Canadian Holstein groups had significantly
higher yields than the Research Branch
Holstein groups. There was wide variation
among bulls within a group. Some of the
Norwegian Red progeny were intermediate
between the Holstein- and Ayrshire-based
lines. Much between-herd variation was ob-
served in these data but within-herd first-
lactation yields were good predictors of
subsequent milk yields.

Calving difficulty was associated with
higher percentage of calves born dead and
subsequent higher frequencies of retained
placenta in both A and H line heifers. H line
heifers requiring no assistance at time of
calving had 4% of calves born dead compared
to 24% when some kind of assistance was
required. Corresponding values for A line
heifers were 4% and 19%, respectively. The

incidence of retained placentas was signifi-
cantly smaller when calves were born alive in
both H line (5%) and A line (14%) heifers.
This incidence increased to 21% in H line and
33% in A line heifers when calves were dead
at birth.

The California mastitis test (CMT) was
done on 6609 and 4206 quarter samples from
H and A line cows, respectively, to study the
effects of line, parity, month-of-freshening,
and month-of-lactation. The incidence of
subclinical mastitis as judged by CMT score
was similar in both lines, and older cows
tended to be more positive to the mastitis-
screening test than younger cows. The inci-
dence of positive quarters was higher for the
cows calving during summer months, and
there was an increase in the CMT score in the
later months of the lactation period. Microor-
ganisms were isolated from 21.5, 31.5, 42.3,
and 53.0% of the samples showing a CMT
reaction of trace, 1, 2, and 3, respectively.
Klebsiella spp. were found in 40.5% of the
samples and Streptococcus spp. were isolated
in 36.8%. Other organisms isolated were
Staphylococcus aureus (14.9%) and coliforms
(6.4%).

Breeding studies using record of
performance (ROP) data

Records-in-progress from Ayrshire, Guern-
sey, Holstein, and Jersey cows calving after
35 mo of age were used to predict 305-day
milk and fat yields using U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) extension factors intro-
duced in 1965. The differences between the
actual and projected yields were positive,
indicating that USDA extension factors were
underestimating both milk and fat yields for
the four breeds. For the Holstein breed,
phenotypic correlations between the projected
records-in-progress and actual 305-day milk
yields increased from 0.54 for up to 29 days in
milk to 0.98 for 270-304 days in milk. Similar
correlations were also observed for the other
breeds. The results of this study suggest that
the USDA extension factors used on Cana-
dian data underestimate 305-day milk and fat
yields from shorter partial records.

A simple procedure was used to modify the
1965 USDA extension factors for use in
Canada. The 1965 and revised USDA exten-
sion factors were compared on 84 075 com-
plete lactation records accumulated by ROP
during 1979. When the revised extension

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

185

factors were applied, the systematic bias was
eliminated in records longer than 60 days.

Monitoring the reproductive status of the
postpartum cow

Dairy cattle of the H, A, and crossbred
lines, which are maintained year round in
total confinement in either a loose-housing or
a tie-stall barn, were monitored for estrous
cycle activity and reproductive performance.
Only 54% of the cows were observed in estrus
at least once between parturition and day 55,
whereas rectal palpation indicated that nearly
all cows had been in estrus or had ovarian
activity. There was a significant line-by-barn
interaction in the detection of estrus. For A
line cows, 74% were observed in estrus in the
tie-stall barn compared with 48% in the loose-
housing barn. Conceptions to either first,
second, third, or fourth or greater services
were 43, 44, 43, and 37%. Cows in the loose-
housing barn had significantly more days open
than those in the tie-stall barn. Failure to
detect estrus was the major problem contrib-
uting to a greater than 1 2-mo calving interval.

Pilot genetic studies with mice and
computer simulation

Genetic principles fundamental to the
current dairy cattle crossbreeding experi-
ments, but which are difficult to examine,
were investigated using mice and computer
simulation.

Lifetime lactational performance (TP) in
mice was compared for several (second filial)
populations produced by four lines of mice
that were developed for increased milk pro-
duction or adult weight. Each F2 female was
paired with a specific F, male for 200 days,
and the number of litters produced during this
time was recorded. Several F: populations
were compared for TP, which consisted of two
component traits, number of litters produced
during 200 days (NL) and average 18-day
litter weight (LW), where TP = NL x LW
for individual F2 females. Two F: female
populations derived from a cross of a milk
production line and an adult weight line but
from two different base populations did not
differ in TP but did for NL (3.32 versus 4.04).
Another pair of F2 female populations derived
from a cross of a milk production line of one
base population with an adult weight line of
the other base population and its reciprocal
differed for TP (516 versus 434) and NL
(4.64 versus 3.90) but not LW. An F, female

population derived from a cross of two milk
production lines from different base popula-
tions was superior to one derived from a cross
of two adult weight for TP (4.88 versus 4.01),
NL (5.15 versus 3.84), and LW (114 versus
105). Heritabilities estimated from the sire
component of variance were 0.23, 0.26, and
0.44 for TP, NL, and LW, respectively,
indicating that TP and its component traits
are moderately heritable. It was concluded
that TP could differ between random bred
populations of different genetic origin, owing
to the difference in its component traits,
particularly number of litters produced in a
lifetime.

A theoretical study with computer simula-
tion was conducted to assess performance for
a single character under two mating systems:
crisscross (CC) and repeated hybrid male
cross (RHMC). Both systems can be used for
less prolific species such as dairy cattle, and
the latter has been adopted in the current
NCDCBP. Under CC, the expected perform-
ance fluctuated over generations, whereas
under RHMC, the performance was constant
starting with the F2 generation. Comparison
of the performance revealed that CC involv-
ing the first backcross to the better breed male
(CC.l) was expected to be superior to RHMC
for various degrees of heterosis (H) and
differences in performance between the two
breeds involved (D). The expected perform-
ance ratio of CCI to RHMC after a few
generations of crossing approximated 2[1 +
2H/3 + (D/3)(2 - D)]/(2 + H). When D
was small (10%) and H substantial (30%),
CCI was expected to exceed RHMC by
approximately 6% after a few generations of
crossing. The results are under investigation
experimentally with the use of mice.

Very early pregnancy detection

A very early pregnancy test based upon an
immunological reaction o( pregnant animals
has been reported in sheep. Efforts to confirm
this Rosette-inhibition test have been unsuc-
cessful. This failure to reproduce the original
results casts serious doubt on the validity of
using this phenomenon to diagnose
pregnancy.

186

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

DAIRY CATTLE NUTRITION
PROGRAM

Urea in dairy cattle rations

The average 305-day milk production for
cattle fed corn with urea added at ensiling
was 6330 kg, which was equivalent to a
similar diet with comparable (12-13%) crude
protein (CP) provided by soybean meal
supplementation (5920 kg) or urea added to
the concentrate (5780 kg) but superior to a
negative control with 9.4% CP (4420 kg). An
experiment was designed to determine milk
production when urea, added to corn at
ensiling, was used to increase 12% CP
soybean meal or fish meal supplemented diets
to 15% total CP. Urea-supplemented rations
were compared to a 12% CP negative control
ration formulated with soybean meal and to
two positive control rations supplemented
with either soybean or fish meal to contain
15% total CP. Concentrates and corn silage
were fed ad libitum as a complete feed.
Preliminary results with cows milking 20-30
kg/day at peak lactation showed no difference
in milk production between diets containing
12 and 15% CP nor between diets supple-
mented with urea or soybean or fish meal. The
correction of milk production at 13-16 wk
postpartum using the first 4 wk of lactation as
a covariate did not alter the relative treatment
responses. Daily feed DM intakes were simi-
lar for all treatments. Rumen ammonia
concentrations were somewhat lower on the
12% CP diet as compared with the 15% CP
diets. There was no clear indication that urea
in the silage resulted in higher rumen ammo-
nia levels than were found with soybean or
fish meal rations. Preliminary results indicate
that urea ensiled with corn is a highly
effective protein supplement in dairy rations
formulated to contain 1 5% CP.

Alfalfa silage as a source of proteins for
lactating cows

Formic acid-treated alfalfa silage (FAS)
was mixed with corn silage (CS) in propor-
tions such that the protein content of the
mixture was 13.5% on a dry basis. A grain
mix containing 13% protein but with no
oilseed meal was added to make a complete
feed with a 60:40 forage-to-grain ratio (ration
I). A second complete feed containing 38%
CS, 15% wilted grass-legume silage, 7% hay,
and 40% of a 2 1 % CP concentrate was used as
a control (ration II). Two groups of lactating

cows were fed each of two rations for three
lactations. The cows fed ration I consumed
less DM than those fed the control (16.0
versus 17.5 kg/day). Milk production for a
308-day lactation was the same for the two
rations (4947 versus 4972 kg) from 1172
complete lactations measured in a mixed herd
of Holstein, Ayrshire, and crossbred cows. Fat
and protein content of the milk were not
altered by the diets (3.39% versus 3.42%, and
3.21% versus 3.27%, respectively). Calving
interval, days open, services-per-conception,
and health status were not different between
rations. However, significant savings in the
cost of concentrates were realized from using
FAS as the main source of proteins. These
savings were estimated at $100 per cow-
lactation, using the respective prices per tonne
for soybean meal, corn grain, and barley grain
of $420, $160, and $175. It is concluded that
hay can be eliminated from the diet of
lactating cows fed complete diets and that a
large portion of the required protein can be
supplied by FAS.

Protein degradation in the rumen

Chemical structures in proteins, which
make them resistant or susceptible to degra-
dation by a rumen proteolytic enzyme (prote-
ase from Bacteroides amylophilus), were
investigated. It was found that disulfide
(sulfur-sulfur cross-links) bonds in proteins
make them resistant to degradation, and
chemical bonds in proteins involving phenylal-
anine and leucine were more easily hydro-
lyzed by the protease than were other bonds.
This information is being used to modify
proteins in order to produce feed proteins of
predictable and controllable rumen degrada-
tion.

Currently, crude rumen fluid or commer-
cially available protease preparations from
sources other than rumen microorganisms are
used in in vitro procedures to determine
rumen degradability of feed proteins. How-
ever, use of rumen fluid has many disadvan-
tages, commercial proteases have properties
different from those of rumen proteases, and
rumen protease preparations are not avail-
able. Procedures were developed for the
preparation of rumen protease for use in the
in vitro protein degradation measurements.
The rumen protease prepared is in dry powder
form with most of the interfering materials
removed, has all the proteolytic activity of
fresh rumen fluid, and can be stored dry for at

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

187

least 1 yr without loss of activity. With the
use of this material, a procedure for measur-
ing protein degradation has been standardized
and degradation rates of common feed pro-
teins are being determined.

Calf nutrition

Two feeding experiments were conducted to
test the ability of a soluble fish protein
concentrate (FPC) to replace skim milk
powder in liquid diets for calves. In a 10-wk
vealer trial, calves were fed one of three milk
replacers: skim milk powder as a control, 50%
of protein provided by FPC and 50% from
whey and skim milk powder, and 80% of
protein provided by FPC and 20% from whey
protein. The average daily weight gains and
feed-to-gain ratios for the control and the 50%
FPC diets were similar (0.94 and 0.81 kg, and
1.4 and 1.4, respectively), but both diets were
markedly better than the 80% FPC diet (0.61
kg and 1.9). The results showed that two-
thirds of the skim milk powder in milk
replacers for veal calves can be replaced with
the FPC and whey, with approximately 40%
saving in feed cost. At the high FPC level,
several calves initially would not drink the
diet and those that did performed relatively
poorly.

In a second feeding trial, the same milk
replacers were fed to newborn calves in a calf
herd replacement early weaning program.
The milk replacers were fed for the first 4-5
wk and then calf starter to 9 wk of age. As in
the vealer experiment, several calves would
not drink the 80% FPC. Those that did,
however, suffered only a temporary (1 wk)
setback in weight gains. Calf performance
was similar for the control and 50% FPC diets
for digestibility of DM, N, and lipid; weight
gains; intakes of both milk replacer and
starter ration; and age at weaning. As ob-
served in the vealer trial, the economic benefit
for the 50% FPC milk replacer over the
control was a saving of approximately 40% of
the cost of milk replacer ingredients.

Rumen bacteriology

A rumen bacteria culture collection has
been established and optimal methods for
long-term culture storage are being deter-
mined. At present 138 bacterial strains are
being maintained. A previously unknown
bacterial species, which plays a role in fiber
degradation in the rumen, has been isolated
and is being characterized.

The response of the rumen microbial popu-
lation to supplementation of a basal CS diet
(9.4% CP) with either soybean meal, urea, or
urea ensiled with corn to bring total dietary N
to 12.5% CP has been established. Increasing
dietary N resulted in a considerable increase
in bacterial numbers, ranging from 90% for
urea to 230% for urea silage or soybean meal.
The greatest increase was noted for those
bacterial species known to require branch
chain volatile fatty acids for optimum growth
in vitro. It was concluded that urea ensiled
with corn was as effective as soybean meal in
supporting production of bacterial protein in
the rumen. These studies are now being
extended to higher levels of dietary N.

Methods have been developed for the
selective isolation of the rumen bacterium
Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens and for the labeling
and isolation of plasmid DNA from this
species. The general occurrence of plasmids in
this species has been established, providing
the first evidence for a role for plasmid-
determined characteristics in the rumen
fermentation.

SWINE PRODUCTION PROGRAM

Development and maintenance of a minimal-
disease herd for intensive research

The minimal-disease herd established in
1977 is entering its fifth generation and
continues to be free from rhinitis, virus
pneumonia, internal and external parasites,
leptospirosis, transmissible gastroenteritis,
erysipelas, and parvovirus. Ninety bred, mini-
mal-disease gilts were supplied to the Univer-
sity of Guelph and thirty-four to the Univer-
sity of Saskatchewan to assist in the
establishment of their minimal-disease herds.
Periodic performance checks on gilts and
boars from the Animal Research Centre over
the growing period of approximately 20-90
kg, indicate average daily gain and feed-to-
gain ratios of 0.79 and 0.85 kg, and 2.60 and
2.53, respectively.

Energy and protein requirements for
pregnancy in the once-bred gilt

A daily feeding level of 1.40 kg during
early gestation followed by restriction to 0.45
kg for the last 30 days of gestation is required
to produce a postpartum gilt carcass within
the market weight range. This degree of

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

restriction results in reduced piglet birth-
weight; however the carcass is of adequate
composition and acceptability.

Nutrition and management of the neonatal
Pig

Under a research contract with the Univer-
sity of Guelph, the requirement of the very
young pig for lysine, methionine, threonine,
and histidine was found to be 12.0, 2.7, 6.0,
and 4.5 g/kg diet, respectively. Work is
continuing to establish the methionine-cys-
tine and phenylalanine-tyrosine interrelation-
ships.

The feasibility of using fish protein concen-
trate to replace a portion of the milk protein
in piglet milk replacers is being examined.
Preliminary results indicate that it can supply
up to 20% of the protein and result in
improved growth performance.

Initial data on the effect of a modified
farrowing system, which automatically re-
moves piglets from the sow at birth, on
subsequent piglet viability indicate that suckl-
ing can be delayed for up to 10 h postpartum
without visible effect upon the pigs.

Studies on a continuous-flow technique for
the separation and concentration of porcine
y-globulin from abattoir blood continued with
the development of a system based on differ-
ential precipitation of proteins using ammo-
nium sulfate, coupled with continuous-flow
centrifugation, electrodialysis, and spray dry-
ing with condensed milk.

Relationship between backfat thickness and
total body fat in boars

The relationship between backfat thickness
and total body fat is being assessed to
establish if selection for decreased backfat
thickness has in fact resulted in reduced total
body fat or merely resulted in a shift in fat
deposition from the subcutaneous depot to the
abdominal cavity or intramuscular depots.

Reproductive physiology

The presence of immunosuppressive fac-
tors, which may play an important role in the
establishment of pregnancy, have been re-
ported by Australian workers in sheep. Re-
search at ARC did not confirm the appear-
ance of such a factor early in pregnancy in the
pig. Studies were initiated to assess the
possible role in immunosuppression of «-feto-
protein, which is synthesized specifically by
the fetal yolk sac and liver.

The occurrence of estrone sulfate in pig
plasma after day 18 of pregnancy is a positive
indicator of pregnancy. The plasma concen-
tration of estrone sulfate is directly related to
the number of viable fetuses in the pregnant
Pig.

POULTRY BREEDING PROGRAM

Genetics of poultry meat production

The development of genetic techniques to
reduce obesity and to improve feed conversion
of meat-type chickens continued with a search
for predictors of carcass composition. Broiler
body weight was the best predictor among live
body measurements for total amounts and
percentages of chemical components of the
carcass (fat, protein, moisture, ash). Shank
length and breast depth were somewhat
useful, the latter being indicative of chemical
component proportions. Nevertheless, the live
measurements, considered individually or as a
whole, did not predict carcass chemical
composition with sufficient accuracy to allow
their effective practical use in indirect selec-
tion for improved carcass quality.

Carcass weight or specific gravity or both
were the best traits for predicting chemical
component weights; however, carcass specific
gravity was a better predictor of chemical
component percentages. Specific gravities of
carcass parts were not superior to specific
gravity of the whole carcass for predicting
carcass chemical composition. From the sta-
tistical analyses of the specific gravity data it
was concluded that carcass specific gravity
can be used for prediction of the chemical
composition of groups of carcasses but it is not
suitable for evaluation of individual carcasses.

Broiler feed conversion was tested on a
weekly basis from 2 to 7 wk of age to
determine the optimum test age and duration.
Correlations between successive weekly feed
conversion measurements were low (0.3 or
less), and it was concluded that a 3-wk test
interval at or near the end of the broiler
growth period should be used to appraise
efficiency of feed utilization.

'Sire' and 'dam' genetic base populations
have been synthesized from 16 primary
commercial breeder strains. The commercial
stocks employed represent a unique assembly
of contemporary genetic stocks used in the
production of broiler chickens throughout the
world. Besides the synthesis of the base
populations for projected selection research,

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

189

data from the stocks were used to assess the
variation available for future improvement of
the world's broilers. For example, a study of
the effects of strain and age of male (39
versus 59 wk) on hatching egg fertility and
hatchability revealed only strain differences
for duration of fertility. Within strains,
differences among individual males were
significant for all fertility traits, and fertility
was also influenced by the age of the males.
Hatchability declined between 39 and 59 wk
of age of the males. Generally, the large
variation among males within strains and the
small variation among strain means implied
that there is little additive genetic variation in
the traits tested. This was consistent with the
low heritability usually reported for such
traits. Rapid decline of fertility observed after
the eighth day postinsemination discourages
the use of successive insemination intervals of
more than 1 wk.

Selection studies in egg production chickens

Six strains have been under selection for
high egg production and other economically
important traits for up to 28 generations. The
six strains performed well for hen-housed egg
production, averaging from 234 to 264 eggs.
For the hatch years 1971-1978, the selected
strains had an average genetic gain of 18 eggs
compared with unselected control strains
maintained in parallel. The strains selected
for hen-day rate of egg production from age
at first egg to 273 days of age had later sexual
maturity and higher rate of lay in the latter
part of the laying year than the strains
selected for hen-housed egg production to 273
days of age. However, the strains selected for
hen-housed egg production had lower mortal-
ity to 273 days of age than the strains selected
for hen-day rate of egg production. For the
hatch years 1971-1978, the selected strains
had average genetic gains of 2 g in egg
weight, 3 Haugh units (albumen quality), 2
units in egg specific gravity (shell thickness),
and 1% fewer blood spots. The selected strains
maintained good performance levels for fertil-
ity and hatchability, averaging 95% and 86%,
respectively.

Reconstitution of the above selected strains
from inbred lines originally derived from
these strains between 1970 and 1976, and
selected for resistance to Marek's disease and
high egg production, has been completed.
Three such 'resistance-selected1 strains are

now being compared with the original long-
term selected strains to assess the efficacy of
the new technique for simultaneous im-
provement of disease resistance and
production.

Eggshell quality

Even after implementation of recom-
mended management procedures, egg break-
age causes serious economic losses to the
producer, especially in older flocks. A study of
the plasma levels of estrogens at 20 h after
oviposition and of plasma calcium levels 6 h
after the next oviposition indicated no rela-
tionship between the two parameters in 36-
wk-old birds versus a positive relationship in
59-wk-old birds. This suggests that estrogens
influence plasma calcium levels more in older
birds, where shell quality is a bigger problem,
than in young birds. After hens older than 60
wk had been immunized and had developed
antibodies against the estrogen estradiol,
these hens laid more shell-less eggs than
nonimmunized hens. Thus estradiol seems to
play a role in shell deposition.

Studies were initiated on an energy-related
enzyme, ATPase, of the hen's uterus and its
relation to shell quality. In two Leghorn
strains, preliminary results indicated greater
ATPase activity in the strain with better shell
quality.

A polyurethane foam pad placed on the
laying cage floor to reduce the impact when
an egg is laid did not influence shell strength
compared to eggs laid on the wire floor of
laying cages. This indicated that the initial
impact the egg receives when laid on the wire
floor does not negatively influence the subse-
quent shell strength.

Disease-resistance genetics

Cooperative work with the Animal Diseases
Research Institute in Ottawa on the effects of
subclinical lymphoid leukosis, an egg-trans-
mitted viral lymphoproliferative disease, on
production in chickens was extended from
layers to meat-type chickens. A reduction by
up to 28 eggs in egg production per hen
housed and an increase by up to 29% in
mortality from causes other than lymphoid
leukosis was observed in the lymphoid leu-
kosis virus-infected meat-type birds, thus
confirming similar findings reported earlier
from Leghorns. In addition, meat-type chick-
ens, crosses of dam lines in which lymphoid
leukosis virus infection was detected, had the

190

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

mean broiler-age weight 5% lower than their
test-negative counterparts.

Examination of the effects of lymphoid
leukosis and diseases in general on variation
resulted in the derivation of a formula for the
estimation of the increase of variance in
populations affected by disease. Egg transmis-
sion of the disease resulted in an increase in
heritability estimated from dam variance
components. The effect of the disease on sire
heritability was small.

Green muscle disease appears to be a
physiological problem of meat-type poultry
such as adult meat-type chickens and turkeys.
It occurs as a degeneration of the deep-laying
breast muscle and cannot be positively identi-
fied by inspection of the live animal. Of
serious concern is a 1980 report that green
muscle disease has been identified for the first
time in broiler-age stocks. Postmortem exami-
nation of birds between 49 and 68 wk old of
both sexes from 20 commercial broiler
breeder stocks, including both male and
female parent strains, showed levels of the
disease to be 0-43% in males and 0-22% in
females. Research is continuing on economic
and practical methods of identifying birds
that are susceptible to this disease.

Geese

Four strains of geese, namely Hungarian,
Pilgrim, Chinese, and a crossbred strain
formed from these three breeds, were repro-
duced and compared for carcass weight and
down and feather yield. Preliminary analyses
indicated that Hungarian geese had the
lightest carcass, whereas the other strains
were similar to each other. Chinese geese had
the lowest total feather yield.

POULTRY NUTRITION PROGRAM

Laying hens

A phase-feeding program for winter-housed
White Leghorn hens reduced feed costs by
saving 4.2% of the total protein consumed.
The dietary protein level was reduced from
15.6 to 14.8% at 273 days of age and then to
14.0% at 384 days of age without decreasing
percent hen-day egg production. Egg quality
was also improved when compared with
feeding a diet of constant protein content
(15.6%). The number of visibly cracked eggs
decreased and fewer eggs of extra large grade
were obtained during the last 16 wk of the

laying year, when oversize eggs cause prob-
lems to the producer. Internal egg quality, as
determined by Haugh units, was slightly
higher for phase-fed hens, but there were no
consistent effects of diet on incidence of egg
blood spots nor on hen body weight or
mortality.

Meat-type birds

Skip-a-day feeding procedures commonly
used to control feed intake of chickens are too
hazardous for use with young chicks under 21
days of age. A restricted feeding regimen
consisting of 5% dietary hydrolyzed coconut
oil fed from 1 to 21 days of age was imposed
on broiler breeder replacement chicks prior to
skip-a-day feeding. This resulted in higher
hen-day percent egg production and greater
efficiency of feed utilization than for broiler
breeder hens, which were restricted as chicks
by only skip-a-day feeding from 21 days of
age. Egg weight was higher among hens
restricted from 1 day of age.

Broiler breeder hens of two breeds exposed
to a stimulation lighting program providing a
rapid increase in daylight from 6 to 16 h of
light per day between 1 39 and 1 68 days of age
reached 50% egg production at an earlier age
and had higher hen-day percent egg produc-
tion than hens exposed to a slow increase to
the same daylight duration between 139 and
245 days of age. Rapid change in day length
was associated with smaller egg size, which
was apparent also in a reduced percentage of
eggs of incubation size. Lighting treatment
had no effect on body weight or mortality.

Blood calcium and eggshell strength

Correlation coefficients indicated that there
was no relationship (r = -0.13 to 0.18)
between either whole blood ionized calcium or
plasma total calcium of hens and specific
gravity, nondestructive deformation, or quasi-
static compression fracture strength of their
eggs. The blood samples were obtained from
force-molted hens that consistently laid eggs
of low or high specific gravity.

Measurement of metabolizable energy

The metabolic plus endogenous energy and
nitrogen losses of cockerels were independent
of the amount (0-30 g) of fiber as cellulose or
sawdust placed in the crops of fasted birds.
This justifies the use of unfed negative control
birds in the true metabolizable energy (TME)

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

191

and true available amino acid (TAAA) bioas-
says.

A comparative study showed the TME
bioassay to be superior to a rapid metaboliz-
able energy assay reported in Br. Poult. Sci.
19:303; 1978. Training birds to consume their
ration within 1 h was not wholly successful,
and even trained birds reduced their feed
intakes when assay diets were introduced. The
high variability in feed intake caused varia-
tion in metabolizable energy values, which
could be controlled by making a correction for
metabolic plus endogenous losses as is done in
the TME assay.

Zinc deficiency and feed intake of chicks

Chicks fed a zinc-deficient diet grew as well
as those fed an adequate diet when zinc
sulfate was administered via the crop. How-
ever, chicks fed the adequate diet grew no
better than deficient chicks when pair-fed.
Although zinc may be involved in taste-bud
formation and function, there was no evidence
that zinc deficiency expresses itself by reduc-
ing diet palatability.

SHEEP PRODUCTION PROGRAM

Establishment of a minimal-disease flock

In order to start a minimal-disease flock,
repopulation by hysterectomy of the entire
ARC sheep flock was undertaken. Eradication
of the debilitating disease, Maedi Visna, as
well as the potential to eliminate other
troublesome diseases such as pneumonia and
sore mouth, should result in improved effi-
ciency and economy of the intensive confine-
ment system being developed. Special breed-
ings for the hysterectomy project were
designed to maintain the genetic base. Hys-
terectomy was performed on 1110 ewes
producing 2336 lambs of which 1.4% were
dead in utero. Of the 2304 lambs alive in
utero, 92.6% survived the recovery process. Of
those, 87.3% were weaned at 21 days of age
from milk replacer and 78.6% survived to 70
days of age.

Development of synthetic sire and dam
strains

Based on previous research and manage-
ment experience, an estimate of the produc-
tivity that can be obtained by using the
intensive system in a good commercial opera-
tion was summarized. For every 100 adult

ewes mated, with 5% death loss and 90%
fertility, 86 would lamb. With a litter size of
2.45, 21 1 lambs would be born, 180 would be
weaned, and 169 raised. The ewes would lamb
at 8-mo intervals and with an average of 1.5
lamb crops per ewe per year; overall expected
productivity would be 253 lambs raised per
year per 100 adult ewes mated.

An economic study by the University of
Saskatchewan indicated that a confinement
system of lamb production can hold its own
against traditional methods, although it does
not yet present a clear advantage in terms of
net farm income. The total confinement
system being developed by the ARC research
program provides an effective tool for obtain-
ing information and results that are applica-
ble to any degree of intensification chosen by
a producer.

Artificial insemination

Research has shown that the use of proge-
stagen to induce a synchronized estrus is
necessary for the practical application of
artificial insemination (AI) in sheep. Preg-
nant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) to
improve synchronization of ovulation is essen-
tial for good fertility when using AI.

Studies have continued on the use of
pharmacological agents to improve sperm
transport in the ewe reproductive tract in
order to increase the fertility achieved with
frozen semen and to reduce the number of
sperm required with fresh or frozen semen.
Estradiol- 17/3, which was reported to facili-
tate sperm transport, did not improve fertility
in ewes inseminated with frozen semen but
did increase early embryonic mortality.

New diluents containing dextran in com-
bination with buffers, sugars, and glycerol
resulted in greater survival of frozen sperm in
both straws and pellets and in increased
fertility compared with commonly used dilu-
ents. Hypertonic skim milk diluents at 600
and 750 m0s/kg provide adequate protection
during freezing and thawing, and good fertil-
ity. The effects of penetrating cryopreserv-
atives on sperm survival were evaluated.
Glycerol at concentrations of 4-6% were
found to be optimal using medium cooling
rates. Dimethylsulfoxide, on the other hand,
did not result in acceptable survival regardless
of concentration or cooling velocity.

Straws thawed in water at 39°C resulted in
significantly greater sperm survival than when
they were thawed at room temperature. When

192

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

ram semen is frozen in pellets on dry ice,
sperm survival is affected more by pellet
geometry (ratio of area exposed to dry ice to
volume) than by pellet volume.

Studies on seasonal variation in ram semen
freezability showed that semen collected in
early spring contained a larger proportion of
abnormal sperm, but its freezability was
comparable to fall-collected semen. Freezabil-
ity decreased during the summer months.
However, the effect of the ram on freezability
appeared to be greater than the effect of the
season.

Controlled lamb production

Supervised field trials have been carried out
in Ontario to evaluate controlled lamb pro-
duction under commercial flock conditions
using progestagen impregnated intravaginal
sponges to synchronize estrus followed by
PMSG injections. Estrus was induced within
48 h after sponge removal in over 90% of ewes
treated, irrespective of the breed used and the
month of the year the treatment was applied.
When adult ewes were bred after sponge
treatment during August-November, 65%
lambed to breeding at the synchronized estrus
and a further 22% lambed to the follow-up
estrus, which was comparable to that of
untreated ewes during exposure to rams for
35 days. The treated ewes lambed over two
distinct periods of 5 days. When adult ewes
were bred after sponge treatment in April-
May, the lambing results appeared to be
dependent on the breed used and more
specifically upon ram performance and the
quality of semen produced. The use of AI in
field trials with commercial flocks was initi-
ated during the anestrus season using proce-
dures developed at ARC. The results provided
further indication that greater emphasis must
be placed on management rams during the
nonbreeding season to obtain good semen
quality.

The results to date indicate that the proge-
stagen sponge treatment can be applied
successfully under commercial flock condi-
tions. Similar field trials are under way in
Newfoundland.

Pregnancy diagnosis

Results from several trials on ultrasonic
pregnancy testing, using two commercially
available instruments, indicated approx-
imately 90% accuracy in diagnosing pregnant
ewes at between 7 and 8 wk after conception.

EaVlier testing may be useful, but will result
in a higher proportion of false negative
diagnoses, which must be retested later in
gestation for accurate confirmation.

ANIMAL FEED SAFETY AND
NUTRITION PROGRAM

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are produced by molds on plant
crops in the field and during storage. When
ingested by livestock and poultry, decreased
performance or deleterious health effects or
both may occur. Research efforts on mycotox-
ins continued to emphasize work on the
toxicology and nutritional effects of the
mycotoxin zearalenone (Z), although re-
search included studies of other mycotoxins of
concern to the Canadian agricultural commu-
nity.

The development of a rapid, sensitive, high-
performance liquid chromatographic method
for detection of Z and its metabolites in blood
enabled further research on the absorption,
metabolism, and elimination of Z. When a
single oral doze of Z was administered to
young female pigs, free Z could be detected in
the blood within 10 min. Free Z blood levels
peaked within 30 min after dosing and
returned to nondetectable levels by 24 h.

Vomitoxin (V) contamination of grain
crops was of concern to the agricultural
industry and health authorities in 1980. Pink
discoloration typical of mycotoxin-producing
mold was noted on the harvested crop of white
winter wheat. V was detected in samples
collected from various areas in Ontario. In
collaboration with industry, samples were
screened for mycotoxins, and a series of
feeding trials to determine the effects of V on
swine and poultry were initiated.

A preliminary report of a research contract
with the Sibbald Group documented cases of
ill effects in farm animals fed mycotoxin-
containing feedstuff's and described facilities
available in Canada where mycotoxin analysis
can be carried out.

Cooperative work continued with Biosyste-
matics Research Institute to establish a
relationship between the mycological profile
of a cornfield and resultant toxin levels.
Fusarium molds have been isolated that are
capable of producing Z, T-2 toxin, and
diacetoxyscirpenol toxins under laboratory
conditions.

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

193

Rapeseed oil nutrition

Male rats fed diets. rich in fat for at least 4
mo develop myocardial necrosis. The inci-
dence of this necrosis varies, depending on the
type of fat or oil fed. Previous studies with
swine, monkeys, and female rats at ARC and
elsewhere have not been able to show a
relationship between pathological lesions and
the amount or source of fat in the diet. As a
consequence, work is focusing on the peculiar
cause of heart lesions in male rats. Specific
cardiotoxins as well as erucic acid have been
eliminated as the primary cause of the prob-
lem largely based on previous ARC studies.

Several investigators have observed that
certain fatty acids were associated with a
high, others with a low, incidence of heart
lesions. A statistical analysis of published
data on heart lesions in male rats identified a
correlation between dietary fatty acids and
heart lesions. Most of the variation within
experiments could be explained by the level of
saturated fatty acids and linolenic acid with
their effects similar in magnitude but opposite
in direction.

The statistical study provided a model to
test the effect of several dietary fatty acids.
Soybean and low erucic acid rapeseed
(LEAR) oils were selected because both
contained linolenic acid. The same level of
saturated fatty acids in the form of cocoa
butter was added to the oils. An equal amount
of a synthetic triolein was added so that the
addition of cocoa butter would not dilute
possible cardiotoxins in the oil. The cardio-
pathological results showed that both soybean
and LEAR oils developed a high incidence of
heart lesions when fed to male rats. The
incidence of lesions was significantly reduced
by the addition of saturates, whereas the
addition of triolein had no effect. These
results do not support the hypothesis that the
two vegetable oils contained cardiotoxins.
Because both dilutions were identical, a
similar reduction would have been expected if
these lesions were caused by cardiotoxins in
the oil. The results show that saturated fatty
acids significantly reduced the incidence of
heart lesions, even in the presence of linolenic
acid. When oleic acid was added to the diet,
there was little cardiopathogenic response, as
predicted by the results of the statistical
analysis.

These results provide experimental ev-
idence that the heart lesions are related to the
balance of dietary fatty acids. Studies are in

progress on male rats fed the test oils to relate
the cardiopathogenicity observed in the rats to
the absorption of specific dietary fatty acids
and the resultant cardiac lipid changes.

Pesticide metabolism

Atrazine. Combined in vitro and in vivo
studies in a cooperative project with the
Chemistry and Biology Research Institute
suggest that in the chicken, metabolism of
atrazine proceeds mainly by partial TV-dealky-
lation accompanied by hydrolysis. Further
research indicates that the formation of
2-hydroxy, partly N-dealkylated metabolites
occurs by the hydrolysis of the respective
2-chloro metabolites rather than by partial
TV-dealkylation of hydroxyatrazine.

Tetrachlorvinphos. In vivo studies with
laying hens revealed that approximately 71%
of the daily oral dose of l4C-labeled insecticide
was eliminated via the excreta within 24 h.
Radioactivity in parts per billion was also
detected in eggs, tissues, and organs, but it
gradually declined after dosing ceased. A
metabolic pathway was postulated for tetra-
chlorvinphos in chickens.

Trichlorfon. A quantitative gas chromato-
graphic method was developed for the analy-
sis of trichlorfon, desmethyl trichlorfon, and
dichlorvos in biological samples. The method
involves silylation of extracts of the com-
pounds with Tri-Sil followed by detection and
quantitation of the derivatives by gas
chromatography.

Fenvalerate. Preliminary data from in vitro
studies indicated one or more enzymes in the
crude preparation from chicken liver homo-
genates that produced at least two metab-
olites, which would have resulted from hydrol-
ysis at the ether linkage. An in vivo trial in
laying hens indicated that consumption of the
insecticide at 100 ppm did not produce
significant changes in egg production, body
weight, or feed consumption. No adverse
toxicological effects were noted. Radioactivity
could not be detected in eggs. Approximately
100% of the total administered dose of l4C-
fenvalerate had appeared in the excreta by
144 h after the seventh and final daily dose.

Cypermethrin and decamethrin. Cyper-
methrin, its optical and geometrical isomers,
six possible metabolites, and ring-labeled ,4C-
cypermethrin have been synthesized. Spectro-
scopic and physical data for each compound
has been collected. Similar work is proceeding

194

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

on the synthesis of decamethrin and its
metabolites. The compounds and data will
assist in the identification of residues and

metabolites of these synthetic pyrethroids in
biological samples from in vivo and in vitro
studies.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Ainsworth, L; Tsang, B. K.; Downey, B. R.;
Marcus, G. J.; Armstrong, D. T. 1980. Interre-
lationships between follicular fluid steroid
levels, gonadotropic stimuli and oocyte matu-
ration during preovulatory development of
porcine follicles. Biol. Reprod. 23:621-627.

Akhtar, M. H.; Foster, T. S. 1980. Fate of tetra-
chlorvinphos and its isomer in soluble fraction
(105 000 g) from goose and turkey liver
homogenates. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:693-
697.

Akhtar, M. H.; Foster, T. S. 1980. Metabolism and
excretion of tetrachlorvinphos in dairy cows. J.
Agric. Food Chem. 28:698-704.

Batra, T. R. 1980. The incidence of subclinical
mastitis and related pathogens in two lines of
dairy cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:743-748.

Boila, R. J.; Erfle, J. D.; Sauer, F. D. 1980.
Evaluation of the two stage technique for the
in vitro estimation of the dry matter digestibil-
ity of corn silage. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:367-
378.

Cave, N. A. G.; Williams, C. J. 1980. A chick assay
for availability of lysine in wheat. Poult. Sci.
59:799-804.

Chan, J. S. D.; Grinwich, D. L.; Robertson, H. A.;
Friesen, H. G. 1980. Maintenance of receptors
for luteinizing hormone by ovine placental
lactogen in pseudopregnant rats. Biol. Reprod.
23:60-63.

Cipera, J. D. 1980. Composition of oviducts of
laying hens: Investigation of segments involved
with shell formation. Poult. Sci. 59:635-642.

Cipera, J. D. 1980. Sources of carbon for the
biosynthesis of egg shell carbonate in hen.
Comparison of six l4C labeled compounds as
sources of carbon in egg shells, albumen, and
yolk. Poult. Sci. 59:1529-1537.

Downey, B. R.; Ainsworth, L. 1980. Reversal of
indomethacin blockade of ovulation in gilts by
prostaglandins. Prostaglandins 19:17-22.

Dwyer, R. J.; Robertson, H. A. 1980. Oestrogen
sulphatase and sulphotransferase activity in
the endometrium of the sow and ewe during
pregnancy. J. Reprod. Fertil. 60:187-191.

Eisen, E. J.; Nagai, J.; Bakker, H.; Hayes, J. F.
1980. Effect of litter size at birth on lactation
in mice. J. Anim. Sci. 60:680-688.

Elliot, J. I.; King, G. J.; Robertson, H. A. 1980.
Reproductive performance of the sow subse-
quent to weaning piglets at birth. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:65-71.

Farnworth, E. R.; Hill, D. C. 1980. Utilization of
administered folacin derivatives by rats fed a
diet low in methionine and folacin. Can. J.
Physiol. Pharmacol. 58:988-990.

Farnworth, E. R.; Neish, G. A. 1980. Analysis of
corn seeds for fungi and mycotoxins. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:727-731.

Fiser, P. S.; Macpherson, J. W.; Reinhart, B. S.;
Fairfull, R. W. 1980. The effect of sodium
pentobarbital on the preservation of fertilizing
capacity of turkey spermatozoa. Poult. Sci.
59:941-942.

Fortin, A. 1980. The effect of slaughter weight on
the carcass characteristics of Yorkshire bar-
rows and gilts. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:265-274.

Fortin, A.; Sim, D. W.; Talbot, S. 1980. Ultrasonic
measurements of backfat thickness at different
locations on the warm pork carcass and com-
parisons of ruler and ultrasonic procedures.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:635-641.

Foster, T. S.; Khan, S. U.; Akhtar, M. H. 1980.
Metabolism of deethylatrazine, deisopropyla-
trazine, and hydroxyatrazine by the soluble
fraction (105 000 g) from goose liver homogen-
ates. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:1083-1085.

Gavora, J. S.; Spencer, J. L. 1979. Studies on
genetic resistance to Marek's disease — A re-
view. Comp. Immunol. Microbiol. Infect. Dis.
2:359-371.

Gavora, J. S.; Spencer, J. L.; Gowe, R. S.; Harris,
D. L. 1980. Lymphoid leukosis virus infection:
Effects on production and mortality and conse-
quences in selection for high egg production.
Poult. Sci. 59:2165-2178.

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

195

Grunder, A. A.; Guyer, R. B.; Buss, E. G.;
Claggett, C. O. 1980. Calcium-binding pro-
teins in serum: quantitative differences
between thick and thin shell lines of chickens.
Poult. Sci. 59:880-884.

Guyer, R. B.; Grunder, A. A.; Buss, E. G.;
Claggett, C. O. 1980. Calcium-binding pro-
teins in serum of chickens: vitellogenin and
albumin. Poult. Sci. 59:874-879.

Hackett, A. J.; Robertson, H. A. 1980. Effect of
dose and time of injection of prostaglandin ¥2(X
in cycling ewes. Theriogenology 1 3:347-35 1 .

Hamilton, R. M. G. 1980. The effects of dietary
phosphorus, vitamin D3, and 25-hydroxy vita-
min D3 levels on feed intake, productive per-
formance, and egg and shell quality in two
strains of force-molted White Leghorns. Poult.
Sci. 59:598-604.

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The
effects of level and source of ammonium
sulphate on feed intake, egg production and
egg quality in White Leghorn pullets and force
molted hens. Poult. Sci. 59:1 19-127.

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Thompson, B. K. 1980. Effects
of sodium plus potassium to chloride ratio in
practical-type diets on blood gas levels in three
strains of White Leghorn hens and the rela-
tionship between acid-base balance and egg
shell strength. Poult. Sci. 59:1294-1303.

Hidiroglou, M. 1980. Zinc, copper and manganese
deficiencies and the ruminant skeleton: A
review. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:579-590.

Hidiroglou, M. 1980. Trace elements in the fetal
and neonate ruminant. A review. Can. Vet. J.
21:328-335.

Hidiroglou, M.; Ivan, M.; Ihnat, M. 1980. Silicon
in plasma of sheep. Am. J. Vet. Res. 42:139-
140.

Hidiroglou, M.; Ivan, M.; Proulx, J. C; Lessard, J.
R. 1980. Effect of a single intramuscular dose
of vitamin D on concentrations of lipo-soluble
vitamins in the plasma of heifers winter-fed oat
silage, grass silage or hay. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:311-318.

Hidiroglou, M.; Williams, C. J. 1980. Transfer of
tritium labelled vitamin D3 and hydroxyvita-
min D3 in the ovine placenta. Am. J. Vet. Res.
42:141-142.

Hidiroglou, M.; Williams, C. J. 1980. Fate of
isotopically labelled cholecalciferol and 25-
hydroxycholecalciferol in sheep. J. Dairy Sci.
63:945-950.

Hidiroglou, M.; Williams, C. J.; Khan, S. U.;
Siddiqui, I. R. 1979. Amino acid and glyco-
saminoglycan composition of epiphyseal carti-
lage in neonate and osteoporotic lambs. Int. J.
Vitam. Nutr. Res. 49:359-363.

Hollands, K. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Williams, C. J.
1980. Response to five generations of selection
for blood cholesterol levels in White Leghorns.
Poult. Sci. 59:1316-1323.

Hollands, K. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Williams, C. J.;
Gavora, J. S. 1980. Plasma creatine phos-
phokinase as an indicator of degenerative
myopathy in live turkeys. Br. Poult. Sci.
21:161-169.

Ivan, M.; Hidiroglou, M. 1980. The Ottawa plastic
metabolism cage for sheep. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:539-541.

Ivan, M; Hidiroglou, M. 1980. Effects of dietary
manganese on growth and manganese metab-
olism in sheep. J. Dairy Sci. 63:385-390.

Jenkins, K. J.; Emmons, D. B. 1979. Effect of fat
dispersion method on performance of calves
fed high-fat milk replacers. Can. J. Anim. Sci.

59:713-720.

Jordan, W. A.; Thompson, B. K.; Ivan, M.; Hidiro-
glou, M. 1980. Effects of dietary cement kiln
dust supplements on growth of lambs. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:87-91.

Khan, S. U.; Foster, T. S.; Akhtar, M. H. 1979. In
vitro metabolism of a mixture of atrazine and
simazine by the soluble fraction (105 000 g)
from goose, pig, and sheep liver homogenates.
Pestic. Sci. 10:460-466.

Khan, S. U.; Morris, G. F.; Hidiroglou, M. 1980.
Rapid estimation of sulfide in rumen and blood
with a sulfide-specific ion electrode. Mi-
crochem. J. 15:388-395.

King, G. J.; Atkinson, B. A.; Robertson, H. A.
1980. Development of the bovine placentome
from days 20 to 29 gestation. J. Reprod. Fertil.
59:95-100.

Kramer, J. K. G.; Fouchard, R. C; Farnworth, E.
R. 1980. Effect of solvents on the resolution of
neutral lipids on chromarods. J. Chromatogr.
198:279-285.

Kramer, J. K. G. 1980. Comparative studies on
composition of cardiac phospholipids in rats
fed different vegetable oils. Lipids 15:651-660.

Langford, G. A.; Marcus, G. J.; Hackett, A. J.;
Ainsworth, L.; Wolynetz, M. S. 1980. Influ-
ence of estradiol- 17/3 on fertility in confined
sheep inseminated with frozen semen. J. Anim.
Sci. 51:911-916.

196

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Mahadevan, S.; Erfle, J. D.; Sauer, F. D. 1980.
Degradation of soluble and insoluble proteins
by Bacteroides amylophilus protease and by
rumen microorganisms. J. Anim. Sci. 50:723-
728.

Marcus, G. J.; Lucis, R.; Ainsworth, L. 1979.
Metabolism of progesterone by chorionic cells
of the early sheep conceptus in vitro. Steroids
34:807-815.

McAllister, A. J. 1980. Are today's dairy cattle
breeding programs suitable for tomorrow's
production requirements? Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:253-264.

Modler, H. W.; Muller, P. G.; Elliot, J. I.; Emmons,
D. B. 1980. Economic and technical aspects of
feeding whey to live stock. J. Dairy Sci.
63:838-855.

Nagai, J.; Harris, D. L.; McAllister, A. J. 1980.
Growth, feed efficiency and lifetime perform-
ance of crosses between lines selected for
nursing ability and/or adult weight in mice.
Theor. Appl. Genet. 58:59-69.

Ojamma, K. M.; Elliot, J. I.; Hartsock, T. G. 1980.
Effects of gestation feeding level on glycogen
reserves and blood parameters in newborn
piglets. J. Anim. Sci. 51:620-628.

Patni, N. K. 1980. Pipeline transportation of liquid
manure. Smith, R. J., ed. Livestock waste: A
renewable resource. American Society of Agri-
cultural Engineers, St. Joseph, Mich. pp. 387-
391.

Reid, W. S.; Buckely, D. J.; Nicholls, C. F.; Cave,
N. A. G. 1980. An automatic feed dispensing
system for poultry in floor pens. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:193-195.

Robertson, H. A.; Chan, J. S. D.; Friesen, H. G.
1980. The use of a pregnancy-specific antigen,
chorionic sommatomammotrophin, as an indi-
cator of pregnancy in sheep. J. Reprod. Fertil.
58:279-281.

Robertson, H. A.; Chan, J. S. D.; Hackett, A. J.;
Marcus, G. J.; Friesen, H. G. 1980. Diagnosis
of pregnancy in the ewe at mid-gestation.
Anim. Reprod. Sci. 3:69-71.

Robertson, H. A.; Dwyer, R. J.; King, G. J. 1980.
Effect of oestrogen antisera early in gestation
on pregnancy maintenance in the pig. J. Re-
prod. Fertil. 58: 1 1 5- 1 20.

Sauer, F. D.; Erfle, J. D.; Mahadevan, S. 1980.
Methane production by the membranous frac-
tion of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophi-
cum. Biochem. J. 190:177-182.

Sauer, F. D.; Kramer, J. K. G. 1980. The metab-
olism of long-chain monoenoic fatty acids in
heart muscle and their cardiopathogenic impli-
cations. Draper, H. H., ed. Advances in nutri-
tion research. Vol. III. Plenum Press, New
York, N.Y. pp. 207-230.

Sauer, F. D.; Lessard, J. R.; McAllister, J. A.;
Standish, J. F. 1980. Evaluation of an alfalfa
silage - corn silage roughage feeding program
for raising dairy heifers. J. Dairy Sci. 63:2080-
2089.

Sauer, F. D.; Mahadevan, S.; Erfle, J. D. 1980.
Valinomycin inhibited methane synthesis in
Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum.
Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 95:715-721.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Metabolizable energy in
poultry nutrition. BioScience 30:736-741.

Sibbald, L R. 1980. The clearance time and rate of
passage of feed residues. Poult. Sci. 59:374-
377.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The effects of dietary cellulose
and sand on the combined metabolic plus
endogenous energy and amino acid outputs of
adult cockerels. Poult. Sci. 59:836-844.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Gut clearance and true metab-
olizable energy value of dehydrated alfalfa
supplemented with sodium chloride. Poult. Sci.
59:939-940.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The passage of oat and other
feed residues through the adult cockerel. Poult.
Sci. 59:2136-2144.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The effect of heat treatment on
the clearance time, true metabolizable energy
and true available amino acids of raw soybean
flakes. Poult. Sci. 59:2358-2360.

Sibbald, I. R.; Barrette, J. P.; Price, K. 1980.
Predicting true metabolizable energy, gross
energy, carbohydrate and proximate analysis
values by assuming additivity. Poult. Sci.
59:805-807.

Sibbald, I. R.; Kramer, J. K. G. 1980. The effect of
the basal diet on the utilization of fat as a
source of true metabolizable energy, lipid and
fatty acids. Poult. Sci. 59:316-324.

Sibbald, I. R.; Kramer, J. K. G. 1980. The effects of
fractions of yellow corn on the true metaboliz-
able energy of beef tallow. Poult. Sci. 59:1505-
1509.

Sibbald, I. R.; Price, K. 1980. Variability in
metabolic plus endogenous energy losses in
adult cockerels and in the true metabolizable
energy values and rates of passage of dehy-
drated alfalfa. Poult. Sci. 59: 1 275- 1 279.

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

197

Sibbald, I. R.; Price, K.; Barrette, J. P. 1980. True
metabolizable energy for poultry of commer-
cial diets measured by bioassay and predicted
from chemical data. Poult. Sci. 59:808-81 1.

Teather, R. M.; Erfle, J. D.; Boila, R. J.; Sauer, F.
D. 1980. Effect of dietary nitrogen on the
rumen microbial population in lactating dairy
cattle. J. Appl. Bacteriol. 49:231-238.

Trenholm, H. L.; Warner, R.; Farnworth, E. R.
1980. Gas chromatographic detection of the
mycotoxin zearalenone in blood serum. J.
Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem. 63:604-61 1.

Uhthoff, H. K.; Liskova-Kiar, M.; Hidiroglou, M.
1980. Morphological studies of front limb
deformities in lambs. Vet. Pathol. 17:362-371.

Walsh, D. S.; Vesely, J. A.; Mahadevan, S. 1980.
Relationship between milk production and
circulating hormones in dairy cows. J. Dairy
Sci. 63:290-294.

Miscellaneous

Ainsworth, L. 1980. Controlled lamb production —
looking ahead in the Canadian sheep industry.
Proceedings Seminar, Ontario Sheep Associa-
tion, Ottawa, Ont. 9 pp.

Ainsworth, L. 1980. Controlled lamb production.
Sheep Can. 5(4):13-17.

Ainsworth, L.; Fiser, P. S.; Langford, G. A. 1980.
Thanks to controlled reproduction techniques
year-round lambing arrives. 1980-1981 Live-
stock Special Supplement, Manitoba Coopera-
tor (28 Aug.). pp. 15-16.

Ainsworth, L.; Heaney, D. P. 1980. Effect of
GnRH-induced LH release and exogenous
progesterone treatment on ovarian activity in
the early post-partum ewe. J. Anim. Sci.
51(Suppl. 1):253 (abstract).

Akhtar, M. H.; Foster, T. S. 1980. Metabolism and
excretion of tetrachlorvinphos by lactating
cows. Canadex 672.

Animal Research Institute/Institute de Recherches
Zootechniques. 1980. Staff and Program/Per-
sonnel et programme. Agriculture Canada. 69/
74 pp.

Atkinson, B. A.; King, G. J.; Robertson, H. A.
1980. Development of the bovine placenta
from 20 to 45 days. Proceedings of the IXth
International Congress on animal reproduction
and artificial insemination, Madrid, Spain. 3
pp.

Batra, T. R.; Fiser, P. S.; McAllister, A. J. 1980.
Effect of glycerol equilibration time on the
survival of bull sperm frozen in pellets. Pro-
ceedings of the Eastern Branch Annual Meet-
ing, Canadian Society of Animal Science,
Ridgetown, Ont. (abstract). 1 p.

Batra, T. R.; McAllister, A. J. 1980. Extending
records in progress to 305-day equivalent by
USDA factors. Proceedings of the Eastern
Branch Annual Meeting, Canadian Society of
Animal Science, Ridgetown, Ont. (abstract). 1
P-

Batra, T. R.; McAllister, A. J.; Chesnais, J. P.;
Darisse, J. P. F.; Lee, A. J.; Roy, G. L.; Vesely,
J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980. Comparison of
several pureline bull groups for reproductive
traits and calving ease of their daughters. J.
Dairy Sci. 63(Suppl. 1 ):97 (abstract).

Batra, T. R.; McAllister, A. J.; Chesnais, J. P.;
Emsley, J. A. B.; Lee, A. J. 1980. Semen
quality and body measurements of pureline
and crossline bulls. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:561
(abstract).

Cave, N. A. G. 1980. Effect of intermittent lighting
on feed efficiency and broiler carcass fat. Poult.
Sci. 59:1590 (abstract).

Chambers, J. R.; Fortin, A. 1980. Chemical carcass
composition prediction in broiler chickens.
Proceedings of the 72nd Annual Meeting,
American Society of Animal Science, Ithaca,
N.Y. (abstract). 168 p.

Chambers, J. R.; Gavora, J. S. 1980. Genetic
changes in meat-type chickens in the last
twenty years. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1044
(abstract).

Chesnais, J. P.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Darisse, J. P. F.; Hickman, C. G.; Lee, A. J.;
Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980.
Foundation animal performance in the na-
tional dairy breeding project. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:560 (abstract).

Crawford, R. D.; Flowers, F. H.; Miller, J.; Nagai,
J.; Percy, D.; Rowsell, H. C; Thibert, P. 1980.
Research animals in Canada. Canadian Coun-
cil of Animal Care, Ottawa, Ont. 26 pp.

Elliot, J. I. 1980. Reduce piglet deaths. Hog
Market Place Quart. 1 980(2):5 1 -55.

Elliot, J. I.; Friend, D. W. 1980. Reproductive
improvement sought for early-bred gilts. Hog
Market Place Quart. 1980(4):32, 34-35.

Elliot, J. I.; Lodge, G. A.; Larmond, E.; Fortin, A.
F. 1980. The once-bred gilt as a market hog.
Proceedings of the 30th Annual Meeting,
Canadian Society of Animal Science, Edmon-
ton, Alta. (abstract 80-5009). p. 72.

Erfle, J. D.; Sauer, F. D.; Mahadevan, S. 1980.
Adenylate energy charge as a measure of
rumen microbial metabolic activity. J. Dairy
Sci. 63(Suppl. 1):156 (abstract).

198

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Ersdale, W. J. 1980. Nutritional evaluations and
feasibility studies to elucidate the potential of
selected "steaming" treatments of crop and
forest residue materials at small scale for use
in animal production. Final Reports. STAKE
Technology Ltd., Ottawa, Ont. Agriculture
Canada/Animal Research Institute research
contract Nos. DSS 07SZ.0 1845-9-0831. 21
pp., DSS 07SZ.01845-8-0541. 56 pp., DSS
07SZ.01845-7-0891. 119 pp.

Fairfull, R. W.; Gowe, R. S. 1980. Actual and
theoretical values of inbreeding coefficients in
two control strains. Can. J. Genet. Cytol.
22:662.

Farnworth, E. R.; Kramer, J. K. G.; Thompson, B.
K. 1980. Qualitative and quantitative analysis
of neutral lipids on Iatroscan chromarods.
Proceedings of the Symposium on the analyti-
cal chemistry of rapeseed and products,
Canada/Sweden exchange rapeseed research,
Winnipeg, Man. (abstract No. 7). 1 p.

Fiser, P. S. 1979. New extenders for freezing ram
semen. Cryobiology 16:614-615 (abstract).

Fiser, P. S. 1980. Some aspects of freezing of ram
semen. Proceedings seminar, Ontario Sheep
Association, Ottawa, Ont. 5 pp.

Fiser, P. S.; Langford, G. A. 1980. Effect of pellet
size on survival of ram spermatozoa frozen on
dry ice. Cryobiology 17:619 (abstract).

Fortin, A. 1980. Fat thickness measured with three
ultrasonic instruments on live ram lambs and
prediction of cutability. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:1065 (abstract).

Foster, T. S. 1980. Pesticides. Agriculture Canada,
Food Market Commentary 2:14.

Friend, D. W. 1980. Whither once-bred gilts. Hog
Market Place Quart. 1980(3):58, 60, 62.

Gavora, J. S.; Spencer, J. L. 1980. Is genetic
resistance to Marek's disease important in
vaccinated flocks? Can. Poultryman 67(8):40.

Gavora, J. S.; Spencer, J. L. 1980. Marek's disease
in chickens. Genetic resistance to a viral
neoplastic disease — A review. Skamene, E.;
Kongshavn, P. A.; Landry, M., eds. Genetic
control of natural resistance to infection and
malignancy. Academic Press, New York, N.Y.
pp. 361-365.

Gavora, J. S.; Spencer, J. L.; Gowe, R. S.; Emsley,
J. A. B.; Pettit, J. 1980. Performance of diallel
crosses of Leghorn strains under various de-
grees of protection and exposure to Marek's
disease. Biggs, P. M., ed. Resistance and
immunity to Marek's disease. Commission of
the European Economic Communities, Luxem-
bourg, pp. 455-471.

Gowe,*R. S.; Fairfull, R. W. 1979. Random-bred
control strains: chickens. Altman, P. L.; Katz,
D. D., eds. Biological handbooks III. Inbred
and genetically defined strains of laboratory
animals. Part 2. Hamster, guinea pig, rabbit,
and chicken. Federation of American Societies
for Experimental Biology, Bethesda, MD. pp.
615-619.

Gowe, R. S.; Fairfull, R. W. 1980. Performance of
six long-term multitrait selected Leghorn
strains and three control strains, and a strain
cross evaluation of the selected strains. Pro-
ceedings of the 1980 South Pacific Poultry
Science Convention, New Zealand Branch of
the World's Poultry Science Association,
Auckland, N.Z. pp. 141-162.

Gowe, R. S.; Fairfull, R. W. 1980. Some lessons
from selection studies in poultry. Proceedings
of the World Congress on sheep and beef cattle
breeding, New Zealand Federation of Live-
stock Breeding Groups, Palmerston North and
Christchurch, N.Z. 20 pp.

Grunder, A. A. 1980. Recent developments in the
understanding of egg shell formation. Shaver
Focus 9(2):l-3.

Grunder, A. A.; Thompson, B. K.; Hollands, K. G.;
Hamilton, R. M. G. 1980. Egg shell strength
at oviposition and three hours later. Poult. Sci.
59:1615 (abstract).

Hackett, A. J.; Batra, T. 1980. Observations on
reproduction in postpartum, totally confined
dairy cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1063
(abstract).

Hackett, A. J.; Langford, G. A.; Robertson, H. A.
1980. Fertility and prolificacy of confined ewes
treated with prostaglandin F2(X and bred by
artificial insemination. J. Anim. Sci. 51(Suppl.
1):282 (abstract).

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Thompson, B.
K.; Hollands, K. G. 1980. Relationship
between blood ionized calcium levels and egg
shell strength of White Leghorn hens. Poult.
Sci. 59:1617 (abstract).

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Thompson, B. K. 1980.
Variation in feed intake and egg shell strength
during a 14-day period. Poult. Sci. 59:1617
(abstract).

Hamilton, R. M. G.; Voisey, P. W. 1980. Egg shell
strength: A nightmare in experimental me-
chanics from a poultry scientist's viewpoint.
Proceedings of the 5th Symposium on engi-
neering and applied mechanics, Ottawa, Ont.
pp. 155-159.

Heaney, D. P. 1980. Performance of artificially
reared lambs fed milk replacer containing
casein. J. Anim. Sci. 5 1 (Suppl. 1):145
(abstract).

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

199

Heaney, D. P. 1980. Feeding programs for confined
sheep. Livestock Summary, Southwestern On-
tario Farmers' Week, Ridgetown College of
Agricultural Technology, Ridgetown, Ont. pp.
Ll-4.

Heaney, D. P. 1980. General update of ARI sheep
research. Proceedings Seminar, Ontario Sheep
Association, Ottawa, Ont. 5 pp.

Heaney, D. P.; Ainsworth, L.; Batra, T. R.; Fiser,
P. S.; Hackett, A. J.; Langford, G. A.; Lee, A.
J. 1980. Research for an intensive total con-
finement sheep production system/ Recherches
pour la production intensive du mouton en
stabulation. Agriculture Canada, Animal Re-
search Institute Technical Bulletin No. 2. 56/
58 pp.

Hidiroglou, M. 1980. La dystrophic musculaire
nutritionnelle des jeunes ruminants/Nutri-
tional muscular dystrophy of young ruminants.
Agric. Can. Publ. 1706.

Hidiroglou, M.; Proulx, J. G. 1980. Les animaux
hivernes à l'ensilage d'herbe plus exposés aux
déficiences en vitamin D. Bull. Agric.
62(l):36-37.

Hidiroglou, M.; Proulx, J. G. 1980. Vitamin D
nutrition of the bovine. Can. Agric. 25(4):29-
31.

Hollands, K. G.; Grunder, A. A.; Gavora, J. S.;
Chambers, J. R.; Cave, N. A. G. 1980. Genetic
variation in the incidence of degenerative
myopathy in meat-type chickens. Poult. Sci.
59:1621 (abstract).

Jenkins, K. J. 1980. Improved milk replacers
coming. Agri-Book Mag. 6(9):36.

Jenkins, K. J.; Emmons, D. B. 1980. High-fat
replacers fatten vealers. Country Guide
99(1):42.

Jenkins, K. J.; Lessard, J. R.; Emmons, D. B. 1980.
Improving the curd-forming potential of calf
milk replacers. Canadex 401 .55.

Kramer, J. K. G. 1980. Comparative studies on the
cardiac lipids of rats fed different vegetable
oils. J. Am. Oil Chem. Soc. 57:173 A (abstract
410).

Kramer, J. K. G.; Farnworth, E. R. 1980. The
effect of dietary fatty acids on the incidence of
cardiac lesions and changes in the cardiac
phospholipids in male rats. Proceedings of the
Golden Jubilee International Congress on
essential fatty acids and prostaglandins, Min-
neapolis, Minn, (abstract No. 86). 1 p.

Fettwissenschaft/American Oil Chemists' So-
ciety world congress, New York, N.Y. (ab-
stract No. 41 7A). 1 p.

Langford, G. A. 1980. Some factors influencing
sperm preservation and fertility in artificial
insemination. Proceedings of the Annual Joint
Meeting on Canadian fertility, Canadian An-
drology Society, Val David, Que. 12 pp.

Langford, G. A. 1980. Development and use of
artificial insemination and frozen semen.
Sperm Banking Symposium, Proceedings of
the Annual Joint Meeting on Canadian fertil-
ity, Canadian Andrology Society, Val David,
Que. 23 pp.

Langford, G. A. 1980. Artificial insemination in
sheep. Proceedings Seminar, Ontario Sheep
Association, Ottawa, Ont. 7 pp.

Langford, G. A.; Fiser, P. S. 1980. Influence of
storage temperature and duration of storage on
the fertilizing capacity of extended ram semen.
J. Anim. Sci. 51(Suppl. 1):295 (abstract).

Langford, G. A.; Fiser, P. S.; Heaney, D. P.;
Ainsworth, L. 1980. Ultrasonic diagnoses of
pregnancy in confined sheep. J. Anim. Sci.
51(Suppl. 1):295 (abstract).

Langford, G. A.; Hackett, A. J. 1980. Dose related
effects of PMSG in breeding confined sheep by
artificial insemination. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:562-563 (abstract).

Langford, G. A.; Marcus, G. J.; Hackett, A. J.;
Ainsworth, L. 1980. Embryonic mortality in
ewes given estradiol and bred with frozen
semen. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1062 (abstract).

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Harris, D. L.
Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980
First lactation performance in pureline and
crossline dairy cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:561 (abstract).

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Roy, G. L.;
Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980. Breed group
differences for growth in pureline foundation
phase of the National Dairy Cattle Breeding
Project. J. Anim. Sci. 51 (Suppl. 1 ): 1 22
(abstract).

Marcus, G. J.; Hackett, A. J.; Robertson, H. A.
1980. Estrous cycles and fertility in sheep
under different lighting regimes. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:562 (abstract).

McAllister, A. J. 1980. What you should know
about U.S. and Canadian bull proofs. Hoard's
Dairyman 125(4):264-265.

McAllister, A. J. 1980. Geneticists from U.S. and
Canada discuss sire proofs — Canadian view-
point. Hoard's Dairyman 125(5):333.

200

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.; Chesnais, J. P;
Darisse, J. P. F.; Lee, A. J.; Roy, G. L.; Vesely,
J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980. The Canadian dairy
cattle selection and crossbreeding project.
Proceedings of the Nordic Symposium on
crossbreeding dairy cattle, Edinburgh, Scot-
land. 12 pp.

Moo- Young, M.; Buchanan-Smith, J. G.; Holmes,
E. L. 1980. Conversion of crop residues into
protein-carbohydrate ruminant feed rations:
Design and economic optimalization of an
energy-conserving integrated hydrolysis-fer-
mentation process for farm-based operations.
Final report. University of Waterloo, Water-
loo, Ont. Agriculture Canada/Animal Re-
search Centre research contract No. DSS
04SU.01 845-8-2543. 29 pp.

Nagai, J. 1980. Lifetime lactational performance of
F2 mouse populations of different origin. J.
Anim.Sci. 51(Suppl. 1): 124- 125 (abstract).

Nagai, J. 1980. Goals and achievements in control-
ling lactation of mice. Proceedings of the 7th
(1979) Symposium of the International Coun-
cil for Laboratory Animal Science, Utrecht.
Gustav Fischer Verlag, Stuttgart, West Ger-
many, pp. 337-340.

Nagai, J.; Chesnais, J. P.; McAllister, A. J. 1980.
Comparison of expected performance under
repeated hybrid male cross and criss cross
mating systems. J. Anim. Sci. 5 1 (Suppl.
1 ):1 25 (abstract).

Ojamma, K. M.; Elliot, J. I.; Hartsock, T. G. 1980.
Effects of gestation feeding level on glycogen
reserves and blood parameters in the newborn
piglet. J. Anim. Sci. 49(Suppl. 1):133
(abstract).

Proulx, J. G.; Hidiroglou, M.; Jordan, W. A. 1980.
White muscle disease can be prevented. Cattle-
men 43(1 1):26.

Roy, G. L.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Lee, A. J.;
Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980. Calving ease
and reproduction in pureline and crossline
dairy cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:560-561
(abstract).

Sarkar, N. K. 1980. Amino acids for pigs. Hog
Market Place Quart. 1980(4):76-80.

Sarkar, N. K.; Elliot, J. I.; Friend, D. W. 1980.
Other protein supplement could reduce feed
inputs. Hog Market Place Quart. 1980(4):70,

72.

Sauer, F. D.; Mahadevan, S.; Erfle, J. D. 1980.
Urea should be mixed with corn silage.
Hoard's Dairyman 125(12):880-881.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Feed consumption by poultry.
Feed Management 3 1 ( 1 ):3 1 .

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The most important nutrient.
Feed Management 31(4):40.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. The value of fat in poultry
diets. Feed Management 31(7):43.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Selection of a bioassay for
available energy. Proceedings of the South
Pacific Poultry Science Convention, New Zea-
land Branch of the World's Poultry Science
Association, Auckland, N.Z. pp. 10-19.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Metabolizable energy in
poultry nutrition. Proceedings Meeting, Soci-
ety Feed Technology, London, England. 5 pp.

Sibbald, I. R. 1980. Selection of a bioassay for
available energy. Proceedings of the Sympo-
sium on recent developments in coccidiostats
energy evaluation, Sydney, Australia, pp. 1-13.

Spencer, J. L.; Gavora, J. S. 1980. Rationale and
methods for controlling lymphoid leukosis.
Proceedings of the New Hampshire Poultry
Health Conference, Durham, N.H. 16 pp.

Spencer, J. L.; Gavora, J. S. 1980. Influence of
genotype of chickens and immune status of
dams on response to vaccination with turkey
herpesvirus. Biggs, P. M., ed. Resistance and
immunity to Marek's disease. Commission of
the European Economic Community, Luxem-
bourg, pp. 519-537.

Spencer, J. L; Gavora, J. S.; Chambers, J. R. 1980.
Lymphoid leukosis: How much does it cost
you? Proceedings of the 9th Poultry Health
Conference, Toronto, Ont. (abstract No. 18). 1
P-

Spencer, J. L.; Gavora, J. S.; Gowe, R. S. 1980.
Recent findings in lymphoid leukosis and
Marek's disease research. Can. Vet. J. 21:154
(abstract).

Spencer, J. L.; Gavora, J. S.; Gowe, R. S. 1980.
Lymphoid leukosis virus: Natural transmission
and non-neoplastic effects. Viruses in naturally
occurring cancers. Cold Spring Harbor Con-
ference. Cell Proliferation 7:553-564.

Spencer, J. L.; Gavora, J. S.; Pettit, J. R. 1980.
Studies on an early mortality syndrome caused
by Marek's disease virus. Proceedings of the
117th Annual Meeting, American Veterinary
Medicine Association, Washington, D.C. (ab-
stract). 1 p.

Trenholm, H. L. 1980. Food safety, a product of
cooperation. Agrologist 9(2): 17-19.

Trenholm, H. L.; Farnworth, E. R. 1980. Continu-
ous effort prevents growth of moulds/ Efforts
continus pour enrayer le développement des
moisissures. Can. Consumer 1 0(4): 12-13.

ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTRE

201

Tsang, C. P. W.; Grunder, A. A.; Hollands, K. G.
1980. Free estrogens and estrogen sulphates in
laying hen plasma. Poult. Sci. 59:1667
(abstract).

Veira, D. M.; Ivan, M. 1980. Effect of protein level
on rumen metabolism in sheep. Proceedings of
the 72nd Annual Meeting, American Society
Animal Science, Ithaca, N.Y. pp. 405-406.

Winter, K. A.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Emsley, J. A.
B.; Lee, A. J.; Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A. 1980.
Heifer growth in pureline and crossline dairy
cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:560 (abstract).

Postgraduate Theses

In partial fulfillment of degrees granted by the
Department of Biology, Carleton University, all or
a significant portion of the research was carried out
at the Animal Research Centre.

Carnegie, J. A., Ph.D. Thesis. 1980. Studies on the
early ovine conceptus. A combined ultrastruc-
tural and histochemical investigation of the
day 12 to 16 blastocyst and the immunofluo-
rescent localization of ovine chorionic soma-
tomammotropin in the day 14 to 55
trophoblast.

Gill, D. V., Ph.D. Thesis. 1980. The biosynthesis of
estrogens and androgens by the developing
chicken (Gallus gallus) embryo.

202

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Centre
London, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administration

H. V. Morley, B.Sc, Ph.D.

J. A. Coleman

J. Giesbrecht,' B.A., B.L.S.

D. E. H. Drew,' B.Sc. (Biol.), M.L.S.

Director

Administrative Officer

Library Area Coordinator (Ont.)

Librarian

Mode of Action of Selected and Potential Insect Control Agents

W. Chefurka, B.Sc., M.Sc, Ph.D.
E. J. Bond, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
T. Dumas, D.C.E., M.Sc.
R. M. Krupka, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
T. T. Lee, B.Sc, Ph.D.

T. Nagai, M.E., M.Sc, D.Sc

E. B. Roslycky, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. N. Starratt, B.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C.

R. W. Steele, B.Sc, Ph.D.

A. Vardanis, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Section Head; Biochemistry

Fumigation — toxicology

Analytical chemistry

Biochemistry

Plant biochemistry and tissue

culture

Neurophysiology
Microbiology
Chemistry — attractants and

repellents
Neurochemistry
Biochemistry

Mode of Action of Selected and Potential Plant-Pathogen Control Agents

E. W. B. Ward, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. Lazarovits, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. M. Miller, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. Stoessl, B.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C.

G. D. Thorn, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D., F.C.I.C.

Section Head; Plant pathology —

phytoalexins
Plant pathology — fungicides
Biophysical chemistry — fungicide

selectivity
Organic chemistry — phytoalexins

and toxins
Organic chemistry — fungicides

RESEARCH CENTRE, LONDON, ONT.

203

G. A. White, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Biochemistry — fungicides

Soil Pesticides

C. R. Harris, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

B. T. Bowman, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.
R. A. Chapman, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. G. R. McLeod, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
J. R. W. Miles, B.Sc.

J. R. Robinson, B.S.A., M.S. A., Ph.D.

J. H. Tolman, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
A. D. Tomlin, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. M. Tu, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Section Head; Insect toxicology
Soil physical chemistry
Analytical organic chemistry
Physiology
Analytical chemistry
F.C.I.C. Chemistry— radioisotopes and mass
spectrometry
Applied entomology
Pesticide ecology
Microbiology

VISITING SCIENTISTS

P. Ahmad, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D., 1979-1980

R. I. Buzzel, B.S., Ph.D., 1980-1980

S. S. Gnanamanickam, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D,

K. P. Lim, Ph.D., 1980-1980

A. S. Murty, M.Sc, Ph.D., 1980-

P. Stôessel, Licentiate, Ph.D., 1978-1980

1980-

Membrane biochemistry

Soybean breeding

Plant pathology — disease physiology

Pesticide ecology

Pesticide residues

Plant pathology — phytoalexins

Graduate students

A. B. Broadbent, B.Sc, M.Sc, 1977-1980
M. A. J. Finkelman, B.Sc, M.E.Sc, 1979-
L. Ho, B.S., M.S., 1980-

Pesticide ecology
Biochemistry
Plant physiology

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

204

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT HS0

INTRODUCTION

This report summarizes highlights of research carried out during 1980 at the London
Research Centre in support of Departmental objectives in environmental quality and crop
protection. The Centre was established in 1951 to investigate the problems created by the
introduction of synthetic organic pesticides. Present research programs reflect the current
health and environmental concerns regarding the agricultural use of pesticides by
concentrating research efforts in integrated pest management (IPM) and environmental
toxicology.

The IPM objective comprises four research activities. The pest management activity is
aimed at developing IPM procedures, including biological control, for agriculturally and
economically important insect pests. Research on stored products is directed toward the
investigation of environmental and insect resistance problems and the development of more
efficient fumigation procedures leading to a minimum of pesticide residues. The third activity
concerns research on alternative pest control strategies. Studies on insects are aimed at
identifying specific areas for attack so that pest control in the future will not rely upon the use
of broad-spectrum toxicants only. Research on natural plant defense mechanisms in disease-
resistant and susceptible agriculturally important crops has the objective of using natural
defense mechanisms by chemical manipulation or in the breeding of resistant varieties. The last
activity under the IPM objective concerns research on systemic fungicides. Studies are carried
on the efficacy of systemic fungicides and on the plant pathological, biochemical, biophysical,
and structural parameters of fungicide activity and resistance.

Research on environmental toxicology has three areas of activity. The first deals with the
effect of pesticides on nontarget soil invertebrates and agriculturally important soil
microorganisms. The second is concerned with the determination of the behavior, persistence,
and environmental fate of pesticides and their movement through the environment. The third is
concerned with establishing the mode of action of growth regulators and toxicants by carrying
out studies on insects and plants related to vital processes of growth and development.

This report records only the highlights of our accomplishments for 1980; more detailed
information can be obtained from the publication titles listed at the end of this report. Copies
of this report, reprints of publications, and further information are available on request from
the Research Centre, Agriculture Canada, University Sub Post Office, London, Ont. N6A
5B7.

H. V. Morley
Director

INTEGRATED PEST field at that time; release of parasitized onion

MANAGEMENT maggot pupae proved more effective than field

release of adult parasites. A comparison of

Pest management three onion growing sites (Holland, Keswick,

and Thedford marshes) with the Centre's field
Biological control of the onion maggot, station regarding parasite-predator numbers
Modification of laboratory mass-rearing tech- of onion maggots showed that parasite and
niques permitted production and storage of predator numbers were generally highest
more than 100 000 pupae of Aphaereta where insecticide spraying was least and
pallipes, a braconid parasite of onion maggot hedgerows (as a cover) were available. An
larvae. Laboratory and field-cage experiments aestivation pattern in onion maggots was
showed A. pallipes to be an effective parasite. statistically identified, which suggests that
Initial release of approximately 50 000 para- some onion maggot pupae from each genera-
sites at each of two locations on the Thedford tion may arrest development for up to 1 yr.
Marsh showed that the parasite survived and Consequently, there is always a small popula-
dispersed in the field and successfully parasi- tion of onion maggots emerging as a 'back-
tized at least some of the onion maggots in the ground' throughout the growing season.

RESEARCH CENTRE, LONDON, ONT. 205

Massive invasion by numerous predators
and parasites resulted in collection of less
than 50% of the projected goal of 2 000 000
onion maggot pupae from mass bed culture at
the Centre's field station. A new site, 20 km
from the station, has been established to
evaluate productivity in 1981.

A bioassay procedure for assessing the
toxicity of insecticides to the parasites was
devised and some base-line data were
accumulated.

Monitoring studies. In 1980 pairs of flight
interception traps were set up at four loca-
tions on the Thedford Marsh, and populations
of the onion maggot fly were monitored from
April to November. Collected information
was summarized and passed by Ontario
Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF)
information bulletins to local growers, who
then successfully modified spray programs
according to population pressure.

Monitoring for the two strains of corn borer
in Quebec allowed an accurate forecast of
severe corn borer damage in field corn.
Information on the timing of insecticide
applications was rapidly given to farmers, and
severe losses were averted.

Evaluation of a pheromone for monitoring
populations of the common armyworm was
extremely helpful in forecasting damage by
this cutworm around North Bay, proving to
be more useful than the degree-day method
proposed by other workers.

It was demonstrated to extension personnel,
canning companies, and fresh-market vegeta-
ble producers that pheromone traps efficiently
monitored populations of corn borers, army-
worms, and cutworms, and that better control
could be obtained at a lower cost. Thus, in a
4-ha area, one fresh-market sweet-corn pro-
ducer was able to effect a saving of more than
50% over a 2-yr period by using pheromone
traps to time carbaryl applications for the
control of corn borers.

Toxicity-resistance studies. Accumulation
of base-line toxicity data for a number of
organochlorine, organophosphorus, carba-
mate, and pyrethroid insecticides on onion,
cabbage, and seedcorn maggots and the dark-
sided cutworm was completed. Selection of a
carrot rust fly strain from the Holland Marsh,
with carbofuran, over nine generations indi-
cated no increase in tolerance. Tests on a
Michigan strain of onion maggot indicated
that parathion resistance had increased by
approximately x!5 in 1980 (xlO in 1975;

x5 in 1972). Fonofos resistance increased
from x 5 in 1972 to x 10 in 1980. Results
obtained with this field strain were in good
agreement with our laboratory selection pro-
gram, which indicated that although para-
thion resistance develops quite rapidly, resist-
ance to fonofos seems to develop more slowly.
Studies on the resistant strain of the Colorado
potato beetle (CPB) were completed. The
Quebec CPB strain was resistant to all but
two of the insecticides (permethrin, aldicarb)
currently recommended. Tests conducted in
cooperation with the pesticide industry indi-
cated that the CPB in the Leamington and
Alliston areas of Ontario is beginning to show
the first indications of resistance to organo-
phosphorus, carbamate, and pyrethroid insec-
ticides. In cooperation with the University of
Guelph, studies were continued on the devel-
opment of multiple resistance to insecticides
by the house fly. Base-line toxicity data were
obtained on 32 insecticides; one house fly
strain was resistant to all insecticides tested.
At the request of the Food Production and
Inspection Branch, Japanese beetles collected
near Dunnville, Ont., were determined to be
still susceptible to chlordane, thus allowing
the Plant Quarantine Division to initiate an
eradication program.

Evaluation of pesticides. Studies continued
on the evaluation of new insecticides for
control of agricultural insect pests; seven
experimental insecticides submitted by chemi-
cal companies were evaluated in laboratory
tests. Most were effective contact insecticides
with broad-spectrum activity; none, however,
showed promise as soil insecticides.

Chitin inhibitors such as diflubenzuron and
Bay SIR 8514 have been tested and registered
for several applications as alternatives to
classical insecticides. Microplot evaluation of
these materials for control of root maggots
that attack onions, rutabagas, and radishes
was carried out with mixed results. Other
microplot trials showed the synthetic pyre-
throids to be inadequate alternatives to
parathion for control of root maggots attack-
ing radishes. Further microplots were estab-
lished to provide soil and crop samples to
determine persistence of insecticides, includ-
ing fenvalerate, carbofuran, aldicarb, isofen-
phos, isazophos, fenbutatin oxide, and the
herbicide niclofen in mineral and muck soils.
Information thus obtained is used for the
support of initial or continued registration of
these materials for commercial use.

206

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Analytical studies. The long-term stability
of carbofuran and 3-hydroxycarbofuran in
freezer-stored chloroform extracts of acid-
digested onions was demonstrated. A proce-
dure was developed for the conversion of the
phenolic degradation products of carbofuran
and its metabolites to the corresponding
TV-propyl carbamates without affecting the
nonphenolic compounds. Final results on the
persistence of CGA 12223 in mineral soil
confirmed that it was a relatively nonpersist-
ent compound like chlorpyrifos. Oxamyl and
trichlorofon were found to be the most
susceptible to alkaline hydrolysis of the 24
compounds so far examined in the effect of
pH on hydrolysis study. Methomyl and aldi-
carb were only slightly hydrolyzed. Tech-
niques were developed using high-pressure
liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the anal-
ysis of dimilan and SIR 8514 in soil at 0.1
ppm and to at least 0.5 ppm in radishes,
turnips, and onions.

Stored products

Increasing concern over the toxicological
properties of many of the fumigants, together
with emerging resistance problems, has lead
to the need for research on integrated meth-
ods of control aimed at delaying the onset of
resistance and the use of controlled atmo-
spheres. Mixtures of the two main fumigants
used in Canada, methyl bromide and phos-
phine, have been found in certain ratios to
have increased toxicity over that expected
from a summation of each material alone.
This synergistic action is of considerable
interest for its potential practical application
in terms of reduced dosages and shorter
exposure times. The combination of the
fumigants that appeared to give best control
was in the ratio of 100:3 for methyl bromide -
phosphine.

In an investigation of fumigants for the
control of overwintering eggs of the European
red mite on harvested apples, ethylene dibro-
mide and carbon dioxide were found to give
control at levels that caused no injury or off-
flavor to the fruit. Other fumigants such as
methyl bromide and hydrogen cyanide caused
injury without controlling the mites. Carbon
dioxide is a safe, effective agent for control-
ling mite eggs and other pests on harvested
apples.

In the continuing studies on the mecha-
nisms of resistance of the granary weevil to
methyl bromide, the detoxification products

formed have been identified as 5-methylgluta-
thione, S-methylcysteine, and S-methylgluta-
thione sulfoxide. The resistant insects had
more glutathione than normal insects and
they produced the metabolite S-methylgluta-
thione sulfoxide not found in susceptible
insects. Thus, in the metabolism of methyl
bromide by the granary weevil, glutathione
S-transferase-catalyzed conjugation with glu-
tathione is a major detoxification pathway,
and tolerance for this fumigant is related, at
least in part, to the level of glutathione in the
insect. These results hold out hope that the
chemicals that deplete glutathione or inhibit
glutathione S-transferase should synergize
methyl bromide.

Phosphine is widely used for fumigation of
cereal exports, and during the past year
sorption and desorption of phosphine from
cereal products was studied. A method was
developed for analyzing very low concentra-
tions of phosphine at ambient temperatures to
upgrade procedures for detecting and measur-
ing this fumigant in the working environment,
especially for ships in transit. The simplified
method developed can be used to measure
concentrations of 10-100 times lower than
those detected by present-day procedures.

Alternate pest control strategies

Plant diseases. A collaborative project with
Harrow Research Station yielded some inter-
esting results and the promise of further
developments. The zoospore-soybean hypo-
cotyl inoculation procedure that was devel-
oped here previously was adapted for studies
of the genetics of resistance in soybean lines
and crosses. The method provides advantages
over methods currently used by soybean
breeders throughout the world in that wound-
ing is not required and a range of symptom
intensity can be documented as opposed to the
extremes of 'dead' or 'alive' provided by other,
cruder procedures. Comparisons of soybean
lines containing the Rps,, Rps2, or Rps3 genes
for resistance or the corresponding susceptible
alleles indicated that the genes mediated
significant differences in such symptom char-
acteristics as lesion size, extent of necrosis,
and glyceollin production. There was a dif-
ferential in the effect of temperature, in that
increased lesion size occurred with susceptible
alleles but not with resistant alleles. Further-
more, the study has demonstrated for the first

RESEARCH CENTRE. LONDON, ONT.

207

time that races of the pathogen differ signifi-
cantly in their aggressiveness against individ-
ual resistance genes. The results also showed
that the background genotype can modify the
response of a particular gene. There are
indications that other factors, such as light
and temperature, may also differentiate
between Rps genes. The work, in fact, has
many potential ramifications that should lead
to a better understanding of the mechanism of
gene action in resistance and susceptibility
and eventually to the development of im-
proved methods of control.

In experimental studies with the University
of Western Ontario, 2H-NMR (nuclear mag-
netic resonance) spectroscopy was used to
demonstrate that the incorporation of three
molecules of 4,4-dideuteriomevalonic acid
into capsidiol proceeds with a loss of three
deuteriums and migration of one. This largely
confirms the predicted, favored biosynthetic
route to this phytoalexin and eliminates others
from further consideration; it is also the first
instance in which such a hydride shift has
been demonstrated for a c/s-decalin system
and only the second time for any eremophil-
ane. Also in collaboration with the University
of Western Ontario, the l3C-NMR methodol-
ogy was used to show that in potatoes,
dihydrolubimin is a precursor of isolubimin
and not the product of its metabolism, as
claimed in the literature. In kinetic studies, it
was shown for the first time that the long-
known presumed phytotoxin, alternaric acid,
from Alternaria solani, is formed in the
trophophase and therefore is not a typical
secondary metabolite.

Insect pests. Research in this area is
directed toward gaining an understanding of
basic life processes in the insect so that
methods of selective, specific control can be
developed that do not rely upon pesticides
that are broad-spectrum poisons. A method
was developed for the rapid and effective
enrichment of cell and mitochondrial mem-
branes with several types of phospholipids.
This enrichment had a marked effect on
membrane fluidity, which in turn had a
striking effect on the ability of certain model
pesticides to induce the transport of potassium
ions across the enriched membrane. In gen-
eral, membranes of low fluidity were refrac-
tory to the effect of DDT, but this effect was
overcome by the synergistic action of pipero-
nyl butoxide. The development of this model

system may provide clues as to the mecha-
nisms of resistance, selectivity, and synergism.
Studies were continued that were aimed at
assessing the status of the proctolin system as
a potential site around which new pest control
programs might be developed. Because the
potent neuropeptide proctolin rapidly disap-
pears from the hemolymph of the American
cockroach, Periplaneta americana, in vivo,
initial studies were directed to the mode of
inactivation. By using enzymes from cock-
roach gut, experiments with synthetic [l4C-
Tyr2]-proctolin and unlabeled proctolin
showed that the in vivo hydrolytic pathway
differed from the in vitro. H PLC methods
were developed to permit the separation and
analysis of the products formed. The d(-)
-isomer of the neurotransmitter octopamine
was shown to be the one present in the
nervous system of insects. This finding con-
tributes to other studies by removing the
uncertainty in a radioenzymatic assay of
octopamine, which gives values for the d(-)
-isomer that are 40 higher than for the l( -I- )-
isomer.

Systemic fungicides. Of importance was
the finding that molecular selection for mu-
tated, carboxin-resistant succinate dehydro-
genase complexes was influenced by replace-
ment of the oxathiin by a thiophene
heterocyclic ring and by the substitutive
group on the amide nitrogen, thereby permit-
ting different categories of carboxin-resistant
mutant types of V. maydis (corn smut) and
even mutants within a single category to be
distinguished from one another. Thus, with all
the structural combinations available, it
appears quite possible, in terms of inhibition,
to overcome any type of mutation in a fungal
succinate dehydrogenase complex that arises
through selection by carboxin or by other
commercially used carboxamides.

A detailed study of the anatomy and
pressure-flow characteristics of the roots of
Zea mays was completed to provide clues as
to the routes and the mechanism of uptake of
water and solutes. Such information is impor-
tant in the study of the uptake and transloca-
tion within the plant, not only of normal
nutrients but also of agriculturally important
compounds such as herbicides and systemic
fungicides and insecticides. A mechanism has
been proposed that predicts, with considerable
accuracy, the flow rates of water and the
concentration profile of solutes across the root
as a function of the hydrostatic pressure.

208

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Further studies have been made of the
ability of the systemic fungicide Ridomil®
applied to soybean seedlings to cause a
response similar to natural resistance when
the seedlings are inoculated with Phytophth-
ora megasperma var. sojae. This can be
brought about with applications of as little as
1 ppm to the roots. The phytoalexin glyceollin
is produced in these reactions. To determine
the relative contribution of the phytoalexin
and the fungicide to inhibition at the site of
inoculation, it was necessary to determine the
concentration of Ridomil® in the infected
tissue. A bioassay in which thin-layer chroma-
tography is used was therefore developed that
permits the detection of as little as 25 ng of
the fungicide in the tissue.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY

Effects of pesticides on nontarget organisms

Work continued on the effects of pesticides
on populations of microorganisms and activ-
ities of enzymes in soils. In clay loam soil a
decrease in microbial numbers was observed
with some fungicide and fumigant treatments;
recovery was rapid, however, and stimulatory
effects were evident in many cases. None of
the pesticides inhibited urease and dehydro-
genase activities. Phosphatase activity was not
inhibited except in the case of some fumi-
gants. A temporary decrease in dehydro-
genase activity was also observed in many
cases. Enzymic activities in organic soils
decreased temporarily after the addition of
some pesticides. Activities of most of the soil
enzymes were negatively correlated with the
rate of pesticide application during the early
stages of the experiment.

A collaborative study with the personnel of
Delhi, Vineland, OMAF, and the chemical
industry on undefined stunting of tobacco was
completed. Information on the control of field
stunting of tobacco was included in the 1980
OMAF publication 298. Work continued on
the development of thiram-resistant strains of
Rhizobium japonicum. These new strains
were found to be weak in nitrogen-fixation
activity, although growth and adaptation of
thiram-containing media were improved sub-
stantially by the rhizobial nuclear conjugation
technique. Treatment of alfalfa seeds with
five broad-spectrum fungicides was examined
regarding effect on rhizobial activity and
germination. Results showed that captan,
maneb, and thiram exhibited greater toxicity

to Rhizobium meliloti and alfalfa plants than
do benomyl and zineb. At practical concen-
tration levels, effects were minimal and
recovery of the inhibitory effect was rapid. At
lower concentrations, marked growth stimula-
tion was observed with some fungicides.
Studies were completed on the role of soil
microorganisms in the degradation of the
insecticides phorate and its metabolites (sul-
fone and sulfoxide) and carbofuran and its
metabolites (2-hydroxycarbofuran and
3-ketocarbofuran) in sterile and fresh mineral
and organic soils. A drastic reduction of soil
fungi with repeated applications of Vorlex
and linuron resulted in eventual linuron
accumulation in muck soil, which was shown
to be deleterious to the growth of Grand
Rapids lettuce under laboratory conditions.
Experiments on carbofuran persistence in
natural and sterile mineral and organic soils
showed that carbofuran persisted for 8 wk in
natural loam and for 16 wk in natural muck.
The 3-hydroxycarbofuran, the major metab-
olite found in plants, has not been detected to
any extent in soils. The reason for this became
apparent with the discovery that the 3-hy-
droxycarbofuran had disappeared in soil
within 1 wk. Repeated experiments with
incubation of 3-hydroxycarbofuran in natural
soils showed that it disappeared within 2-3
days with a concomitant reduction of 3-keto-
carbofuran. The 3-ketocarbofuran disap-
peared in 3 days from natural loam but
persisted for more than 7 days in muck.

Environmental studies

A cooperative research project was com-
pleted on the behavior of fensulfothion, its
sulfide, and sulfone in soil-water systems. The
least soluble sulfide adsorbed the most and
desorbed the least on the four adsorbents
studied. Although the sulfone was less than
1/25 as soluble as fensulfothion, correspond-
ing differences in adsorption by the mineral
soils were not found. In another study,
solubility values for 1 1 insecticides were
related to LD50 values for crickets in moist
and dry soils. Because of the large differences
in inherent toxicity to the crickets (direct
contact), there was not a good correlation
between solubility and toxicity. However,
when the LD50 values in the soil were cor-
rected for their inherent differences in toxicity
(LD50 moist soil : LD50 contact), an excellent
correlation between solubility and corrected
toxicity emerged. There was also a very good

RESEARCH CENTRE, LONDON, ONT.

209

correlation between solubiltiy and the ratio of
the LD50 values in moist and dry soils. This
finding provided some insight into the rela-
tionship that exists between the solubility of
an insecticide and the amount that its toxicity
changes between wet and dry soils. The larger
the solubility, the less the toxicity changes
between wet and dry soil and, in general, the
less effective it is as a soil insecticide. These
relationships should be most useful in select-
ing potential soil insecticides.

It was shown that the commonly used
Freundlich adsorption equation had a basic
flaw in its presentation, which produced some
anomalous K values. Because regulatory
agencies are beginning to use these K values
as a reference to judge relative adsorption of
pesticidal compounds, it is important to point
out these anomalies and suggest remedial
measures. A manuscript was prepared on the
subject, pointing out the source of the prob-
lem and showing typical examples of anoma-
lous results. The K value, in fact, was not
actually constant but changed its value de-
pending on the system of units selected. A
modified Freundlich equation was suggested
that plots mole fraction as the independent
variable rather than concentration. An alter-
native means of comparing the relative ad-
sorption of pesticides was also suggested so
that the units of presentation are consistent
and a quantitative value can be placed on
each adsorption system (analogous to the K
value).

Ongoing development of our gas chroma-
tography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
assay for residues of carbofuran and its two
principal metabolites resulted in the identifi-
cation of significant sources of carbamate loss
during sample preparation. These losses were
studied and quantitated: carbofuran suffers a
10-15% loss through the acid reflux that is
universally used to hydrolyze plant con-
jugates. Hydroxycarbofuran is relatively sta-
ble in the hot acid but may undergo a 65-70%
loss, depending on the method of extraction
following hydrolysis; ketocarbofuran is not
much affected by these same factors.

High concentrations of carbofuran were
found in the Holland Marsh drainage ditch

water in the spring of 1980. In view of the
relatively short life of this insecticide, the
possible cause of the unexpected persistence
was investigated. Incubation experiments
were carried out using carbofuran-fortified
water at 200°C and 5°C. Analyses at the
experimental temperatures indicated a half-
life of about 1 wk and 20 wk, respectively.

Pesticide toxicity and mode of action

A basic requirement of the effective use of
pheromones in IPM is an understanding of
pheromone reception systems in insects. Elec-
trophysiological studies on the European corn
borer antennal response to pheromones con-
tinued. Bioelectrical activities in the. unit
sensory dendrite of a sensory hair have often
been described, but studies on integrated
activities are lacking. Using multiple and
surface electrodes, some properties of the
excitable tissue in the antenna were exam-
ined. It was discovered that the olfactory
excitation spread through the antenna unidi-
rectionally, suggesting that the whole antenna
functions as a single sensory cell dendrite.

Many natural phenolic compounds and the
insecticide carbofuran and its metabolities
affect enzymic oxidation of the plant hormone
indoleacetic acid (IAA) and the growth of
plant tissues in vitro. However, whether these
compounds actually influence the metabolism
of IAA in vivo is not known. For the first time,
a dual effect of phenolic compounds and
metabolites of carbofuran has been demon-
strated on the formation of bound IAA and on
the oxidative degradation of free IAA in plant
cells. These results, together with those
obtained from the study of structure-activity
relationships for regulation of IAA oxidation
by natural and synthetic phenolic compounds,
will be useful for further studies of chemical
regulation of plant growth.

Work continued on determining the mode
of action of the broad-spectrum herbicide,
glyphosate. Plant-tissue culture techniques
established that glyphosate inhibits chloro-
phyll synthesis, accelerates chlorophyll degra-
dation in the light, increases the level of IAA-
oxidase, interferes with IAA metabolism, and
interacts with another plant hormone, cyto-
kine, on phenolic metabolism.

210

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT l«iS0

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Bond, E. J. 1980. Sorption of tritiated phosphine by
various stages of Tri bol iu m casîaneum
(Herbst). J. Stored Prod. Res. 1 6:27-3 1 .

Bowman, B. T. 1979. Method of repeated additions
for generating pesticide adsorption-desorption
isotherm data. Can. J. Soil Sci. 59:435-437.

Bowman, B. T.; Sans, W. W. 1980. The stability of
parathion and DDT in dilute iron solutions. J.
Environ. Sci. Health B 15(3):233-246.

Broadbent, A. B.; Tomlin, A. D. 1979. Species list
of acari recovered from soil of a Guelph
cornfield and a London pasture. Proc. Entomol.
Soc. Ont. 110:101-103.

Chapman, R. A.; Harris, C. R. 1980. Persistence of
chlorpyrifos in a mineral and organic soil. J.
Environ. Sci. Health 15:39-46.

Chapman, R. A.; Harris, C. R. 1980. Insecticidal
activity and persistence of terbufos, terbufos
sulfoxide and terbufos sulfone in soil. J. Econ.
Entomol. 73:536-543.

Chefurka, W.; Zahradka, P.; Bajura, S. T. 1980.
The effect of DDT on K+ transport in mouse
liver mitochondria. Biochim. Biophys. Acta
601:349-357.

Devés, R.; Krupka, R. M. 1980. Testing transport
systems for competition between pairs of re-
versible inhibitors. Inhibition of erythrocyte
glucose transport by cytochalasin B and
steroids. J. Biol. Chem. 225(24):1 1870-1 1874.

Dumas, T. 1980. Determination of formaldehyde,
acetaldehyde and associated components in
solution and in vapours by gas chromatogra-
phy. J. Chromatogr. 200:206-210.

Dumas, T. 1980. Phosphine sorption and desorption
by stored wheat and corn. J. Agric. Food
Chem. 27:337-339.

Finkelman, M. A.; Zajic, J. E.; Vardanis, A. 1980.
New method of producing protoplast of Au-
reobasidium pullulans. Appl. Environ. Micro-
biol. 923-925.

Harris, C. R.; Chapman, R. A. 1980. Insecticidal
activity and persistence of phorate, phorate
sulfoxide, and phorate sulfone in soils. Can.
Entomol. 1 1 2(7):64 1 -653.

Harris, C. R.; Turnbull, S. A. 1980. Toxicity of
some insecticides to insecticide-susceptible
strains of onion, cabbage and seedcorn mag-
gots (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) and darksided
cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Can. En-
tomol. 112:1029-1032.

Hirst, M.; Heme, R. G.; Robinson, J. R. 1980.
Morphine in human biological fluids by elec-
tron-capture gas chromatography. Subst. Alco-
hol Actions/Misuse 1:361-367.

Hoyano, Y.; Stôessl, A.; Stothers, J. B. 1980.
Biosynthesis of the antifungal sesquiterpene
capsidiol. Confirmation of a hydride shift by
:H magnetic resonance. Can. J. Chem.
58:1894-1896.

Krupka, R. M.; Devés, R. 1980. The reaction of the
glucose carrier in erythrocytes by halodini-
trobenzenes. J. Biol. Chem. 225(5):205 1-2055.

Krupka, R. M.; Devés, R. 1980. Evidence for
allosteric inhibition sites in the glucose carrier
of erythrocytes. Biochim. Biophys. Acta
598:127-133.

Krupka, R. M.; Devés, R. 1980. Asymmetric
binding of steroids to internal and external
sites in the glucose carrier of erythrocytes.
Biochim. Biophys. Acta 598:134-144.

Krupka, R. M.; Devés, R. 1980. The electrostatic
contribution to binding in the choline transport
system of erythrocytes. J. Biol. Chem.
255:8546-8549.

Krupka, R. M.; Devés, R. 1980. The choline
transport system of erythrocytes, distribution
of the free carrier in the membrane. Biochim.
Biophys. Acta 600:228-232.

Lazarovits, G.; Unwin, C. H.; Ward, E. W. B.
1979. Rapid assay for systemic fungicides
against Phytophthora rot of soybeans. Plant
Dis. 64:163-165.

Lee, T. T. 1980. Effects of phenolic substances on
metabolism of exogenous indole-3-acetic acid
in maize stems. Physiol. Plant. 50: 1 07- 1 1 2.

Lee, T. T. 1980. Transfer RNA-peroxidase interac-
tion: Inhibition of indole-3-acetic acid oxida-
tion. Plant Physiol. 66:1012-1014.

Lee, T. T.; Starratt, A. N.; Jevnikar, J. J.; Stôessl,
A. 1980. New phenolic inhibitors of the perox-
idase-catalyzed oxidation of indole-3-acetic
acid. Phytochemistry 19:2277-2280.

Lim, K. P.; Yule, W. N.; Harris, C. R. 1980. The
toxicity of ten insecticides to third stage grubs
of Phyllophaga anxia (LeConte) (Coleoptera:
Scarabaeidae). Phytoprotection 61:55-60.

Miller, D. M. 1980. Studies of root function in Zea
mays. I. Apparatus and methods. Can. J. Bot.
58:351-360.

Robinson, J. R.; Chapman, R. A. 1980. A compari-
son of analyses by selected ion and electron
capture detection of heptafluorobutyryl deriv-
atives separated by gas chromatography and
ultra violet detection of carbamates separated

RESEARCH CENTRE, LONDON, ONT.

211

by high-performance liquid. J. Chromatogr.
193:213-224.

Roslycky, E. B. 1980. Fungicidal activity of vorlex
and accumulation of linuron in a vorlex-linuron
treated soil. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:651-656.

Sharom, M. S.; Miles, J. R. W.; Harris, C. R.;
McEwen, F. L. 1980. Behaviour of 12 insecti-
cides in soil and aqueous suspensions of soil
and sediment. Water Res. 14:1095-1 100.

Sharom, M. S.; Miles, J. R. W.; Harris, C. R.;
McEwen, F. L. 1980. Persistence of 12 insecti-
cides in water. Water Res. 14:1089-1093.

Starratt, A. N.; Stevens, M. E. 1980. Ion-pair high-
performance liquid chromatography of the
insect neuropeptide proctolin and some ana-
logs. J. Chromatogr. 194:421-423.

Steele, J. E.; Tolman, J. H. 1980. Regulation of
water transport in the cockroach rectum by the
corpora cardiaca-corpora allata system. The
requirement for Na + . J. Comp. Physiol.
138:357-365.

Stôessl, A.; Fisch, M. H.; Arditti, J. 1980. Monoli-
nolein as a selective fungus inhibitor from
Cymbidium orchidaceae. Mycopathologia
70(3):131-134.

Stôessl, A.; Stothers, J. B. 1980. 2-Epi- and 15-
dihydro-2-epilubimin: new stress compounds
from the potato. Can. J. Chem. 58:2069-2072.

Tolman, J. H.; Steele, J. E. 1980. The control of
glycogen metabolism in the cockroach hindgut:
The effect of the corpora cardiacacorpora
allata system. Comp. Biochem. Physiol.
66B:59-65.

Tolman, J. H.; Steele, J. E. 1980. The effect of the
corpora cardiacacorpora allata system on ox-
ygen consumption in the cockroach rectum:
The role of Na+ and K + . J. Comp. Physiol.
138:347-355.

Tu, C. M. 1980. Influence of pesticides and some of
the oxidized analogues on microbial popula-
tions, nitrification and respiration activities in
soil. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 24:13-19.

Tu, C. M. 1980. Influence of five pyrethroid
insecticides on microbial populations and activ-
ities in soil. Mycrob. Ecol. 5:321-327.

Tu, C. M. 1980. Effect of fungicides on growth of
Rhizobium japonicum in vitro. Bull. Environ.
Contam. Toxicol. 25:364-368.

Vardanis, A. 1980. A unique cyclic nucleotide-
dependent protein kinase. J. Biol. Chem.
255:7238-7243.

Ward, E. W. B.; Lazarovits, G.; Stoessel, P.; Barrie.
S. D.; Unwin, C. H. 1980. Glyceollin produc-
tion associated with control of Phytophthora

rot of soybeans by the systemic fungicides.

metalaxyl (Ridomil). Phytopathology 70:738-
740.

White, G. A.; Elliott, W. B. 1980. Inhibition of
electron transport and oxidative phosphoryla-
tion in plant mitochondria by gladiolic acid
and structurally-related aromatic o/7/jo-dialde-
hydes. Can. J. Biochem. 58:9-22.

White, G. A.; Thorn, G. D. 1980. Thiophene
carboxamide fungicides: Structure-activity
relationships with the succinate dehydrogenase
complex from wild-type and carboxin-resistant
mutant strains of Ustilago maydis. Pestic.
Biochem. Physiol. 14:26-40.

Miscellaneous

Harris, C. R. 1980. An assessment of pesticide
research projects funded by the Ministry of the
Environment through the Ontario Pesticides
Advisory Committee 1979-1980. Ontario Pes-
ticides Advisory Committee. 50 pp.

Lazarovits, G.; Stôessel, P.; Ward, E. W. B. 1979.
Soybean - Phytophthora megasperma var.
sojae interactions. I. Influence of hypocotyl
inoculation site on reaction type and glyceollin
production. Proc. Can. Phytopathol. Soc. 46.

Lazarovits, G.; Stoessel, P.; Ward, E. W. B. 1980.
Specificity and glyceollin production in the
hypocotyl reaction of soybeans to Phytophth-
ora megasperma var. sojae. Wood, R. K. S.,
ed. Active Defence Mechanisms in Plants.
NATO Advanced Study Institute.

Miles, J. R. W. 1977. Anthropogenic influences on
sediment quality at a source. Pesticides and
PCBs. Proceedings workshop on the fluvial
transport of sediment — associated nutrients
and contaminants (20-22 Oct. 1976),
Kitchener, Ont.

Ramsay, R. R.; Ackrell, B. A. C; Singer, T. O.;
White, G. A.; Thorn, G. D. 1980. The carboxin
binding site in Complex II. 1980 Gordon
Conference, New Hampshire.

Roslycky, E. B. 1978. Microbial response to glypho-
sate in soil. Research Report Expert Commit-
tee Weeds, Eastern Section, 334.

Roslycky, E. B. 1978. Effect of selected herbicides
on nitrification, cellulose decomposition and N,
fixing bacteria. Research Report Expert Com-
mittee Weeds, Eastern Section, 335.

Roslycky, E. B. 1978. Nitrification and cellulose
decomposition in the presence of terbacil.
Research Report Expert Committee Weeds.
Eastern Section, 336.

Roslycky, E. B. 1978. Response to terbacil of
actinomycetes, bacteria, and fungi in soil and
in cultures. Research Report Expert Commit-
tee Weeds, Eastern Section, 337.

212

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT WS0

Starratt, A. N. 1979. Proctolin, an insect neuropep-
tide. Trends Neurosci. 2:15-17.

Starratt, A. N. 1980. Book review: Herbivores.
Their interaction with secondary plant metab-
olites. Rosenthal, G. R.; Hanzen, D. H., eds.
Academic Press, N.Y. 1969. 718 pp. Pestic.
Biochem. Physiol. 13:202-203.

Starratt, A. N.; Steele, R. W. 1980. Proctolin:
Bioassay, isolation and structure. Miller, T. A.,
ed. Neurohormone techniques in insects.
Springer- Verlag, N.Y.

Stôessl, A. 1980. Phytoalexins: A biogenetic per-
spective. Phytopathol. Z. 99:251-272.

Tomlin, A. D. 1980. Book review: Soil organisms as
components of ecosystems. Lohm, U.; Persson,

T*., eds. Proceedings IV International Soil
Zoological Colloquium, Uppsala (1976). Can.
Field-Nat. 95:122.

Tomlin, A. D. 1980. Earthworm biology. Earth-
worm culture: The myth and the reality.
Applied Agriculture Program, Continuing
Education Division, University of Guelph (25
Oct. 1980). 6 pp.

Tomlin, A. D.; Stephenson, G. 1980. The effects of
pesticides on earthworms. Ontario Gold Super-
intendents Association Newsletter (June).

Ward, E. W. B. 1980. Phytoalexins, potentials in
disease control. Special Reports to Expert
Committee on Grain Diseases, 3rd Annual
Meeting, Winnipeg, Man.

RESEARCH CENTRE, LONDON, ONT.

213

Research Station
Delhi, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

C. F. Marks, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.

Director

Tobacco

H. H. Cheng, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. A. Court, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. M. Elliot, B.S.A., M.S.A.
S. K. Gayed, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. S. Pandeya, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
N. Rosa, B.Sc, M.Sc, PhD.

E. K. Walker, B.S.A., M.S.

F. H. White, B.Sc, M.Sc.

B. F. Zilkey, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Entomology

Chemistry

Soil science

Plant pathology

Genetics and plant breeding

Plant physiology

Plant science

Genetics and plant breeding

Plant physiology

EXTENSION SERVICES'

M. C. Watson, B.S.A.
N. W. Sheidow, B.Sc.

Tobacco
Tobacco

RESEARCH STATION. DELHI. ONT.

215

DELHI ENGINEERING RESEARCH GROUP

Vacant Engineer

'Provided by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food.

216 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Delhi Research Station is the primary center for research on flue-cured tobacco in
Canada. Multidisciplinary research projects on the development of new varieties and crop
production and crop protection practices are conducted. Emphasis is placed on improving the
physical and chemical quality of Canadian flue-cured tobacco from the standpoints of usability
by manufacturers, both domestic and foreign, and consumer acceptability and health. An
engineering program funded by the Canadian Tobacco Manufacturers' Council and the
Ontario Flue-Cured Tobacco Growers' Marketing Board also conducts research at the Station
on the reduction of energy use in curing and on the mechanization of harvesting and handling
of tobacco.

The disease blue mold (Peronospora tabacina Adam.), which caused major losses in 1979,
was prevented in 1980 by the use of the fungicide metalaxyl, and no losses were recorded.

More extensive summaries of research activities are published in the annual Tobacco
Research Highlights, which is prepared for extension workers and growers. Copies of the
Tobacco Research Highlights and scientific publications are available from the Delhi Research
Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 186, Delhi, Ont. N4B 2W9.

C. F. Marks
Director

TOBACCO PRODUCTION

Gray tobacco

Seedling culture

Adequate size of tobacco seedlings in Todd
cells was attained by frequent addition of
soluble fertilizers containing 50% or more of
nitrogen in the nitrate form. A total of 22.5 g
of actual nitrogen per 100 flats (20 000
plants) was required at each of 15 applica-
tions. Fertilization commenced 1 wk after
germination in early April and the seedlings
received three applications in April and three
per week in May. At least 40 L of water per
100 flats was required to achieve good
coverage.

Nutrition survey

On a 32-farm survey, soil P was positively
related to Zn and negatively related to pH
and levels of Ca and Mg in the soil. Soil K
was positively related to base exchange, total
colloids, and ethylenediaminetetraacetate-
extractable Mn and Fe in the soil. The
contents of Fe and Cu in the bottom leaves
and N, CI, and total alkaloids in the upper
leaves correlated positively, and reducing
sugars in the bottom and undertip leaves
correlated negatively with soil K.

Samples of gray K grades from auction
exchanges and farms indicated two distinct
types of K tobacco, one related to minor
element fertility and the other to maturity.
The first type, which had a peppery appear-
ance, had higher concentrations of Mn, Zn,
Fe, and Cd and lower concentrations of Ca
and Mg than the corresponding lemon or
orange grades. The maturity-related K to-
bacco, which had a gray, spongy appearance,
had normal levels of minor elements but lower
total alkaloids and higher reducing sugars.

Sucker control

A short growing season and a long day
length encourage rapid development of axil-
lary buds. This rapid development of axillary
buds is referred to as sucker pressure. The
long-chain fatty alcohols provide excellent
control of axillary bud growth when the plants
are treated prior to or immediately after
removal of the inflorescence; however, the
high sucker pressure overcomes this control in
4-5 wk. The application of a systemic growth
inhibitor to prevent the development of axil-
lary buds when the top leaves are growing
rapidly, which is usually the case under
Canadian conditions, also will reduce leaf
expansion and consequently crop yield.

RESEARCH STATION, DELHI, ONT.

217

Ripening agents

Ethephon (2-chloroethylphosphonic acid)
at rates of 0, 3.2, and 6.4 L/ha was applied to
the upper eight or nine leaves of field plants,
varying in age and fertilizer regimen, 3 days
prior to harvest of these leaves. Ethephon
decreased grade index and yield, regardless of
plant age or fertilizer regimen, reduced the
percentage of undesirable green grades, and
increased the percentage of undesirable K
(gray) grades. The percentage of K grades,
however, was insignificant with the 3.2-L rate.
Though ethephon tended to darken the base
color of leaves and to produce a higher
percentage of desirable F (dark) grades than
untreated tobacco, the shift to K grades more
than offset the shift to F grades.

GENETICS AND PLANT BREEDING

New varieties for the Maritimes

Two breeding lines developed from Delhi
34 crossed with Virginia 1 15 and Speight G7
have been developed for use under the en-
vironmental conditions in Prince Edward
Island. Line 77C15 (Islangold) is highly
resistant to black root rot disease and in the 3
yr of testing has produced a high yield of
orange-colored leaf, good in texture and
aroma. The leaf tends to be lower in alkaloids
and reducing sugars than commercial varie-
ties. The line has grown well on farms with a
black root rot problem but may be damaged
somewhat by extreme winds although it has
no leaf drop. A low-profile variety, 77C11
(Windel), appears to be well adapted to areas
subject to high winds. The leaves are slightly
narrower than existing commercial varieties,
but they have a heavy midrib and fairly thick
lamina, characteristics that provide them
resistance to wind shattering. Though al-
kaloids are normal, reducing sugars are
slightly low. Yield, leaf quality, and black
root rot tolerance are about average without
leaf drop.

Interspecific hybridization

Successful incorporation of genetic factors
from Nicotiana rustica L. into N. tabacum L.
has resulted in the development and release of
the following flue-cured tobacco cultivars. (a)
Nordel: developed from the cross [Delhi 34
l(NRT x Delhi 34) Delhi 34!] x Virginia

115 (=3BCF7). The variety has several im-
provements long desired in a Canadian flue-
cured variety, i.e. early maturity, uniform and
superior grade quality, higher nicotine, and
lower tar-to-nicotine ratio. High total leaf
alkaloids and lower tar-to-nicotine ratios are
the two most salient features of this cultivar
that influence domestic and export tobacco
trade, (b) Delgold: developed from the cross
[Hicks Broadleaf x !(Babor x Virginia
115) x Virginia 115 I] x Virginia 115
(=3BCFg). The most notable characteristics of
the cultivar are high yield potential (300-400
kg/ha higher than the common variety Vir-
ginia 115), higher leaf total alkaloids (3.38%
for Delgold versus 2.28% for Virginia 115)v
and lower tar-to-nicotine ratio. Simultaneous
gains in yield (10-12%) and leaf total al-
kaloids (15-18%) over the most prominent
cultivar, Virginia 115, are due to increased
vigor (genetic diversity) and transfer of
nicotine genes from N. rustica to the N.
tabacum genome.

CHEMISTRY

Method for the determination of plant
pigments of flue-cured tobacco

A procedure using high-performance re-
versed-phase liquid chromatography was de-
veloped for the analysis of the plastid pig-
ments of flue-cured tobacco. The method has
been used for the separation of chlorophyll a,
chlorophyll b, pheophytin a, pheophytin b,
neoxanthin, violaxanthin, lutein, and carotine.

Effect of N fertilization on nonvolatile
organic, fatty, and amino acids of tobacco

A comparison was made of four rates of N
fertilization (0, 22.4, 44.5, and 67.2 kg/ha) on
the levels of individual nonvolatile organic,
fatty, and amino acids of flue-cured tobacco.
Increases in N increased the concentration of
the nonvolatile organic acids and amino acids,
except oxalic acid and methionine, and de-
creased individual fatty acids, except myristic
and linolenic acids. The nonvolatile organic
acids decreased with ascending stalk position
but the reverse was true for the amino acids.
The influence of stalk position on the fatty
acids was not pronounced.

218

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Extraction of water soluble acidity

Tobacco quality is normally expressed in
terms of measurable chemical, agronomic,
and physical parameters. Studies were initi-
ated to improve the speed and accuracy of
extraction of the soluble acidity. The 16-h
extraction interval for soluble acidity was
reduced to 30 min at 50°C with results similar
to those of the original procedure. A study of
grade samples indicated that water-soluble
acidity of Canadian tobacco was similar to
that for U.S. tobacco. In any particular grade
category the soluble acidity decreased with a
decrease in grade quality. Green grades
normally exhibited higher values for soluble
acidity than their nongreen associated grades.

TOBACCO PROTECTION

Plant pathology

Blue mold. The potential for the overwin-
tering of blue mold inoculum in Ontario in the
form of oospores in decomposing plant debris
and in soil was investigated. Mature oospores
were found in infected bottom leaves that
were in contact with the soil but not in the
upper leaves where the lesions had become
dry and brittle. Oospores were abundant in
the samples in which they were found, but the
structures were found in only a small number
of the samples examined. Though oospore-like
structures were found in decomposed plant
tissue and in soil, bioassays failed to show any
infection. In other parts of the world, oospores
of P. tabacina have been found to be dormant
in the soil for periods up to 5 yr; therefore, the
negative results from our tests do not demon-
strate, absolutely, that oospores cannot act as
a primary source of inoculum for the disease
in Ontario.

Air quality and curing of diseased tobacco.
Tobacco infected with Rhizopus arrhizus
(pole rot) showed an increase in production of
C02 and C2H4 during curing. C2H4 increased
the rate of yellowing of tobacco during the
initial stage of curing, the effect being most
noticeable on diseased tissue, which occurs in
pockets throughout the kiln. An interaction
between high C02 and C2H4 concentrations,

disease incidence, and humidity in the kiln
accentuated the spread of the damage. Dis-
ease incidence and damage can be reduced by
proper ventilation and air management during
the first 3 or 4 days of the curing cycle.

Entomology

Aphids. The species of ladybeetles, preda-
tors of aphids, and the abundance of each
species were monitored in tobacco fields. Nine
species of ladybeetles were found in the fields.
Coccinella transversoguttata richardsoni was
most abundant; Coleomegilla maculata lengi,
Hippodamia tridecimpunctata tibialis, and
H. convergens were moderately abundant; H.
glacialis glacialis, H. parenthesis, C. trifa-
ciata perplexa, Anatis ocellata, and Anatis
quindecimpunctata were found less
commonly.

Cutworms. Three pyrethroids and three
organophosphorus insecticides were applied to
winter rye or tobacco seedlings in the field,
and the residues on the foliage were bioas-
sayed in the laboratory. The pyrethroids,
namely cypermethrin, fenvalerate, and per-
methrin, were more effective and persistent
and killed the larvae of Euxoa messoria
(Harris) more rapidly than the organophos-
phorus insecticides, namely sulfopros,
chlorpyrifos, and trichlorfon. The higher rate
of cypermethrin and fenvalerate gave a longer
period of protection than the lower rate of the
same materials and both materials were more
persistent than permethrin.

Weed control

Herbicide residues. Residues of diphe-
namid (7V,7V-dimethyl-2,2-diphenyl aceta-
mide) ranged from 1.71 mg/kg in the sand
leaves to 0.16 mg/kg in the tip leaves of flue-
cured tobacco treated in 1978 and 1979 at the
recommended rate of 6.75 kg/ha on a 25-cm
band post-transplant. Only trace residues of
the nonphytotoxic metabolite 2,2-diphenyl
acetamide were detected. Mean residues of
diphenamid and N-methyl-2,2-diphenyl acet-
amide in cured leaves collected from the three
auction exchanges in Ontario in 1976 and
1977 ranged from 0.01-0.02 and 0.14-0.27
mg/kg, respectively. The data support the
mechanism of stepwise demethylation of
diphenamid in flue-cured tobacco.

RESEARCH STATION, DELHI, ONT.

219

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Cheng, H. H. 1980. Darksided cutworm (Lepidop-
tera: Noctuidae): Field evaluation of pyre-
throid insecticides for protection of tobacco in
Ontario. Tob. Sci. 24:61-63.

Cheng, H. H. 1980. Toxicity and persistence of
pyrethroid insecticides as foliar sprays against
darksided cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
on tobacco in Ontario. Can. Entomol. 1 12:451-
456.

Frank, R.; Braun, H. E.; Stonefield, K. I.; Elliot, J.
M.; Zilkey, B. F. 1980. Insecticide residues
and metal contents in flue-cured tobacco and
tobacco soil of southern Ontario, 1976-1978.
Tob. Sci. 24:136-140.

Rosa, N. 1980. Sucker control chemicals commonly
used in Ontario, 1967-1976. Tob. Sci. 23:9-11.

Roy, R. C; Tanner, J. W.; Hatley, O. E.; Elliot, J.
M. 1980. Agronomic aspects of peanut {Ara-
chis hypogaea L.) production in Ontario. Can.
J. Plant Sci. 60:679-686.

Townshend, J. L.; Dirks, V. A.; Marks, C. F. 1980.
Temperature, moisture and compaction and
their effects on the diffusion of ethylene dibro-
mide in three Ontario soils. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:177-184.

Zilkey, B. F. 1980. Effect of seedbed growing
medium and number of transplant pullings on
certain agronomic, chemical and physical leaf
measurements of flue-cured tobacco in On-
tario. Tob. Sci. 24:21-22.

Miscellaneous

Cheng, H. H. 1980. Apply insecticide properly for
best control. Tillsonburg News, Tob. Ed. (7
Mar.).

Court, W. A. 1980. Phenolic constituents influence
tobacco quality. Tillsonburg News, Tob. Ed. (7
Mar.).

Elliot, J. M. 1980. A survey of flue-cured tobacco
grown in Ontario in 1979. Levels of some
chemical constituents and lamina weight. The
Lighter 50(2): 10- 12.

Elliot, J. M. 1980. Chlorine in flue-cured tobacco.
Can. Tob. Grow. 28(3):30-31.

Elliot, J. M. 1980. Heavy metals in flue-cured
tobacco. Simcoe Reformer, Tob. Ed. (21 Feb.).

Elliot, J. M. 1980. Effect of soil pH on tobacco.
Tillsonburg News, Tob. Ed. (7 Mar.).

Elliot, J. M. 1980. Tobacco production in Prince
Edward Island. The Lighter 50(4):5-9.

Gayed, S. K. 1980. The pattern of blue mold
incidence and spread in the United States and
Canada and losses incurred, 1979. The Lighter
50(3):14-16.

Gayed, S. K. 1980. How to avoid blue mold in
1980. Can. Tob. Grow. 28(3):22-24.

Gayed, S. K. 1980. Blue mold of tobacco. Ontario
Ministry of Agriculture and Food. Agdex 181/
632.

Pandeya, R. S.; White, F. H. 1980. New varieties to
meet market demand. Can. Tob. Grow.
28(l):53-54.

Pandeya, R. S.; White, F. H. 1980. Nordel— a new
improved flue-cured tobacco cultivar. The
Lighter 50(2): 19-22.

Pandeya, R. S.; White, F. H. 1980. An improved
superior breeding line N2-E proposed for
licensing as a new flue-cured tobacco variety.
Tillsonburg News, Tob. Ed. (7 Mar.).

Rosa, N. 1980. True leaf maturity often different
than what is initially observed. Simcoe Re-
former, Tob. Ed. (21 Feb.).

Rosa, N. 1980. Germination of tobacco seed. Can.
Tob. Grow. 28(2):72-73.

Rosa, N. 1980. Sucker growth in tobacco and apical
dominance. Tillsonburg News, Tob. Ed. (7
Mar.).

Walker, E. K. 1980. Growth media and forking
treatments in tobacco greenhouses. Can. Tob.
Grow. 28(3):18-20.

Walker, E. K. 1980. Culture of flue-cured tobacco
seedlings in Todd cells. The Lighter 50(4): 12-

22.

Walker, E. K. 1980. Guidelines for culture of
tobacco seedlings in Todd cells. Tillsonburg
News, Tob. Ed. (7 Mar.).

Walker, E. K. 1980. Curing with automatic con-
trols. Can. Tob. Grow. 28:38-40.

Walker, E. K.; Marks, C. F. 1980. Engineering
studies on flue-cured tobacco, 1979. Report
No. 3, Delhi Engineering Research Group and
Delhi Research Station.

Walker, E. K.; Watson, M. C. 1980. Tobacco
irrigation with gun sprinklers. Ontario Minis-
try of Agriculture and Food. Agdex 1 8 1 /565.

White, F. H.; Pandeya, R. S. 1980. Relative
performance of new flue-cured tobacco varie-
ties tested, 1977-1979. The Lighter 50(2): 13-
18.

220

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

White, F. H.; Pandeya, R. S. 1980. Canadian • mittee Weeds, Eastern Canadian Section 104

licensed flue-cured tobacco varieties superior to (abstract).

new improved varieties. Tillsonburg News, Zilkey, B. F.; Bandeen, J. D. 1980. Herbicide cITcct

Tob. Ed. (7 Mar.). on yield and quality in flue-cured tobacco in

Zilkey, B. F. 1980. Evaluation of certain seedling J'79- Research Report Expert Committee

hardening-off techniques on flue-cured tobacco Weeds Eastern Canadian Section 105

production. The Lighter 50( 1 ):22-24. (abstract).

Zilkey, B.F. 1980. The effect of herbicides on flue- Zi,key< B ^ Binns, M. 1980. Effect of leaf

cured tobacco in Ontario in 1978. The Lighter "Pjnf and genotype on agronomic, physical

50MV2V25 a chemical measurements of flue-cured to-
bacco and tobacco smoke. 34th Tobacco

Zilkey, B. F. 1980. Annual weed control in flue- Chemists Research Conference (abstract), p.

cured tobacco. Research Report, Expert Com- 6.

RESEARCH STATION, DELHI, ONT. 221

Research Station
Harrow, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

W. I. Findlay, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. H. Lee

E. Champagne,1 M. A., M.L.S.

Acting Director
Administrative Officer
Librarian

Crop Science

R. I. Buzzell,2 B.S., Ph.D.

B. R. Buttery, B.Sc., Ph.D.

V. A. Dirks, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

A. H. Teich, B.A., M.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

T. W. Welacky, B.Sc, B.Sc. (Agr.)

Head of Section; Soybean breeding

Soybean physiology

Statistics

Winter wheat breeding

Burley tobacco

Entomology

W. H. Foott, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
W. M. Elliott, B.Sc, Ph.D., D.I.C.
R. P. Jaques, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
R. J. McClanahan, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

B. C. Smith, B.A.

Head of Section; Field crop insects
Vegetable and fruit insects
Insect pathology
Greenhouse and field vegetable
insects
Field crop insects

Horticultural and Soil Science

R. E. C. Layne, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

E. F. Bolton, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

A. Liptay, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. P. Papadopoulos, M.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc. (Hort.)

H. A. Quamme,3 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. S. Tan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Acting Section Head; Tree fruit

breeding
Soil management
Vegetable management
Greenhouse management
Tree fruit breeding
Soil moisture

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

223

Plant Pathology

W. R. Jarvis,4 B.Sc, Ph.D., D.I.C.
T. R. Anderson, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. G. Bonn, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

B. N. Dhanvantari, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
L. F. Gates, B.A., Ph.D.
J. C. Tu, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Vegetable diseases
Soybean diseases
Bacterial diseases of fruit and
vegetables

Bacterial diseases of vegetables
Cereal and corn diseases
White bean diseases

Weed Science and Chemistry

P. B. Marriage, B.Sc., Ph.D.
J. D. Gaynor, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.
A. S. Hamill, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. R. Phillips, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. E. Weaver, B.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Weed physiology
Environmental chemistry
Weed science
Weed physiology
Weed ecology

Departures

J. W. Aylesworth, B.S.A., M.S.
Retired 26 December 1980

Ph.D.

H. T. M. Colwell, B.Agr., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred; Regional Development and

International Affairs Branch, Ottawa, Ont., 1

December 1980
T. R. Francis, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Resigned 30 May 1980
J. M. Fulton, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.

Retired 5 December 1980
N. E. B. Gibson-MacDonald, B.A., M.A., M.L.S.

Transferred; Research Station, Vineland Station,

Ont., 1 September 1980
S. Lesage, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred; Canada Center for Inland Waters,

Burlington, Ont., 27 June 1980
V. W. Nuttall, B.S.A., M.S.A.

Retired 25 November 1980

Officer in Charge, Soil

Substation, Woodslee, Ont.; White

bean breeding
Economics

Corn breeding

Director

Librarian

Pesticide chemistry

Vegetable breeding

VISITING SCIENTISTS

M. Aslam, Ph.D.
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
Council

Plant physiology

224

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

I. Ben Ze'ev, Ph.D. Insect pathology

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
Council

EXTENSION SERVICES5

J. C. Fisher, B.S.A. Greenhouse and vegetable crops

F. Kappel, B.Sc, M.Sc. Fruit and vegetable crops

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:On a transfer of work, the Research Centre, London, Ont., from April 1980 to September 1980.

3On a transfer of work, the East Mailing Research Station, England, from August 1979 to July 1980.

4On a transfer of work, the Glasshouse Crops Research Institute, England, from August 1979 to August 1980.

'Provided by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food.

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT. 225

INTRODUCTION

The Research Station at Harrow is located in a region with a favorable climate and a long
growing season. Fruits, vegetables, and field crops are included in our research programs. The
climate in the area is characterized during the growing season by an amount or distribution of
rainfall that is often inadequate to meet the needs of all crops in all seasons. During 1980 the
season was generally cool and wet. Although some crops were adversely affected and some
plant diseases were more prevalent than usual, many crops responded favorably with record or
near-record yields. Our research is primarily devoted to solving production problems such as
the development of new crop varieties with superior agronomic characteristics; improved insect,
disease, and weed control techniques; and improved soil and crop management practices.

This report provides brief summaries of results obtained in 1980. Further information can
be obtained by writing to: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Harrow,
Ont. NOR 1G0.

W. I. Findlay
Acting Director

FIELD CROPS

Burley tobacco

Weather fleck. Weather fleck caused by
ozone was prevalent on tobacco at the Harrow
Research Station. Significant differences in
ozone damage occurred among 14 tobacco
cultivars. Burley 1, Harwin, and Ky21 x 10
were the most tolerant cultivars of those
currently planted.

Corn

Atrazine degradation. Atrazine treatment
of cornfields resulted in the formation of the
2-hydroxy metabolite in a clay loam soil. The
time and method of atrazine application
(preplant incorporated, preemergence, poste-
mergence) and the presence of oil-surfactant
additives in the herbicide formulation had no
long-term effect on atrazine persistence.
Postemergence application and the presence
of additives resulted in a slightly greater
initial rate of atrazine degradation. Both
atrazine, in less than phytotoxic amounts, and
hydroxyatrazine persisted into the following
growing season and these residues were
absorbed, metabolized, and conjugated by
oats seeded in the spring.

Breeding. Numerous requests were filled
for seed of the Harrow inbred CH663-8. This
inbred gave testcrosses that were the best
yielding for their maturity with a low amount
of root lodging, out of 20 inbreds evaluated in
the U.S. north central regional uniform test.

Depth of plowing and soil physical condi-
tion. Soil physical measurements, which
included air and total pore space and bulk
density, indicated that seasonal effects were
much more pronounced on soil tilth than
plowing at different depths within the 30-cm
layer. During seasons when spring rainfall
was at or below normal, plowing to 30 cm
deep increased the pore space within the 20-
30 cm soil depth more than plowing to 10 cm
deep. During seasons with above normal
spring rainfall, pore space was not increased
within any of the three soil depths by plowing
at 10, 20, or 30 cm. Results showed that deep
plowing was not an effective way of improving
soil tilth for plant growth on clay soils of
southwestern Ontario.

Diseases. In an early planting, a cultivar
whose ears developed more rapidly in the 3 wk
after mid-silk had more eventual stalk rot
than a cultivar whose ears developed at a
more even rate. This probably reflects differ-
ences in hormone balance and consequent
nutrient distribution between ear and stalk in
the plant. Stalk rot in late plantings has been
more dependent on cultural conditions.

No head smut was seen in 146 fields
surveyed in early August in Essex County.

Insects. Two single-cross grain corn hybrids
with resistance to the first generation of a
bivoltine strain of the European corn borer
were compared with a hybrid that is suscepti-
ble to both generations to observe possible
differences in the biology of the borer and in
levels of borer damage, and to determine if

226

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

there could be any advantage in growing
hybrids that are resistant to the first genera-
tion in an area where the second generation is
more important. It was found that there were
only small differences between hybrids in the
numbers of first-generation eggs laid and in
egg mortality. However, the numbers of first-
generation larvae that reached the pupal stage
and the lengths of borer cavities were higher
in the susceptible hybrid than in the two
resistant hybrids combined. There was no
evidence that the two hybrids with the least
amount of damage were more susceptible to
attack by the second generation.

Tests with a corn borer pheromone showed
that only very small numbers of moths that
were marked with a fluorescent powder and
released in the vicinity of pheromone traps
were recaptured.

Soil applications of carbofuran 10G applied
in the spring at a rate of 1.2 kg/ha to control
damage of corn rootworm larvae affected
populations of nontarget stages of rootworms
and other species. There was a threefold
increase in number of rootworm eggs per
kilogram of soil from treated plots compared
with check plots in the fall and spring
following treatment. Numbers of arthropods,
rootworm adults, and coccinellid adults on
yellow sticky traps in treated plots exceeded
those in the check plots in July and August by
25%, 19-80%, and 18%, respectively.

Tillage and herbicide persistence. The
effectiveness of disc or S-tine cultivation to
incorporate herbicides in Brookston clay soil
was investigated using chemical and fluores-
cent techniques. Incorporation of the her-
bicides by S-tine cultivator resulted in 45%
volatile loss of low-vapor pressure type her-
bicides because of shallow incorporation,
whereas only 22% of the herbicides were lost
when incorporated by disc. Two incorpora-
tions at right angles with the S-tine cultivator
reduced volatile losses, but losses were still
higher than from disc. S-Tine cultivation
deposited 79% of the herbicide nonuniformly
in the top 4 cm of soil, whereas 85% of the
herbicide was uniformly incorporated in the
top 6 cm with the disc. Fluorescent dye
verified that vertical distribution was better
with disc incorporation and also showed that
it gave more uniform horizontal distribution.
Herbicide persistence was unaffected by the
type of incorporation implement, but because
persistence is dependent upon soil moisture
content, the lower initial residues from S-tine

incorporation could persist longer because of
the lower soil moisture content at the surface.

Weed control. An experiment combining
cultivation and reduced levels of chemical
gave successful weed control.

Five additional chemical treatments for
corn are being recommended by the Expert
Committee on Weeds, based in part on the
research results obtained from corn herbicide
trials at Woodslee.

Weed ecology and physiology. Five pig-
weed species (Amaranthus) differed in their
susceptibility to postemergence herbicides in
field trials. Prostrate pigweed was the most
susceptible species to the herbicides tested.
Linuron, atrazine, and INT-28 gave good
control of all five species. The growth and
development of atrazine-resistant and atra-
zine-susceptible populations of two pigweed
species were examined in greenhouse experi-
ments. Susceptible populations showed
marked decreases in leaf number, leaf weight,
and stem weight after treatment with atrazine
at 0.5 kg/ha, whereas resistant populations
tolerated 2 kg/ha. Susceptible populations
were considerably more variable in their
growth characters than resistant populations,
possibly reflecting a narrow genotypic base for
the latter population.

In lamb's-quarters populations resistant
and susceptible to atrazine, differences in
growth characteristics were correlated with
differences in geographical location and cli-
mate; the northern populations exhibited a
greater rate of development, earlier matura-
tion, lower biomass at maturity, and greater
reproductive effort compared with the more
southerly populations. These growth differ-
ences were maintained when plants were
grown at their reciprocal location. Although
susceptible populations from various geo-
graphical locations differed in their growth
features, they had the same relative decrease
in growth when treated with atrazine. Her-
bicide-treated individuals of susceptible popu-
lations displayed increased variability in
growth character measurements.

Soybeans

Bentazon soil residue analysis. A sensitive
method for bentazon determination in soil by
gas chromatography was developed based on
reaction of bentazon under alkaline conditions

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

227

with pentafluorobenzyl bromide or m-trifluo-
romethylbenzyl chloride prior to direct analy-
sis by gas chromatography. The pentafluo-
robenzyl derivative was 14 times more
sensitive than the methyl derivative, whereas
sensitivity of the m-trifluoromethylbenzyl
derivatives was intermediate. Chromatograms
of soil extracts were relatively free of interfer-
ence peaks, and 1 g/ha of bentazon could be
detected without extract cleanup.

Genetics. A recessive gene, e4, was identi-
fied as being involved in early maturing
soybeans that can flower and set pods under a
20-h day length.

The reaction of etiolated soybean hypocot-
yls to inoculation with zoospores of Phy-
tophthora megasperma var. sojae was shown
to vary with race-specific genotype, genetic
background of the host, and the aggres-
siveness of the race.

Physiology of annual weeds. Studies on the
intraspecific competition of velvetleaf indicate
that a late emerging plant offers increased
competition, is a more aggressive plant, and
yields more seed than one emerging earlier in
the year. Seed production of both early and
late emerging velvetleaf plants was noticeably
reduced where population density was nine
plants per square metre or more.

Later emerging jimsonweed plants, like
velvetleaf, appeared to be more aggressive
and to yield more seed than an earlier
established plant. Unlike velvetleaf, however,
seed production per unit area continued to
increase with density.

Phytophthora root rot. Based on a survey
of Essex County soybean fields, root rot killed
0.43 and 0.66% of plants in fields and head-
lands, respectively. All survey fields were
planted with cultivars with tolerance for
phytophthora root rot as recommended for
this area. Yield loss from this disease was low
in 1980. In certain fields not included in the
survey, 25-50% plant loss occurred in low,
poorly drained areas. It is recommended that
cultivars with race-specific resistance to the
disease organism be planted in these problem
areas. Under conditions favorable to root rot,
resistant cultivars have higher yields than
tolerant cultivars. Race-resistant cultivars
currently available are not resistant to all
known races of the pathogen; therefore a
rotation of cultivars will be necessary to limit
development of new races. Race 13 of the
pathogen was isolated from infected soybeans

in 1980 for the first time in Ontario. Race 9
was isolated most often from diseased plants.

Summary of drainage spacing effects for
soybeans. Drainage research showed that
drains at 6-m spacing increased average
soybean yield by 0.24 t/ha over the conven-
tional 15-m spacing. The 15-m spacing, the
one in most general use in southwestern
Ontario, produced intermediate soybean
yields between those obtained on the closest
and farthest spacings. This experiment, car-
ried out on clay soil in Lambton County also
compared effect of depth and method of
installation of soybean yield. On this basis the
laser-controlled plow, which made the trench
and installed the drain in a single operation,"
was as good a method of installation as the
conventional wheel trencher. The shallower
depth of drain installation at 70 cm was as
good as deep installation at 96 cm for yield
and was more satisfactory, because it required
less energy to install.

Weed control. Where wheat growth was
excellent and yields were high, there was no
growth of relay planted soybeans. Broad-
leaved weed control was accomplished in this
crop production sequence, but volunteer
wheat was a problem to harvesting matured
soybeans.

Based in part on research conducted at
Woodslee, four new herbicide treatments are
being recommended for weed control in
soybeans by the Expert Committee on Weeds.

White beans

Anthracnose. From the sixth backcross
progeny of Fleetwood, Kentwood, and Sea-
farer, homozygous lines resistant to the delta
race of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum
(Sacc. & Magn.) Briosi & Cav. were selected
and forwarded to Idaho for seed increase. All
homozygous lines were also screened for
resistance to the alpha, beta, and gamma
races of C. lindemuthianum and to races 1
and 15 of the bean common mosaic (BCM)
virus. Similar resistant genes have also been
incorporated into Sanilac and Steuben.

Bacterial blight (Xanthomonas campestris
pv. phaseoli). In laboratory assays of seed
harvested from blighted plots, using differen-
tial media, only about 0.1% of symptomless
seeds were contaminated with blight bacteria
as compared with 1.2% infection among
discolored seeds; among infected pods. 29' 7
had infected seeds. When such seeds were

228

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

planted in the field in 32 rows, blight was
initially found in only one row, on 5% of the
plants. It spread to eight other rows rather
late in the season.

The fuscans and nonfuscans strains of
blight bacteria were monitored for blight
lesions as well as for leaf surface populations
of white bean plants inoculated in the field,
using equal proportions of the two. Although
a majority of blight lesions contained nonfus-
cans, fuscans appeared to increase in leaf
surface populations by mid-July. The relative
role of the two strains is not understood.

In greenhouse evaluation of breeding mate-
rial for resistance to blight, 40 out of 265
selections were found to possess moderate to
higher degrees of tolerance. In field evalua-
tions, 36 out of 65 selections in preliminary
tests and 28 out of 43 selections in advanced
tests were found to be tolerant, some combin-
ing the attributes of determinate growth habit
and early maturity of the commercial
cultivars.

Root rot. In greenhouse tests a mycopara-
sitic fungus, Gliocladium virens, reduced
Rhizoctonia root rot in white beans. Root rot
severity decreased with increasing concentra-
tion of the mycoparasite in the soil.

Viruses. Bean yellow mosaic virus
(BYMV) was identified as a serious and
widespread disease in southwestern Ontario,
particularly in the Chatham area. It overwin-
ters in volunteer clover, vetch, and alfalfa
plants; of samples of these plants with mosaic
symptoms collected in early May 1980, 25 of
71 clover, 10 of 64 alfalfa, and 5 of 61 vetch
plants harbored BYMV. Aphids transmit it to
the bean. Cultivars of beans resistant to
BYMV were identified, and the genetics of
their resistance is being studied.

White mold. In 1980 white mold infection
was first found on 5 August, 10 days after the
apothecia were first noted in the field. Initial
infection was sporadic and the incidence was
low (1.7%). In most cases, apothecia could be
found within 45 cm of an infected plant. The
initial infections were invariably at or near
the first branch about 15 cm above the
ground. The disease spread rapidly and
exponentially in susceptible varieties by plant-
to-plant contact until >75% of plants were
affected 3 wk later. The disease spread more
rapidly within than across the row. The cv. Ex
Rico-23 was tolerant.

Winter wheat

Breeding. Winter wheat strains have been
developed that yield well, especially in south-
western Ontario; that are resistant to lodging,
to powdery mildew, and to leaf rust; and that
have acceptable quality. The most promising
line yielded 18% better than Fredrick in
southwestern Ontario and yielded more than
Fredrick in all six test sites representing the
Ontario winter wheat belt.

Diseases. Selections resistant to wheat
spindle streak mosaic and having high yield
and agronomic acceptability have been devel-
oped and entered in the Ontario screening
test. Fusarium root rot was reduced where
wheat straw of the preceding wheat crop was
removed rather than plowed in.

Selections are being made from crosses of
commercial cultivars with the wheat spindle
streak-resistant cultivar Halytchanka. A
number of lines perform well when spindle
streak mosaic is severe. Two lines in the
Ontario screening tests performed in a man-
ner similar to Yorkstar but not as well as
other entries. Spindle streak was not a factor
in these trials. A screening test with spindle
streak mosaic inoculation will be needed to
test these lines fully.

HORTICULTURAL CROPS
Field vegetables
Crucifer crops

Selectivity of insecticides. A field plot
study demonstrated that microbial insecti-
cides were selective for leaf-eating pests of
cabbage. Higher numbers of predacious ar-
thropods (syrphid larvae, coccinellids, and
pentatomids) and higher numbers of cabbage-
worms parasitized by Apanteles glomeratus
were found in plots treated with the bacte-
rium Bacillus thuringiensis or with viruses of
the cabbageworm and the cabbage looper
than in plots treated with chemical insecti-
cides (permethrin or methomyl).

Weed control. Trifluralin (0.75 kg/ha)
incorporated before planting followed by
chloramben (2.0 kg/ha) incorporated at layby
provided promising weed control and resulted
in the production of injury-free cabbage,
cauliflower, broccoli, or brussels sprouts. This
treatment, evolved on the sandy soil en the

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

229

Ridge Farm, has the potential to replace
niclofen, which was removed from the market.

Cucumbers

Breeding. Bonus is a new cultivar released
from the Harrow pickling cucumber breeding
program in March 1980. It is a F, hybrid of a
gynoecious (all-female flowering habit) seed
parent and a monoecious pollen parent. Bonus
has resistance to scab, angular leaf spot, and
cucumber mosaic virus. It is white-spined,
strongly gynoecious, and very productive and
has good shape, a good L:D ratio (2.9:1), and
lighter color than commercial cultivars. Bonus
is the first of a number of cucumber cultivars
being developed at Harrow for the Ontario
pickling cucumber industry.

Powdery mildew. Of a number of new
fungicides assayed to take the place of
benomyl, for which tolerance is widespread,
only triforine was effective and not withdrawn
from consideration by the manufacturer.

Sphaerotheca fuliginea (Schlecht. ex Fr.)
Poll, has hitherto been the only powdery
mildew seen on cucurbits in Essex county, but
in 1980, Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. was
found on melons alongside an infestation of
Lamium amplexicaule. Cucumis dispaceus
was found to be resistant to S. fuliginea.

Scab. Though crop rotation affords the best
control of cucumber scab, it was well-control-
led by chlorothalonil, and a mixture of
chlorothalonil and triforine gave yields 1 1.4%
better than either by itself.

Peppers

Insect control. The green peach aphid was
adequately controlled, and European corn
borer infestations were kept below 2% with all
sprays tested; however, up to 7.8% of fruits
were damaged by pepper maggot in treated
plots. Carbofuran and acephate were the most
effective against all three pests.

Green peach aphid flights. Flights of the
green peach aphid have been monitored for 7
yr, using suction traps at Harrow and yellow
sticky traps in unsprayed pepper plots at
Jordan, Ont. For 6 yr the correlation coeffi-
cients between sites were significant (P<
0.02). In the 7th yr no intercorrelation of sites
occurred, and the usual unimodal curve of
numbers of aphids flying did not occur.
Unusually large flights early in the 7th yr at
both sites could be attributed, in part, to
warm weather in April and in the previous

November, but differences between the subse-
quent numbers trapped at Harrow and Jordan
could not be explained. These results show
that although there has been success at both
sites in recent years in forecasting levels of the
cucumber mosaic virus, which is transmitted
to peppers by the green peach aphid, it is
possible that completely different results can
be obtained at the two sites in other years.

Potatoes

Flexible spray schedules. In spite of mod-
erately low insect populations on early pota-
toes, three sprays were required to prevent
damage from potato beetles, flea beetles,
leafhoppers, and aphids. Excellent control of
aphids by methamidophos and decamethrin
provided 10% higher yields than plots treated
with carbofuran, fenvalerate, and acephate,
which allowed aphid numbers to build up.

Sweet corn

Microbial control of the corn borer. Dam-
age by larvae of the corn borer was less and
numbers of larvae were fewer in plots treated
with the microsporidium Nosema pyraustae
than in plots treated with fenvalerate, a
pyrethroid insecticide, indicating the potential
of the pathogen for control of this pest insect.
In addition, 80% of corn borer larvae found in
plots treated with the microsporidium were
infected by the pathogen and would eventu-
ally die or the female adults would be
infertile, compared with an incidence of 10-
20% in other plots. Semiweekly examinations
of adult corn borers captured in a light trap
indicated a natural infection rate of 17%; this
incidence may be sufficient to contribute to
suppression of the population of the pest by
reducing fecundity.

Varietal resistance to first generation Eu-
ropean corn borer. Three years of tests have
demonstrated marked resistance in five hybrid
cultivars of early sweet corn in terms of larvae
per 100 ears at harvest time. Laboratory tests
with diets made from corn leaf powder and
direct leaf-feeding measurements did not
support a hypothesis of antibiosis. The ear
infestation ranked very closely with stalk
infestation and ranged from 3.57 to 28.41
larvae per 100 ears in 17 cultivars in 1980.
Cultivars ranked consistently from year to
year.

230

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Tomatoes

Anihracnose and early blight. Mixtures of
captafol with mancozeb and maneb with
copper sulfate gave good control of these
diseases, as did DPX 7331 [DuPont (Canada)
Ltd.]. A copper hydroxide formulation de-
pressed yield.

A forecast of early blight is made regularly
for the provincial agriphone message for
growers.

Charcoal protection from herbicides. To-
matoes (cv. New Yorker) were gel-seeded into
sandy loam soil and covered with 75 mL of
anticrustant per site containing 0.5 g of
activated charcoal. This treatment protected
the tomato seedlings from metrazine applied
at rates up to 0.50 kg/ha or from metribuzin
at 0.375 kg/ha plus chloramben at 1.5 kg/ha,
applied in solution or in granular formula-
tions, as shown by visual observations and
yields.

Effect of damage to tomato transplants.
An automated bare-root transplanter is being
developed in conjunction with the Engineering
and Statistical Research Institute. In antici-
pation of mechanical damage to the trans-
plants, the effects of simulated damage on
plant establishment and yield were evaluated.
Yields were not seriously affected by leaf
removal, slitting, or squashing, but were
significantly reduced if all the roots of the
transplants were removed. Thus, the results
from these field experiments suggest that
tomato transplants can withstand substantial
physical abuse without reductions in yields at
harvest.

Ethephon treatment of Georgia-grown
transplants. Ethephon (300 ppm) sprayed on
tomato transplants 5-10 days before harvest
of the transplants is used to abort the initial
flower cluster or clusters in order that the
plant may become established vegetatively in
the field before it has to bear fruit. Ethephon
was observed to also have the effect of
thickening the transplant stem and causing
more root growth than found on the controls.
There were differences in this response
between cultivars, e.g. the ethephon effect was
much more pronounced on the Heinz 2653
line than on the Campbell 37. The thicker
stems and heavier root growth suggest that
ethephon treatment of transplants may result
in plants that establish themselves more
readily than do untreated transplants, thus
partly explaining the increase in early yields

of" thick-stemmed ethephon-treated trans-
plants reported in 1979.

Foot and root rot. Though not a problem
disease in field crops in Ontario, Fusarium
oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici Jarvis &
Shoemaker infected all cultivars tested. A
granular formulation of dazomet applied as a
pretransplant fumigant enhanced the inci-
dence of disease in inoculated plants of cv.
Veemore, but because of improved growth
and adventitious root production, overall yield
was significantly improved in fumigated soil.

Potato aphid populations and flights. The
number of embryos present in adult potato
aphids was tested as a forecaster of population
trends on field tomatoes for 4 yr. In the
laboratory the embryo count was correlated
with subsequent births (P = 0.001), except in
young adult wingless aphids. On tomatoes the
embryo count was only satisfactory for fore-
casting population trends in 1 of the 4 yr. This
occurred because adults in the field were
mainly wingless and because the habits of
winged aphids found on the tomatoes differed
from year to year; some years they departed
without breeding and other years they arrived
from outside to breed. Flying populations
measured with suction traps were extremely
variable from year to year, and in some years,
periods of 2 wk without catches occurred in
summer. The long-term annual flight pattern
was a unimodal curve with a peak in August.
Counts of winged aphids arriving on tomato
plants were significantly correlated with
catches in a suction trap. The first winged
adult was trapped on 21 June ± 5 days and
the last on 21 October ± 5 days in 12 yr of
suction trapping.

Water relation and yields. A model that
utilizes sunshine and maximum and minimum
air temperatures for scheduling irrigation of
tomatoes was developed from meteorological
data and measurements of évapotranspiration
from irrigated tomatoes. Measurements of
leaf water potential and stomatal conductance
indicated that water status in tomato plants in
nonirrigated plots was similar to that of plants
in irrigated plots, suggesting that the exten-
sive root system (when fully developed) and
high adsorption capacity of the tomato roots
may offset effects of periods of drought.

Yield by one cultivar of tomato (H2653)
was not affected in 1980 by irrigation treat-
ments, whereas a second cultivar (C28) was

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

231

adversely affected. Because of the high rain-
fall in 1980, this response suggests that
cultivars of tomatoes differ in tolerance for
excessive moisture in soil. Yields from tomato
plants planted at high density (43 054 plants
per hectare) surpassed yields from medium-
density planting (21 527 plants per hectare)
by 34% and from low-density planting
(10 765 plants per hectare) by 101%. Plant-
ing in double-row beds at high density re-
sulted in higher yields than did single-row
planting.

Weed competition. The critical period of
weed competition in transplanted tomatoes is
influenced by row spacing. Tomatoes (cv.
Springset) planted in rows 1 m apart had to
be maintained weed-free for only 24 days, as
compared with 30-36 days for tomatoes
planted in rows 2 m apart. At both spacings, a
single weeding at day 24 or day 36, respec-
tively, resulted in yields comparable to those
from plots maintained weed-free throughout
the season. Yields of tomatoes at the narrower
row spacing were 50% greater per unit area
than yields at the wider spacing at compara-
ble levels of weed control.

Yellow nut sedge physiology and control.
The herbicide glyphosate is translocated to
and consequently alters the viability of yellow
nut sedge tubers when it is foliarly applied
until the latter part of August. With later
applications, the herbicide is not translocated
to as many of the tubers, presumably because
the tuber is more mature and the transporta-
tion system is not as functional. In those
tubers wherein a lethal dosage level is not
attained, severe shoot malformation occurs on
sprouting. Under similar circumstances for
application, the herbicide bentazon has no
adverse activity on the viability or growth of
tubers from treated plants.

Shoot and tuber production by yellow nut
sedge is highly dependent on the time of field
emergence. An advantage of 1 mo in emer-
gence during the first part of the growing
season may result in an increase of 1000
tubers and 100 shoots produced from the
original plant over that from the later emerg-
ing plant.

Studies to determine if the factor causing
tuber formation is able to travel from a
mother to a daughter plant and vice versa
indicated that the translocation is unidirec-
tional, mother to daughter. Mother plants
exposed to a short photoperiod cause tuber

initiation in daughter plants growing under a
long photoperiod.

Biotypes of yellow nut sedge show a varied
response to photoperiod required for tuber
formation, a varied tuber production poten-
tial, as well as a range in the coldhardiness
(overwintering capability) of the tubers.

Greenhouse vegetables
Cucumber

Powdery mildew. As for field cucumbers,
only triforine seems a viable alternative to
benomyl as a control for powdery mildew,
Sphaerotheca fuliginea (Schlecht. ex Fr.)
Poll.

Several potential biological control agents
were identified as parasitizing or antagonizing
S. fuliginea, in addition to the parasite
Ampelomyces quisqualis previously reported.
A Tilletiopsis sp. seems particularly
promising.

Tomato

Foot and root rot. In cooperative work with
Dr. E. A. Kerr, Ontario Ministry of Agricul-
ture and Food, Simcoe, five lines were identi-
fied as resistant to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
radicis-lycopersici Jarvis & Shoemaker, from
2500 selections representing 68 lines.

It proved feasible to wedge-graft the highly
susceptible cv. MR 13 onto the resistant but
pomologically poor cv. IRB, without detri-
ment to yield and with complete escape from
the disease.

The straw mulch used by the majority of
Essex County growers was shown to be a
major site for the multiplication of F. oxyspo-
rum f. sp. radicislycopersici in sterilized
groundbed soils. Tomato roots left in the soil
appear to be a less important site.

The biological control of foot and root rot
was considerably enhanced by growing lettuce
after sterilizing the soil when an infested
tomato crop had been removed, and refraining
from sterilizing again before replanting toma-
toes. Catch crops of cress, mustard, or spinach
had no such effect.

Whitefly control. The synthetic pyrethroid
insecticides have proven very toxic to green-
house whitefly adults. The most toxic was
fenpropanate (WL41706, Shell Chemical
Co.), followed by permethrin, decamethrin,
and cypermethrin. The registered use of

232

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

permethrin at 100 ppm was also very effective
against vegetable leafminer adults.

Tree fruits

Apple

Fire blight. The fire blight pathogen [Er-
winia amylovora (Burr.) Winslow et al.] was
recovered from 100% of the inoculated leaf
scars of both Red Delicious and Idared
cultivars in November but from only 90% of
the leaf scars of Idared in the following April.
Fewer buds had E. amylovora than had the
leaf scars. It was not detected in either leaf
scars or buds of Red Delicious in April.
Differences in recovery may be related to the
relative fire blight susceptibility of cultivars.

Apricot

Breeding. Two fresh-market cultivars
named Hargrand and Harlayne, respectively,
tested as HW410 and HW407, and ripening
in the mid to late season, were introduced in
1980. Although they were intended for the
Ontario fresh market, both cultivars have
shown potential for commercial processing as
puree for baby food and for home preser-
vation as jam or as canned halves in syrup. In
controlled freezing tests, Harlayne has sur-
passed and Hargrand has equaled the cold-
hardiness of Goldcot, the hardy standard, and
therefore should be adapted to regions where
Goldcot is successfully grown. Both cultivars
have good field resistance to brown rot,
Monilinia fructicola (Wint.) Honey; peren-
nial canker, Leucostoma spp.; and bacterial
spot, Xanthomonas pruni (E.F. Sm.) Dowson.
The fruits of both cultivars resist skin crack-
ing in most seasons and do not drop readily
even when ripe. They have very firm flesh
with good texture and flavor, and the flesh
does not adhere to the pit. The fruits of
Hargrand are exceptionally large and moder-
ately attractive, and those of Harlayne are of
medium size but brighter and more attractive.

Nectarine

Breeding. Five new selections were made.
The earliest selection ripened 1 wk before
Harko and the latest ripened 10 days after
Harko. Four new crosses were made to
improve coldhardiness, fruit size, flesh firm-
ness, and quality, from which 752 hybrid
seeds were obtained.

Peach

Breeding. Three cold-hardy, double-flow-
ered, ornamental cultivars were introduced
and named Harrow Frostipink, Harrow Can-
difloss, and Harrow Ribirose. Their flower
colors are, respectively, light pink, medium
pink, and deepest pink to red. Each blossom
has three to four whorls of five petals each,
instead of a single whorl of five petals, which
is typical of peaches. Each introduction is late
blooming, about 1 wk later than most peach
fruit cultivars. In controlled freezing tests,
each introduction was more cold hardy than
Redhaven peach. Each introduction also has a
good level of field resistance to brown rot (M.
fructicola), bacterial spot (X. pruni), and
powdery mildew [Sphaerotheca pannosa
(Wallr. exFr.)Lév.].

Twenty-nine peach crosses were made to
improve coldhardiness, disease resistance,
productivity, fruit type, and quality. In addi-
tion, 28 freestone and two canning clingstone
selections were made from previous crosses
using a multiple selection index consisting of
15 characters. The earliest selection ripened
on 21 July and the latest on 8 September.
Each selection will be critically tested for
coldhardiness in 1981 before being considered
for regional trials.

Crown gall. Biological control of crown gall
{Agrobacterium radiobacter pv. tumefaciens)
with Dygall {A. radiobacter strain #84) was
monitored in a Harrow peach nursery, all on
the rootstock Halford. When the nursery
stock was dug out, gall incidence was 13%
among 2379 check trees as compared with 5%
among 3040 treated trees. It appears that
biological control continues to be effective in
Ontario.

Orchard management. A combined statisti-
cal analysis of the first five years of fruit-
production data in an experiment of Harken -
Siberian C peach using three levels of irri-
gation (none, 25%, and 50% available soil
moisture) and three tree densities (266, 358,
and 536 trees per hectare) revealed that:
increased tree density was the most important
factor favoring increased yield; both total and
marketable yields varied between seasons;
tree density influenced yield more in some
seasons than in others; irrigation did not alter
overall yield; in some years, irrigation tended
to increase total yield but not marketable
yield; and altered tree density did not alter the
effect of irrigation on yield. It was considered

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

233

that a tree density of 536 trees per hectare
was preferable to the traditional density of
266 trees per hectare because yields could be
increased by up to 74.6%, even without
irrigation. The main advantages of irrigation
were the beneficial effect on tree growth and
an improved yield in the first three years of
production. There was little benefit from
irrigation thereafter.

The influence of irrigation and tree density
on stomatal conductance, leaf water potential,
and available moisture in the soil profile were
investigated during the 1978, 1979, and 1980
growing seasons. The results indicated that
water status in nonirrigated trees was similar
to that of irrigated trees. Measurements of
available moisture in the soil profile suggested
that the extensive root systems of peach trees
were able to withdraw water from subsoil to
avoid moisture stress and resultant loss in
yield when trees were 6 yr and older.

Pear

Breeding and cultivar testing. Two pear
selections, HW602 and HW603, have pro-
duced high-quality fruit, remain resistant to
fire blight, and are being considered for
release. Three fire blight selections, namely
HW606, HW607, and HW608, which have
fresh fruit and processing quality similar to
Bartlett, the main pear cultivar grown in
Ontario, have been placed in advance trials. A
new cultivar from Purdue, Honeysweet, was
determined to be fire blight resistant and has
potential as a storage pear for the early winter
market.

Psylla resistance was observed in the pear
collection and seedling orchard. Twelve culti-
vars were observed to be resistant. Honey-
sweet was the only resistant cultivar of Pyrus
communis derivation that has commercial
potential. Psylla resistance was dominant in

progenies of a reputed P. fauriei clone crossed
with P. communis clones. Several selections
have been made.

Hardiness tests were conducted on an array
of cultivars. P. ussuriensis and P. ussuriensis
x P. communis hybrids were considerably
more cold resistant than commercial cultivars.
One of these clones, Ure, has been used in the
breeding program as a source of the coldhar-
diness for new scion and rootstock cultivars.

It was demonstrated that Bartlett had an
unique type of flavor, which was associated
with high levels of decadienoate esters. Ten
cultivars and selections have been found with
a high decadienoate ester level and a flavor
similar to Bartlett. These have been placed in
cultivar trials and have been used as a source
of Bartlett-like flavor in the breeding pro-
gram.

Three rootstock clones, namely OHF 69,
87, and 51, produced higher early yields than
Bartlett seedling and Quince A in trials
conducted with the scion cultivars Bartlett
and HW602. Efforts are being made to
propagate them for extended trial.

MISCELLANEOUS

Grape crown gall

Crown gall {Agrobacterium radiobacter pv.
tumefaciens) strains from 'vinifera' grape
cultivars from southwestern Ontario vine-
yards were determined to belong to biotype 3
according to the currently accepted scheme.
Several of them were sensitive to agrocin 84.
Contrary to the published reports, evidence
was obtained by testing the sap from infected
vines that crown gall may not be systemic in
'vinifera' grapes.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Anderson, T. R.; Patrick, Z. A. 1980. Soil
vampyrellid amoebae that cause small perfora-
tions in conidia of Cochliobolus sativus. Soil
Biol. Biochem. 12:159-167.

Black, T. A.; Tan, C. S.; Nnyamah, J. U. 1980.
Transpiration rate of Douglas fir in thinned
and unthinned stands. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:625-
631.

Bonn, W. G. 1980. Incidence and severity of
bacterial speck of tomato in southwestern
Ontario in 1979. Plant Dis. 64:586-587.

Bonn, W. G.; Dirks, V. A. 1980. Response of apple
scions on size-controlling rootstocks to inocula-
tion by Erwinia amylovora. Plant Dis. 64:209-
211.

Bonn, W. G.; Morand, J. B. 1980. Fire blight of
pear: control of shoot blight phase with strepto-
mycin. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:39-41.

234

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Colwell, H. T. M. 1979. Effects of changes in
selected production variables on crop returns,
costs and margins for machine harvest produc-
tion of pickling cucumbers. Can. Agric. Eng.
21:135-140.

Dirks, V. A.; Anderson, T. R.; Bolton, E. F. 1980.
Effect of fertilizer and drain location on inci-
dence of phytophthora rot in soybean. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:179-183.

Dirks, V. A.; Bolton, E. F. 1980. Regression
analyses of grain yield of corn, level of leaf
NPK and soil conditions in a long time rotation
experiment on Brookston clay. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:599-611.

Dirks, V. A.; Friesen, G. H. 1980. Tolerance of
fresh market transplanted tomatoes to me-
tribuzin applied at various dates after trans-
planting. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:757-761.

Elliott, W. M. 1980. Monitoring annual flight
patterns of the potato aphid, Macrosiphum
euphorbiae (Homoptera: Aphididae), in south-
ern Ontario. Can. Entomol. 1 12:963-968.

Elliott, W. M.; Kemp, W. G. 1980. Flight activity
of the green peach aphid (Homoptera: Aphidi-
dae) during the vegetable growing season at
Harrow and Jordan, Ontario. Proc. Entomol.
Soc.Ont. 110(1979):19-28.

Foott, W. H.; Teich, A. H.; Elliott, W. M. 1980.
Infestation of Macrosiphum avenae and Rho-
palosiphum padi (Homoptera: Aphididae) on
winter wheat in Essex County, Ontario. Proc.
Entomol. Soc. Ont. 1 10( 1 979):61 -63.

Francis, T. R.; Hamill, A. S. 1980. Inheritance of
maize seedling tolerance to alachlor. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:1045-1047.

Gaynor, J. D. 1979. Phosphorus loadings associated
with housing in a rural watershed. J. Great
Lakes Res. 5:124-130.

Jarvis, W. R. 1980. Epidemiology. Coley-Smith, J.
R.; Verhoeff, K.; Jarvis, W. R., eds. The
biology of Botrytis. pp. 219-249.

Jarvis, W. R. 1980. Taxonomy. Coley-Smith, J. R.;
Verhoeff, K.; Jarvis, W. R., eds. The biology of
Botrytis. pp. 1-18.

Jarvis, W. R.; Thorpe, H. J. 1980. Effects of nitrate
and ammonium nitrogen on severity of fusar-
ium foot and root rot and on yield of green-
house tomatoes. Plant Dis. 64:309-310.

Jaworski, C. A.; Phatak, S. C; Liptay, A. 1980.
Differential cultivar responses of tomato trans-
plants to ethephon. HortScience 15:647-648

Layne, R. E. C. 1979. 'Harogem' apricot. Hort-
Science 14:758-759.

Lesage, S. 1980. Effect of cupric ions on the
analysis of ethylenebis (dithiocarbamate) resi-
dues in tomato juice. Tech. Commun. J. Assoc.
Off. Anal. Chem. 63:143-145.

Lesage, S. 1980. Reduction of the formation of
ethylenethiourea from ethylenebis (dithiocar-
bamates) by cupric ions in aqueous media. J.
Agric. Food Chem. 28:787-790.

Levin, D. G.; Laing, J. E.; Jaques, R. P. 1979.
Transmission of granulosis virus by Apanteles
glomeratus to its host Pieris rapae. J. Inver-
ted. Pathol. 34:317-318.

Liptay, A.; Muehmer, J. K. 1980. Evaluation of
baby carrot cultivars and their growth patterns
in southwestern Ontario. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:911-915.

Marriage, P. B.; Quamme, H. A. 1980. Effect of
weed control in the winterhardiness of the bark
and wood of young peach trees. HortScience
15:290-291.

Marriage, P. B.; Warwick, S. I. 1980. Differential
growth and response to atrazine between and
within susceptible and resistant biotypes of
Chenopodium album L. Weed Res. 20:9-1 5.

McKenney, D. J.; Shuttleworth, K. F.; Findlay, W.
I. 1980. Nitrous oxide evolution rates from
fertilized soil: Effects of applied nitrogen. Can.
J. Soil Sci. 60:429-438.

O'Sullivan, J.; Colwell, H. T. M. 1980. Effect of
harvest date on yield and grade distribution
relationships for pickling cucumbers harvested
once-over. J. Am. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 105:408-
412.

Smith, B. C. 1980. Population changes of the
northern corn rootworm (Coleoptera:
Chrysomelidae) and corn yield losses in south-
western Ontario. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Ont.
110(1979):85-91.

Tan, C. S.; Fulton, J. M. 1980. Ratio between
évapotranspiration of irrigated crops from
floating lysimeters and class A pan evapora-
tion. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 97-20 1 .

Teich, A. H. 1980. Germinating immature winter
wheat seed. Cereal Res. Commun. 8:495-499.

Townshend, J. L.; Dirks, V. A.; Marks, C. D. 1980.
Temperature, moisture and compaction and
their effects on the diffusion of ethylene dibro-
mide in three Ontario soils. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:177-184.

Tu, J. C. 1980. Gliocladium virens, a destructive
mycoparasite of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Phy-
topathology 70:670-674.

Tu, J. C. 1980. Incidence of root rot and overwin-
tering of alfalfa as influenced by rhizobia.
Phytopathol.Z. 97:97-108.

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

235

Tu, J. C. 1980. Occurrence and identification of a
flexuous rod virus from a mosaic complex of
white beans in southern Ontario. Phytopathol.
Z. 99:163-174.

Tu, J. C. 1980. The ontogeny of the sclerotia of
Colletotrichum coccodes. Can. J. Bot. 58:631-
636.

Tu, J. C; Aylesworth, J. W. 1980. An effective
method of screening white (pea) bean seedlings
{Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for resistance to Colle-
totrichum lindemuthianum. Phytopathol. Z.
99:131-137.

Tu, J. C; Holmes, T. M. 1980. Effect of alfalfa
mosaic virus infection on nodulation, forage
yield, forage protein, and overwintering of
alfalfa. Phytopathol. Z. 97:1-9.

Tu, J. C; McNaughton, M. E. 1980. Isolation and
characterization of benomyl-resistant biotypes
of the delta race of Colletotrichum linde-
muthianum. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:585-589.

Warwick, S. I.; Hamill, A. S.; Marriage, P. B.
1980. Response of different growth forms of
Poa annua L. (annual bluegrass) to herbicides
applied before or after emergence. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:947-952.

Warwick, S. I.; Weaver, S. E. 1980. Atrazine
resistance in Amaranthus retroflexus (redroot
pigweed) and A. powellii (green pigweed)
from southern Ontario. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:1485-1488.

Weaver, S. E.; Cavers, P. B. 1980. Reproductive
effort of two perennial weed species in different
habitats. J. Appl. Ecol. 17:505-513.

Weaver, S. E.; McWilliams, E. L. 1980. The
biology of Canadian weeds. 44. Amaranthus
retroflexus L., A. powellii S. Wats, and A.
hybridus L. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 2 1 5- 1 234.

Weiser, C. J.; Quamme, H. A.; Proebsting, E. L.;
Burke, M. J.; Yablonsky, G. 1979. Plant
freezing injury and resistance. Barfield, B. J.;
Gerber, J. F., eds. Modification of the aerial
environment of crops — 1 979.

Miscellaneous

Anderson, T. R. 1980. Incidence of phytophthora
root-rot of soybeans in Essex County, Ontario
in 1979. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60(2,3):33-34.

Aslam, M.; Buttery, B. R. 1980. Anaerobic in vivo
reduction of nitrate by plant leaves lacking in
extractable nitrate reductase activity. Midwest
Section, American Society of Plant Physiology
(abstract).

Bolton, E. F.; Dirks, V. A. 1980. Deep tillage not
the answer to soil compaction. Canadex 5 1 0.

Bonn, W. G. 1980. Monitoring of epiphytic Erwinia
amylovora and the incidence of fire blight of
apple and pear in southwestern Ontario. 2nd
International Society of Horticultural Science
Meeting on fireblight, Kiel-Schilksee, West
Germany (abstract).

Buzzell, R. I.; Buttery, B. R.; Broich, S. L.; Palmer,
R. G. 1980. The inheritance and evolution of
flavonol glycosides in Glycine max (L.) Merr.
Bot. Soc. Am. Misc. Ser. Publ. 158:18.

Buzzell, R. I.; Buttery, B. R.; Shibles, R. M. 1980.
Flavonol classes of cultivars in maturity groups
00-IV. Soybean Genet. Newsl. 7:22-26.

Buzzell, R. I.; Hamill, A. S. 1980. Increasing
phytophthora-rot severity in field screening.
Soybean Genet. Newsl. 7:30-31.

Buzzell, R. I.; Voldeng, H. D. 1980. Inheritance of
insensitivity to long daylength. Soybean Genet.
Newsl. 7:26-29.

Layne, R. E. C. 1980. 'Harogem' apricot. Fruit
Var. J. 34:20.

Layne, R. E. C. 1980. Physiological and genetic
factors affecting winterhardiness of tree fruits
in Ontario. Proceedings Agrometeorology
workshop on climatic variability and cold
damage to peaches and grapes in Ontario, pp.
27-28.

Layne, R. E. C. 1980. Prospects of new hardy peach
rootstocks and cultivars for the 1980's. Com-
pact Tree Fruit 13:117-122.

Layne, R. E. C; Fulton, J. M.; Tan, C. S. 1980.
Influence of irrigation and tree density of
growth and yield of peach. HortScience 15:393
(abstract).

Layne, R. E. C; Tan, C. S. 1980. Effect of
irrigation and tree density on yield, tree water
status and available soil moisture in the soil
profile of peach. Agron. Abstr. 72: 1 3.

Liptay, A. 1979. Home vegetable growing. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1059.

Marriage, P. B. 1980. Response of Canada thistle
to herbicides in relation to the growth stage of
plants. Proceedings Canada thistle symposium,
pp. 67-75.

McClanahan, R. J. 1980. Why has integrated
control practice in the greenhouse levelled off
in Canada? Bull. West Palaearctic Reg. Sect.
3:141-144.

McClanahan, R. J. 1980. Biological control of
Liriomyza sativae on greenhouse tomatoes.
Bull. West Palaearctic Reg. Sect. 3:135-140.

Nuttall, V. W. 1980. Melon production possible in
Ontario. Grower 29(1 2): 13- 14.

236

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Nuttall, V. W.; Bonn, W. G. 1980. Breeding white
spine pickling cucumbers for disease resist-
ance. 25th Annual Meeting Canadian Society
of Horticultural Science, Edmonton, Alta.
(abstract).

Phillips, D. R. 1980. The control of yellow nut
sedge in vegetables. Grower 30(3): 1 6-17.

Quamme, H. A. 1979. Heritability and effec-
tiveness of selection for fire blight resistance in
young pear seedlings inoculated in the green-
house. Proceedings Eucarpia fruit section
symposium on tree fruit breeding, Angers, pp.
73-81.

Tan, C. S. 1980. Estimating crop évapotranspira-
tion for irrigation scheduling. Can. Agric.
25(4):26-29.

Tan, C. S. 1980. Influence of irrigation and plant
density of yield, plant water status and évapo-
transpiration of processing tomatoes. Agron.
Abstr. 72:16.

Tu, "J. C. 1979. Anthracnose of white beans.
Canadex 142.630.

Tu, J. C. 1980. Benomyl-resistant biotypes isolated
from the delta race of Colletotrichum linde-
muthianum. Bean Improv. Coop. 23:17-18.

Tu, J. C. 1980. Hyperparasitism of Gliocladium
virens on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Bean Im-
prov. Coop. 23:16-17.

Weaver, S. E. 1980. Pigweeds. Agdex 642.

RESEARCH STATION, HARROW, ONT.

237

Research Station
Ottawa, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

T. Rajhathy, Ing. Agr., M. Se, D. Agr. Sci.,

F.R.S.C.
J. G. R. Loiselle, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
B. W. Jablonski, B.L.A.
R. Porteous

Director

Plant gene resources of Canada
Landscape Architect
Administrative Officer

Cereal Crops

V. D. Burrows, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.
V. Clark, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. O. Fejer, Ing. Agr., Dr. Sc. Tech.
R. G. Fulcher, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. R. Sampson, B.Sc, A.M., Ph.D.
W. L. Seaman, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Oat breeding

Plant pathology

Barley breeding

Morphogenetics and grain quality

Wheat breeding

Wheat pathology

Cytogenetics

G. Fedak, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
K. C. Armstrong, B.S.A., Ph.D.
I. L. Craig, B.S.
B. E. Murray, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Cereal cytology
Brome cytology
Haploidy — Hordeum cytology
Haploidy — flax cytology

Entomology

D. G. Harcourt, B.S.A., Ph.D.

R. Boch, Dr. Rer. Nat.

T. A. Gochnauer, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

J. C. Guppy, B.S.A., M.S.

C. C. Loan, B.A., M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Population
dynamics

Physiology and behavior of bees
Pathology of bees
Population dynamics
Population dynamics

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

239

Forage Crops

L. S. Donovan, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

P. K. Basu, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

L. Dessureaux,1 B.A., B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

M. A. Faris, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. R. McElroy,2 B.Sc, M.Sc.

H. D. Voldeng, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. S. Warren, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Corn breeding

Plant diseases

Alfalfa genetics

Legume breeding

Grass breeding

Soybean breeding

Agronomy

Genetic Engineering

W. A. Keller, B.S.A., Ph.D.

B. L. A. Miki, B.Sc, Ph.D.

S. J. Molnar, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Cell genetics
Molecular biology
Cell genetics

Ornamentals

E. V. Parups, M.S.A., Ph.D.

A. T. Bolton, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

S. Nelson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. A. Simmonds, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. J. Svejda, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Physiology and
floriculture
Pathology
Nursery research
Floriculture
Plant breeding

Experimental Farm, Kapuskasing, Ont.

J. G. Proulx, D.V.M.

Superintendent; Crop management
and evaluation

Experimental Farm, Thunder Bay, Ont.

J. Wilson

Superintendent; Crop management
and evaluation

Departures

T. Burnett, B.S.A., Ph.D.

Retired June 1980
W. R. Childers, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.S.

Retired December 1980
W. E. Cordukes, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Retired December 1980
V. R. Wallen, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
Retired July 1980

Ph.D.

Entomology

Head of Section; Grass breeding

Turf grass

Head of Section; Aerial
photography — methodology

240

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

VISITING SCIENTISTS

C. Nakamura, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Cereal tissue culture

From 1979 to 1981
A. L. Carpena, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D. Plant gene resources

From October to November 1980

Graduate students

G. Douglas, B.Sc. (Agr.) Somatic hybridization

S. Gleddie, B.Sc. Somatic hybridization

'Seconded to Research Branch Headquarters.

2On educational leave, Guclph University, Guelph, Ont., from September 1980 to August 1981

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT. 241

INTRODUCTION

The Ottawa Research Station (ORS) is the major center for plant breeding in eastern and
central Ontario as well as for western Quebec. It is the major center for ornamentals research
in the Research Branch. The Canadian Plant Gene Resources is a national program, and a
small unit is engaged with studies of behavior and pathology of honey bees. In addition, the
Station is charged with numerous service functions and the management of the entire Central
Experimental Farm.

The breeding programs are supported by multidisciplinary research, including plant
genetics and somatic cell genetics, cytogenetics, plant physiology and pathology, entomology,
cytochemistry, and morphogenetics. Agronomy provides important information for improved
crop management, and a quality laboratory services all the breeding programs. The scope of
landscape architecture includes the beautification of the campus of the Central Experimental
Farm, the planning of the annual chrysanthemum show, and landscape planning for
Agriculture Canada buildings across the country.

The Experimental Farm at Kapuskasing continues to conduct experiments on crop
production and on beef-cattle management for northwestern Quebec and northeastern Ontario.
The Experimental Farm at Thunder Bay is engaged in crop production for northwestern
Ontario.

One of the more outstanding accomplishments was the licensing and release of the soft,
white, pastry-quality winter wheat cultivar, Gordon, and the early maturing timothy cultivar,
Salvo. A number of short-season corn hybrids received support for licensing, and a split-
temperature management study of greenhouse chrysanthemums was completed, resulting in
energy savings. The crop disease loss program was terminated and a genetic engineering
program was initiated.

Several professionals retired during the year: Dr. Walter Childers, forage grass breeder
and Chief of the Forage Section, after 42 yr; Dr. Vic Wallen, plant pathologist and Chief of the
Crop Disease Loss Section, after 35 yr; Dr. Tom Burnett, economic entomologist, after 42 yr;
and Mr. Bill Cordukes, turf research scientist, after 35 yr of service.

This report summarizes some of the more important research results from the Station in
1980. Further information can be obtained from the publications listed at the end of this
report. Reprints of the research publications and copies of the report are available on request
from the Ottawa Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ont. Kl A
0C6.

Tibor Rajhathy
Director

CEREAL CROPS Genetics. Kernel hardness and protein

content have an important influence on mill-
ing yield and baking quality. Ninety-nine F4
Wheat lines from the winter wheat cross Lennox

(medium-hard kernels, high protein) x
Breeding. A high-quality soft white winter Stadler (soft kernels, low protein) showed no
wheat for Ontario, line 0-45-4, was licensed in genetic linkage between the two characteris-
1980 under the name Gordon, and released tics (r = -16), in spite of a reported correla-
through the SeCan Association. Gordon is tion of r = 40 among commercial cultivars.
especially well adapted to central Ontario The latter presumably resulted from selecting
(Test Area 2), where it outyielded the ORS either soft types with low protein or hard
cultivar Fredrick, the most widely grown types with high protein, whereas the soft,
cultivar in Ontario, by 7.6% over 4 yr. Gordon high-protein and hard, low-protein types
has better winter survival than Fredrick but lacked commercial acceptance and were dis-
lower hectolitre weight and weaker straw. carded. The Lennox-Stadler cross gave 21

242 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

lines that were soft-low, 33 that were hard-
high, and 61 lines having the noncommercial
combinations.

Pathology. Province-wide surveys showed
that winter survival of winter wheat was
excellent throughout the growing area in
Ontario. Lack of snow cover during much of
the winter prevented damage from snow
molds, and moderate winter temperatures
resulted in little cold injury, despite the lack
of insulating snow.

Symptoms of barley yellow dwarf virus
(BYDV) appeared in early summer, 1980, in
winter wheat plots and fields in the Ottawa
Valley. The early appearance of the disease
indicated that the plants became infected the
previous fall, when aphid populations were
unusually high. Fortunately, aphid popula-
tions were generally low in 1980, so that there
was little further spread of the disease in
wheat. These observations suggest that winter
wheat most likely provides an overwintering
reservoir of BYDV from which the disease
could spread to spring-seeded cereal crops.

In mid season unusually high levels of root
rot and take-all occurred in central and
eastern Ontario. Leaf rust and powdery
mildew were locally important.

Wet weather during harvest caused unprec-
edented levels of sprouting in most areas of
Ontario and also favored the development of
Fusarium spp. on the spikes. In some areas
Fusarium was accompanied by the production
of mycotoxins, particularly vomitoxin.

Barley

Breeding. Two ORS cultivars, Massey and
Vanier, continue to be the highest-yielding
six-rowed feed barleys in Ontario and they are
resistant to smut, mildew, and scald. Two new
selections, OB294-1 and OB339-1, show real
promise of reaching cultivar status in 1981
and 1982, respectively. Both have outstanding
yield performance combined with resistance
to lodging. The two-rowed feed barley OB440
performed well again and this strain combines
high yield with good protein content. Greater
emphasis is being placed on two-row barley
breeding, and five new promising selections
were promoted to advanced official tests.

Consistent negative correlations were found
between mildew resistance and yield under
mildew-free conditions in barley. In a recipro-
cal winter x spring barley hybridization
program, no heterosis was found in the F6, but

valuable selections were made; earlier selec-
tions from similar programs reached the final
stages of testing. Competition tests between
three early and three late cultivars grown
under two-row spacings showed some high
interaction effects, with some mixture superi-
ority from closer row spacing.

Oats

Breeding. The ORS oats breeding program
is directed toward improving oats as both a
feed and food grain. ORS cultivars Sentinel
and Scott continued to outperform recom-
mended cultivars in many areas of Eastern
Canada. A new day-length insensitive culti-
var, OA366, continues to perform well in
official tests and it may be licensed in 1981-
1982. It shows promise as a milling oat for the
food industry and as a feed oat to be grown in
pure stand or in mixtures with barley. Major
advances have been made in the breeding of
lodging resistant dwarf-type oats that com-
bine high yield and good seed size. Several
advanced semidwarf lines (PGR 9887 to
9920) have been made available to oats
breeders. The superior large-seeded hull-less
oats referred to in the Research Branch
Report 1979 continue to perform well in
Ontario, and whole groats of some of these
lines have been evaluated in the preparation
of human food (rice substitute) by the Kempt-
ville College of Agricultural Technology (P.
Johnston). An awned hull-less strain has been
bred, and the awn makes it easy to separate
unthreshed kernels from naked kernels. A
prototype dormant cultivar (OA499) has been
produced and is being evaluated on a farm
scale in eastern Ontario as part of a technol-
ogy transfer project.

Pathology. The oats crop in eastern On-
tario and western Quebec suffered severe
damage from crown rust (Puccinia coronata
Cda. f. sp. avenae Eriks.) in 1980. Field
tolerance and disease-loss tests employing
maneb fungicide to control leaf diseases
showed that losses from natural infection by
crown rust amounted to 40% in seed yield and
20% in kernel weight. The tolerance test
compared 45 cultivars and further showed
that inoculation with septoria (Septoria av-
enae Frank f. sp. avenae) caused little addi-
tional loss in yield, and mean kernel weight
was increased over natural infection because
of the supplemental irrigation provided to
induce septoria development. Tolerance for

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

243

the two diseases was identified in four culti-
vars using both yields and kernel weights. A
third field experiment showed that Laurent
was tolerant of crown rust and that it pro-
duced higher seed yield, kernel weight, and
percent of protein than did Fidler and Hud-
son, both of which have major genes for
resistance.

Barley and oats mixture tests continued to
show in yield and kernel weight that leaf
disease development was lower in most mix-
tures (eight cultivar combinations) compared
with solid stands of each component.

Physiology and morphogenesis

A new fluorescent marker was isolated,
purified, and adapted for routine microscopic
detection of major cereal lipid reserves. The
marker is capable of differentiating neutral
lipids from other significant lipid residues in
situ, with a sensitivity approaching 10~l5g.
Using this and a range of fluorescent markers
for other important seed reserves, comprehen-
sive analyses of wheat and oats grain mor-
phology have been completed. Similar tech-
nology has been developed for rapid detection
of leaf-borne fungal pathogens, industrial
grain fractions, and cereal fibers.

CYTOGENETICS

Wide crosses in cereals

Barley-wheat hybrids were produced by
crossing the wheat cultivars Koga and Chi-
nese Spring onto barley cultivars Emir,
Bonus, and Betzes. Chiasma frequencies in
the hybrids ranged from 0.60 in the Emir x
Chinese Spring combination to 3.60 in Bonus
X Koga, indicating that the background
genotype has a profound effect on chromo-
some pairing in the hybrids. Chromosomal
location of genes in Chinese Spring promoting
crossability with Betzes barley was deter-
mined by crossing the entire series of 21
Chinese Spring - Hope substitution lines
(where chromosomes of the noncrossable
variety Hope were substituted for chromo-
somes of Chinese Spring) onto Betzes barley.
By this means, the major genes for crossabil-
ity were located on Chinese Spring chromo-
somes 5A, 5B, and 5D. Only those varieties of
wheat carrying these three genes are crossable
with barley. Chinese Spring wheat carrying
the Ph mutant when crossed onto Betzes
barley raised the chiasma frequency in the
hybrids from 1.8 to 8.5, indicating that this

will be an effective way in which to achieve
recombination and hence gene transfer
between chromosomes of wheat and barley.

In an effort to produce addition lines of rye
in barley, the wild rye species Secale vavilovii
L. was crossed onto tetraploid Betzes to give a
hybrid with 21 chromosomes, 14 from barley,
and seven from rye. Selfing the hybrid or
repeated backcrossing to barley should pro-
duce progeny with the entire complement of
14 barley chromosomes with additions of
single rye chromosomes.

Hordeum gene pool. During a 1980 expedi-
tion, approximately 550 accessions of wild
and cultivated barley were collected from the
Canary Islands, Morocco, Portugal, and
Spain. During this expedition the maximal
variability in cultivated barley was observed
in Morocco in the Anti Atlas Mountains at
elevations of 3218 km and in river valleys of
the Sub Sahara, where apparent land races
are still being grown. The Hordeum gene pool
at ORS now consists of 26 wild species in
addition to approximately 650 accessions of
cultivated barley. Studies on the 360 acces-
sions of H. bulbosum L. collected in Turkey,
Iran, and Greece showed that all are tetra-
ploid with considerable variation in morphol-
ogy, whereas the 50 accessions from Spain
have the diploid chromosome number. Studies
on previously undescribed wild species from
Argentina and Chile indicate that they are all
diploids.

Chromosome banding

A modified C-banding technique was devel-
oped that produces bands on the B-genome
and on chromosomes 4 and 7 of the A genome
of Triticum aestivum L. cv. Chinese Spring,
following a normal Feulgen preparation.
C-Banding on the meiotic chromosomes of the
trigeneric hybrids of barley x wheat x rye
revealed that rye chromosomes paired less
often with barley and wheat chromosomes
(0.27 per cell) than with nonhomologous rye
chromosomes (0.073). The majority of pairing
configurations (1.91 per cell) probably in-
volved wheat homologues.

Brassica cytogenetics

The maximum pairing in haploids of B.
eampestris L. was 31 + 2" + lm, which
suggests that the species is hexasomic for one
and tetrasomic for two other chromosomes.
Haploids of B. oleracea L. formed 41 + 1" +

244

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

lm, which suggests that the species is hexaso-
mic for one and tetrasomic for one
chromosome.

Bromus cytogenetics

The karyotypes from species and interspe-
cific hybrids of the section Pnigma suggests
that the section can be divided into two
groups differing in chromosome size. The
group with the largest chromosomes (almost
entirely New World species) consists of short-
lived perennial to annual species that are
highly self-fertile and are mainly diploids.
The group with the smaller chromosomes
(almost entirely Old World species) consists
of long-lived perennials that are generally
cross-fertile and are mainly polyploids.

Flax. Results from haploid x diploid
crosses in flax indicated potential for selecting
genetic stocks by combining the twinning,
meiotic pattern and the haploid-producing
traits from Rocket 4 with the fiber trait of
Natasja and the rust resistance of Dufferin
among F2 haploid-diploid twins from haploid
(Rocket 4) x diploid (Natasja) and from
haploid (Rocket 4) x diploid (DufTerin)
crosses. In the haploid (Rocket 4) x diploid
(Natasja) cross, the hybrid haploids had a
distinctive meiotic pattern that resembled an
anaphase II disjunction of the haploid chro-
mosome complement, resulting in the develop-
ment on nonviable spores and low seed set
from intracrossed twins. This contrasted with
the Rocket haploid-meiotic pattern in which
equal anaphase disjunction of sister chro-
matids resulted in viable spores and the
potential to produce seeds in haploid X
diploid crosses. Crosses with Dufferin as the
pollen donor produced a response in the
haploids and the F,s similar to that of
Natasja. Segregation ratios in the F2 indi-
cated simple inheritance for the regulation of
the meiotic pattern in haploids and complex
inheritance for the twinning trait. Selection is
in progress for rust-resistant fiber-type lines,
with the twinning trait for utilization as
genetic stocks in plant breeding.

ENTOMOLOGY

Population dynamics and pest management

Alfalfa weevil. Studies aimed at developing
a province-wide management strategy for the
alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Gyll.), were

expanded to document survival between gen-
erations. Ecological life tables showed that a
new parasitoid of the adult stage, the wasp
Microctonus colesi Drea, has spread into
Ontario to impose further stability to popula-
tion oscillations in the weevil. Pooled data for
five locations showed that the spring brood of
M. aethiopoides Loan attacked and sterilized
a sufficient number of overwintered adults to
reduce oviposition by 30%. Disease destroyed
75% of the feeding larvae, but mortality of
cocooned stages from the combined effects of
disease and parasites was only 29%. Nearly
one-third of the emerging adults contained
larvae of M. colesi, and 27% of the remainder
were attacked by the summer brood of M.
aethiopoides during the 'feed up' period.
Generation survival to the onset of hiberna-
tion averaged 8%. This points to lower
populations for 1981.

A thermal summation model was developed
for predicting seasonal development of alfalfa
in the Quinte area. Analysis of weather and
growth patterns for 6 yr showed that the first
crop reaches the bud stage following the
accumulation of 320 degree-days above 5°C
(DD5) from 1 April, and should be harvested
between 360 and 510 DD5 for maximum yield
of protein. The following equation accounts
for 98% of the variation in growth: height (in
centimetres) = 0.2 15.x - 4.754, where x is the
number of heat units >5°C.

Alfalfa blotch leafminer. In an attempt to
describe the factors and processes that govern
population trends in the alfalfa blotch leaf-
miner, Agromyza frontella (Rond.), statisti-
cally reliable sampling procedures were devel-
oped for two life-history stages. For prepupae,
population estimates are based on counts of
mature larvae that drop from the alfalfa
canopy into 22 x 22-cm pans containing
ethylene glycol. For puparia, estimates are
based on the contents of quadrats of soil 16 x
16 cm in area and 5 cm deep. Analysis of
sampling variability showed that 40 pans and
50 quadrats per field, respectively, give ade-
quate precision for numerical estimates of
intensive population studies. The pattern of
counts for both stages is overdispersed but
conforms to the negative binomial distri-
bution.

Life-table data from two plots at Ottawa
showed that survival rates, egg to adult,
varied from 0.5 to 4.8%, decreasing in each of
the three generations. Critical mortalities

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

245

occurred during the larval and prepupal
stages.

Honey bees

Behavior and physiology. Honey bees in a
swarm distinguish and prefer their own queen
over a foreign one. They attack, but rarely
kill, the foreign queen. However, continuous
feeding of artificially scented syrup to worker
bees over a few days gradually diminishes
their ability to discriminate between queens.
Moreover, when artificial Nassanoff phero-
mone is released from a capillary dispenser
near a foreign queen, she is preferred even to
a familiar queen.

Several volatile fatty acids, including hex-
anoic, octanoic, and oct-2-enoic acids, occur
in the mandibular glands of worker bees.
These acids contribute to the antibiotic activ-
ity of royal jelly.

Disease. Honey bee larvae killed by Ameri-
can foulbrood disease emit an odor composed
of one or more volatile sulfides and volatile
fatty acids, including the valeric acid series.
Cultures of the causative agent, Bacillus
larvae White, emit odors of similar composi-
tion. The cultures produce hydrogen sulfide
from cysteine and from sodium thiosulfate,
but not from cystine, methionine, or glutathi-
one.

Larvae killed by Ascosphaera apis (Maas-
sen ex Claussen) Olive and Spiltoir, the
organism causing chalkbrood disease, are very
rapidly disinfected by exposure to ethylene
oxide vapor. Colonies were infected by a
minimum of 108-109 spores fed in a pollen-
sucrose cake; evaporation of citral vapors in
the hive suppressed such infection but did not
control a preexisting infection.

FORAGE CROPS

Grasses

Timothy. There continues to be a high
priority on improved cultivars with a wide
range of maturity, high forage and seed
yields, and an increasing percentage of digest-
ibility and protein content. Salvo, an ex-
tremely early high-yielding cultivar, was
licensed in 1980. There was 1450 kg of
breeder and foundation seed available for
seeding in the spring of 1980. Salvo is headed
out by 8-10 June, which makes it extremely
valuable in mixtures for alfalfa-timothy

haylage management. In the Atlantic prov-
inces, Salvo will be used for early hay. A new
synthetic (O-C high digestibility) of Champ
origin outyielded its parent by 30 kg/ha in a
four-station Ontario provincial trial. Labelle
23, a climax maturity broad-leaved strain,
was the highest yielder of the Labelle strain in
tests in Ontario and the Maritimes. A new
high-digestibility five-clone synthetic was
established in 1980.

Orchardgrass. A new synthetic of Rideau
orchardgrass with higher yield and greater
winterhardiness outyielded the check cultivar
Kay by approximately 100 kg/ha in a two-
station Ontario provincial test.

Alfalfa

The main objectives in alfalfa breeding
have centered on yield, Phytophthora root rot
(Prr) resistance, and selection for better
nitrogen fixation.

Four synthetics were formed and tested for
yield and Prr resistance. Synthetics 1 and 2
equaled the check Angus in total dry-matter
yield but were twice as resistant as Apollo to
Prr. Seed of these two synthetics was in-
creased, and they will be entered in regional
trials for possible release as new cultivars.

In another study, performance of some Prr-
resistant and Prr-susceptible cultivars was
determined under artificially inoculated field
conditions. Yields of both resistant and sus-
ceptible cultivars were reduced after inocula-
tion; however, the resistant cultivars outy-
ielded the susceptible ones. The resistant
cultivars exhibited less winterkill due to fewer
plants infected by Phytophthora megasperma
Drechsler. A total of 400 clones from different
genetic backgrounds were selected as possibly
possessing Prr resistance, which might con-
tribute to new cultivar development.

Dry-matter production, plant height, pro-
tein content, and in vitro digestibility (IVD)
were measured in 1st- and 2nd-yr plantings of
six cultivars grown under potato leafhopper
infestation with or without methoxychlor
treatment for control of the pest. All treated
plots yielded more dry matter than did the
untreated plots. Plant height and protein
content were higher and IVD was lower in the
treated plots. All cultivars were susceptible to
leafhopper infestation; however, Angus was
the least affected. Leafhopper injury was
season specific and damage carry-over from
one season to another occurred, but the extent
was less than that from one cut to the next.

246

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Corn

Breeding. Eight new hybrids qualified for
licensing in provincial trials: 0X599, OX643,
and 0X646 in Manitoba and OX647, 0X651,
0X652, OX661, OX673 in Ontario. Applica-
tions from companies have been received for
seed production and marketing rights for all
of them. Those qualifying in Manitoba tests
represent significant progress in developing
still earlier maturing hybrids for short-season
areas.

A release list of 26 inbreds was established.
Eighteen of these, Plant Gene Resources
(PGR) Nos. 8390-8407, are for general
breeding use. They range in maturity from
2600 to 3500 corn heat units. The remaining
eight, PGR Nos. 8863-8870, have shown
some resistance to corn borer, and their use
will likely be limited to breeding programs
concerned with this character.

Modifications to improve efficiency were
made to equipment that was developed to
measure root strength in corn. Further testing
of six inbred lines showed that all differed
significantly in the force required to pull them
vertically out of the ground.

Agronomy. Plant population or density is
known to affect yield of corn silage. At
Ottawa, maximum yields of dry matter were
obtained, generally, with populations of about
51 000 plants per hectare. Information on
yield of digestible dry matter (DDM) was
obtained over a 3-yr period by growing three
representative corn hybrids at seven popula-
tion densities. Green yield, moisture content,
dry yields, and digestibility were measured to
permit the calculation of DDM yield. The
three hybrids, early, medium, and late matur-
ing, responded similarly. The pattern of
performance is consistent each year, though
actual yield levels were variable. Dry-matter
yield peaked at about 51 000 plants per
hectare and then decreased between 58 000
and 65 000 as ear development was inhibited,
before rising again as plant numbers in-
creased to 72 000, producing more vegetative
material. Yield of digestible dry matter
tended to follow the same pattern within a
narrower range, so that there was only a small
variation in populations above 44 000 plants
per hectare. With these hybrids, populations
higher than 44 000 were not effective in
producing higher yields of digestible dry
matter. The cost advantage of requiring less
seed for such a plant density is an important
consideration.

Soybeans

Breeding. The intermediate maturity line
AU313 (OT80-1) has been evaluated for 4 yr
in short-season areas throughout Canada. It
matures 5 days before Portage, yields 10%
more, and has higher seed oil and protein
levels. Seed supplies have been increased for
licensing and release in 1981. High-podded,
pure line selections from the crossing program
were evaluated for yield and for other agro-
nomic characteristics. Six selections produced
yields equal to standard cultivars of compara-
ble maturity and carried the lowest pods 5 cm
higher off the ground. The study was com-
pleted of the photoperiodic response of 14
cultivars and lines at day lengths from 12 to
24 h.

Flowering and pod formation of Maple
Presto was delayed only 5-6 days even under
a 24-h photoperiod. Other lines showed
marked delay in flowering normally associ-
ated with soybeans. Studies indicated that the
flowering of certain lines may not be delayed
by long photoperiods, but pod set and matur-
ity may be affected.

Agronomy. The herbicide metribuzin is
widely used in soybean production in Ontario.
Some evidence indicated that soybean culti-
vars varied greatly in tolerance for me-
tribuzin, with early maturing cultivars often
suffering severe injury. In a 2-yr study, six
cultivars and several breeding strains were
sprayed preemergence with metribuzin at five
rates in a split-plot arrangement. Approx-
imately 4 wk after spraying, the cultivar
Vansoy showed severe phytotoxicity ratings;
Maple Presto and some strains had moderate
ratings; and Maple Arrow, McCall, Evans,
and Beechwood showed little evidence of
damage even at rates up to 0.56 kg/ha. All
entries other than Vansoy exhibited consider-
able recovery in ratings made 4 wk later, and
for these entries yield was not significantly
reduced by any of the rates of metribuzin
used. The study indicated the importance of
determining the herbicide tolerance of strains
early in the breeding program, particularly
where early maturity is essential.

Pathology

Effects of cold exposure and of inoculation
with Phytophthora megasperma Drechsler f.
sp. medicaginis Kuan & Erwin on young
alfalfa plants were studied under controlled
conditions. Symptomatologically, the effects

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

247

of these two factors could be readily distin-
guished. Freezing alone killed plants but did
not produce blackish lesions, which were
typical of root rot caused by pathogen.
Disease development was not specifically
enhanced by cold exposure applied (-5°C for
48 h). A definite relationship between freez-
ing injury and Phytophthora root rot was not
evident in terms of alfalfa yield (shoot num-
ber or top weight). Superficial brown spots on
roots or internal streaks could be ignored
when assessing cold injury or root rot yield.

Ten soybean cultivars and lines (Altona,
AU313, BD 22115-13, Evans, K 357-1,
Maple Arrow, Maple Presto, McCall, Por-
tage, and PI 153-293) were tested to charac-
terize resistance or susceptibility to bacterial
blight {Pseudomonas glycinea Coerper) un-
der field conditions. Of these, Evans was the
most resistant and PI 153-293 the most
susceptible, and the remaining cultivars were
in the intermediate range (closer to Evans).
The method of inoculation should be less
drastic than the conventional use of airbrush;
otherwise many promising strains for the
short season areas may be classified as suscep-
tible and may be neglected. It is highly
probable that the pathogen survives in the
field over the winter months and initiates
infection in the following spring.

GENETIC ENGINEERING

Experimental haploidy

Brassica spp. A number of factors influ-
encing microspore embryogenesis in anther
cultures of B. oleracea L. (broccoli) cv. Green
Mountain were identified. Short-term high-
temperature pretreatments (45°C, 1 h +
40°C, 3 h) of the buds prior to anther culture
increased embryo yield. Elevated levels of
auxin in the anther culture medium also
stimulated embryogenesis. Several hundred
plants were regenerated directly through
embryo culture or through shoot induction in
hypocotyl expiants. Approximately 50% of the
regenerates were haploids.

The potential for haploid production in four
winter B. napus L. cultivars (Herkules, Jet
Neuf, Ligiora, Rapora) was evaluated. Max-
imal embryo yields were obtained when
anthers were initially cultured at 35°C for 2
days, followed by incubation at 25°C. In
Herkules, more than 1000 embryos were
obtained per 1000 anthers.

A tissue-culture method was developed for
maintaining and propagating anther-derived
lines of B. campestris L. in a vegetative
condition. The procedure involved axial bud
culture on hormone-free media in 8-h photop-
eriods at 15°C. The technique was applied to
B. napus and B. oleracea as a method of
maintaining and cloning haploid lines.

Interspecific hybridization

Somatic hybridization. Chloroplast protein
analysis of 14 Nicotiana rustica L. + TV.
tabacum L. somatic hybrids was performed
via isoelectric focusing. Plastid segregation
occurred in all lines with 1 1 plants carrying
TV. rustica chloroplasts and three carrying TV..
tabacum chloroplasts. Most somatic hybrid
lines yielded viable seed when backcrossed
with either of the parental species. Alkaloid
analysis revealed that the hybrids were highly
variable, having a range of alkaloid levels that
was greater than that identified for the
parental species.

Plants were regenerated from stem and leaf
expiants and from calluses of several TV.
rustica + TV. tabacum somatic hybrid lines.
In certain lines cytological stability was
evident, but in others chromosome elimination
occurred during regeneration.

Sexual hybridization. Postpollination pla-
cental culture resulted in the recovery of
viable embryos and plantlets from the crosses
TV. rustica x TV. tabacum, TV. rustica x TV.
glutinosa L., and TV. rustica X TV. sylvestris
L. Maximal plantlet yields were obtained by
culturing placentas 3 days postpollination on
a hormone-free medium containing 4% su-
crose. Cytological evaluation revealed a stable
amphiploid chromosome number in all regen-
erates. Additional evidence for hybridization
was obtained from morphological and iso-
zyme analysis.

In vitro morphogenesis

Cereals. Factors influencing callus induc-
tion and plant regeneration from immature
embryos of three triticale cultivars (Rosner,
Beagle, Welsh) were identified. Genotype,
embryo age, and culture-medium composi-
tion, including auxin type and concentration,
influenced both callus growth and morpho-
genesis. Cytological abnormalities, including
aneuploidy as well as chromosome structural
changes, were identified in approximately
10% of the regenerates.

248

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Plants were regenerated in callus cultures
derived from immature inflorescences of
triticale, Triticum crassum (Boiss.) Aitch. &
Hensl., and from T. crassum x Hordeum
vulgare L. cv. Bomi intergeneric hybrids. All
T. crassum regenerates had 35 chromosomes
rather than the expected number of 42.
Several aneuploids were identified among the
triticale regenerates, whereas the T. crassum
X H. vulgare regenerates usually had the
amphiploid chromosome number {In = 28).
Colchicine treatment of amphiploid calluses
prior to induction of morphogenesis resulted
in the identification of some mixoploid regen-
erates with the amphidiploid chromosome
number.

Eggplant. Leaf expiants of Solanum
melongena L. (eggplant) cultured on medium
with high auxin levels (10 mg/L 1-naphtha-
leneacetic acid) underwent callus prolifera-
tion, followed by the development of somatic
embryos. Frequency of embryogenesis was
influenced by auxin type and concentration,
and by the nitrogen source in the medium.
Transfer to hormone-free media resulted in
plant regeneration in 25% of the embryos.

ORNAMENTALS

Floriculture

Propagation, growth, and yield of roses
grown from cuttings in rock-wool propagation
blocks were investigated. The yield of blooms
was considerably larger than that obtained by
the conventional growing methods, but the
quality was lower. The method may permit
increase in yields of flowers, planning of
production peaks to coincide with peak de-
mand times, and more efficient usage of
greenhouse space.

Comparative growth and growth-parameter
analysis of chrysanthemums grown at warm
or low split night temperatures showed no
detrimental effects of those parameters.

Dwarf Pinocchio asters and Chrysanthe-
mum pacificum L. were evaluated as potential
pot plants.

Impatiens hybridus L. cv. Starburst is one
of the economically important New Guinea
cultivars, but the environmental control of
flowering in these plants is poorly understood.
When grown at 25°C, a quantitative short-
day response was demonstrated. Flowers in an
8-h photoperiod were initiated 2 wk earlier
than those in 1 8-h photoperiods. When grown

at,15°C, the photoperiodic control was lost
and a day-neutral response was demonstrated.
An earlier and stronger flowering response
was associated with this loss of photoperiodic
control at a low temperature.

Streptocarpus nobilis C.B. Clarke could be
induced to flower in response to one inductive
short day. Expiants from photoinduced leaves
produced flower buds when cultured in nonin-
ductive photoperiods. This indicates that
floral-determining factors are stable for some
time within the leaf. When expiants were
cultured in inductive photoperiods, the flow-
ering response was amplified. The in vitro
induction of the floral stimulus was demon-
strated when expiants taken from noninduced
leaves produced flower buds in inductive
photoperiods. The system is being used to
investigate both the induction of the floral
stimulus and the factors that affect its action.

Pathology

Experiments showed that when greenhouse
rose cultivars Samantha and Promise Me
were grown on their own roots in soil inocu-
lated with Pythium aphanidermatum (Edson)
Fitzp. and Rhizoctonia solani Kiihn, reduc-
tion in growth of 20% and reduction in flower
yield of 20-30% resulted. None of the plants
died or showed symptoms other than limited
stunting. In a survey in Ontario these two
fungi were isolated from roses grown on
different rootstocks in five out of eight green-
houses.

It was established that P. aphanidermatum
is highly pathogenic on carnations, but that
there is resistance to it in several cultivars of
chrysanthemums.

A strain of R. solani, isolated from poinset-
tia plants at Ottawa, did not produce visible
symptoms when inoculated onto the roots of
poinsettia. Cuttings taken from these plants 6
wk after inoculation failed to root and were
found to be infected with the fungus. The
fungus was isolated from the inoculated
mother plants 10 wk after inoculation, at
which time they were still symptomless.

A clone of Poa annua L. obtained from
Manitoba proved to be immune to anthrac-
nose caused by Colletotrichum graminicola
(Ces.) Wils. in several tests under controlled
conditions. A clone from Ontario also exhib-
ited a high degree of resistance to the disease.

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

249

Plant breeding

Rosa. A new winter-hardy, repeatedly
flowering rose with attractive double red
flowers and excellent shrub, named John
Franklin, was released for commercial pro-
duction. Two seedlings of Rosa rugosa
Thunb., obtained from seeds collected near
Abashiri, Japan, showed resistance to the
twospotted spider mite when compared with
the floribunda cultivar Arthur Bell.

The rose selections U04, an everblooming
bedding rose, and LI 5 and L72, hardy climb-
ers, were propagated and grown for trial
plantings. Selection indexes were established
from points assigned for winter survival,
length of flowering, flower production, resist-
ance to diseases, and general ornamental
features.

Seedlings of R. rugosa obtained from Bar
Harbor, Maine, showed great genetic diver-
sity; the inheritance of the flower color and
fertility are being investigated.

Weigela. The aim of the breeding program
is the development of winter-hardy shrubs
with purple foliage. Parent plants have been
obtained from crosses of the winter-hardy
cultivar Dropmore Pink with the purple
foliage cultivar W. rosea purpurea. These
parents produced seedlings with improved
winterhardiness and intensely purple colored
foliage. The observed segregation ratios sug-
gested that purple foliage is controlled by one
pair of genes. Three chimeras with variegated
foliage were found.

Selection of winter-hardy, floriferous, and
disease-resistant Forsythia cultivars is contin-
uing, and seven new selections have been
obtained. The Philadelphus breeding pro-
gram is being phased out, concluding the
selection of winter-hardy, low-growing, pur-
ple-center flowering plants.

Turf

A red fescue strain, Saltol, which is tolerant
of road salt (NaCl), was selected. This strain
will find application in roadside and similar
locations exposed to salt applications in
winter.

Eighteen cultivars of Poa pratensis L. were
grown in different day-length and tempera-
ture environments, relating these conditions to
stem shading and cultivar selection. Day
length and temperatures affected the growth;
cultivars that produced long stems had many
nodes and a short upper leaf blade, whereas
short-stemmed cultivars had few buds and a

long upper leaf blade. These growth traits
may find use in cultivar selection.

Evaluation of a large number of cultivars
for turf quality was continued.

Arboretum and plant evaluation

More than 100 cultivars of geranium,
Pelargonium X hortorum L.H. Bailey, were
raised from seed and evaluated. Cultivars Red
Express and Encounter Salmon received the
top ratings. Among the evaluated dahlia
cultivars, Coltness hybrids, Verdi Mix, Mi-
gnon Ideal Bedding Mix, Redskin, and Rigo-
letto were the best.

In the arboretum, a start was made on
propagating all the Philadelphus, Deutzia,
and Forsythia, with a view to renewing the
existing collections and including several new
cultivars. New selections of Ginkgo, Malus,
and Populus were planted in the early winter.

PLANT GENE RESOURCES

Plant gene information

Genetic-resources inventories of Canadian
barley, tomato, and wheat were published in
1980. These are computer-produced lists of
cultivars and genetic stocks classified under
various traits specific to each crop. Descrip-
tions for over 3700 stocks of barley, tomato,
alfalfa, wheat, and oats have been obtained to
date, with close to 1350 of these in 1980.
Another 2225 stocks of barley, oats, corn,
sunflower, and tobacco were listed by plant
breeders under the trait-inventory program
initiated last year.

Conservation

Under Canada's participation in the pro-
gram of the International Board for Plant
Genetic Resources for the preservation of
international collections of millet and oats,
collections of pear millet, Pennisetum ameri-
canum (L.) Leeke, from Somalia, Cameroon,
and the Sudan were received for long-term
conservation at the Plant Gene Resources
Office. A duplicate of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture's World Oats Collection was also
obtained. Seed of almost 59 000 stocks of
various plant species is preserved at present in
the seed stores that include 54 mi at 4°C and
20% relative humidity and 64 m3 at -20°C
with no humidity control.

250

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Exchanges

Activities of the Plant Gene Resources
Office in connection with exchanges of genetic
stocks and cultivars in 1980 involved 275 such
exchanges with individuals in 39 countries, for
a total of 9500 accessions. Over 4800 genetic
stocks and cultivars were introduced from 16
countries.

EXPERIMENTAL FARM
KAPUSKASING, ONT.

Cereal management

A small trial was started in the spring of
1979 and repeated in 1980 to compare two
sources of nitrogen, ammonium nitrate and
urea, at four levels of concentration (25, 50,
75, 100 kg/ha). Grain yields for both years
were not significantly different as a result of
the two sources of nitrogen. In 1980, a N level
of 50 kg/ha was sufficient to obtain the best
grain yield, whereas in 1979, a N level of 75-
100 kg/ha was required.

A study was initiated in the spring of 1979
and repeated in 1980 to examine four rates of
urea nitrogen (at 25, 50, 75, 100 kg/ha) on
spring-sown Keystone barley. These rates
were applied in four different methods: broad-
cast over the soil immediately after seeding;
broadcast over the soil immediately after
seeding, and harrowed lightly; banded in with
the seed at seeding; and banded to the side of
the seed (5 cm laterally and 2.5 cm deep). In
both years, the grain yields increased with N
applications of up to 50 kg/ha. Increasing the
nitrogen level from 25 to 50 kg/ha resulted in
1015 kg/ha more grain in 1979 and 660 kg/ha
more grain in 1980.

In 1979, the grain yields from applications
of N at 75 kg/ha and 100 kg/ha were 4277
kg/ha and 4222 kg/ha, respectively. In 1980,
the grain production with applications of N at
75 and 100 kg/ha was 6392 kg/ha and 6776
kg/ha, respectively. In both years, there was a
significant grain-yield advantage when the
urea was side banded, when compared with
the other three methods. In 1979, side-
banding urea resulted in a grain-yield in-
crease of 338 kg/ha over the average of the
three methods of application. In 1980, a
similar application method resulted in a
grain-yield increase of 494 kg/ha. The highest
grain yields of the test in both years were
obtained by the side-banding application

method; with N applied at 75 kg/ha in 1979
the yield was 4852 kg/ha and in 1980 the
yield was 7160 kg/ha. Both plant height and
lodging were increased when the nitrogen rate
was increased from 25 kg/ha to 50 kg/ha.
Applications of N at 75 and 100 kg/ha did
not significantly increase lodging and plant
height over those obtained from applications
of N at 50 kg/ha. In both 1979 and 1980,
barley maturity was hastened by a few days
with the addition of N at 50 and 75 kg/ha.
The method of applying urea did not affect
any of the agronomic characteristics except
the total grain production per hectare.

EXPERIMENTAL FARM
THUNDER BAY, ONT.

Crop management

Winter survival of red clover varieties in
northern Ontario. Five cultivars of red clover
(Lakeland, Ottawa, Florex, Redland, Prosper-
1) were seeded on 7 May 1977 and were
established well enough by the fall of 1977 to
harvest one crop in that year. The stand went
into winter in excellent condition, but severe
icing conditions in January 1978 killed most
legumes. The cultivars Florex, Prosper- 1, and
Ottawa managed to survive, producing good
yields that year. For 1977-1979, the total
mean yields of the three cultivars was 7295
kg/ha. After the winter of 1979-1980, only
two of the cultivars revealed significant
persistence and resistance to winter injury. In
their 4th yr of cropping, only Florex and
Prosper- 1 remained with stands of 75%. The
combined yields of Florex and Prosper- 1 for
the only cut taken in 1980 was 6013 kg/ha,
mainly because of poor precipitation in May
and June. Now in their 4th yr, the cultivars
Florex and Prosper- 1 continue to show per-
sistence to winter injury and to retain a better
stand than Lakeland, Ottawa, and Redland.

The effect of fall applications of nitrogen
applied to bromegrass, orchardgrass, and
timothy. Significant differences were noted in
yields when N was applied at 15-day inter-
vals, from 1 August to 30 September. The
highest réponse to N when applied to brome-
grass and orchardgrass occurred when it was
applied on 15 August. The most favorable
time for application of N to timothy was 30
September. The dry-matter yields for timothy

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

251

when applied on 15 August was 3943 kg/ha,
compared with 5203 kg/ha when applied on

30 September. The rate of N application
for each test was 1 20 kg/ha.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Armstrong, K. C. 1980. The cytology of tetraploid
Bromus inermis and the co-colchicine induced
octoploid. Can. J. Bot. 58:582-587.

Basu, P. K. 1980. Production of chlamydospores of
Phytophthora megasperma and their possible
role in primary infection and soil survival. Can.
J. Plant Pathol. 2:70-75.

Boch, R.; Shearer, D. A.; Shuel, R. W. 1979.
Octanoic and other volatile acids in the man-
dibular glands of the honeybee and in royal
jelly. J. Apic. Res. 18:250-253.

Bolton, A. T. 1980. Effects of temperature and pH
of soilless media on root rot of poinsettia
caused by Pythium aphanidermaium. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:83-85.

Bolton, A. T. 1980. Control of Pythium aphanider-
matum in poinsettia in a soilless culture by
Trichoderma viride and a Streptomyces sp.
Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:93-95.

Brach, E. J.; Fejer, S. O. 1980. Holographic
interferometry to differentiate the morphology
of various cereal crops. Phyton 38:37-47.

Childers, W. R.; Dickson, W. D. 1980. Bytown Red
Clover. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1041-1042.

Clark, R. V. 1980. Comparison of spot blotch
severity in barley grain in pure stands and in
mixtures with oats. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:37-
38.

Fedak, G. 1980. Production, morphology and meio-
sis of reciprocal barley-wheat hybrids. Can. J.
Genet. Cytol. 22:1 17-123.

Fedak, G.; Armstrong, K. C. 1980. Production of
trigeneric (barley x wheat) x rye hybrids.
Theor. Appl. Genet. 56:221-224.

Fedak, G.; Loiselle, R.; Fejer, S. O. 1980. Massey
barley. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:277-278.

Fejer, S. O.; Fedak, G. 1980. Growth and develop-
ment of cultivars and hybrids of spring barley
under controlled daylength and temperature.
Z. Pflanzenzuecht. 85:140-147.

Gochnauer, T. A.; Burke, P. W.; Benazet, J. 1979.
Large-scale fumigation with ethylene oxide of
honeybee combs contaminated with Bacillus
larvae. J. Apic. Res. 18:302-308.

Gochnauer, T. A.; Margetts, V. J. 1980. A rapid
method for concentrating Nosema apis spores.
J. Invertebr. Pathol. 36:278-280.

Guppy, J. C. 1980. A comparison of development
and fecundity in North American and Euro-
pean populations of the cereal leaf beetle,
Oulema melanopus (Coleoptera: Chrysomeli-
dae). 1979 Proc. Entomol. Soc. Ont. 110:75-
78.

Harcourt, D. G.; Binns, M. R. 1980. Sampling
techniques for the soil-borne stages of Agro-
myza frontella (Diptera: Agromyzidae). Great
Lakes Entomol. 13:159-164.

Harcourt, D. G.; Ellis, C. R.; Guppy, J. C. 1980.
Distribution of Microctonus aethiopoides, a
parasitoid of the alfalfa weevil (Coleoptera:
Curculionidae) in Ontario. 1979 Proc. Ento-
mol. Soc. Ont. 110:34-39.

Hargin, K. D.; Morrison, W. R.; Fulcher, R. G.
1980. Triglyceride deposits in the starchy
endosperm of wheat. Cereal Chem. 57:320-

325.

Limonti, M.; Harcourt, D. G. 1979. Dispersion
pattern of white-fringed beetles (Coleoptera:
Curculionidae) in alfalfa. Ser. 5, Rev. Invest.
Agric. 14:1-12.

Loan, C. C. 1980. Oedemopsis scarbricula in
British Columbia (Hymenoptera: Ichneumoni-
dae, Tryphoninae). Nat. Can. 107:1 1-14.

Loan, C. C. 1980. Leiophron maculipennis (Hyme-
noptera: Braconidae, Euphorinae) a parasite of
Diaphnocoris chlorionis (Heteroptera: Miri-
dae) in eastern Ontario. Nat. Can. 107:49-50.

Murray, B. E. 1980. Diploid F,s from haploid x
diploid crosses in flax {Linum usitatissimum).

Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:591-596.

Murray, B. E. 1980. Analysis of meiotic metaphasc
in haploids and F,s of haploid x diploid flax
{Linum usitatissimum). Can. J. Genet. Cytol.
22:597-605.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Effect of morphactin on certain
plant growth substances in bean roots. Physiol.
Plant. 49:281-285.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Gibberellins in photoperiodi-
cally treated chrysanthemums cv. Improved
Indianapolis White. Phyton 39:121-126.

Simmonds, J. A. 1980. Increased seedling establish-
ment of Impatiens wallerana in response to
maximized germination rates. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:259-264.

252

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Simmonds, J. A. 1980. Increased seedling establish-
ment of Impatiens waller ana in response to
low temperature or polyethylene glycol seed
treatments. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:561-569.

Svejda, F. 1980. John Franklin rose. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1053-1054.

Svejda, F.; Bolton, A. T. 1980. Resistance of rose
hybrids to three races of Diplocarpon rosae
Wolf. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:23-25.

Svejda, F.; Rondald, W. 1980. Forsythia Northern
Gold. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1057-1058.

Miscellaneous

Armstrong, K. C. 1980. Cytogenetics of the genus
Bromus (Section Pnigma). Proceedings Grass
Breeders Work Planning Conference, Utah
State University, Utah.

Basu, P. K. 1980. Existence of chlamydospores of
Phytophthora megasperma as soil survival and
primary infective propagules. American Phyto-
pathological Society - Canadian Phytopatho-
logical Society Annual Meeting, Minneapolis,
MN. (abstract), p. 117.

Boch, R. 1980. Canadian honey crops: Sunflower.
Can. Beekeeping 8:94.

Burrows, V. D. 1979. Large seeded hull-less oats.
Oat Newsl. 30:64.

Burrows, V. D. 1979. Hull-less oat with few surface
hairs on groat. Oat Newsl. 30:65.

Buzzell, R. I.; Voldeng, H. D. 1980. Inheritance of
insensitivity to long daylength. Soybean Genet.
Newsl. 7:26-29.

Clark, R. V. 1979. Irrigation and the kernel weight
of oats. Oat Newsl. 30:66.

Clark, R. V.; Burrows, V. D. 1979. The influence of
herbicide on Septoria development. Oat
Newsl. 30:67.

Clark, R. V.; Seaman, W. L. 1979. Leaf blotch
symptoms in barley. Barley Newsl. 23:62.

Craig, I. L.; Fedak, G. 1980. Wild barley
{Hordeum L.) collected by Agriculture
Canada in Turkey, Iran, and Greece. Barley
Genet. Newsl. 10:11-13.

Craig, I. L.; Fedak, G. 1980. Wild barley collected
in Turkey, Iran, Greece, Argentina, and Chile.
Presented to Joint Annual Meeting, Canadian
Society of Microbiologists, Genetics Society of
Canada. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:659
(abstract).

Douglas, G. C; Keller, W. A.; Setterfield, G. 1980.
Production of somatic hybrid Nicotiana rus-
tica + N. tabacum L. plants by protoplast
fusion. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:660 (abstract).

Fedak, G. 1979. Source of meiotic abnormalities in
barley-wheat hybrids. Wheat Information
Serv. 50:10-11.

Fedak, G. 1980. Progress in the production of
intergeneric hybrids involving Triticum.
Wheat Newsl. 26:55.

Fedak, G. 1980. Coordinators report — chromosome
7. Barley Genet. Newsl. 10:72.

Fedak, G.; Armstrong, K. C. 1980. Hybrids
between {Hordeum vulgare x (T. aestivum)
x Secale cereale). Can. J. Genet. Cytol.
21:561 (abstract).

Fedak, G.; Armstrong, K. C. 1980. Cytogenetics of
trigeneric hybrids between {Hordeum vulgare
X Triticum aestivum) x Secale cereale. Can.
J. Genet. Cytol. 22:622 (abstract).

Fedak, G.; Loiselle, R.; Fejer, S. O. 1979. Massey
barley. Barley Newsl. 22:9.

Fejer, S. O. 1980. Powdery mildew resistance and
barley yield in Eastern Canada. Barley Newsl.
23:66A-B.

Fejer, S. O.; Jui, P. Y.; Fedak, G. 1980. Seven
single seed descent generations, recurrent
crossing and selection and bulk breeding meth-
ods from a diallel cross of Hordeum vulgare.
Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 21:561 (abstract).

Fulcher, R. G. 1980. Oat morphology and micro-
chemistry. Lockhart, H., ed. Oats: a mono-
graph. Chapter II. Barrington, IL.: Quaker
Oats Co.; pp. 17-67.

Fulcher, R. G. 1980. The microchemistry of the
wheat kernel. Symposium on the development
of the wheat kernel. American Association of
Cereal Chemists 65th Annual Meeting. Cereal
Foods World 25:525.

Fulcher, R. G.; O'Brien, T. P. 1980. Fluorescence
microchemistry of cereal bran constituents:
Methods for niacin, amines, lipids, and pro-
teins. American Association of Cereal Chem-
ists 65th Annual Meeting. Cereal Foods World
25:519.

Fulcher, R. G.; Wong, S. I. 1980. Inside cereals— a
fluorescence microchemical view. Inglett, G.;
Munck, L., eds. Cereals for food and bever-
ages— Recent progress in chemistry and tech-
nology. Chapter I. Academic Press, pp. 1-26.

Fulcher, R. G.; Wood, P. J. 1980. Microchemical
differentiation of cell wall constituents in
cereals and cereal products. American Associ-
ation of Cereal Chemists 65th Annual Meet-
ing. Cereal Foods World 25:520.

Gochnauer, T. A. 1 980. Varroa disease of the honey
bee: a threat to Canadian beekeeping. Can.
Beekeeping 8:120.

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT.

253

Gochnauer, T. A. 1980. The impact of infectious
diseases on the productivity of the honey bee
colony. Pimentel, D., ed. Pest management.
Handbook series in agriculture. Boca Raton,
FL.: CRC Press.

Harcourt, D. G. 1980. Insect pest management.
Part I. Population analysis of pest situations.
IDIA. 18 pp.

Harcourt, D. G. 1980. Insect pest management.
Part II. Research on major insect pests of
alfalfa in Argentina. IDIA. 20 pp.

Harcourt, D. G.; Aragon, J. 1980. Warning system
for the alfalfa caterpillar. IDIA. 6 pp.

Keller, W. A. 1980. Factors influencing microspore
embryogenesis in Brassica spp. anther cul-
tures. Davies, D. R.; Hopwood, D. A., eds. The
plant genome. Norwich: The John Innes Char-
ity. 243 pp.

Keller, W. A. 1980. In vitro production of haploids
in crop plant from microspores. Can. J. Genet.
Cytol. 22:667 (abstract).

Keller, W. A. 1980. Plant tissue culture research
activity in Canada. Proceedings Canadian
Agricultural Research Priorities Symposium,
International Development Research Centre
Manuscript Reports, IDRC-MR33. pp. 119-
142.

Keller, W. A. 1980. The role of anther pre-
conditioning in the in vitro induction of micro-
spore embryogenesis in Brassica spp. Canadian
Society Plant Physiology, Annual Meeting.
Calgary, Alta. (abstract).

Loiselle, R. 1979. Progress in the Canadian plant
genetic resources program. 1978 Barley Newsl.
22:84-85.

Loiselle, R. 1980. Plant Gene Resour. Can. Newsl.
6:1-17.

Loiselle, R. 1980. Plant Gene Resour. Can. Newsl.
9:1-17.

Loiselle, R. 1980. Canadian Barley Genetic Re-
sources Inventory/Inventaire canadien des
ressources génétiques de l'orge. Central Office
for the Plant Gene Resources of Canada,
Ottawa Research Station, Research Branch,
Agriculture Canada. PGRC-80-1. 206 pp.

Loiselle, R. 1980. Canadian Tomato Genetic Re-
sources Inventory/Inventaire canadien des
ressources génétiques de la tomate. Central
Office for the Plant Gene Resources of
Canada, Ottawa Research Station, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada. PGRC-80-3. 142
pp.

Murray, B. E. 1980. Analyses of meiotic mctaphase
in haploid progeny from haploid (Rocket 4) X
diploid (Natasja) crosses in flax. Can. J.
Genet. Cytol. 22:672 (abstract).

Parups, E. V. 1979. House plant with a potential
(Siningia). Can. Florist 74(19):38-41.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Pinocchio asters as pot plants
for mass market outlets. Can. Florist 75(7):38-
39.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Observations at the Second
International Symposium on post-harvest
physiology of cut flowers. Can. Florist
75(17):14-20.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Pacific chrysanthemum — a new
potential pot plant. Can. Florist 75(20):48-50.

Parups, E. V. 1980. Perspectives of development of
floricultural industry in Canada. Proceedings
Floralies Symposium. Montreal, Que.

Poon, N. H.; Altosaar, I.; Fulcher, R. G.; Wood, P.
J. 1980. A histochemical study of rapeseed.
American Association of Cereal Chemists 65th
Annual Meeting. Cereal Foods World 25:519.

Poon, N. H.; Fulcher, R. G.; Altosaar, I. 1980.
Rapeseed microchemistry. Proceedings of a
Symposium on the analytical chemistry of
rapeseed and its products. 8 pp.

Prentice, R. M.; Harcourt, D. G. 1980. Integrated
pest management in agricultural pests in
Canada. Tripartite discussions on research in
agriculture. 30 pp.

Seaman, W. L. 1980. Ergot of grains and grasses.
Agric. Can. Publ. 1438.

Setterfield, G.; Douglas, G. C; Keller, W. A. 1980.
Somatic hybridization in Nicotiana. Canadian
Federation Biological Science, Annual Meet-
ing, St. John's (abstract).

Simmonds, J. A. 1980. Seed treatments for im-
proved seedling establishment of Impatiens.
Can. Florist 75(9):32-34.

Simmonds, J. A.; Beauchamp, M. 1980. Begonia
sutherlandii — untapped potential in hanging
baskets. Can. Florist 75(5):38-40.

Svejda, F. 1980. David Thompson rose. Canadex
28333.

Svejda, F. 1980. John Franklin rose. Landscape
Trades 2(2):32.

Svejda, F. 1980. Breeding winterhardy and remon-
tant roses. Proceedings Floralies Symposium.
Montreal, Que.

Svejda, F. 1980. Breeding winterhardy, remontant
and disease resistant roses. Proc. Can. Soc.
Hortic. Sci. 19:46-47.

Svejda, F. 1980. Researchers examine hardiness
level. Am. Rose Mag. 25(24):4-6.

Voldeng, H. D. 1979. Soybeans in Canada — past,
present and future. Fats and oils in Canada,
annual review. 10 pp.

254

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Voldeng, H. D. 1980. Short season soybeans in * Meeting. Cereal Foods World 25:510

Canada. Agri-book 6:12-1 4. (abstract).

Warren, F. S. 1980. Forage production of corn and

sunflower mixtures. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1377- Wood p j . Fulcher, R. G. 1980. Specificity in the

1382. interaction of polysaccharides with direct dyes,

Wood, P. J.; Fulcher, R. G. 1980. Applications of a chemical basis for the histochemical localisa-
the interaction of direct dyes with polysaccha- tion of cereal /3-glucans. American Associa-
rides, in particular cereal /3-glucans. American tion of Cereal Chemists 65th Annual Meeting.
Association of Cereal Chemists 65th Annual Cereal Foods World 25:534 (abstract).

RESEARCH STATION, OTTAWA, ONT. 255

Research Station
Vineland Station, Ontario

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

A. J. McGinnis, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
M. Chiba, B.Sc, D.Sc.

D. R. Menzies, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

E. N. A. McMillan

N. Gibson-MacDonald,1 B.A., M.A., M.L.S.

Director

Residue chemistry

Agricultural engineering

Administrative Officer

Librarian

Entomology

E. A. C. Hagley, B.Sc (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. W. Fisher, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.
D. H. C. Herne, B.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
D. J. Pree, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
C. M. Simpson

A. B. Stevenson, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.
R. J. M. Trimble, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Section Head; Fruit pest

management
Pesticide application
Acarology
Toxicology
Pesticide evaluation
Vegetable pest management
Bioclimatology

Nematology

P. W. Johnson, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
T. H. A. Olthof, Ing., B.Sc (Agr.), Ph.D.
J. W. Potter, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
J. L. Townshend, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.I.C.

Section Head; Chemical control
Host-parasite relations
Nematode ecology
Nematode ecology

Plant Pathology

H. F. Dias, Eng. Agr., Ph.D.

W. R. Allen, B.A., Ph.D.

T. R. Davidson, B.Sc, M.Sc.

W. G. Kemp, B.A., M.A.

J. Northover, B.Sc, Ph.D., D.I.C.

A. A. Reyes, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Section Head; Fruit virology
Fruit virology
Fruit virology
Vegetable virology
Fruit mycology
Vegetable mycology

RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT.

257

Experimental Farm, Smithfield, Ont.

S. R. Miller, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. P. Mohr, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
N. J. Parks, B.Sc.

Superintendent; Plant physiology
and biochemistry
Food processing
Vegetable management

Departures

R. W. Fisher, B.Sc. (Agr.), Ph.D.

Retired September 1980
T. R. Davidson, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Retired December 1980
H. F. Dias, Eng. Agr., Ph.D.

Deceased July 1980
A. J. McGinnis, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Retired December 1980

Pesticide application

Fruit virology

Section Head; Fruit virology

Director

VISITING SCIENTIST

A. B. Broadbent

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
Council

Insect toxicology

EXTENSION SERVICES2

J. T. Warner, B.Sc.

Fruit and vegetable crops

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch
•Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Trenton, Ont.

258

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

Integrated pest management (IPM) programs for apple, peach, and carrot crops were
again used extensively by Ontario growers. The spotted tentiform leafminer continued to be a
serious problem in apple orchards. Although leafminers can be readily controlled with
synthetic pyrethroids, these compounds decimate the predacious mite populations. Without
predators in the orchards, miticides are required to avoid mite damage to the trees. There is
evidence also that the European red mite is developing tolerance for the available miticide
cyhexatin, which will further aggravate the mite problem.

The seventh meeting of the International Council for the Study of Viruses and Virus
Diseases of the Grapevine was successfully staged at Niagara Falls and managed by local staff.
Unfortunately, Dr. H. F. Dias, who had done the early planning and organizing, died 5 wk
before the conference. He was a world renowned grapevine virologist and had served this
Station for 16 yr.

Evidence has been accumulated that tobacco mosaic virus is spread on plants in
greenhouses by splashing of contaminated soil particles during watering. This phenomenon
explains the appearance of virus symptoms on test plants, where none should exist.

Although none of the 21 peach rootstocks tested proved resistant to nematodes, two
introductions from China appear to be likely sources of tolerance.

Objective measurement with specific instruments on juices and purees prepared from
several tomato lines generally agreed with the subjective ratings of the human senses.

This report presents in capsule form some of the significant research results obtained in
1980. For more information on these or other research projects, or for reprints of published
papers, please write: Director, Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada,
Vineland Station, Ont. LOR 2E0.

A. J. McGinnis
Director

PESTICIDES

Application

Evaluation of spray coverage. The effect of
spraying water on residues of phosmet in
peach trees was evaluated by both bioassay
and residue analysis. Phosmet at 1.12 kg/ha
failed to provide adequate control of first
instar oriental fruit moth (OFM), Grapho-
litha molesta (Busck), within 3-5 days after
the water treatment; at higher rates (2.24 and
4.20 kg/ha) control was achieved for longer
periods after the water treatment. At the 1.12
kg/ha rate, water application on the day of
pesticide application significantly reduced the
phosmet residues, but had little effect if
applied when the phosmet residues were
either 3 or 6 days old.

The relationship between first instar mor-
tality of OFM and visual coverage ratings was
established for pesticide to fluorescent dye
(P:D) ratios of 5, 8, and 1 1, with phosmet at
4000 ppm. The deposit ratings were underes-
timated at mortalities > 70% for the P:D
ratio of 11, but not for ratios of 8 and 5.

When the phosmet concentration was varied
but the P:D ratio was kept constant, low
mortalities due to sparse deposits could be
avoided by increasing the phosmet concentra-
tion.

Phytotoxicity of captan-phosmet mixtures
to peach foliage occurred under many com-
binations of temperature and humidity. Dried
deposits became phytotoxic when placed in a
higher temperature, high-humidity envi-
ronment.

Fate of oxamyl. It has been the general
view that oxamyl does not move in soil. To
test this concept, bare peach seeds were
coated with oxamyl and planted in sterilized
soil in clay pots (5 cm diam). After 1 wk
oxamyl was found in the soil surrounding the
seed and also in the clay pots after pulveri-
zation. Intact oxamyl constituted 96% and
52% of the total residue (oxamyl + oxime) in
the soil and pots, respectively. There was still
no evidence of oxamyl degradation on the
seed 3 wk after planting.

RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT.

259

Carbaryl spray deposits. A rapid colori-
metric method was developed to measure
deposits of the insecticide carbaryl on foliage
of fruit trees. Analyses take less than 3 min
per sample when 50 or more samples are
processed together. A 5-cm2 disc punched
from a leaf constitutes the sample. Carbaryl is
extracted and hydrolyzed by methanolic
NaOH, then coupled with /7-nitrobenzenedia-
zonium tetrafluoroborate, which produces a
spectrum of colors ranging from red to blue.
Within a range of 0.5-10 /u,g/cm2 of leaf
surface or 0.25-5.0 /u-g/mL of alkaline solu-
tion, the absorbance obeys the Beer-Lambert
law at 580 nm. This method meets the
demand of field entomologists who need an
unsophisticated method that can be used by
the nonchemist. Such analyses can be used to
judge whether another spray application is
required after a heavy rainfall or to check the
distribution of spray deposits on the target. In
addition, semiquantitative determinations can
be made anywhere simply by using a series of
color standards.

INSECTS AND MITES

Integrated pest management

Pest management in apple orchards.
Azinphos-methyl failed to control the spotted
tentiform leafminer, Phyllonorycter blancar-
della (Fabricius) in some apple-growing areas
of southern Ontario in 1980. Leafminer
populations from these areas proved to be
resistant to the insecticide and showed cross
resistance to phosmet with partial cross
resistance to diazinon. Irrespective of resist-
ance to azinphos-methyl, all leafminer popu-
lations were highly susceptible to the syn-
thetic pyrethroids permethrin, fenvalerate,
and cypermethrin, and to methomyl. Endosul-
fan was less toxic than the latter insecticides,
whereas phosalone was not toxic to either
resistant or susceptible populations. Good
leafminer control was obtained by applying
either permethrin when eggs were first de-
tected on the foliage or methomyl when 50%
egg hatch had occurred.

Pest management in peach orchards. A
series of fact sheets, Pest management pro-
gram for peach insects, was prepared and
released for use by growers and extension
workers. Effective control strategies for most
insect pests of peach are outlined. Pest control
was generally excellent in 1980; few peaches

were damaged by OFM and plant bugs were
not a serious problem. Results of the studies
with several synthetic pyrethroid insecticides
during the last several years indicate that they
give excellent control of pest insects, but they
adversely affect predacious mites. Hence
outbreaks of European red mite (ERM),
Panonychus ulmi (Koch), can be expected if
pyrethroid compounds are used extensively.

Pest management in carrot fields. A simple
method for monitoring the carrot weevil early
in the season before the carrot crop is suscep-
tible to attack would enable growers to
determine whether an insecticide is needed for
its control. Hence a potential monitoring
procedure was tested. In late May, before the
new crop of carrots had emerged, 10-cm
sections of mature carrot root were partly
buried in soil in commercial carrot fields, at or
near sites where carrot weevil injury had been
reported the previous year. Overwintered
adult weevils oviposited in the root sections.
The carrot sections were examined every 3 or
4 days, and oviposition punctures were readily
identified with a hand lens. In heavy infesta-
tions, all root sections contained up to five
oviposition punctures per day. Based on the
number of punctures, growers were advised to
spray at five of the six sites monitored;
excellent control of carrot weevil was obtained
at all sites.

Ecology

Establishment of beneficial mites in apple
orchards. The predacious phytoseiid mite,
Amblyseius fallacis Garman, was released in
apple orchards in 1979 to determine its
capacity to control ERM. In 1979, either 10
or 50 A. fallacis mites were released per apple
tree (cv. Red Delicious) in early July when
ERM averaged 0.04 active stages per leaf. A
satisfactory predator-prey ratio of 1:5.5 was
not reached until the end of August, at which
time foliage injury was rated moderate to
severe on most of the release trees. During the
1980 season, A. fallacis was detected in
release trees as early as 5 May and as late as
24 September. The predators reached their
maximum population level of 0.3 per leaf
between 6 and 14 August, but again there
were too few to control ERM.

In 1980, either 25 or 50 A. fallacis mites
were released per apple tree (cv. Mcintosh)
on 15 July. The number of A. fallacis found
at weekly intervals during the season was
directly proportional to the number released.

260

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

In this experiment, as in the one commenced
in 1979, predator-prey ratios adequate for
control did not occur until late in the season,
and propargite sprays were necessary as early
as 6 August to protect the trees. In both
seasons, either difolatan or captan was ap-
plied for scab control, and three applications
of either phosmet or azinphos-methyl were
needed to control codling moth and apple
maggot. These pesticides caused minimal
harm to the A. fallacis mites. In contrast, in
both years the pyrethroid permethrin, applied
prebloom to control spotted tentiform leaf-
miner, caused high mortality in the predator
population and contributed to the failure of
the predator to provide adequate mite control.

Chemical control

Mites developing resistance to cyhexatin.
In 1980, ERM was exceptionally troublesome
in Ontario apple orchards, and numerous
instances of control failure with cyhexatin, an
important acaricide, were reported. Tests
showed that a mite population from an apple
orchard in the Ruthven region of southwest-
ern Ontario had a low level of resistance
(threefold) to cyhexatin when compared with
a standard laboratory strain. General resist-
ance to the organotin acaricides will consti-
tute a serious problem for Ontario
fruitgrowers.

Evaluation of acaricides and insecticides
for integrated pest management. The pyre-
throids permethrin, cypermethrin, fenvaler-
ate, and AC 222705 (Cyanamid Canada Inc.)
were more toxic to the predator A. fallacis
than to its prey, ERM. Populations of ERM
were higher in plots treated with either
permethrin or cypermethrin in both apple and
peach orchards than in comparable plots
treated with azinphos-methyl, phosmet, or
phosalone. The herbicide paraquat used in
IPM programs was moderately toxic to A.
fallacis.

Control of the spotted tentiform leaf miner.
Methomyl, a systemically active material
recommended for control of larvae of the
spotted tentiform leafminer proved to be an
effective ovicide. No hatch occurred when the
spotted tentiform leafminer eggs were treated
1, 3, or 5 days after deposition. Effective
control was also obtained with any of six
synthetic pyrethroid compounds when appli-
cation coincided with first egg deposition for
both first and second generations. All treat-
ments, however, caused populations of the

two-spotted mite, Tetr any chus telarius, and
the ERM to rise.

Control of the carrot weevil, in 1980,
phosmet was registered for control of the
carrot weevil on carrots, where previously no
effective insecticide had been available for
use. A trial at the Holland Marsh in 1978
demonstrated the efficacy of two applications
of phosmet with active ingredients at 1.1 kg/
ha. In 1980 efficacy of phosmet under com-
mercial conditions was confirmed. When the
insecticide was used on five farms infested
with carrot weevil, the carrots were harvested
with negligible damage.

NEMATODES

Ecology

Winter survival of root-knot nematodes in
southern Ontario. In a peach orchard, the
southern root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne
incognita, overwintered successfully in a
moderate winter, but failed to survive a
subsequent severe winter. This species failed
to survive below the frost line in a moderate
winter under alfalfa (a poor host), but some
survived a severe winter under red clover (a
good perennial host), and tomato (a good
annual host). By comparison, during both
winters the northern root-knot nematode,
Meloidogyne hapla, survived well under
alfalfa, red clover, and tomato at soil depths
of 0-90 cm.

Anhydrobiosis in Pratylenchus penetrans.
Anhydrobiosis, the phenomenon of survival
through the loss of body water in a dehydrat-
ing environment, was observed in P. penetrans
when either Vineland silt or Fox sandy loam
was dried. The anhydrobiotes form tightly
coiled spirals. The anhydrobiotes developed as
the soil was air dried. The numbers increased
logarithmically from 15/50 g of soil on day 0
to 500/50 g on day 18; soil moisture declined
exponentially from 10-12% to 2% during the
same period. The number of anhydrobiotes
remaining alive declined over this period. The
passage of P. penetrans to the anhydrobiotic
state was similar in the two soils. Anhydrobio-
sis was more rapid, however, in fast-dried soils
but fewer anhydrobiotes survived.

RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT.

261

Host-parasite relationships

Reaction of peach rootstocks to root-lesion
nematode, Pratylenchus penetrans. With 21
peach rootstocks (including four commer-
cially available cultivars) tested in the green-
house, differences were demonstrated in rate
of nematode increase, total number of nema-
todes per plant at termination of the study,
and number of nematodes in the soil and
roots. With an initial inoculum of 2800
nematodes per kilogram of soil, final soil
populations ranged from 6400 to 18 300 per
kilogram and total populations ranged from
1 1 200 to 32 800 per year-old tree. Nematode
infection reduced growth, total fresh and dry
shoot weights, and fresh root weight. None of
the currently available rootstocks appears to
be resistant, but two Chinese introductions,
Chui Lum Tao and Tzim Pee Tao, are
promising sources of nematode tolerance.

Paratylenchus project us on forage leg-
umes. The pin nematode, Paratylenchus
projectus, reduced forage yields of alfalfa,
birdsfoot trefoil, red clover, and white clover
by reducing seedling stands; with birdsfoot
trefoil and red clover there was also a
decrease in weight per surviving plant.
Birdsfoot trefoil, however, was the only crop
that showed an inverse relationship between
forage yield and nematode inoculum density.
Over a 2.5-yr period, nematode numbers
decreased consistently under alfalfa, in-
creased consistently under clover, and re-
mained static or declined after the first year's
increase under red clover and birdsfoot trefoil.
In contrast to other nematode species in
northern climates, the numbers of the pin
nematode did not decline during the winter
under favorable hosts.

Control

Control of dagger nematodes in grape soils
with a systemic nematicide. The dagger
nematode, Xiphinema americanum, is a vec-
tor of tomato ringspot virus in vineyards. The
systemic nematicide, oxamyl, which translo-
cates basipetally from foliar application, was
tested as a control chemical on virus-suscepti-
ble grapes. After four foliar sprays of oxamyl
with active ingredients at 1.12 kg/ha in 450 L
water per season for two seasons, no dagger
nematodes were found in soil samples from
around individual vines after the second
season; about 75 nematodes per litre of soil
were present in the unsprayed checks. Trace
infestations (five or less per litre) were found

around some sprayed vines 2 yr after spraying
ceased, whereas around adjacent unsprayed
vines there were 50-100 nematodes per litre.
One year later most of the sprayed vines were
infested, although the numbers of nematodes
were generally similar to those of the previous
year.

PLANT DISEASES

Fruit crops

Botrytis bunch rot of grapes. Benomyl-
resistant Botrytis cinerea Persoon was identi-
fied in five of nine vineyards examined in
1979. In 1980, a combination of the two
fungicides benomyl and captan was applied
five times to three of the vineyards possessing
low levels of resistance and it gave substantial
protection. Of the infections that developed,
however, most were benomyl-resistant, indi-
cating rapid development of resistance and
the failure of the benomyl-captan combina-
tion to prevent it.

Iprodione and vinclozolin were superior to
captan, benomyl + captan, and chlorotha-
lonil for the prevention of bunch rot. Results
from a series of spray programs show that the
critical period for protection of Gamay Beau-
jolais and Chardonnay was between post-
bloom and early bunch closure. Fungicides
applied after July have little if any effect on
severity of the disease at harvest in early
October.

Dissemination of tobacco mosaic virus
from infested soil. Contamination of green-
house-grown plants used for virus indexing of
fruit trees with tobacco mosaic virus (TMV)
was associated with infested potted soil. It
was shown that virus dissemination occurred
by splashing during watering. Aerial
movement of the virus over distances of at
least 160 cm was demonstrated. The virus was
adsorbed to leaves from rolling water droplets.
Soil to which virus particles were adsorbed
also adhered to leaves and induced infection if
the leaves were rubbed. TMV was reversibly
adsorbed to soil at low concentrations of
Ca + + and Mg + + relative to those of K + and
Na+ and was desorbed at high ionic concen-
trations. It appears, therefore, that colloid-
cation-virus binding is largely responsible for
adsorption. Optimum virus recovery from soil
occurred near pH 6, and binding to soil
increased as the pH was either raised or
lowered. Rapid inactivation of TMV in soil

262

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

occurred under drying conditions and was
associated with virus particle disruption. The
virucidal effects of soil dewatering were more
closely related to evaporation per se than to
moisture levels.

Vegetable crops

Synergism between cucumber mosaic virus
and soil fungi relative to sudden wilt of
greenhouse cucumbers. Synergism between
soil fungi, particularly Pythium spp., and
cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in the sudden
wilt disease of greenhouse cucumbers in
Ontario was demonstrated. At both 10° and
20°C cucumber plants simultaneously inocu-
lated with Pythium and CMV suffered
greater mortality than did those inoculated
with either the fungus or virus alone. At 30°C
no death occurred. Although CMV -Rhizoc-
tonia and CMV-Fusarium combinations
caused mortality in greenhouse cucumbers at
10°C, it was much less extensive than that
caused by the CMW-Pythium combination.

Allium viruses in Ontario. Elongated flex-
uous virus particles about 725 nm long and
stiff rod-shaped particles about 30 nm in
length with a noticeable central core were
detected in leaf dips of diseased garlic and
onions, respectively, from southern Ontario.
Infected garlic seedlings were severely stunted
with noticeable chlorotic striping of the
leaves; affected onions were not stunted, but
showed mild chlorotic leaf striping. The
symptoms induced by the onion virus on a
limited host range and its particle size indi-
cate a similarity to TMV. The garlic virus
remains unidentified, but it has been trans-
mitted mechanically to onion and certain
Chenopodium species. Neither virus has been
reported before from these plants in Canada.

Antagonists of the pea root rot pathogens.
Ten species of microorganism antagonistic to
pea root rot pathogens Fusarium solani
(Mart.) App. & Wr. f. sp. pisi (F.R. Jones)
Snyd. & Hansen, Rhizoctonia solani Kiihn,
and Pythium ultimum Trow were cultivated
on agar at 22°C. Three of them proved
inhibitory to growth of all three pathogens.
Four others were inhibitory to two pathogens,
either F. solani and R. solani or R. solani and
P. ultimum, but not the other combination.
Three organisms proved antagonistic to the
growth of only one pathogen, either F. solani,
R. solani, or P. ultimum.

Interaction between pea root rot pathogens.
When the three pathogens were introduced
singly into the soil before planting peas (cv.
Little Marvel), P. ultimum was the most
destructive to peas and R. solani was the least
damaging. When F. solani and P. ultimum
were introduced into the soil together, root rot
more severe than that caused by either
organism alone resulted. Likewise F. solani
and R. solani in the soil together resulted in
root rot more severe than that caused by
either fungus alone. When three pathogens
were present together in the soil, however,
severity of root rot was no greater than that
caused by the combination of F. solani and P.
ultimum.

CONTRACT RESEARCH

Mechanization

Electrostatic orchard sprayer. An electro-
static orchard sprayer, modified and evalu-
ated under contract, was shown to improve
deposition in the top canopy of 3-m-high
apple trees (cv. Mcintosh) by 85% over a
conventional sprayer, with no improvement in
the bottom canopy. The ratio of top-to-bottom
canopy deposition was 0.97 with the electro-
static unit and 0.51 when sprayed
conventionally.

Sprayboom height control — design crite-
ria. Four boom suspension systems, compris-
ing a range of designs currently used commer-
cially, were evaluated both over a test track
and over a variety of crops in southern
Ontario. Dynamic stability was monitored
using ultrasonic sensors with the spray tank
both full and empty, and with three types of
tires.

Energy conservation

Product drying. Sodium bentonite, in inti-
mate mixtures with corn, oats, wheat, and
peanuts, was assessed as a desiccant suitable
for an on-farm low-energy drying system.
Corn was dried from 25% to 16% moisture
content (wet bulb) in 44 h with no apparent
rise in temperature. After drying, the bento-
nite was easily separated from the product
with a fan mill.

Zeolite heat storage for solar grain drying.
A mathematical model of a zeolite bed was
developed and refined to evaluate the bed's
performance as a heat-storage medium to be
used for grain drying. A cylindrical parabolic

RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT.

263

collector was simulated and used as a heat
source for drying the bed. The system design
was optimized on the basis of air mass flow
rate and peak temperatures.

EXPERIMENTAL FARM,
SMITHFIELD, ONT.

Vegetables

Evaluation of tomatoes for concentrated
strained product. Juice made from six culti-
vars covered the entire range in consistency
from very thick to very thin. Consistency and
solids, two properties of the juice, were
usually indicative of these properties in the
puree. However, viscosity and insoluble solids
are involved in a major way in determining
the consistency of both juice and concentrate.
There was some indication that the concentra-
tion process affects cultivars differently.

Instrumental evaluation of tomato pro-
ducts. Instruments used to measure differ-
ences in consistency of juice or puree included
the Bostwick Consistometer, Ottawa texture
measuring system with back extrusion cell,
Brookfield viscometer, Effluxtube, and Can-
non-Fenske viscometer. With minor varia-
tions, depending on the instrument, these
objective methods picked out variety and
harvest differences that corresponded well
with subjective ratings.

The Ottawa texture measuring system with
back extrusion cell and modular signal condi-
tioning system effectively measured the grain-
iness of tomato juice samples. The method has
potential applications in both research and
industrial quality control.

Fruits

Propagation of apple rootstocks by tissue
culture. A series of rootstocks from Poland,
Ottawa, Russia, Michigan, and Vineland have
been collected and placed in a nursery to
establish stool beds. To obtain sufficient

material for field evaluation, propagation
employing asceptic tissue culture techniques
has been attempted. At present, meristem
cultures of MAC 9, MAC 1 , M 26, 0-3, and P
22 have been successfully sterilized and the
cultures have undergone shoot multiplication.
Techniques for sterilization, multiplication,
rooting, and transfer to the greenhouse pot-
ting soil have been developed for three
rootstocks— MAC 9, M 26, and P 22.

Mechanical pruning of Mcintosh apple
trees. Mcintosh (VC-309) apple trees on MM
106, M. robusta 5, and OH 3 rootstocks were
planted in 1971 at a 5 x 3 m spacing. Trees
were trained to a central leader system until
1975 after which the only annual pruning
carried out was with a sickle bar mower in
early June to form a pyramid-shaped hedge-
row.

The accumulated production from the
mechanically pruned trees was increased by
16 to 40%, depending upon the rootstock
vigor, and fruit color was reduced in the
central portion of the rows relative to those
pruned in the traditional manner. A system
was tested whereby the well-colored fruit
from the outer and upper part of the canopy
was harvested for the fresh market and the
fruit in the central portion of the row was
shaken and marketed for juice.

Growing apples for juice. A mature or-
chard containing Mcintosh, Delicious, and
Red Spy apple trees has been managed as a
juice block for seven seasons. Because of the
minimum spraying and pruning programs,
total production has decreased with time.
Problems have been encountered with spotted
tentiform leafminers, mullein thrips, spring-
feeding caterpillars, and apple maggots that
required corrective action. Loss of major
limbs due to the heavy cropping has reduced
the fruiting area of these standard trees. A
review of the production and management
costs shows that the orchard would have
returned a profit to the grower most seasons;
1 980 was an exception.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Akitt, D. G.; Bown, A. W.; Potter, J. W. 1980. Role
of ethylene in the response of tomato plants
susceptible and resistant to Meloidogyne in-
cognita. Phytopathology 70:94-97.

Anderson, R. V.; Townshend, J. L. 1980. Variations
of the first head annule in Canadian popula-
tions of Pratylenchus penetrans (Nematoda:
Pratylenchidae) from three host plants. Can. J.
Zool. 58:1336-1340.

264

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Chiba, M.; Veres, D. F. 1980. High performance
liquid chromatographic method for simulta-
neous determination of residual benomyl and
methyl 2-benzimidazole carbamate on apple
foliage without cleanup. J. Assoc. Off. Anal.
Chem. 63:1291.

Dias, H. F.; Allen, W. R. 1980. Characterization of
the single protein and two nucleic acids of
peach rosette mosaic virus. Can. J. Bot.

58:1747-1754.

Elliot, W. M.; Kemp, W. G. 1980. Flight activity of
the green peach aphid (Homoptera: Aphidi-
dae) during the vegetable growing season at
Harrow and Jordan, Ontario. Proc. Entomol.
Soc. Ont. 110:19-28(1979).

Hagley, E. A. C. 1978. Integrated pest manage-
ment— insecticides and natural predator popu-
lations on apple. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Ont.
109:9-21.

Hagley, E. A. C; Bronskill, J. F.; Ford, E. J. 1980.
Effect of the physical nature of leaf and fruit
surfaces on oviposition by the codling moth,
Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).
Can. Entomol. 112:503-510.

Hagley, E. A. C; Pree, D. J.; Holliday, N. J. 1980.
Toxicity of insecticides to some orchard
carabids (Coleoptera: Carabidae). Can. Ento-
mol. 112:457-462.

Ingratta, F. J.; Olthof, H. A. 1980. The influence of
saprophagous nematodes on the production of
Agaricus brunnescens (bisporus). Mushroom
Sci.X(PartII):397-405.

Johnson, P. W.; Potter, J. W. 1980. Winter survival
of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incog-
nita and M. hapla) under selected host crops in
southern Ontario. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:203-
207.

Kerr, E. A.; Kerr, E. L.; Patrick, Z. A.; Potter, J.
W. 1980. Linkage relations of resistance to
Cladosporium leaf mold (cf-2) and root-knot
nematodes (Mi) and new gene for leaf mold
resistance (cf- 11). Can. J. Genet. Cytol.
22:183-186.

Leuty, S. J.; Pree, D. J. 1980. The influence of tree
population and summer pruning on productiv-
ity growth and quality of peaches. J. Am. Soc.
Hortic.Sci. 105:702-705.

Northover, J.; Ripley, B. D. 1980. Persistence of
chlorothalonil on grapes and its effect on
disease control and fruit quality. J. Agric. Food
Chem. 28:971-974.

Olthof, T. H. A. 1980. Screening rye cultivars and
breeding lines for resistance to the root-lesion
nematode Pratylenchus penetrans. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:281-282.

O'SulIivan, J.; Reyes, A. A. 1980. Effects of soil
fumigation, rotation, and nitrogen on yield,
petiole N03-N, and verticillium wilt of pota-
toes. J. Am. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 105:809-812.

Pree, D. J. 1979. Toxicity of Phosmet, Azinphos-
methyl and Permethrin to the oriental fruit
moth and its parasite Macrocentrus ancyli-
vorus. Environ. Entomol. 8:969-972.

Pree, D. J.; Hagley, E. A. C; Simpson, C. M.;
Hikichi, A. 1980. Resistance of the spotted
tentiform leaf miner Phyllonorycter blancar-
della (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) to insecti-
cides in southern Ontario. Can. Entomol.
112:469-474.

Reyes, A. A. 1980. Pea root rot development and
associated pathogens in Ontario fields. Plant
Dis. 64:392-393.

Sullivan, J. A.; Christie, B. R.; Potter, J. W. 1980.
Inheritance of northern root-knot nematode
resistance in alfalfa. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:533-

537.

Townshend, J. L.; Dirks, V. A.; Marks, C. F. 1980.
Temperature moisture and compaction and
their effects on the diffusion of ethylene dibro-
mide in three Ontario soils. Can. J. Soil Sci.
60:177-184.

Townshend, J. L.; Potter, J. W. 1980. Population
behaviour of Meloidogyne hapla under four
forage legumes in microplots. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:293-295.

Trottier, R.; Hagley, E. A. C. 1979. Influence of
temperature and snowfall on codling moth
fecundity. Environ. Entomol. 8:1051-1054.

Trottier, R.; Heme, D. H. C. 1980. Temperature
relationships to forecast hatching of overwin-
tered eggs of the European red mite, Pano-
nychus ulmi (Acarina: Tetranychidae). Proc.
Entomol. Soc. Ont. 1 10:53-60 (1979).

Miscellaneous

Fisher, R. W. 1980. Grape spray equipment can
change with variety. The Grower 30(2):26-27.

Johnson, P. W. 1980. Researchers wage war against
tree fruit nematodes. The Grower 29(1 1):8.

Leuty, S. J.; Miller, S. R. 1980. Thinning tree
fruits. Agdex No. 80-005.

McGinnis, A. J. 1980. Grapevine disease experts
convene. Can. Fruitgrower 36(9):20.

McGinnis, A. J. 1980. World renowned grapevine
disease experts convene. The Grower 30(9): 12.

McGinnis, A. J. 1980. Vineland— 1980 in review.
The Grower 30(10): 12.

Menzies, D. R. 1980. Sprayer maintenance and
calibration a must. The Grower 30(8):9.

RESEARCH STATION, VINELAND STATION, ONT.

265

Miller, S. R. 1980. Research Report, Smithfield
Experimental Farm 1979. Vol. 7, 52 pp.

Miller, S. R. 1980. Research results on apple
production systems. The Grower 30(l):8-9.

Olthof, T. H. A.; Potter, J. W. 1980. Nematodes
can damage your potato crop. Cash Crop
Farming 41 (3):26-28.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Pest management pro-
gram for peaches. Agdex No. 80-026.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Oriental fruit moth.
Agdex No. 80-027.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Oblique-banded leaf
roller. Agdex No. 80-028.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Mite pests of peaches.
Agdex No. 80-029.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Plum curculio. Agex No.
80-030.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Scale insects on peaches.
Agdex No. 80-031.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Peach tree borers. Agdex
No. 80-032.

Pree, D. J.; Heme, D. H. C; Phillips, J. H. H.;
Roberts, W. P. 1980. Cornstock mealy bug on
peach. Agdex No. 80-033.

Stevenson, A. B. 1980. Monitoring carrot pests in
Holland Marsh. The Grower 30(5):9.

Voisey, P. W.; Mohr, W. P. 1979. Quality control
test for tomato juice viscosity. Engineering and
Statistical Research Institute, Agriculture
Canada. Report No. 7820-1-97. 40 pp.

266

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

WESTERN REGION
RÉGION DE L'OUEST

Dr. A. A. Guitard

*kh mû-

Dr. W. N.

MacNaughton

Dr. D. M. Bowden Mr. H. C. Korven

Mr. P. B. Griffith Mr. J. J. McConnell

EXECUTIVE OF THE WESTERN REGION
L'EXÉCUTIF DE LA RÉGION DE L'OUEST

Director General
Directeur général

A. A. Guitard, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Assistant Director General
Directeur général adjoint

W. N. MacNaughton, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Specialist

Spécialiste en programmes

D. M. Bowdfn, B.S.A., M.S.A., PhD.

Contracts Specialist

Spécialiste en contrats

H. C. Korven, B.E., M.Sc.

Chief, Finance and Administration

Chef, finances et administration
P. B. Griffith

Manager, Information Services
Gérant y services de l'information

J. J. McConnell, B.S.A., M.A.

Seconded from Information Services, Ottawa
Détaché des Services d'information (Ottawa)

WESTERN REGION 269

PREFACE

The Western Region, with headquarters in Sas-
katoon, consists of 15 research stations, four experi-
mental farms, and eight substations. These research
establishments serve the agricultural community
throughout the Prairie Provinces and British Co-
lumbia. In 1980 the Region managed a budget of
$44 million and employed approximately 350 pro-
fessionals and 885 subprofessionals in carrying out
its research programs designed to solve a broad
range of agricultural problems.

Long-term studies showed that restoration of the
productivity of eroded soil with legume crops and
fertilizers was only partly successful and that zero
tillage was helpful in reducing erosion, conserving
soil moisture, and reducing energy requirements for
crop production.

Perhaps most significant in forage crop breeding
was the licensing of Norgold, the world's first low-
coumarin, yellow sweetclover. Also licensed were
Heinrichs alfalfa, Clarke intermediate wheatgrass,
Nova sainfoin, Elbee Northern wheatgrass, and
Peace alfalfa. The alfalfa breeding program at
Lethbridge was redirected in response to the survey
findings that the disease verticillium wilt is spread-
ing in Western Canada. Two strains of Rhizobium
meliloti were released to legume-inoculant
manufacturers.

The cereal breeding programs in the Western
Region continue to have a significant impact on the
industry. Five cultivars of hard red spring wheat
that were developed at the Winnipeg Research
Station since 1965 were sown on 73% of the total
area planted with wheat on the prairies in 1980.
Breeding programs in 1980 produced Columbus
hard red spring wheat, Norbert two-row barley,
Johnson six-row barley, Fidler oats, Musketeer
winter rye, and Manor buckwheat.

Ochre, the first public cultivar of condiment
yellow mustard, was licensed by the Saskatoon
Research Station. Significant progress was made in
research on control of diseases, insects, and weeds
in oilseed crops. Research showed that canola meal
can economically substitute for soybean meal in
broiler chicken and turkey diets when it costs less
than 63% of soybean meal. Canola meal was also
found to be a satisfactory replacement for soybean
meal in swine growing-finishing diets at levels up to
15% of the diet.

Further definition of the response of F, beef cows
to various environments was obtained. The influ-
ence of differences in summer grazing conditions on
relative productivity of various types of crossbred
cows was demonstrated. Recommendations were
formulated for use of rangelands in British Colum-
bia, to aid both beef cattle producers and wildlife
managers. The finding that rate of initial digestion
is an important factor in the bloat-causing tenden-
cies of forage legumes will aid in developing bloat-
safe alfalfa cultivars.

Common cattle grubs were controlled on a large
ranch with systemic insecticides and sterile male
warble fly releases. A computer simulation model
was developed that can estimate losses in productiv-
ity of cattle infested with horn flies.

A new tissue culture medium that is selective for
dwarf growth habit in apple trees will aid in
breeding new apples.

Food quality and processing research resulted in
a better definition of factors influencing quality of
fruit leathers, as well as the development of a stem-
jacketed extruder for fruit snack bars and an
improved drum drier for fruit purees.

Electrical stimulation of beef carcasses showed
potential for improving tenderness when storage
conditions were properly controlled.

Contracting out of research is increasing and
becoming more closely related to in-house research
programs. During 1980-1981, 13 research stations
were involved in 62 contracts for a total expenditure
of $1 350 000. Major contract research areas were
irrigation, drainage, and desalination; energy utili-
zation and conservation; beef; supportive research
and development; protection; and processing
technology.

The Western Region is strengthening research in
new energy sources and energy conservation by
recruiting two energy engineers to develop an in-
house research program and to assist in administra-
tion of energy contracts on crop residues for fuel
and feed, heat exchangers for drying grain and
heating livestock buildings, use of solar collectors
and waste heat in greenhouses, alternate fuels, and
energy conservation in meat processing plants and
restaurants.

Staff changes within the Region in 1980 included
the appointment of new directors to the research
stations at Brandon (Dr. B. H. Sonntag), Kamloops
(Dr. J. D. McElgunn), Lacombe (Dr. D. E. Wal-
dern), Morden (Dr. D. K. McBeath), Saskatoon
(Dr. J. R. Hay), and Winnipeg (Dr. D. G. Dorrcll).
At Lethbridge Research Station, Dr. T. G. Atkin-
son was appointed Assistant Director. At Western
Region Headquarters, Dr. W. N. MacNaughton
transferred from the Brandon Research Station to
become Assistant Director General. Upon the
transfer of Dr. D. E. Waldern to the Lacombe
Research Station, Dr. D. M. Bowden took up the
position of Program Specialist. Dr. B. H. Sonntag
left the position of Economist to become Director at
the Brandon Research Station.

Further information about our programs may be
obtained by writing to the research establishments
concerned or by addressing inquiries to Western
Region Headquarters, Research Branch, Agricul-
ture Canada, Room 600 Federal Building, 101-
22nd Street East, P.O. Box 9241, Saskatoon, Sask.
S7K3X5.

A. A. Guitard

270

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PREFACE

La région de l'Ouest, dont l'Administration
centrale est située à Saskatoon, compte 15 stations
de recherche, 4 fermes expérimentales et 8 sous-
stations qui desservent les collectivités agricoles des
provinces des Prairies et de la Colombie-Britanni-
que. En 1980, son budget était de $44 millions et
son personnel comptait environ 350 professionnels
et 885 techniciens travaillant à la solution d'une
large gamme de problèmes agricoles.

Des études à long terme ont montré que la remise
en valeur des sols erodes par la culture des légumi-
neuses et par la fumure n'a pas eu tout le succès
espéré et que la pratique de la culture sans labour
aide à diminuer l'érosion, à conserver l'humidité du
sol et à réduire les besoins d'énergie des cultures.

L'homologation de Norgold, la première variété
de mélilot à fleurs jaunes et à faible teneur en
coumarine, est un des faits saillants de l'année. On
a aussi homologué la luzerne Heinrichs, l'agropyre
intermédiaire Clarke, le sainfoin Nova, l'agropyre
Elbee Northern et la luzerne Peace. Le programme
de sélection de la luzerne de la station de Leth-
bridge a été réorienté par suite de la progression de
la flétrissure verticillienne dans l'ouest du Canada.
Deux lignées de Rhizobium meliloti ont été mises à
la disposition des fabricants d'inoculum pour
légumineuses.

Les programmes d'amélioration des céréales ont
toujours une incidence significative sur l'industrie.
Cinq cultivars de blé roux vitreux du printemps,
créés à la station de Winnipeg depuis 1965, occu-
paient 73% des emblavures totales des Prairies en
1980. Les programmes d'amélioration de 1980 ont
produit le blé roux vitreux du printemps Columbus,
l'orge à deux rangs Norbert, l'orge à six rangs
Johnson, l'avoine Fidler, le seigle d'hiver Musketeer
et le sarrasin Manor.

Ochre, le premier cultivar de moutarde jaune du
secteur public, a été homologué par la station de
recherche de Saskatoon. On a démontré qu'il est
économiquement avantageux de remplacer le tour-
teau de soja par le tourteau de canola (colza) dans
le régime du poulet à griller et des dindes, lorsque
ce dernier coûte moins de 63% du prix du tourteau
de soja. Le tourteau de canola peut aussi, jusqu'à
concurrence de 15%, remplacer l'autre dans les
régimes de croissance-finition du porc.

On a pu préciser la réaction des vaches de
boucherie F, à diverses conditions ambiantales. On
a démontré les effets des différences dans les
conditions de paissance d'été sur la productivité de
divers types de vaches croisées. On a formulé des
recommandations touchant l'utilisation des par-
cours en Colombie-Britannique pour la production
du boeuf et la gestion de la faune. La découverte du
rôle important que joue le taux initial de digestion
dans l'effet météorisant des légumineuses fourragè-
res devrait faciliter la sélection de cultivars de
luzerne non météorisants.

On a lutté contre les hypodermes dans un grand
élevage, à l'aide d'insecticides systémiques et de

lâchers d'hypodermes mâles stérilisés. On a élaboré
un modèle de simulation pour réduire les pertes de
productivité occasionnées par l'infestation du bétail
par la mouche des cornes.

Un nouveau milieu de culture de tissus sélectif
pour le nanisme chez les pommiers sera un outil
utile pour la création de nouvelles variétés.

Des études sur la qualité et la transformation des
aliments ont permis de mieux définir les facteurs
qui influent sur la qualité des pulpes de fruits
déshydratées et de perfectionner un extrudeur à
vapeur pour les comprimés de fruits et un séchoir à
tambour pour les purées de fruits. On a démontré la
possibilité d'améliorer la tendreté du boeuf par
stimulation électrique des carcasses dans des condi-
tions de conservation réglées.

Les études effectuées par contrat deviennent plus
nombreuses et plus étroitement liées à la recherche
effectuée à l'intérieur de nos établissements. En
1980-1981, 13 stations ont administré 62 contrats
de recherche totalisant $1 350 000. Les principaux
domaines concernés étaient l'irrigation, le drainage
et l'assainissement des sols salins; l'utilisation et la
conservation de l'énergie; le boeuf; la recherche et le
développement de soutien; la protection et les
techniques de transformation.

La région de l'Ouest intensifie ses efforts sur la
recherche de nouvelles sources d'énergie et sa
conservation, en embauchant deux ingénieurs spé-
cialistes chargés d'élaborer un programme de
recherches interne et d'administrer les contrats
portant sur l'utilisation des déchets de culture
comme combustibles et aliments, l'utilisation des
échangeurs de chaleur pour le séchage du grain et le
chauffage des bâtiments du bétail, l'utilisation des
capteurs solaires et de la chaleur excédentaire pour
le chauffage des serres, les nouveaux combustibles,
et la conservation de l'énergie dans les installations
de traitement des viandes et les restaurants.

Parmi les changements apportés au personnel de
la région, en 1980, mentionnons la nomination de
nouveaux directeurs aux stations de recherche de
Brandon (B.H. Sonntag), de Kamloops (J.D. McEl-
gunn), de Lacombe (D.E. Waldern), de Morden
(D.K. McBeath), de Saskatoon (J.R. Hay) et de
Winnipeg (D.G. Dorrell). M. T.G. Atkinson a été
nommé directeur adjoint de la station de recherche
de Lethbridge. Chez l'Administration centrale, M.
W.N. MacNaughton anciennement de Brandon
devient directeur général adjoint. Par suite de la
mutation de M. D.E. Waldern à Lacombe, M.
D.M. Bowden est devenu spécialiste en program-
mes. M. B.H. Sonntag a quitté son poste d'écono-
miste pour devenir directeur à Brandon.

Pour de plus amples renseignements sur nos
programmes, prière d'écrire aux établissements de
recherche concernés ou de s'adresser à l'Adminis-
tration centrale de la région de l'Ouest, Direction
générale de la recherche, Agriculture Canada, pièce
600, édifice fédéral, 101, 22e rue est, C.P.9241,
Saskatoon (Saskatchewan) S7K 3X5.

A. A. Guitard

WESTERN REGION

271

Research Station
Brandon, Manitoba

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

B. H. Sonntag,1 B.S.A., M.Sc.

A. J. Dagenais

Vacant

Ph.D.

Director

Administrative Officer
Information Officer

Animal Science

J. H. Strain, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. G. Castell,' B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
R. L. Cliplef, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. W. Dyck,2 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. R. Grandhi, B.V.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. L. Grinwich, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. W. Rahnefeld, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Animal breeding
and management
Swine nutrition
Meats physiology
Reproductive physiology
Swine nutrition
Reproductive physiology
Beef cattle genetics

Plant Science

D. Bailey, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Soil-plant
relationships

W. Campbell, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Barley breeding

N. P. Chow,4 B.S.A., M.A., Ph.D.

Weed physiology

D. Dryden,5 B.S.A., M.Sc.

Crop culture

I. Hamilton, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.

Corn physiology

D. Spratt, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

Plant nutrition

I. Wolfe, B.S.A., B.D., Ph.D.

Barley breeding

RESEARCH STATION. BRANDON. MAN.

273

Departures

W. N. MacNaughton, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Assistant Director General Western Region,

Saskatoon, April 1980
A. P. Piloski, B.S.A.

Retired September 1980

Director

Information Officer

'Appointed October 1980.

:On postdoctoral transfer of work to University of Nottingham.

Transferred from Melfort Research Station, September 1980.

'Returned September from postdoctoral transfer of work to Weed Research Organization, Oxford, England.

'Returned August 1980 from Canada - Sri Lanka rainfed agriculture project.

274

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The research program at Brandon encompasses beef cattle breeding; swine nutrition,
physiology, breeding, and management; barley breeding; physiology and management of corn,
soybean, and sorghum; and soil fertility, agronomy, plant nutrition, and weed control in cereal,
oilseed, and forage crops.

Several important changes occurred in the professional staff in 1980. Dr. W. N.
MacNaughton, Director, resigned to accept an appointment as Assistant Director General,
Research Branch, Western Region. Dr. A. G. Castell, swine nutritionist, transferred to
Brandon from the Melfort Research Station. Mr. A. P. Piloski, information officer, retired
after 31 years of faithful service. Dr. R. Simons, forage agronomist, was appointed in 1980 and
will join our staff early in 1 98 1 .

A highlight in 1980 was the licensing of Johnston feed barley with improved yield and
disease tolerance and adaptability over a wide area in the prairies. This variety is named after
Dr. W. Johnston, a long-time barley breeder at Brandon.

Low zinc levels were identified as the main constraint to responses of flax to fertilizer P in
Manitoba. Research at Brandon was instrumental in obtaining approval for registration in
Canada of a new herbicide (BAS 9052) for control of weeds and volunteer cereal in oilseed
crops.

The Brandon Research Station continued participation in the long-term three-station
foreign cattle breed evaluation project. The swine program continued with emphasis on
nutritional and hormonal aspects of reproductive performance, production efficiency, and meat
quality.

The Brandon Research Station continued involvement in international research and
development. This included secondment of Mr. R. D. Dryden to the Sri Lanka - Canada dry
zone project and short-term consultative missions to Pakistan, Brazil, and Ethiopia by Drs. E.
D. Spratt, R. I. Wolfe, and K. W. Campbell, respectively.

This report summarizes the major results obtained in 1980. More detailed results can be
obtained from our annual Review of Results, reprints of published papers, or by direct contact
with research personnel at: Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 610,
Brandon, Man. R7A 5Z7.

B. H. Sonntag
Director

ANIMAL SCIENCE
Beef cattle

Performance of first-cross cows in two
environments. A population of 1 150 first-cross
females from Hereford x Angus (HA con-
trol) and nine crosses produced by bulls from
Charolais (C), Limousin (L), and Simmental
(S) mated to Angus (A), Hereford (H), and
Shorthorn (N) cows provided the base popu-
lation for a cooperative study at Brandon,
Lacombe, and Lethbridge research stations.
These females were born in 1970, 1971, and
1972 and maintained in an extensive range-
management system on short-grass prairie at
Manyberries, Alta., or in a semi-intensive
farm-management system at Brandon, Man.
As yearlings, these females were bred to

either Red Angus or Beefmaster bulls. There-
after they were mated to a third breed from
one of Charolais, Chianina, Limousin, or
Simmental.

Results with 2-yr cows and their calves
showed that the HA heifers were the lightest
at 18, 24 (HA, LH, and LA did not differ),
and 30 mo and had the shortest gestation
period. The HA, LN, and LA crosses pro-
duced calves with lowest birth weight. The
progeny of all breed crosses surpassed those of
the HA control in weaning weight, but only
the SA, SH, SN, and LN exceeded them in
weaning weight ratio, i.e. weaning weight of
calf (av. 205 days) /weight of cow at weaning075.
Progeny of CN and SN were heaviest at birth
and those of SN had the highest weaning
weight and weaning weight ratio. The Charo-
lais-cross cows tended to be heaviest particu-

RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN.

275

larly at 30 mo. Crosses from Hereford dams
or Simmental sires had the longest gestation
period. Cows at Brandon were lighter at 18
mo but heavier at 24 and 30 mo than those at
Manyberries; the cows at Brandon produced
calves 7.3% heavier at weaning than did those
at Manyberries. Beefmaster-sired calves were
carried 3.2 days longer, were heavier at birth
(9.4%) and weaning (5.7%), had 10.4% more
assisted births, and more deaths at calving
(7.6% versus 3.4%) than calves sired by Red
Angus.

Lifetime reproduction efficiency studies
showed that extensive range environment
gave greater cow losses, lower conception and
weaning rates, and less weight of calf weaned
than under semi-intensive pasture. Barren
cows comprised the largest proportion of
losses with sire breed ranking C < S < L and
dams ranking A < H < N for the exotic
crosses at both locations. The C sire breed
ranked lowest for total attrition and highest
for percentage conception and calves weaned
per mating opportunity at both locations. At
Manyberries these elements combined to give
C-sired dams a slight advantage in weight of
calf weaned per mating opportunity (143
versus 139 kg for S) but this ranking was
reversed at Brandon ( 1 76 versus 181 kg for S
cross). First-cross dams out of A cows ranked
above N cross cows in weight of calf weaned
(139 versus 135 kg) at Manyberries but the
reverse was true at Brandon (172 versus 176
kg). All 'exotic' crosses ranked above the HA
control for weight of calf weaned per mating
opportunity. However, for this measure of
productivity all L cross versus HA differences
at Manyberries were negligible.

Growth patterns were determined from
weights of cows taken each year to 1979 at
calving, breeding, and weaning. Average
weights of the two herds at the initial breed-
ing (15 mo) and final calving differed by less
than 3% but growth patterns differed between
the locations. Females at Brandon gained
weight during gestation and usually lost
weight during nursing but at Manyberries,
females had substantial losses during gesta-
tion in 3 yr but gained weight during nursing
all years. Nursing status influenced weight
changes with large compensatory gains occur-
ring during barren years. The ranking of
females by their sire breed was C > S = L >
HA for annual breeding and weight at wean-
ing at both locations {P < 0.05). Average
ranking by breed of dam was N > H > A >
HA at Brandon and H > N > A > HA at

Manyberries. However, the only consistent
differences were between the HA control and
the other crosses. Breed rankings were not
affected by nursing status.

Swine

Metabolic changes during feed restriction.
Feed restriction by intermittent fasting com-
pared with full feeding did not affect the
blood glucose (BG) levels but decreased urea
nitrogen (BUN) and free fatty acids (FFA) in
both Lacombes and Yorkshires during winter
but not in summer. Analysis of blood samples
collected after full-feeding, fasting (24 h),
and refeeding revealed that BUN and FFA
were significantly {P < 0.05) elevated after
fasting and returned to near normal after
refeeding with little or no fluctuation in BG
for the 3 days reflecting the phenomena of
active tissue (protein and fat) catabolism and
gluconeogenesis. This metabolic response to
fasting appeared to be different between
Lacombes and Yorkshires.

Choline supplementation for sows. Choline
supplementation (500 mg/kg) of a barley-
wheat-soybean meal ration for gestation and
lactation did not improve the reproductive
performance in both Lacombe and Yorkshire
sows. A positive response was observed only in
Lacombe gilts during winter with more live
pigs born (9.64 versus 7.90) and weaned (7.50
versus 6.73) after choline feeding. The inci-
dence of spradle leg syndrome was low (2.5%)
in both breeds and was not influenced by
choline supplementation.

Estrus cycle regulation. Progesterone im-
plants at 0, 100, and 500 mg for 48 h in 41
first-parity Lacombe sows did not have a
consistent effect on initiating early return to
estrus after weaning.

Embryonic mortality. Para 1 and para 2
Yorkshire sows bred to either Yorkshire (Y)
or Lacombe (L) boars treated with implants
were slaughtered at 90 days pregnancy. Both
parities of Y sows bred to Y boars and treated
with estrone early in pregnancy had an
increased number of live fetuses. The estrone
had no effect on para 1 Y sows and decreased
the number of live fetuses in para 2 sows when
bred to L boars. Fetal survival to 90 days was
similar for the YY and LY groups. When
allowed to go to term the Y sows bred to Y
boars and treated with estrone tended to
deliver larger litters.

276

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Boar taint physiology. Active immuni-
zation against 5a-androstenone (boar taint)
and implantation with testosterone was tested
on growing boars as a potential method to
control secretion of boar taint in market hogs.
Under optimal conditions both methods re-
duced serum levels of 5a-androstenone in
boars below those of either barrows or gilts.

PLANT SCIENCE

Wheat

Weed control in wheat. SSH 0860 gave
good control of wild oats and better control of
green foxtail and broad-leaved weeds than
triallate or triallate— trifluralin mixtures. This
resulted in wheat yield increases of 10-20%
over triallate on average in 1979 and 1980.

The interaction of DPX 4189 at 5-50 g/ha
in mixtures with each of four herbicides for
control of wild oats has been studied. Antago-
nistic effects were negligible with difenzoquat,
light with barban and flamprop-methyl, and
high with diclofop-methyl. The antagonistic
effect of 2,4-D on barban for wild oat control
was associated with reduced absorption and
translocation of l4C-barban in the leaves and
to meristematic sections of the growing point.
Furthermore, 2,4-D increased the incorpora-
tion of 3H-thymidine into DNA overcoming
the effect of barban in meristematic tissues.

Other cereals

Barley breeding and genetics. A new feed
barley cultivar, Johnston, was licensed in
1980 and given to SeCan for increase and
distribution. It outyielded the top check,
Klondike, by 5% in the Black and Brown soil
zones of the Western Cooperative barley tests.
In the Black and Gray Luvisol soil zones of
Alberta it yielded 14% higher than the top
checks, Bonanza and Klondike. In addition to
resistance to stem rust, it carries resistance to
scald, making it superior to many licensed
cultivars in this respect. The variety is named
in honor of Dr. W. H. Johnston, barley
breeder at the Agriculture Canada Research
Station, Brandon, Man., from 1936 to 1971.
During this period he developed eight barley
varieties, two of which, Conquest and
Bonanza, are still major malting barleys on
the Canadian prairies.

Two breeding lines from the feed program
are in final stages of testing and may be
considered for licensing in 1981. The most
promising malting barley line (BT 343) with

blue aleurone has passed initial malting and
brewing tests and shows improvements in
agronomic performance over Bonanza. A
yellow aleurone line with similar performance
will be advanced to licensing trials in 1981.
The two-row phase of the malting and feed
programs continues to increase in importance.

Barley production and management. In the
3rd yr of a barley-legume rotation, significant
increases in grain protein were obtained when
barley was grown after soybeans, fababeans,
and sweetclover when compared with barley
grown on summerfallow and on barley stub-
ble. Barley grown on fallow without added
nitrogen yielded 3230-3425 kg/ha, with 10-
12% protein. No yield response was obtained
with fertilizer N at 30, 60, and 1 20 kg/ha, but
at the higher rates of nitrogen, grain protein
increased to 14-16%. To obtain similar yields,
N at 30-60 kg/ha was required after
soybeans and fababeans (14-16% protein), 30
kg/ha after sweetclover (14-16% protein),
and 120 kg/ha after barley (12-14% N).

Corn and sorghum physiology and man-
agement. Corn trials were successful despite
record abnormal weather.- Low and high
precipitation records of 0 mm in April and
200 mm in August were established. Rainfall
of 1 1 mm in May and no significant amount
of rain until 27 June produced difficult
establishment problems. Some seeds of corn
germinated on 1 and 2 May from April
plantings, and were then frozen six times
between 6 and 15 May. However, 95% of the
seedlings recovered and yielded an average of
5 t/ha. Highest yields of individual selections
were 6.5 t/ha.

Further assessment of sorghum genotypes
indicated that this species has sufficient
adaptability for this environment. Two 0.4-ha
increase plots of the most advanced popula-
tions (begun in 1976-1977) resulted in satis-
factory performance and further im-
provement. Direct combine yields were 2.2
t/ha.

Weed control in corn. Under drought
conditions in the spring of 1980, M-3972,
dicamba, and dicamba in mixtures with
metolachlor or alachlor gave only partial
control of lamb's-quarters and green foxtail in
corn. However, dicamba and dicamba with
metolachlor or alachlor resulted in significant
increases in yields of corn of over 50%.

RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN.

277

Oilseed crops

Fertilizer placement for rapeseed, flax, and
soybeans. Root morphological studies show
that banding of fertilizer P, 2.5 cm directly
below or 2.5 cm below and 2.5 cm to the side
of the seed, produced a greater proliferation
of roots and a greater uptake of P by the crops
than when the phosphorus was placed directly
with the seed.

Soybean physiology and management.
Soybean trials yielded highest at Dauphin,
51.5°N lat., followed by Brandon, 50°N, and
Lyleton, 49°N, with 2000, 1400, and 1200 kg/
ha, respectively. The Ottawa line AU-3-1-3 to
be recommended for licensing in 1981 showed
a decided advantage in yield and maturity
over the standard Portage; it was stable in
percentage protein and oil across all three
locations.

Weed control in flax, rapeseed, and
soybeans. BAS 9052 at 0.25-0.4 kg/ha in
mixtures with Atplus surfactant gave excel-
lent control of wild oats, green foxtail, and
volunteer barley, and doubled yields in all
three crops. TF 1169 demonstrated a similar
pattern for weed control in oilseed crops.
Mixtures of BAS 9052 with MCPA and
bromoxynil/MCPA broadened the spectrum
of weed control in flax.

Soil fertility factors affecting flax produc-
tion. During 3 yr (1977-1979) 404 flax plots
(25 trials) with various fertilizer treatments
were analyzed for a complete spectrum of
nutrients in both soil and plant samples. Mean
values for quantity of various nutrients were
quite adequate for flax growth but deficiency
levels of some nutrients were well within the

standard deviation, e.g. Zn in plants, 22 ±
8.9 ppm; N in plants, 2.2 ± 0.6%; and P in
surface soil, 12.9 ± 11.1 ppm. The overall
mean yield of grain was 1560 ±611 kg/ha;
the average response to fertilizer P was 218
kg/ha. In 19 out of the 25 trials zinc defi-
ciency was identified as the main constraint
for responses of flax to fertilizer P. When
levels of Zn in the check plants were marginal
(20 ppm), fertilizer P often depressed the Zn
to deficiency levels (10 ppm). Flowering and
seed set were affected and the harvest index
(grain to straw ratio) often approached 20%.
The mean extractable Zn level of surface soil
was equal to Cu (1.5 ppm) and the subsoil
zinc level approached zero, whereas Cu levels
increased with depth (to 1.9 ppm). Occasion-
ally (10 out of 25 trials) significant amounts
of subsoil P (5 kg/ha per 15 cm depth)
increased check yields and decreased the
response of fertilizer P.

Forage crops

Alfalfa production and management. To
assess the residual value of fertilizer P on the
yield and chemical composition of alfalfa
forage, single large applications of P,05
fertilizer (100, 200, and 400 kg/ha) were
compared with annual applications of P;05 at
25, 50, and 75 kg/ha. Although yield in-
creases and increased uptake of P were
obtained from the single applications, annual
applications of 50 and 75 kg/ha produced the
largest yields and highest concentrations of P
in the forage. Further, when the annual rates
of P2Os were superimposed on the single
application plots, significant yield increases
were obtained on the 100 and 200 kg/ha
treated plots after 2 and 3 yr of cropping.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Chan, J. S. D.; Grinwich, D. L.; Robertson, H. A.;
Friesen, H. G. 1980. Maintenance of receptors
for lutenizing hormone by ovine placental
lactogen in pseudo pregnant rats. Biol. Reprod.
23:60-63.

Chow, P. N. P.; Dorrell, D. G. 1979. Response o(
wild oats (Avena fatua), flax (Linum Usitatis-
simum), and rapeseed (Brassica campestris
and B. napus) to diclofop-methyl. Weed Sci.
29:212-215.

Chow, P. N. P. 1980. Improved Cerenkov radiation
counting efficiency of ''phosphorus. Liquid
scintillation counting: Recent applications and
development. Vol. 1. Physical Aspects. Aca-
demic Press, New York. pp. 387-395.

Dyck, G. W.; Strain, J. H. 1979. Effect of level of
feeding on breeding performance and concep-
tus development at 60 days of pregnancy in the
gilt. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 59:649-654.

278

RtSLARCH BRANCH RKPORT I^SO

Grandhi, R. R.; Narendran, R.; Bowman, G. H.;
Slinger, S. J. 1980. A comparison of soybean
meal and Tower rapeseed meal as supplements
to corn in diets of growing-finishing and heavy
weight pigs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:123-130.

Grandhi, R. R.; Strain, J. H. 1980. Evaluation of
two methods of feed restriction for growing-
finishing hogs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:149-158.

Moyer, J. R.; Dryden, R. D. 1979. Wild oats, green
foxtail and broadleaved weeds: control and
effect on corn yield at Brandon, Manitoba.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 59:383-389.

Rahnefeld, G. W.; Parker, R. J.; Yodseranee, S.;
Stringam, E. W. 1980. Influence of body
weight and changes in body weight of the cow
on preweaning traits of the calf. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:599-607.

Sadler, J. M. 1980. Effect of placement location for
phosphorus banded away from the seed on
growth and uptake of soil and fertilizer P by
flax. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:251-262.

Spratt, E. D.; Warder, F. G.; Bailey, L. D.; Read,
D. W. C. 1980. Measurement of fertilizer
phosphorus residue and its utilization. Soil Sci.
Soc. Am. 44:1200-1204.

Wolfe, R. I. 1980. Johnston barley. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1431-1433.

Wolfe, R. I. 1980. Bedford barley. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1435-1438.

Miscellaneous

Bailey, L. D. 1979. Fertilizing flax — A review of
research. 23rd Annual Manitoba Soil Science
Meetings, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Man. pp. 92-104.

Bailey, L. D. 1980. The effect of N-Serve nitrogen
stabilizer and nitrogen fertilizers on the yield
and nitrogen composition of barley and rape-
seed. Agriculture Institute of Canada, Cana-
dian Society of Agronomy, 26th Annual Meet-
ing, Edmonton, Alta. (Aug. 1980).

Bailey, L. D. 1980. The effect of K on the yield and
chemical composition of alfalfa. American
Society of Agronomy, Detroit, Ml. (Dec.
1980). (abstract), p. 164.

Bailey, L. D. 1980. Alfalfa: 10 tons/acre possible in
Western Canada. Better crops with plant food,
Potash/ Phosphate Institute (Summer 1980).
pp. 23-25.

Bailey, L. D.; Spratt, E. D. 1979. (a) Potassium
research — Brandon Research Station; (b) Top
Yield — Western Manitoba. Workshop on K
related research and top yields in Western
Canada. Potash/Phosphate Institute of
Canada, Saskatoon, Sask. (Nov. 1979). pp. 73-
99.

Bailey, L. D.; Ukrainetz, H.; Walker, D. R. 1980.
Effect of P-placement on crop uptake and
yield. Western Canada Phosphate Symposium,
Alberta Soil Science Workshop, Calgary, Alta.
pp. 200-229.

Buzzell, R. I.; Voldeng, H. D.; Bailey, L. D. 1979.
Growing soybeans. Agric. Can. Publ. 1487.

Campbell, K. W. 1979. Research continues on
barley varieties for eastern prairies. The Mani-
toba Co-operator, Crop Management Special
(Mar. 1979).

Chow, P. N. P.; Taylor, H. F. 1980. Improved
herbicidal performance of DPX 4189 on oil-
seed rape by the addition of surfactants.
Proceedings 1980 British Crop Protection
Conference — Weeds, Bristol, England. Vol. 1.
pp. 23-28.

Fredeen, H. T.; Weiss, G. M.; Rahnefeld, G. W.;
Lawson, J. E.; Newman, J. A. 1980. Productiv-
ity of hybrid cows in relation to breed cross and
environment. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60 (Dec.)
(abstract).

Fredeen, H. T.; Weiss, G. M.; Rahnefeld, G. W.;
Lawson, J. E.; Newman, J. A. 1980. Growth
patterns of hybrid cows under two environ-
ments. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60 (Dec.) (abstract).

Goplen, B. P.; Baenziger, H.; Bailey, L. D.; Gross,
A. T. H.; Hanna, M. R.; Michaud, R.;
Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J. 1979. Grow-
ing and managing alfalfa in Canada. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1705.

Grandhi, R. R.; Narendran, R.; Bowman, G. H.;
Slinger, S. J. 1980. A comparison of soybean
meal and Tower canola meal as supplements to
corn in diets for growing-finishing and heavy
weight hogs. Canola Council of Canada, Publi-
cation No. 57. pp. 156-163.

Narendran, R.; Grandhi, R. R.; Bowman, G. H.;
Slinger, S. J. 1980. Effect of steam pelleting
grower-finisher pig rations containing canola
meal. Canola Council of Canada, Publication
No. 57. pp. 186-189.

Newman, J. A.; Rahnefeld, G. W.; Fredeen, H. T.;
Tong, A. K. W.; Cliplef, R. 1980. Effects of
"exotic" sire breeds on pre-weaning traits of
their calves. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60 (Dec.)
(abstract).

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1979. Systems of crossbreeding.
Saskatchewan Beef Production Seminar Pro-
ceedings (Feb. 1979).

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1979. Breed-cross evaluation for
beef production. Saskatchewan Beef Produc-
tion Seminar Proceedings (Feb. 1979).

RESEARCH STATION, BRANDON, MAN.

279

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1980. Beef cattle breeding to
improve cow productivity. Saskatchewan Beef
Production Seminar Proceedings (Feb. 1980).
p. 71.

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1980. Foreign cattle breed
evaluation in Canada. Saskatchewan Beef
Production Seminar Proceedings (Feb. 1980).
p. 87.

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1980. Records, culling and birth
weight. Elements of improving reproductive
performance. Saskatchewan Agriculture Farm
Report. Log No. 194.

Rahnefeld, G. W. 1980. Breed evaluation for
crossbreeding. South Dakota State University
Cow-Calf Day Proceedings.

Spratt, E. D.; Read, D. W. L. 1980. Long term
benefits of residual P for small grains and
forage crops. Western Canada Phosphate
Symposium, Alberta Soil Science Workshop,
Calgary, Alta. (11/12 Mar. 1980). pp. 122-
139.

Taylor, N. A.; Chow, P. N. P.; Owen, P. W. 1980.
Influence of surfactants on spray deposition
and biological activity of diclofop-methyl on
wild oat (Avena fatua L.). Symposium on

spraying systems for the 1980's, British Crop
Protection Council Monograph, pp. 45-48.

Voldeng, H.; Hamilton, R. I.; Mundel, H. K.;
Sabourin, D. 1980. The agronomic perform-
ance of soybeans in relation to climatic param-
eters in Canada. Proceedings 26th Annual
Meeting Canadian Society of Agronomy,
Edmonton, Alta.

Wolfe, R. I.; Campbell, K. W.; Johnston, W. H.
1980. Registration of Bonanza barley. Crop
Sci. 20:822.

Wolfe, R. I.; Tekauz, A.; Johnston, W. H. 1979.
The response of different wheat and barley
varieties to date of seeding. Proceedings Anr
nual Conference of Manitoba Agronomists,
Manitoba Department of Agriculture, pp.
8-13.

Yarney, T. A.; Rahnefeld, G. W.; Konefal, G.;
Boston, A. C; McCannel, B.; Sigurdson, M.;
Parker, R. J.; Palmer, W. M. 1979. Time of
day of parturition in beef cows. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 59 (Dec.) (abstract).

280

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Morden, Manitoba

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

D. K. McBeath, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. G. Brodie
M. P. Reimer

Director
Office Manager
Information Officer and
Photographer

Field Crops

G. H. Friesen,1 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. T. Ali-Khan, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
C. G. Campbell, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D
J. Giesbrecht, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. H. Gubbels, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
R. C. Zimmer, B.Sc, PhD.

Head of Section; Weed science
Breeding of field peas
Breeding of buckwheat
Breeding of grain corn
Crop management, physiology
Diseases of field peas

Horticultural Crops

B. B. Chubey, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

H. H. Marshall, Hon. D.Sc

W. G. Ronald, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. A. Russell, B.S.A.

D. E. Vanstone, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Quality of
essential oils, new and special
crops

Horticulturist

Breeding of woody ornamentals

Breeding of potatoes

Management, breeding of
ornamentals

RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN.

281

Oilseed Crops

E. O. Kenaschuk, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. O. Chubb, B.Sc, D.Sc.
W. Dedio, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. A. Hoes, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
H. C. Huang, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Breeding of flax

Herbicides

Breeding of sunflowers

Pathology of flax and sunflowers

Pathology of sunflowers

'Seconded to the Canadian International Development Agency Indo-Canadian research project for Dryland
Agriculture.

282

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The programs of the Morden Research Station are directed toward the development of
new cultivars and the improvement of management for buckwheat, field corn, field peas, pulses,
flax, sunflowers, potatoes, herbaceous and woody ornamentals, and new crops. This report
summarizes some of the results of research conducted during 1 980.

Breeding programs resulted in the licensing of Manor buckwheat and the release of three
early corn inbreds. Evaluations were continued on promising cultivars of other crops.
Refinements were developed for several management practices that may lead to increased
productivity. Additional understanding was obtained on several diseases affecting crops.
Information was generated on several new herbicides, which may lead to registration of these
products for more effective weed control in the future.

Further information on any of these research activities, reprints of publications listed in
this report, and copies of previous reports may be obtained from: Research Station, Research
Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 3001, Morden, Man. ROG 1 JO.

D. K. McBeath
Director

FIELD CROPS

Buckwheat

Breeding. Manor, a large-seeded buck-
wheat cultivar, was licensed in 1980 and
pedigreed seed was released to growers
through SeCan. This cultivar outyielded
Mancan by 9.2% in 4 yr of cooperative
testing. It reaches full flowering 1 day earlier
than Mancan but is up to 1 wk earlier in
reaching a given percentage of ripe seeds in
the fall. It is expected to replace a large
portion of Mancan, which accounted for 90%
of the commercial production in Manitoba in
1980.

Management. A study of several growth
and flowering parameters on lines with both
normal and semidwarf habits has shown that
there is large variability in number of
branches, number of side flower clusters,
number of terminal flower clusters, and total
number of flowers per plant. The percentage
seed set over a 2 yr period varied from 4 to
30%, depending on plant type.

Disease. Downy mildew was found in 15 of
17 fields examined in a province-wide survey.
The leaf area affected averaged around 10%,
except in one field where 50% was diseased.
This low level of infection was probably due to
the low rainfall prior to the surveys. Resist-
ance to this disease was again confirmed this
year in several breeding lines and appears
heritable. Under plot conditions, an applica-
tion of the fungicide Ridomil to the foliage

significantly reduced severity of the disease
and provided a corresponding increase in
yield.

Weeds. Satisfactory tolerance was found
with postemergence treatments of TCA, BAS
9052, and TF 1169 and with preplant-incor-
porated treatments of metribuzin, alachlor,
metachlor, and triallate. Initial crop injury
resulted from postemergence treatments of
difenzoquat, dicolofop, and metribuzin.

Field corn

Three early maturing inbreds with high
combining ability, CM 145, CM 108, and
CM 122, were released to the seed trade.
Morden hybrid 1 125 yielded 15% better than
the mean of standards and was equal in
maturity to the earliest standard, Pioneer
3995.

Several new, early maturing inbreds with a
high degree of resistance to stalk rot were
developed from populations obtained from
European breeders. These inbreds yielded
very well in top-cross trials.

The program to convert superior 'corn
belt1 inbreds to earlier maturing inbreds for
Manitoba conditions has made progress.
Selections from the backcrossing programs
with H99 from Indiana, Mo 17 from Missouri,
and A619 from Minnesota have been crossed
with Morden inbreds CMW9 and CM 174.
The derivatives from H99 appear most prom-
ising, particularly when crossed with CMW9.

RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN. MAN.

283

A similar backcross breeding program has
commenced with the inbred B73 from Iowa.

Field peas

Breeding. The breeder seed of Triumph, a
green-seeded cultivar, was released to growers
through SeCan after a 4-yr program of virus
elimination and genetic purification. A
semileafless (afaf/StSt) line, MP 919, se-
lected from a backcrossing program with
Century, was equal in yield to the cultivar
Century in cooperative tests. High yielding,
semileafless lines with Trapper background
have also been selected and will be evaluated
in cooperative tests. Two green-seeded lines
that are resistant to bleaching, MP 841 and
MP 843, are under final evaluation.

Management. Preharvest spraying of green
field peas with diquat containing active ingre-
dient at 0.28 and 0.56 kg/ha resulted in good
desiccation of late green growth and permit-
ted earlier harvesting. The peas that were
harvested earliest escaped weathering and
had the best color. Chemical desiccation had
its greatest advantage in years when matura-
tion proceeded slowly and when regrowth was
most prevalent.

Diseases. Of 1494 breeding lines evaluated
for presence of pea seed-borne mosaic virus
(PSbMV), 18 were infected. PSbMV detec-
tion is an integral part of the research
program, necessary for the production of
virus-free cultivars for licensing. The sensitiv-
ity of the assay plant Chenopodium amaran-
ticolor for the detection of PSbMV was
enhanced by providing it with low light
intensity or high light intensity for growth,
followed by a period of darkness prior to
inoculation. Two of 35 advanced breeding
lines showed some resistance to Mycosphaer-
ella pinodes, and six lines as well as the
cultivar Tara were highly resistant to powdery
mildew.

PULSE CROPS

Evaluation. Eight pulse crops were evalu-
ated. The lentil cultivar Eston continued to
yield higher than Laird in Manitoba. Lines of
adzuki beans selected at Morden outyielded
introductions from Japan and the United
States. Two chick-pea lines resistant to Asco-
chyta blight were identified. Black bean lines
earlier in maturity and higher yielding than
commercial cultivars have been selected.

High-yielding lathyrus lines that are resistant
to drought have been identified.

Management. Lathyrus was found to give
excellent germination and growth under se-
vere drought conditions, with yields above
3500 kg/ha.

Quality. A screening technique for 7V-ox-
alyldiaminopropionic acid was developed
under contract by the University of Manitoba.
Ninety-three Morden accessions of Lathyrus
were screened for this compound and wide
variation was found in the amounts of this
lathyrogenic compound occurring both within
and between species.

OILSEED CROPS

Flax

Breeding. Two lines, the late maturing FP
692 and the mid-early FP 698, continue to be
superior in yield to the widely grown cultivars
Linott and DuiTerin. FP 692 also has better
lodging resistance than DufTerin.

Utilizing recurrent selection, lines have
been developed that are up to three percent-
age points higher in oil content than DufTerin
and have good yield potential.

Sunflowers

Breeding. A sunflower hybrid, Morden 15,
performed well in the 1980 cooperative test
and will be proposed for licensing in 1981.
Morden 15 yields 3.5% more than CMH 101,
matures 1 day earlier, and has better resist-
ance to downy mildew. Branching and non-
branching restorer lines with identical genetic
background did not differ in combining abil-
ity. The contribution of the hull content and
oil content of the kernel (hull-less achene) to
the oil content of the whole seed in commer-
cial hybrids was found to be 56.5% and
43.5%, respectively. The contribution of the
oil content of the kernel is higher than
previously reported.

Management. Yields were reduced by
about 70%> when planting was delayed from 2
June to 19 June, due mostly to considerable
lodging, which occurred in the late planted
crop. Premature harvesting resulted in a
much greater oil reduction in late maturing
hybrids than in early maturing hybrids.

Diseases. Tan, a new strain of Sclerotinia
sclerotiorunu was discovered in a sunflower
field near Portage la Prairie. Unlike the

284

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

normal strain of S. sclerotiorum, which
produces black sclerotia and brown apothecia,
this new strain produces tan sclerotia and
white apothecia. Sclerotia of the tan strain
lack dormancy and are capable of attacking
sunflower plants in soil shortly after inocula-
tion.

In 2 yr of testing for resistance to sclero-
tinia wilt (S. sclerotiorum), inbreds CM 526
and CM 497 have shown wilt resistance
superior to CM 400 and RHA 273, the
inbreds currently used widely in the commer-
cial production of hybrids.

Premature ripening, a disease of undeter-
mined etiology, was widespread in sunflower
fields in Manitoba and was particularly severe
in early sown fields. Sclerotinia diseases
generally were of unusually restricted inci-
dence and mildness. Rust was more promi-
nent and severe than usual, and verticillium
wilt was conspicuous in fields of hybrids
known to be moderately susceptible.

Weed control. Results in 1980 confirmed
those from 1979 showing BAS 9052 to be
selective in sunflowers at rates effective for
control of wild oats, green foxtail, and volun-
teer barley. Band application of BAS 9052 or
flamprop-methyl followed by cultivation
between rows was as effective for control of
wild oats and green foxtail as overall applica-
tion in sunflowers sown at 75-cm row spacing.
When wild oats emerged early relative to crop
emergence, treatment with barban was not as
effective as treatment with flamprop-methyl
or BAS 9052, which could be applied at later
stages of wild oat and sunflower growth. In a
study of wild oat competition, a weed popula-
tion of 70 plants per square metre between
rows contributed substantially to the yield
loss. Full-season competition by a 20-cm band
of wild oats centered on the row resulted in a
yield loss of 23%, whereas on unweeded plots
the yield loss was 44%.

HORTICULTURAL CROPS

Ornamental crops

Breeding. Heritability of mildew resistance
in roses was found compatible with an inter-
pretation based on multigenic additive inheri-
tance. The newly derived tetraploid RSMK1
hybrid germ plasm transmitted resistance at a
level of 81% in seven progenies; its perform-
ance indicates its value as a disease-resistant
parent. A dwarf honeysuckle and a hardy

weeping willow were increased for release in
1981 through the Canadian Ornamental
Plant Foundation. These selections possess
reliable hardiness for the prairie region. In
lilies, two tetraploids derived by colchicine
treatment from nearly sterile diploid hybrids
of Lilium aurelianese x L. longiflorum
proved fertile and cross compatible; these
results indicate the value of tetraploid deri-
vation for fertility restoration. This is the first
known successful culture of second-generation
embryos in this wide interspecific cross.

Arboretum and evaluation. Arboretum
evaluations were continued with the addition
of 140 new accessions in 1980. A preliminary
evaluation of birch for tolerance or resistance
to borers showed that Betula davurica, B.
albo sinensis septentrionalis from Asia, and
the native B. occidentalis offered particular
value for direct use or for further breeding.
Other promising accessions include Cornus
rugosa, roundleaf dogwood; Fraxinus ameri-
cana, white ash; Populus grandidentata,
large-tooted aspen; Populus CAG hybrid,
white poplar; Quercus bicolor, white oak;
Rhus glabra, smooth sumac; and a Sorbus
aucuparia hybrid. These plants are being
increased for final assessment and recommen-
dation to nursery growers.

Propagation. Morden Cardinette rose was
propagated from leaf-bud cuttings using a
range of concentrations of indolbutyric acid
(IBA) and 7000 ppm was found to be opti-
mum. A positive correlation existed between
root formation and seasonal growth. Cuttings
taken in early summer gave better rooting,
growth, and overwintering than late-summer
cuttings. A pilot project was developed to
transfer this technology to commercial
growers.

Nursery management. Herbicides were
evaluated for efficacy and crop tolerance on a
range of woody nursery crops. Data are being
used to support registrations of oxadiazon in
nursery stock kept in containers and of
oxyfluorfen in established spruce, and to
broaden information on herbicide perform-
ance in woody nursery crops.

Potatoes

Breeding and evaluation. Seventeen ad-
vanced seedlings or newly named cultivars
were evaluated in commercial field trials.
Atlantic (B6987-56) and Oneida have
achieved some support from the chipping

RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN.

285

industry and require field-scale production
before final acceptance. Wise 726 appears
about equal to Norchip and Dakchip. Crystal
and M69S06-69 are unacceptable for chip-
ping. The red table stock cultivars, Botache
and Wise 729R, have gained some acceptance
from the industry and have higher dry matter
than Pontiac and Norland. Lemhi Russet
(A68678-1) and Shepody (F69016) have
some potential for french fry production.

Quality. Chipping potatoes were monitored
for sucrose content (SR rating) beginning 4
wk prior to harvest and throughout the entire
storage period. Preharvest SR rating was
found to be useful in assessing tuber maturity
as it relates to vine killing and harvesting, and
for predicting long-term storage potential.
Monitoring sucrose content in storage permit-
ted the identification of stress conditions, such
as poor air circulation, and the breaking of
tuber dormancy.

Herbicides. Herbicide treatments of EPTC
(Eptam) alone gave good control of lamb's-
quarters and were as effective as EPTC plus
extender or as a tank mix with napropamide.
Variable cultivar tolerance for metribuzin was
evident, ranging from only minimal injury
(Norchip, Nipigon, F72117) to severe injury
(Alaska Red). Some treatments that showed
visible injury still produced good yields.

Diseases. A survey of Russet Burbank
potato fields in 2-yr rotations revealed a very
high incidence of rhizoctonia disease. The
least amount of rhizoctonia disease was found
in the potato-wheat rotation, with levels
increasing in the potato-barley, potato-onion,

and potato-corn rotations. Both stems and
stolons were affected; up to 100% of stems
and 80% of stolons bore cankers, and 57% of
stems and 46% of stolons were girdled.

NEW CROPS

Essential oil and spice crops

Evaluation. Extremely droughty and hot
conditions at seeding time imposed difficulties
in seedling emergence. These conditions re-
sulted in very poor plant stands. However,
cumin and fenugreek were identified as hav-
ing agronomic potential for the southern
prairies.

Management and quality. Dill oil quality
has been adversely affected by the presence of
phoma blight, which destroys the fern, and by
volatile compounds obtained from certain
weed species. Control of phoma blight was
achieved by timely spraying with chlorotha-
lonil (Bravo) at 1.7-2.2 kg/ha. Effective
control of broad-leaved weeds was obtained
with ethalfluralin, trifluralin, and chloramben.

Because the geraniol-rich monarda seedling
is a triploid, it can only be propagated
asexually. The most effective and rapid
method was found to be through mist propa-
gation of stem cuttings dipped in 1000 ppm of
IBA and placed in sand in a misting chamber.
Cuttings taken from mid-May to mid-June
rooted best, producing root initials in 1 wk;
these cuttings were ready for transplanting in
14-16 days. As the mother plants advanced in
growth, the stems became more fibrous and
their ability to produce roots decreased
rapidly.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Ali-Khan, S. T. 1980. Lcnca field peas. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:297-298.

Dedio, W. 1980. CMH
Sci. 60:291-292.

01 sunflower. Can. J. Plant

Dedio, W. 1980. Comparison of achene characteris-
tics and combining ability of branching and
nonbranching near isogenic sunflower restorer
lines. Crop Sci. 20:180-190.

DeJong, H.; Tai, G. C. C; Johnston, G. R.; Russell,
W. A. 1980. Yield potential and genotype-
environment interaction of tetraploid-diploid
(4.v-2.v) potato hybrids. Am. Potato J. 475-476
(abstract).

Dirks, V. A.; Friesen, G. H. 1980. Tolerance of
fresh market tomatoes to metribuzin applied at
various dates after transplanting. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:759-761.

Gubbels, G. H. 1980. Yield and seed weight of
buckwheat after foliar applications of boron
and calcium. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:721-722.

286

Rl -SI-ARCH BRANCH RHPORT I9S0

Hoes, J. A.; Kenaschuk, E. O. 1980. Postseedling
resistance to rust in flax. Can. J. Plant Pathol.
2:125-130.

Huang, H. C. 1980. Control of sclerotinia wilt of
sunflower by hyperparasites. Can. J. Plant
Pathol. 2:26-32.

Huang, H. C; Dueck, J. 1980. Wilt of sunflower
from infection by mycelial germinating scle-
rotia of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Can. J. Plant
Pathol. 2:47-52.

Marshall, H. H. 1980. RSM Kl and RSM K5 rose
germplasm. HortScience 15(2):205-206.

Ronald, W. G. 1980. Tower poplar. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1055-1056.

Singh, G.; Bushan, L. S.; Friesen, G. H. 1980. Time
of applying selective herbicides for control of
weeds in maize in Doon Valley. Indian J.
Agron. 25:89-91.

Svejda, F. J.; Ronald, W. G. 1980. Forsythia
'Northern Gold'. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1057-
1058.

Vanstone, D. E.; Stobbe, E. H. 1979. Light require-
ment of the diphenylether herbicide, oxyfluor-
fen. Weed Sci. 27:88-90.

Whelan, E. D. P.; Dedio, W. 1980. Registration of
sunflower germplasm composite crosses CMG-
1, CMG-2, and CMG-3. Crop Sci. 20:832.

Whelan, E. D. P.; Dorrell, D. G. 1980. Interspecific
hybrids between Helianthus maximiliani
Schrad. and H. annuus L. Effects of backcross-
ing on meiosis, anther morphology, and seed
characteristics. Crop Sci. 20:29-34.

Miscellaneous

Ali-Khan, S. T. 1980. Breeding field peas in
Canada. Proceedings Pulse Crops Production
Conference, Saskatchewan, pp. 10-14.

Ali-Khan, S. T. 1980. Agronomic assessment of
leafless peas in Canada. Agron. Abstr. p. 96.

Ali-Khan, S. T. 1980. Seed inoculation in pulse
crops. Canadex 255.24.

Ali-Khan, S. T. 1980. Infestation and control of pea
aphids. Canadex 621.

Ali-Khan, S. T.; Zimmer, R. C. 1980. Production of
field peas in Canada. Agric. Can. Publ. 1710.

Chubb, W. O. 1979. Weed control in sunflowers.
Technical and scientific papers, Manitoba
Agronomy Conference, pp. 97-99.

Chubey, B. B. 1980. Sucrose rating proving to be a
good measure of tuber maturity at harvest.
24th Annual Convention Canadian Potato
Chip Association, Quebec City, Que.
(abstract).

Chubey, B. B. 1980. Gcraniol-rich essential oil from
Monarda fistulosa L. 8th International Con-
gress of essential oils, Cannes, France (ab-
stract), p. 102.

Dedio, W.; Campbell, S. J.; Hoes, J. A.; Ukrainet/,
H.; Arthur, A. 1980. Sunflower seed crops.
Agric. Can. Publ. 1687.

Dedio, W.; Putt, E. D. 1980. Chapter 45. Sun-
flower. Hadley, H. H., ed. Hybridization of
crop plants. American Society of Agronomy
Monograph, pp. 631-644.

Gubbels, G. H.; Kenaschuk, E. Ô. 1980. Preharvest
desiccation of flax with diquat. Proceedings
48th Annual Flax Institute o/t U.S., Fargo,
ND. (17-18 Jan.). pp. 36-38.

Gubbels, G. H.; Kenaschuk, E. O. 1980. Desicca-
tion as a harvest aid for flax. Canadex 148.55.

Gubbels, G. H.; Kenaschuk, E. O.; Dedio, W. 1979.
Desiccation research in flax and sunflowers.
Proceedings Manitoba Agronomy Conference,
pp. 23-26.

Hoes, J. A. 1979. Rust and verticillium wilt
reactions of 25 sunflower hybrid cultivars.
Proceedings Manitoba Agronomy Conference,
pp. 90-91.

Hoes, J. A.; Kenaschuk, E. O. 1980. Variation in
postseedling rust resistance in flax cultivars.
Proceedings 48th Annual Flax Institute o/t
U.S., Fargo, ND. (17-18 Jan.). pp. 41-46.

Marshall, H. H. 1979. Index Seminum, Research
Station, Morden.

Marshall, H. H. 1980. Hardy chrysanthemums for
prairie gardens. Agdex 200.22.

Ronald, W. G. 1979. Hardiness zonation Manitoba
report. Proc. West. Can. Soc. Hort. Sci.
35:107.

Ronald, W. G. 1979. Merit trials sub-committee
report. Proc. West. Can. Soc. Hort. Sci.
35:118.

Ronald, W. G. 1979. Report of the Prairie Fruit
Breeding Cooperative. Proc. West. Can. Soc.
Hort. Sci. 35:88.

Ronald W. G. 1980. Recent awards of merit. The
Prairie Garden, pp. 8-9.

Ronald, W. G. 1980. Mr. Richard H. Patmore—
Pioneer Plantsman 1903-1979. The Prairie
Garden, pp. 12-13.

Ronald, W. G. 1980. New prairie-adapted apples.
Landscape Alberta 3( 1 ):27.

Ronald, W. G. 1980. Benefits of plant breeding to
the landscape industry. Landscape Trades
2(2):38-41.

RESEARCH STATION, MORDEN, MAN.

287

Ronald, W. G. 1980. Tree breeding and evaluation
at the Morden Research Station— 1978-79.
Proceedings of the Canadian Tree Im-
provement Association, Part I. p. 175.

Ronald, W. G.; Temmerman, H. J. M. 1979. Some
aspects of high density orcharding. Proc. West.
Can. Soc. Hort. Sci. 35:69-75.

Russell, W. A. 1980. Report on past highlights and
present developments in potato breeding on the
Canadian prairies. Proceedings 8th Annual
Meeting of the Prairie Potato Council, pp.
9-13.

StaufTer, M. D.; Chubey, B. B.; Dorrell, D. G.
1980. Growth, yield and compositional charac-
teristics of Jerusalem artichoke as it relates to
biomass production. American Chemical Soci-
ety, Fuel Chemistry Division, Fuels from
Biomass Symposium, San Francisco, CA.
(Aug.).

Vanstone, D. E. 1980. Containerized nursery
stock — why? The Prairie Garden, pp. 112-11 4.

Vanstone, D. E. 1980. Basswood seed germination.
Landscape Alberta 3(4):24-26.

Zimmer, R. C. 1980. Seed treatment and emer-
gence in field peas. Canadex 142.23.

288

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Winnipeg, Manitoba

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

D. G. Dorrell, B.S.A.
M. D. Hamilton

M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director
Administrative Officer

Scientific Support

M. Malyk,1 B.Sc, M.Sc, M.L.S.
W. Romanow, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Librarian

Scientific Liaison Officer

Cereal Breeding

D. Leisle, B.S.A. , M.Sc, Ph.D.

V. M. Bendelow, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. Brown, B.S.A., M.Sc.

A. B. Campbell, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. M. Czarnecki, B.S.A., M.Sc.
P. L. Dyck, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. R. Kerber, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. G. Kosmolak, B.Sc, Ph.D.

M. I. P. Kovacs, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. R. Metcalfe, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. I. H. McKenzie, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. S. Noll, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Durum wheat
breeding
Cereal chemistry
Oat breeding
Common wheat breeding
Common wheat breeding
Wheat genetics
Wheat cytogenetics
Cereal chemistry
Cereal chemistry
Barley breeding and genetics
Oat breeding and genetics
Physiology

Cereal Diseases

R. Rohringer, Dr. sc

agr.

C. C. Gill, B.Sc, Ph.D.

G. J. Green, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. E. Harder,2 B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
N. K. Howes, B.Sc, Ph.D.

W. K. Kim, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Molecular biology
of cereal rust
Viruses

Wheat stem rust
Oat crown rust
Molecular biology
Molecular biology of cereal rust

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN.

289

J. W. Martens, B.Sc, Ph.D.

J. T. Mills, B.Sc, Ph.D., D.I.C.

J. J. Nielsen, Dr. sc. agr.

D. J. Samborski, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. Tekauz,3 B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. L. Thomas, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Oat stem rust

Seed storage pathology, fungicides

Smuts

Wheat leaf rust

Leaf diseases

Microbial genetics, smuts

Cereal Crop Protection

F. L. Waiters, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. Abramson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
P. S. Barker, LA., M.Sc, Ph.D.

S. R. Loschiavo, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. Romanow, B.S.A., M.Sc.
D. Sabourin, B.Sc, M.Sc.
R. N. Sinha, B.Sc, Ph.D.

L. B. Smith, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.
P. H. Westdal, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Storage pest

control

Mycotoxicology
Biology and control of stored grain

pests
Stored grain insect biology
Insect surveys and control
Biometrics
Ecology of granary insects, mites,

and fungi

Population dynamics
Biology and control of field crop

insects

Integrated Pest Control

W. J. Turnock, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. L. Ayre, B.S.A., M.S.A.

R. P. Bodnaryk, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. K. Bracken, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. E. Bûcher, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

G. H. Gerber, B.S.A., Ph.D.

B. M. Hegdekar, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. J. Lamb, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. G. Wylie, B.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Ecology and
population dynamics
Insect ecology
Nutritional physiology
Physiology and behavior
Insect pathology
Reproductive physiology
Insect biochemistry
Systems biology
Host-parasite relations

VISITING SCIENTISTS

Research Associates

H. A. H. Wallace, B.Sc, M.Sc.

N. D. G. White, B.Sc.Agr., M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. J. Madrid, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Microflora of stored seed
Grain storage, ecology
Grain storage, ecology

Graduate students

C. Aitchison, B.Sc, M.Sc.

290

Entomology

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

A. Al-Hitty, B.Sc. Entomology

B. S. Joia, B.Sc, M.Sc. Entomology
M. Howlander, B.Sc, M.Sc. Entomolgoy

G. Musa, B.S.A. Plant pathology

P. Paterson, B.S.A. Plant breeding

L. Wong, B.S.A. Plant breeding

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:On transfer of work to the University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany, April 1980 - March 1981.
'On transfer of work to the Royal Veterinary and Agriculture Universtiy, Copenhagen, Denmark, October 1980
September 1981.

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG. MAN. 291

INTRODUCTION

Research programs at the Winnipeg Research Station emphasize three broad responsibili-
ties: development of improved cultivars of cereals adapted to regions of the Canadian prairies,
research on the protection of stored seed and seed products, and research on the integrated
control of insect pests of field crops.

Improvement of cereal cultivars, historically the first mandate of the Research Station,
requires close cooperation between plant breeders, geneticists, cytologists, plant pathologists,
and cereal chemists. Three cultivars were licensed in 1980 as a result of their combined efforts.
The hard red spring wheat cultivar, Columbus, is the first Canadian cultivar with a high degree
of harvest-time sprouting resistance. The two-row barley cultivar, Norbert, is the first cultivar
to combine resistance to stem rust and net blotch with tolerance for barley yellow dwarf mosaic
virus. The spring oat cultivar, Fidler, is the first cultivar with effective multigenic resistance to
stem and crown rust and good yield. Cereal cultivars developed by the Winnipeg Research
Station are currently grown on more than 9.5 million ha in Western Canada.

Research on the preservation of grain and oilseeds and their products is national in scope
and requires close cooperation with Plant Products and Quarantine Division of Agriculture
Canada, the Canadian Grain Commission, and the grain industry. Factors that cause the
development of toxins in stored grain are being investigated as part of a strong mycotoxin
program. Low-cost ventilation systems have been developed that permit safe storage and
maintenance of quality in damp rapeseed.

Research on the control of field crop insects, particularly those that attack rapeseed,
includes the evaluation of new insecticides, an assessment of economic damage, and the
development of management systems. A highly successful integrated control program for the
strawberry cutworm was developed that includes chemical and cultural methods.

Dr. W. C. McDonald, Director of the Winnipeg Research Station since 1971, retired at
the end of 1979 after a distinguished 29-yr career with the Research Branch. He is noted for
his contribution to genetic control of barley leaf diseases. Drs. R. Rohringer and F. L. Watters
subsequently shared the responsibilities of Acting Director for 8 mo in 1980.

Further information summarized in this report can be obtained from Research Station,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, 195 Dafoe Road, Winnipeg, Man. R3T 2M9.

D. G. Dorrell
Director

BREEDING, GENETICS, AND high ^-amylase activity appeared to be asso-

CYTOGENETICS dated with lower levels of other enzymes

essential for malting. Similarly, in initial
malting tests it was found that lines with a

ar e^ very low polyphenol content showed a de-
crease in essential enzyme activity. More

The two-row barley line T.R. 206 was evidence was obtained to indicate that the

licensed as the cultivar Norbert. This cultivar lcvel of hordein protein in barley affects

is well adapted to the eastern prairie region amount 0f fermentable material that can be

because it possesses improved yield and straw extracted from malt. Preliminary results

strength and is the first cultivar with resist- indicate that hordein content can be easily

ance to stem rust and net blotch and with screened for in the breeding program,
tolerance for barley yellow dwarf virus.

Although its status as a malting barley has Common wheat

not been established, it has good malting ^, , , , , . ,- t> w; ->->

.. » & e yne hard red spring wheat line, B.W. 37,

^ua l *" was licensed as the cultivar Columbus. This is

Barley-quality studies revealed that high the first Canadian cultivar with a high degree

lysine lines from the breeding program did not of resistance to harvest-time sprouting and it

appear suitable for malting purposes. Their establishes a new standard o^ quality. This

292 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

characteristic means that the crop has a lower
level of a-amylase activity in wet harvest
seasons and meets the stringent requirements
of the Japanese market. Columbus is slightly
later maturing and higher yielding than the
popular cultivar, Neepawa. It has good resist-
ance to leaf rust and bunt, and moderate
resistance to stem rust and smut. The overall
quality is good.

Progress was evident for the incorporation
of sprouting resistance, and additional leaf
and stem rust resistance, into the breeding
populations.

The genetics of rust resistance was deter-
mined in several cultivars. Glenlea was shown
to carry Sr5, Sr6, Sri a, and one or two type 2
genes for stem rust resistance. It has at least
three genes for leaf rust resistance: Lrl for
seedling resistance and two genes for adult
plant resistance. Sinton has LrlO for seedling
resistance plus Lrl3 and one of the Glenlea
genes for adult plant leaf rust resistance.
Hork "S," a cultivar from the International
Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, has
LrlO for seedling resistance and Lrl 3 and
Lrl2 for adult plant resistance. The seedling
leaf rust resistance of Columbus is due to
LrI6. Lines with stem rust resistance derived
from Agropyron (Sr26), Aegilops ventricosa
Tausch and Triticum persicum var. (VPM),
and T. longissimum (Scheinf. & Muschli in
Muschli) Bowden appear to have satisfactory
quality.

An increase in protein content, achieved by
nitrogen fertilizer application, was shown to
increase the water absorption capacity of flour
and to decrease the mixograph development
time in five Canadian cultivars. The effect of
protein content on extensigraph areas differed
among cultivars. Remix and blend-loaf vol-
umes increased with increasing protein con-
tent for each cultivar. Quality evaluation of
Rescue-Cadet chromosome substitution lines
showed reciprocal chromosome effects in the
direction of the donor parent for mixograph
development time with chromosome 1A,
farinograph absorption with 2A and 6B, and
grinding time with 1A, IB, and 6D. Cadet
chromosomes of the homologous groups 4 and
7 had a major effect on Rescue quality.

Durum wheat

Two lines from the breeding program were
advanced in the cooperative test. After fur-
ther evaluation the most promising appears to
be DT 433, which yielded 108% of Coulter in

the Black soil zone and was equal to the best
check cultivar in the Brown soil zone after 2
yr of testing.

A preliminary study established that a link
existed between factors controlling glume
color and electrophoretic banding patterns of
gliadin proteins, specifically bands 42 and 45.
These bands were earlier shown to be associ-
ated with gluten strength. It is now suggested
that gluten strength is controlled by a factor
associated with glume color and bands 42/45,
and one or more factors segregating indepen-
dently.

The sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) sedi-
mentation test to measure protein quality was
further modified to speed processing of sam-
ples. This modified test is being utilized in the
quality screening program.

Oats

The oats line O.T. 210 was licensed as the
cultivar Fidler. This cultivar is adapted to the
eastern prairie region because it possesses
highly effective multigenic resistance to stem
rust and crown rust, and resistance to smut. It
has shorter and stronger straw and good yield
characteristics.

Promising lines entered in the final testing
stage combine rust and smut resistance from
Avena sterilis, large seed size from Harmon
and Kent (an Australian cultivar), and toler-
ance for barley yellow dwarf virus from Kent.

CEREAL RUSTS

Rust surveys

Stem rust of wheat. Wheat stem rust was
scarce in Canada in 1979 because little air-
borne inoculum was introduced from the
south; hot dry weather during July and
August was unfavorable for rust development;
and rust-resistant cultivars were planted in
the rust-prone areas. Twenty-one races were
identified in Canada in 1979, three of which
were new. Race C25, first identified in 1965,
was potentially the most dangerous. It has
been isolated with increasing frequency in
recent years, although it has not been found in
farm fields and does not appear to threaten
resistant commercial cultivars. Nevertheless,
it has shown some virulence on these cultivars
in greenhouse trials.

For many years most wheat stem rust
collections in Western Canada were made
from the wild grass, Hordeum jubatum L. In
1978, however, a sudden change occurred and

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN.

293

the preponderance of rust found on this grass
shifted from wheat stem rust to rye stem rust.
This situation persisted in 1979, and because
rust has not been found in farm fields of
resistant varieties for many years, nearly all
the wheat stem rust collections identified in
the race survey were from three plots of the
susceptible cultivar Klein Titan planted at
Morden, Portage, and Brandon, Man. Similar
plots sown at six locations in Saskatchewan
produced only three pustules. There is always
a concern that the limited number of samples
identified may not be representative of the
wheat stem rust population. Nevertheless, we
feel that no important new race went
undetected.

Leaf rust of wheat. Rust surveys carried
out in Manitoba and Saskatchewan indicated
that wheat leaf rust occurred at very low
levels of infection in 1980 and did not cause
any damage to the wheat crop. Preliminary
identifications of races indicated that only a
few races of leaf rust were present in Mani-
toba in 1980 and these could not attack any of
the recommended resistant cultivars.

The identification of races from leaf rust
survey samples was carried out in 1979 with
19 backcross differential lines of wheat. Lines
with resistance genes Lrl6, LrI9, Lr21, and
T4 x PI 58548 were resistant to all isolates of
leaf rust, and Lrl 1 was attacked by only a few
isolates from Ontario. Thirty virulence com-
binations on 14 genes for resistance were
identified.

Oat crown rust. Avirulence-virulence com-
binations in crown rust were identified using
19 single-gene lines in 1979. Thirty-three
combinations collected from across Canada
were identified, but there were no important
changes in the populations that could affect
advanced breeder lines or the sources of
resistance being used in the Winnipeg breed-
ing program.

In 1980 crown rust occurred throughout
most of Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan,
but infections were the lightest in many years,
with almost no crop damage, even in late
maturing fields.

Oat stem rust. Avirulence-virulence com-
binations of oat stem rust were identified
using nine backcross single-gene differential
lines in 1980. Twelve combinations were
identified from across Canada but there were
no changes in the rust population that could
threaten advanced breeders lines or the new

rust-resistant cultivar, Fidler, in Western
Canada. The resistance conferred by gene Pg-
16 remains effective against all isolates identi-
fied in Canada, and the resistances conferred
by gene Pg-13 and the Pg-a complex were
highly effective against more than 99% of the
isolates identified in 1979. In 1980, stem rust
occurred throughout Manitoba and eastern
Saskatchewan, but infections were light and
there was very little crop damage. The 1980
physiologic race survey in Eastern Canada
was expanded to include a 'trap nursery,' and
two new avirulence-virulence combinations
were identified.

Resistance to the rusts

A number of accessions from the World
Wheat Collection were tested in the seedling
and adult plant stages with eight races of leaf
rust. A number of potentially useful sources
of resistance were identified. Genes Lr3 and
LrlO occurred in a number of these acces-
sions. The incorporation of additional genes
for resistance to leaf rust into the cultivar
Benito was continued. Genes Lr3ka and Lr21
are being backcrossed into this cultivar.

A botanical expedition to the Canary
Islands, northwest Africa, and the Iberian
Peninsula in quest of new genetic resources
produced 3850 accessions of Avena,
Hordeum, Triticum and Aegilops.

Three hundred and sixty new accessions
from Turkey and Iran were tested for stem
rust and crown rust resistance. Although new
resistance was identified, it is at the tetraploid
level, making it difficult to utilize.

Molecular biology and ultrastructure of the
cereal rusts

Lectin-coated gold particles were used as
histochemical markers to detect lectin recep-
tors in ultrathin sections of stem rust uredo-
sporelings and rust-infected wheat leaves.

Con A receptors, presumably consisting of
glucan or mannan, or both, were found in
spore walls but not in germ tube walls. No
receptors for soybean lectin (galactose-spe-
cific) or Lotus tetragonolobus lectin (fucose-
specific) were detected, although gas chroma-
tography indicated that galactose and fucose
may be present in macromolecular constitu-
ents of germ tube walls.

Wheat germ lectin-coated gold (specific for
N-acetylglucosamine) showed anomalous
behavior in the presence of chitin hydrolvsate.
The latter inhibited binding of the lectin to

294

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT loso

lectin-specific receptor sites on germ tube
walls, confirming the presence of chitin. On
spore walls, however, it not only failed to
inhibit binding, but greatly promoted it.
Further work is necessary to determine the
nature of wheat germ lectin receptors in spore
walls.

The ultrastructural and histochemical anal-
ysis of tissue infected with wheat stem rust
indicated that the neck wall and body wall of
haustoria contains Con A receptors. Wheat
germ lectin receptors were found in hyphal
walls and in the body wall of old haustoria but
not in those of young haustoria or in hausto-
rial neck walls. The extrahaustorial matrix
contained Con A receptors and probably
cellulose as well, but no wheat germ lectin
receptors. The possible presence of cellulose
may indicate that this structure is of host
origin.

A histochemical study was conducted to
identify the major components of the struc-
tures at the host-parasite interface in oat
leaves infected with crown rust, including the
haustorium mother cell wall, the septum and
septal protrusions, the adhesive substance
attaching the haustorial mother cell to the
host wall, the haustorial neck and body walls,
the haustorial neck ring, and the interacting
regions of the host cytoplasm. Comparisons
were made between dikaryotic haustoria in
oats and monokaryotic haustoria of this
fungus in buckthorn. Information was ob-
tained to aid in defining monokaryotic hausto-
ria.

Germ tube walls of wheat stem rust uredo-
sporelings were extracted using five different
methods to solubilize macromolecular wall
constituents. The extracts contained various
amounts of protein and bound sugars (man-
nose, glucose, galactose, fucose, and N-acz-
tylglucosamine), depending on the method of
extraction. The macromolecular components
were further characterized by passage
through columns of Sepharose-bound Con A,
revealing the presence of glucose or mannose,
or both, in terminal positions.

Protein was extracted from resistant and
susceptible near-isogenic lines of wheat and
compared by slab gel electrophoresis and
isoelectric focusing to detect the product of
the gene for resistance. This comparison was
hindered by the presence of the major leaf
protein, chloroplast fraction I protein. There-
fore, leaf proteins were prefractionated to
obtain a membrane-enriched fraction rela-
tively free of fraction I protein. Similar

membrane-enriched fractions were prepared
from ditelosomic lines of wheat missing either
2Da or 6D/3 chromosome arms. Evidence was
obtained that the susceptible line has one
additional protein not found in the resistant
line or in the ditelosomic lines.

OTHER CEREAL DISEASES

Smuts

Smut was found in 73% and 64% of the
barley fields examined in the Prairie Prov-
inces in 1979 and 1980, respectively. The
levels of Ustilago nuda (Jens.) Rostr. and U.
nigra Tapke were lower in 1980 than in 1979,
whereas U. hordei (Pers.) Lagerh. was found
at the unusually high level of 20-25% in three
fields in Saskatchewan.

Different strains of U. nigra and U. nuda
were used to demonstrate that these two
barley loose smuts are more difficult to
differentiate than commonly assumed. Lab-
oratory germination is required for positive
identification.

Bromus was shown to be a new host for U.
avenae (Pers.) Rostr. and U. kolleri Wille.

The smut Ustilago aegilopsidis Picbauer,
collected on Aegilops caudata L. in Turkey
and on A. cylindrica Host in Azerbaidzhan,
was hybridized with false loose smut of barley
collected in Canada, Turkey, and Azerbaid-
zhan. Behavior of the progeny suggests that
the two smuts, pathogenic on species of
Aegilops or Hordeum, are conspecific and
could be a link between ancestral species and
the present species that are specialized on
either wheat or barley.

Foliage diseases

Breeding lines and entries in the coopera-
tive barley test were tested for resistance to
leaf stripe, net blotch, and scald. Good
resistance against scald was identified in the
recently licensed barley cultivar Johnston.

A genetic study with net blotch indicated
that the gene for resistance found in CI 9214
is different from that found in CI 5791. The
presence of modifying factors, however, may
preclude effective use of CI 9214 as a resist-
ant donor. Field inoculation of cultivars
Klages and Norbert barley with P. teres was
repeated successfully by using a mechanical
air pump to apply inoculum. The use of
plastic bags on inoculated plants to stimulate
the development of the disease was found to
have a detrimental effect on grain yield.

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN.

295

The major components of the microflora of
seed of four malting barley cultivars grown at
six Canadian locations in 1979 were deter-
mined. Differences between locations and
cultivars were noted. The cultivar Bonanza
had the cleanest seed and should be used as a
standard in future testing.

Viruses

Some of the properties of the protein and
ribonucleic acid (RNA) of oats necrotic
mottle virus (ONMV) were determined. The
molecular weights of ONMV protein and
nucleic acid were determined by polyacryl-
amide gel electrophoresis. Two bands were
consistently found on gels for the protein with
mean molecular weights of 39 800 and
29 400. It is suggested that the slow compo-
nent represents the true viral protein and that
the fast component is a breakdown product.
Glycoproteins were not detected in the virus.
When ONMV nucleic acid was run on the
gels, only one band was found with a mean
molecular weight of 2.6 x 106. Enzyme
treatments indicated that the virus contained
single-stranded RNA.

STORED PRODUCTS PROTECTION

Research on the biology and control of
pests in stored cereals and oilseeds emphasizes
the interaction of insects and microorganisms
in a dynamic storage environment. The pro-
gram includes: studies of the ecology of stored
grain; factors that limit long-term storage;
identification and quantification of insects in
stored products; influence of attractants and
feeding stimuli on insect behavior; control of
insects and mites by environmental, physical,
and chemical means; and identification and
control of mycotoxins in stored grain and
oilseeds.

Storage

The keeping quality of soybean seed, culti-
var Amsoy 71, was determined by monitoring
biotic and abiotic variables in seed lots of
13.1% and 17.3% moisture content stored at
10° and 30°C under aerobic and anaerobic
conditions for 22 wk. Seeds of both moisture
contents stored at 10°C had negligible quality
loss after 22 wk. At 30°C under anaerobic
conditions, however, fat acidity values (FAV)
increased sharply, seed viability was drasti-
cally reduced, and microorganisms developed

rapidly, thereby substantially reducing qual-
ity. The relative ratio of triglycerides did not
change during the 22-wk period. The major
postharvest microflora that developed on the
soybeans were: Pénicillium spp., Aspergillus
flavus, ascomycetes, and bacteria, particu-
larly Erwinia herbicola. The mites Aearus
farris (Oud.) and Tyrophagus putrescentiae
(Schrank) could not survive on the soybeans;
in contrast, the red flour beetle multiplied on
seeds at 30°C under aerobic conditions.

Principal component analysis was used to
determine the relative importance of changes
in wheat stored at 15.5% moisture content
and artificially infested with lesser grain
borer, rice weevil, red flour beetle, rusty grain
beetle, and sawtoothed grain beetle. Tri-
weekly and cumulative 60-wk analyses
showed that high bacterial counts were associ-
ated with high FAV. The mite Tarsonemus
granarius Lindquist, which was present ini-
tially in the grain, was positively correlated
with the storage fungi of the Aspergillus
glaucus group and Aspergillus candidus
Link. The field fungi Alternaria spp. and seed
germination were negatively related to FAV,
bacteria, and grain damage. The number of
insects was related to the presence of Asper-
gillus and negatively related to the presence
of bacteria. The combined action of the lesser
grain borer and Aspergillus spp. increased
seed damage and moisture content, thus
promoting bacterial growth, which in turn
inhibited growth of insects and molds.

In rapeseed stored at 25°C and 12.4%
moisture content, Pénicillium spp. were most
frequent after 30 days and Aspergillus versi-
color after 147 days; at 9.7% moisture
content, however, species of the Aspergillus
glaucus group were most frequent after 50
days. Guidelines for maximum safe storage
periods for farm-stored rapeseed at various
temperature and moisture levels, derived from
laboratory data, were validated with rapeseed
data collected from farm bins in Manitoba.

Small-scale field experiments were con-
ducted with rapeseed at 10.9-15.0% moisture
content to determine changes in quality.
Respiration of rapeseed during the first 7 wk
was high, and quality declined progressively
during the 65-wk storage as indicated by
decreased seed germination, increased leak-
age of seed electrolytes, and increased free
fatty acid levels. There was also an increase in
the levels of postharvest molds, Aspergillus

296

RfSIARCH MR WCII RIPORT ll>S0

candidus, A. glaucus group species, A. versi-
color, Pénicillium verrucosum var. cy-
clopium, and Wallema sebi. The results
suggested that moist rapeseed should be dried
immediately after combining, because loss in
seed quality occurs within 24 h as a result of
seed enzymatic action and Pénicillium activ-
ity.

Experiments conducted to simulate the
effect of water leakage in a grain bin of wheat
on the dynamics of the rusty grain beetle
revealed that the most beetles were obtained
after 8 wk at 27.5°C when 20 g of water was
added to 50 g of wheat. There was no
difference between adding 20 g of water
initially or adding 5 g per week for 4 wk.

Mycotoxins

Fusarium trichothecene toxins at levels of
approximately 6 ppm were discovered in a
sample of Fusarium-inÎQCiQé wheat from
Ontario, submitted by the Grain Inspection
Division of the Canadian Grain Commission.
Subsequent mass spectrometry analysis of
other samples in Agriculture Canada's Ot-
tawa facilities confirmed the presence of
vomitoxin and resulted in a temporary em-
bargo of this crop.

Laboratory studies were conducted to ex-
amine the natural formation of ochratoxin A,
a potent nephrotoxin, in 1 -kg parcels of wheat
at 20.5% moisture content, at various temper-
atures. After 10 wk of storage, 8 ppb was
formed at 15°C and more than 24 ppb at
22°C. Strains of Pénicillium verrucosum var.
cyclopium were associated with the produc-
tion of this toxin.

Biology

An energy budget was determined for the
sawtoothed grain beetle reared singly on
rolled oats at 30 ± 1°C and 80 ± 2% relative
humidity. The mean energy content of a
rolled oat is 310 J. It was estimated that 31 1
J/individual were ingested during an 80-day
life-span. The highest rate of oxygen con-
sumption (1.38 /xL/individual per day) occur-
red on the eighth day of the life cycle. It was
estimated that a female adult consumes 273 J
in 60 days and expends 107 J in egg produc-
tion, 1 35 J in respiration, and 1 2 J as feces.

Studies with the larger grain borer showed
that although this species is capable of
developing into a serious pest of stored corn in
mild climatic regions of Canada, it is unable
to reproduce on stored wheat seeds, cultivar

Neepawa. Oviposition occurred on ground
wheat or corn at 18-32°C at 70% relative
humidity. Maximum lifetime production of
200 eggs per female occurred at 27 and 30°C.
The lowest temperature at which adults
developed normally over a period of 85 days
was 20°C. The shortest mean developmental
period was 25.4 ± 0.2 days at 32°C, 70%
relative humidity.

Adult rusty grain beetles were found to
exhibit a powerful geotactic response result-
ing in downward movement in wheat-filled
containers. When beetles were introduced at
the top of a 250-cm column of wheat, signifi-
cantly more beetles were found in the bottom
25 cm after 3 days than anywhere else in the
column. When moisture was added to a 10-cm
layer midway down the column, 91% of the
beetles congregated after 7 days in either the
moist wheat or in the 5-cm layer immediately
below. Knowledge of these behavioral re-
sponses is helpful in locating insects in grain
bins.

A survey of more than 1000 residences was
conducted in Winnipeg in 1980 to determine
the incidence, distribution, and economic
importance of the merchant grain beetle as an
urban household pest. About 13.5% of single-
family residences and 19.3% of multiple
dwellings were, or had been, infested with this
species. The percentage of infested apart-
ments increased by 1 .3% since 1971.

Control

Field experiments with rapeseed cultivar
Tower, stored in a farm granary in which
bromophos with active ingredient (ai) at 0.5
g/m2 had been applied to the floor and walls
prior to storage, showed that after 16 wk
bromophos residues ranged from 0.1 ppm in
rapeseed samples taken from the center of the
bulk to 2.6 ppm in floor samples. After a
further 36 wk of storage, bromophos residues
in floor samples contained 3.5 ppm. Labora-
tory studies showed that uptake of bromophos
by wheat or rapeseed was higher from wood
surfaces than from concrete (P < 0.01);
uptake of bromophos was higher in rapeseed
than in wheat; and both wheat and rapeseed
had higher affinities for bromophos than for
malathion. The persistence of these chemicals
on plywood surfaces was influenced by the
type of abrasion applied after treatment.
Persistence of malathion emulsified concen-
trate (EC) and wettable powder (WP) was
significantly extended by the abrasive action

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG, MAN.

297

of a broom over the surface, whereas the
persistence of malathion EC and WP, bromo-
phos EC and WP, and iodofenphos EC was
significantly reduced by abrasion with wheat
kernels.

Wheat was treated with malathion EC to
provide a deposit of 8 ppm prior to storage at
seven temperatures from -35 to 27°C. Mala-
thion degraded by <3% during 72 wk of
storage at -20 or -35°C, but the degradation
process increased progressively as the temper-
ature was increased with losses of 26, 61, 74,
95, and 96% from initial deposits in wheat
stored at -5, 5, 10, 20, and 27°C, respectively,
after 72 wk.

The effectiveness of carbon dioxide, pro-
duced from Dry Ice, for the control of the
hairy mite, Lepidoglyphus destructor
(Schrank), was determined in a column of
wheat 179 cm high and 30 cm in diameter.
When carbon dioxide concentrations of 1 300—
1800 mg/L were maintained for 9 days, all
adult and nymphal stages of the mite were
killed at all depths except near the surface.
However, a number of hypopi formed during
fumigation emerged as adults after they were
removed from the wheat and exposed to
normal atmosphere. Thus it appears that C02
would be ineffective as a fumigant.

CROP PROTECTION

Research on insect pests of oilseed and field
crops emphasizes the development and imple-
mentation of better methods of pest manage-
ment to avoid or reduce damage. The pro-
gram includes field testing insecticides,
developing and testing techniques for moni-
toring and predicting pest abundance and
crop damage, and investigating methods of
improving nonchemical control of pests. These
programs are supported by research on sam-
pling techniques, survival, development, phe-
nology, host selection, induction and termina-
tion of diapause, overwintering strategies,
reproductive biology, and biochemical bases
of neurotransmission.

Sunflower beetle

Phorate and cloethocarb were effective as
in-furrow granular treatments for the control
of sunflower beetles on sunflowers. This
confirms the results of previous tests with
phorate and emphasizes the critical impor-
tance of correct placement of granular insecti-
cides in attaining effective control. The

synthetic pyrethroids, decamethrin, cyper-
methrin, and fenvalerate, were effective as
postemergence foliar sprays in the control of
adults of the sunflower beetle.

Pea aphid

In cooperation with scientists from the
Morden Research Station, preliminary
studies were conducted on the role of pea
aphid as a vector of seed-borne mosaic virus.
A survey of commercial pea fields showed
that although aphid populations were very low
in the early part of the summer, the aphid
populations in more than half the fields
exceeded the accepted economic threshold.
Both sweep net and foliage samples gave
satisfactory estimates of aphid density.

Cutworms

An integrated control program against the
strawberry cutworm was developed for and
implemented by strawberry growers in Mani-
toba. Registration was obtained for the use of
Lorsban 4C on strawberries, and its use gave
90% control of the cutworm larvae. The early
application of spray permitted the develop-
ment of a natural parasite complex, which
destroyed 20% of the remaining larval popula-
tion; delaying fall tilling until after moth
flights in September destroyed 78% of the
eggs laid by surviving moths. A second
insecticide, Supracide 25EC, gave good con-
trol but was less effective than Lorsban 4C.

Experimental manipulation of photoperiod
and temperature failed to induce diapause in
any stage of the armyworm. It was concluded
that the armyworm could not overwinter in
Manitoba, because at no stage of development
was this pest found to survive exposure of
more than 2 wk at 0°C.

Sex attractant trapping has shown that the
clover cutworm is normally present and quite
abundant in Manitoba, despite the difficulty
of locating larvae. In 1980, the first recorded
outbreaks of this species were reported on
various broad-leaved crops in southern Mani-
toba. Insecticidal spraying was required, and
some fields were destroyed by the feeding of
the larvae. Catch data from sex attractant
traps were highly variable, indicating that the
usefulness of traps may be restricted to
predicting larval abundance within fields
adjacent to them.

298

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Red turnip beetle

A study of the effect of overwintering
temperature on survival of red turnip beetle
eggs showed that after 200 days of exposure,
all eggs survived at -5 and -10°C, none
survived at -20°C, and 58.5% and 73.4%
survived at 0°C and -15°C, respectively. The
data suggest that the eggs are able to with-
stand cold temperatures for long periods and
that overwintering mortality caused by cold
temperatures normally is not an important
factor in the population dynamics of the
beetle.

Flea beetles

The extremely hot dry weather in the
spring and early summer of 1980 caused
delayed and sporadic germination of rape and
increased the movement of flea beetles, fol-
lowed by their concentration on patches of
suitable food. A sticky-trap warning system to
anticipate invasion levels of flea beetles in
rapeseed was tested at five locations in
Manitoba. Although the drought and very
high beetle densities throughout the province
interfered with the test, the data obtained
revealed that the method is not sufficiently
precise to apply to commercial operations.

Exposing caged rape seedlings to very high
flea beetle densities (up to 3500/m2) for up to
4 days did not cause a reduction in their
subsequent yield, either from adults feeding
on foliage or from larvae feeding on roots.
Protecting the germinating rape and the
young seedlings from adult flea beetle attack
for different times and at different periods of
growth indicated that damage by adults
continued for 15-20 days, most of it inflicted
between 5 and 10 days after germination.
Because most damage results from the killing
of plants at the cotyledon stage, an adequate
crop can be produced if at least 45 late
germinating seedlings per square metre are
protected from beetle attack, and survive.
This occurs because there is little correlation
between plant densities above 45 and seed
yield, when yield per plant decreases as plant
density increases.

Despite the low soil-moisture conditions
early in the summer, the use of in-furrow
granular insecticides resulted in better plant
development and higher yields of rapeseed
than other insecticides tested. New granular
formulations of aldicarb and cloethocarb
compared well with carbofuran and warrant
further testing. Seed dressings lacked the

persistence to provide protection much beyond
the period of seedling emergence and allowed
flea beetles to cause severe plant damage and
retarded development. No outstanding new
seed dressings were identified, but some
entries will be retested in a year of less
extreme weather. Postemergence foliar sprays
were generally ineffective, except for de-
camethrin, a new entry among the synthetic
pyrethroids. This failure was a result of
damage having occurred before spraying and
the short residual effect of these sprays.

It has been established that rapeseed yields
in Manitoba average about 15% higher when
carbofuran is used as an in-furrow granular
treatment than when lindane is used as a seed
treatment or postemergence foliar sprays are
applied. In addition, yields are usually not
significantly enhanced by seed treatments or
sprays when compared with nontreated con-
trols.

A further 653 adults of Microctonus
bicolor, a European parasite of flea beetles,
were released in the attempt to increase
parasitism. Over 5000 adults of the flea beetle
Phyllotreta striolata (F.) and smaller num-
bers of Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze) and
Psy Modes punctulata Melsh. were collected
and reared, but there was no evidence that the
European parasite, released in small numbers
in 1978 and 1979, had become established.

Medium- and small-plot systems were
tested as a means of screening genetic lines of
crucifers for seedling resistance to flea beetle
damage. A single-row system with sequential
seeding of groups of replicates revealed
moderate to high levels of resistance to
seedling damage in some lines.

Survival of overwintering flea beetles in
riverbank forest litter was found to be very
high: nearly 100% for P. striolata and about
80% for P. cruciferae.

Continuous culture of flea beetles under
laboratory conditions is extremely difficult.
Egg production was measured for flea beetles
collected in the field in late summer and
conditioned for storage at 2°C by maintaining
an 8:16 h light-to-dark cycle and by decreas-
ing the rearing temperatures. Viable eggs
were produced at a rate of 1.2 per female per
day for a 2-wk period from groups of 200
adults caged over rapeseed seedlings. Egg
productivity was not affected by storing
females at 2°C for up to 30 wk.

RESEARCH STATION, WINNIPEG. MAN.

299

Bertha armyworm

The techniques previously developed to
detect and predict the location and severity of
bertha armyworm infestations were tested
and gave excellent results. Sex attractant
traps were placed at 13 locations in Manitoba.
Those locations with less than 25 moths per
trap did not develop damaging larval infesta-
tions. Early larval surveys taken at the
locations producing higher catches confirmed
the abundance of larvae and enabled an early
warning to be issued to growers. Subse-
quently, spraying was restricted to about 3200
ha of rape in the areas where damaging
infestations were predicted.

Collections made during the late larval
stages showed a 33% mortality from parasites
and diseases, and 50% survival to healthy
pupae. This indicates a high potential for
increased populations in 1981. The overwin-
tering survival of pupae can be estimated
from the duration of their exposure to low soil
temperatures. Equations have been developed
and are currently being tested for predicting
soil temperatures in rape fields from air
temperature and snow cover.

The effect of different levels oï bertha
armyworm infestations was determined in
farm fields by estimating larval density in the
field and then protecting part of the field from
aerial spraying. Spraying did not significantly
increase yields in fields with initial larval
densities of 10-30/m2 because of high varia-
bility in the yield of the small sample plots. In
fields with larval densities of 63-1 50/m2, the
differences in yield were significant, and the
average loss per larva was 0.319 g, similar to
the 0.325 g/larva estimated in previous cage
trials.

A dose-effect test of Dipel, an insecticide
based on Bacillus thuringiensis formulation,
was run on fifth and sixth instar larvae of the
bertha armyworm. Feeding inhibition was
observed, but there was little kill except at
very high doses. Thus, it was predicted and
confirmed that applications of 0.45 kg/ha
would not reduce damage sufficiently to
increase seed yield.

Neurophysiology

Octopamine has been identified as a major
neurotransmitter in the central nervous sys-
tem of insects, opening the way for research

and development of new insecticides that
block or interfere with the octopaminergic
system.

Taurine, a putative inhibitory neurotrans-
mitter, was studied in detail in the brain,
blood, and whole body of the bertha army-
worm during larval growth, and diapause and
postdiapause development. The study re-
vealed a close correlation between taurine and
certain developmental events that occur dur-
ing metamorphosis. No correlation, however,
was evident between the induction of diapause
and levels of taurine occurring in the larval
brain during diapause induction. Feeding
taurine to the larvae did not reverse the
induction of diapause, and it was therefore
concluded that manipulation of taurine in the
larval stage is not likely to affect the dia-
pause-triggering mechanism.

Grasshoppers

In 1980, approximately 30 350 ha were
sprayed to control grasshoppers, a fourfold
increase from 1979. The adult survey, con-
ducted in the fall of 1980, showed that the
infested area had increased slightly from the
previous year. Nevertheless, population densi-
ties are expected to be lower in 1981. The
largest area of infestation was in the south
central part of Manitoba, extending south
from Neepawa and Gladstone. Infestations
were light except for two small areas of
moderate infestation. The second largest area
infested was east of the Red River and
covered most of the municipalities of De
Salaberry and Franklin. Infestations ranged
from light to moderate. A smaller, light-to-
moderate infestation was present in the area
extending from Brandon, south and east to
Rathwell between the Assiniboine River and
Highway 2. Three areas of light infestation
were located in the Red River Valley west of
the Red River.

Infestations in the Red River Valley were
mainly along roadsides, where the dominant
species was the twostriped grasshopper, Mela-
noplus bivittatus (Say). In the south central
area, pastures, hay land, and some roadsides
were infested, and the clearwinged grasshop-
per, Camnula pellucida (Scudder), was
dominant.

300

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1 1>S0

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Abramson, D.; Sinha, R. N.; Mills, J. T. 1980.
Mycotoxin and odor formation in moist cereal
grain during granary storage. Cereal Chem.
57:346-351.

Ayre, G. L. 1980. The biology and life history of
the cutworm Amphipoea interoceanica (Lepi-
doptera: Noctuidae), a new pest of strawberry
in Manitoba. Can. Entomol. 1 1 2: 1 27- 1 30.

Bodnaryk, R. P. 1980. Changes in brain octo-
pamine levels during metamorphosis of the
moth Mamestra configurera Wlk. Insect Bio-
chem. 10:169-173.

Brown, P. D.; McKenzie, R. I. H.; Mikaelsen, K.
1980. Agronomic, genetic, and cytologic evalu-
ation of a vigorous new semidwarf oat. Crop
Sci. 20:303-306.

Chong, J.; Harder, D. E. 1980. Ultrastructure of
haustorium development in Puccinia coronata
avenae I. Cytochemistry and electron probe
X-ray analysis of the haustorial neck ring.
Can. J. Bot. 58:2496-2505.

Dexter, J. E.; Matsuo, R. R.; Kosmolak, F. G.;
Leisle, D.; Marchylo, B. A. 1980. The suitabil-
ity of the SDS-sedimentation test for assessing
gluten strength in durum wheat. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:25-29.

Gavrechenkov, Y. D.; Sinha, R. N. 1980. Keeping
quality of soybeans stored under aerobic and
anaerobic conditions. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:1087-1099.

Gill, C. C. 1980. Assessment of losses on spring
wheat, naturally infected with barley yellow
dwarf virus. Plant Dis. 64:197-203.

Gill, C. C. 1980. Some properties of the protein and
nucleic acid of oat necrotic mottle virus. Can.
J. Plant Pathol. 2:86-89.

Harder, D. E.; McKenzie, R. I. H.; Martens, J. W.
1980. Inheritance of crown rust resistance in
three accessions of Avena sterilis L. Can. J.
Genet. Cytol. 22:27-33.

Kerber, E. R.; Green, G. J. 1980. Suppression of
stem rust resistance in the hexaploid wheat cv.
Canthatch by chromosome 7DL. Can. J. Bot.
58:1347-1350.

Kosmolak, F. G.; Crowle, W. L. 1980. An effect of
nitrogen fertilization on the agronomic traits
and dough mixing strength of five Canadian
hard red spring wheat cultivars. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1071-1076.

Kosmolak, F. G.; Dexter, J. E.; Matsuo, R. R.;
Leisle, D.; Marchylo, B. A. 1980. A relation-
ship between durum wheat quality and gliadin
electrophoregrams. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:427-
432.

Lamb, R. J. 1980. Hairs protect pods of mustard
(Brassica hirta 'Gisilba") from flea beetle
feeding damage. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1439-
1440.

Loschiavo, S. R. 1980. An insect bioassay to
evaluate feed barley of different lysine content.
J. Sci. Food Agric. 31:351-354.

Mills, J. T. 1980. Quality changes occurring in
small lots of dry and moist rapeseed during
storage. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:831-839.

Mills, J. T.; Sinha, R. N. 1980. Safe storage periods
for farm-stored rapeseed based on mycological
and biochemical assessment. Phytopathology
70:541-547.

Muir, W. E.; Sinha, R. N.; Wallace, H. A. H.;
Sholberg, P. O. 1980. Emergency farm struc-
tures for storing grain — A multidisciplinary
evaluation. Trans. Am. Soc. Agric. Eng.
23:208-217.

Noll, J. S.; Czarnecki, E. 1980. Methods of extend-
ing the testing period for harvest-time dor-
mancy in wheat. Cereal Res. Commun. 8:233-
238.

Tekauz, A.; Chiko, A. W. 1980. Leaf stripe of
barley caused by Pyrenophora graminea: Oc-
currence in Canada and comparisons with
barley stripe mosaic. Can. J. Plant Pathol.
2:152-158.

Turnock, W. J.; Gerber, G. H.; Sabourin, D. U.
1980. An evaluation of the use of elytra and
bodies in X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopic
studies of the red turnip beetle, Entomoscelis
americana (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Can.
Entomol. 112:609-614.

White, N. D. G.; Sinha, R. N. 1980. Canonical
correlation analysis of interactions in insect-
infested stored wheat. Environ. Entomol.
9:106-112.

White, N. D. G.; Sinha, R. N. 1980. Changes in
stored-wheat ecosystems infested with two
combinations of insect species. Can. J. Zool.

58:1524-1534.

White, N. D. G.; Sinha, R. N. 1980. Principal
component analysis of interrelations in stored
wheat ecosystems infested with multiple spe-
cies of insects. Res. Popul. Ecol. 22:33-50.

RESEARCH STATION. WINNIPEG, MAN.

301

Van der Broek, L. J.; Gill, C. C. 1980. The median
latent periods for three isolates of barley yellow
dwarf virus in aphid vectors. Phytopathology
70:644-646.

Wylie, H. G. 1980. Color variability among females
of Microctonus vittatae (Hymenoptera: Bra-
conidae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:771-774.

Wylie, H. G. 1980. Factors affecting facultative
diapause of Microctonus vittatae (Hymenop-
tera: Braconidae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:747-749.

Miscellaneous

Bendelow, V. M. 1979. Winnipeg Research Station
Increases Laboratory Output. Technicon Ind.
Syst. News 5(1).

Chiko, A. W. 1980. Barley stripe mosaic in Mani-
toba in 1978. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60:1 1-12.

Green, G. J.; Johnson, T.; Conners, I. L. 1980.
Pioneer leaders in plant pathology: J. H.
Craigie. Annu. Rev. Phytopathol. 18:19-25.

Harder, D. E.; Chong, J. 1980. Ultrastructure of
haustorium development in the cereal rusts.
Proceedings 5th Meeting of the European and
Mediterranean Cereal Rusts Foundation, Bari
and Rome, Italy.

Kosmolak, F. G.; Kerber, E. R. 1980. Marquis-K
cultivar standard for wheat gliadin electropho-
resis. Wheat Newsl. 26:51.

Leisle, D.; Kosmolak, F. G.; Kovacs, M. 1980.
Durum wheat quality. Wheat Newsl. 26:50.

McKenzie, R. I. H.; Gill, C. C; Martens, J. W.;
. Harder, D. E. 1980. Oats in Western Canada
in 1979. Oat Newsl. 30:70.

Mills, J. T. 1980. Bin fires: A case history. Country
Guide (Aug.). pp. 27-28.

Mills, J. T.; Frydman, C. 1980. Mycoflora and
condition of grains from overwintered fields in
Manitoba, 1977-1978. Can. Plant Dis. Surv.
60:1-7.

Nielsen, J. J.; Thomas, P. L. 1979. The incidence of
smut diseases in cereals in Manitoba 1974 to
1979. Proceedings Manitoba Agronomists
Annual Conference, p. 87.

Samborski, D. J.; Green, G. J.; Martens, J. W.;
Harder, D. E. 1979. The cereal rusts in
Manitoba in 1979. Proceedings Manitoba
Agronomists Annual Conference, p. 86.

302

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Melfort, Saskatchewan

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

S. E. Beacom, B.Sc.,
W. J. Peperkorn
D. J. Ewanus, B.Sc.

M.Sc, Ph.D.

Director
Office Manager
Farm Manager

S.
S.
E.
D.

Forage Production and Utilization

J. A. Robertson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Ph.D.

E. Beacom, B.Sc, M.Sc
Bittman, B.Sc, M.Sc
Z. Jan, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. McCartney, B.Sc, M.Sc

Vacant

J. Waddington, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader; Beef cow
management, pasture utilization
Utilization of harvested forages
Forage crop production
Forage harvesting systems
Beef cow management systems
Ruminant nutrition, forage
utilization
Forage ecology and weed control

Cereal, Oilseed, and Special Crop Production and Utilization

K. E. Bowren, B.S.A.
A. G. Castell, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.
L. H. Gutek, B.Sc., M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. F. Nuttall, B.S.A. , M.Sc, Ph.D.

Program Leader; Crop production
Crop utilization, swine nutrition
Crop evaluation and agronomy
Soil fertility

Departures

A. G. Castell, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Crop utilization, swine nutrition

Transferred to Brandon Research Station, August

1980
L. H. Gutek, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Crop evaluation and agronomy

Resigned December 1980
S. O. Thorlacius, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Ruminant nutrition

Died April 1980

RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT. SASK.

303

INTRODUCTION

Scientists at the Melfort Station are involved in the development of forage production and
utilization systems designed to provide beef cattle producers with an alternative to expensive
feed grains and to encourage greater use of forage crops in rotations, in the interest of better
land management; the improvement of the long-term production efficiency of cereal, oilseed,
and special crops; and the development of efficient cow-calf management systems in the
northern park belt.

The transfer of Dr. Castell and the swine nutrition (crop utilization) program to the
Brandon Station and the sudden passing of Dr. S. O. Thorlacius, our ruminant nutritionist,
adversely affected the Station's research program. Dr. Thorlacius was carrying on an excellent
program on utilizing forages and crop residues and preserving high-moisture hay. He is sadly
missed by his colleagues.

Brief summaries of some of our work are presented here. For more details, readers may
refer to the publications listed at the end of this report or may obtain a copy of our Research
Highlights by writing to the Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O.
Box 1240, Melfort, Sask. SOE 1 A0, or by telephoning (306) 752-2776.

S. E. Beacom
Director

FORAGE PRODUCTION AND
UTILIZATION

Effect of fall cutting date on yield and bud
development of alfalfa

Effects of companion crops and fertilizer on
forage yields

Bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.)
seeded in pure stands on summerfallow in six
experiments produced a 4-yr total of dry
matter (including seedling year) of 17 t/ha
from one annual harvest at the flowering
stage. Use of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
or Argentine rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) as
companion crops reduced the yield of brome-
grass by 24% and 30%, respectively.

Similarly, alfalfa (Medicago media Pers.)
produced 14 t/ha over a 4-yr period, with
yield reduced by 28% when either wheat or
Argentine rapeseed was used as a companion
crop. Bromegrass outyielded alfalfa, probably
because of the high levels of N in the
summerfallowed land.

In the first year after seeding on stubble,
alfalfa yielded 6000 kg/ha when seeded
without wheat and only marginally lower
when seeded with wheat. However, alfalfa
established with wheat fertilized with N at 50
kg/ha produced 25% less. Phosphorus or
additional N applied at time of seeding had
little effect on subsequent yield.

Fall cutting dates ranging from 15 August
to 15 October affected yield and elongation of
crown buds of cultivars Beaver, Rambler, and
Anchor in the first harvest year. Harvest
taken 1 September was 9-32% higher than on
other dates. Highest numbers of elongated
crown buds (4-5.5 per plant) were found on
plants of Anchor and Beaver harvested on 15
September and of Rambler harvested on 30
September. Number of rudimentary crown
buds (3-4 per plant) was unaffected by fall
cutting date, whereas number of branch buds
doubled (2 per plant) when cutting was
delayed to 15 October.

Evaluation of forage cultivars

Sweetclover, Melilotus officinalis L. 'Ma-
drid', yielded 24% more forage (7212 kg/ha)
and 55% more seed (1044 kg/ha) than the
recommended cultivar Yukon, which is more
winter-hardy. A low-coumarin selection from
Saskatoon Research Station (L.C. Syn.)
produced as much forage and seed as Yukon
and 49% more forage and 30% more seed than
Melilotus alba L. 'Polara'.

Meadow bromegrass, Bromus biebersteinii
Roem and Schutt 'Regar', yielded 18% less
forage than smooth bromegrass, B. inermis
'Carlton'. A new selection, S-7414, from the

304

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

Saskatoon Station nearly equaled smooth
brome in the first 2 yr of production.

Response of forage species in a community
pasture to N and P fertilizers

Nitrogen fertilizer applied at 45 and 90 kg/
ha in combination with P fertilizer at 20 kg/
ha on forage species in a community pasture
located on a Gray Luvisolic soil over a 5-yr
period increased herbage yield from 933 kg/
ha (control) to 2021 kg/ha (N at 90 kg/ha
and P at 20 kg/ha). A single application of N
at 180 kg/ha and P at 78 kg/ha every 4 yr
produced an average yield of 1738 kg/ha of
herbage per year, which was equivalent in
yield (1721 kg/ha) to N applied at 45 kg/ha
and P at 20 kg/ha applied every year.

Cow-calf management systems

A severe drought reduced length of grazing
season in 1980. Cow-days per hectare ranged
from 67.4 to 83.8 on pastures fertilized with
N and P and 53 on nonfertilized pastures.
Cow-calf gain per hectare was 113.2 kg for
fertilized rotationally grazed fields compared
with 71.9 kg for continuously grazed nonfer-
tilized fields.

Actual weaning weight for the early born
calves (January-February) was 48.5 kg
higher than for late born calves (March-
April). During the winter, early calving cows
consumed 11% more dry matter than those
calving late. A severe outbreak of calf scours
occurred; 45% of early calves and 53% of late
calves had to be treated for Rotavirus.

Remote sensing

A contract research project was conducted
by Intera Environmental Consultants of Cal-
gary to develop a method for estimating the
total biomass of a parkland-seeded commu-
nity pasture. The hue, value, and chroma of
false-color infrared photographs obtained by
aircraft and Landsat satellite were described
according to the InterSociety Color Council -
National Bureau of Standards method for
designating color. These values were related
to the dry-matter data obtained at specific
sites on the pasture. Using interpreted charac-
teristics of texture and color from 1:8000
scale false-color infrared photography, pro-
ductivity levels of 50 g/m2 could be identified
and levels of about 100 g/m2 from enlarge-
ments of Landsat imagery could be obtained.

Annual versus perennial pastures for sheep

In a 7-yr grazing experiment, in which
annual cereals (oats, barley) were compared
with perennial grass-legume mixtures
(brome-alfalfa, brome-sainfoin) as pastures
for sheep, gain per hectare was highest for
oats and bromegrass-alfalfa, both yielding
330 kg/ha. Oats provided an additional
season of grazing during the establishment
year for the perennial forages, but annual
input costs were higher.

Ammonia as a preservative for high-
moisture hay

Application of 1 or 2% (w/w) anhydrous
ammonia to high-moisture baled bromegrass
hay (31% dry matter) prevented heating and
excessive spoilage of the hay. Forage quality
did not deteriorate following removal of the
polyethylene cover 1 mo after treatment.
Crude protein content was increased from
12% (untreated control) to 18% and 21% for
the hays treated with 1% and 2% ammonia,
respectively. Application of ammonia at ei-
ther level significantly increased {P > 0.01)
digestibility of organic matter, protein, and
energy. An increase in voluntary intake of
treated hays by sheep approached significance
at the 5% level.

Effects of wild oats herbicides on seed
production of bromegrass and crested
wheatgrass

Applications of diclofop (2-[4-(2,4-dichlo-
rophenoxy)phenoxy]propanoic acid) with ac-
tive ingredient (ai) at 0.7 and 1.4 kg/ha on
established bromegrass in spring resulted in
lodging of the mature crop in 1979 and in
reduced yields of seed in 1980. Barban (4-
chloro-2-butynyl-m-chlorocarbanilate) ap-
plied at 0.5 kg ai/ha and flamprop (7V-
benzoyl-A^-[3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl]-DL-ala-
nine) applied at 1.0 kg ai/ha also reduced
seed yields in 1980, but had no effect in 1979.
None of the herbicides had any effect on
crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum
(L.) Gaertn.) in 1979, but flamprop reduced
seed yields in 1980.

The dry spring in 1980 reduced seed yields
to only 20% of the yields obtained in 1979 and
probably contributed to the enhanced effects
of the hericides in 1980.

RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT, SASK.

305

Acidulated fatty acids (AFA) for growing
and finishing steers

Adding 3% AFA (a by-product in the
manufacture of canola oil) to a ground
crested wheatgrass (78%) and rolled wheat
(20%) ration increased rate of gain (1.35
versus 1.18 kg/day) and improved the feed-
:gain ratio (6.02 versus 6.81). Also, gains in
steers were worth $20 more per head at the
end of the 84-day test.

A similar test indicated that although
implanting with Ralgro and adding 3% AFA
to the ration increased both rate of gain and
feed efficiency, the combination of treatments
gave the best results, increasing the rate of
gain from 1.29 to 1.43 kg/day and improving
feed:gain ratio from 7.10 to 6.55.

In a steer-finishing trial, adding 0, 3, 4, and
5% AFA to the ground-hay ration produced
rates of gain of 1 .38, 1 .45, 1 .53, and 1 .52 kg/
day, respectively, and feed:gain ratios of 10.2,
9.4, 8.8, and 8.9. Return per head averaged
$18 loss, $9 gain, $3 loss, and $4 gain per
head, respectively, indicating that the opti-
mum level under current price situations is
not over 3%. In the same test, adding monen-
sin (Rumensin) or Avoparcin to the ground
hay + 3% AFA ration reduced rate of gain,
feed efficiency, dressing percentage, and
carcass grades, thereby reducing returns per
head by $22 and $16, respectively.

Effect of growth-promoting implants
administered to steers fed a ration with and
without monensin

On an 80-day test, growing steer calves
receiving no monensin in a ground hay (78%)
ration gained 0.72, 0.97, and 1.20 kg/day
when receiving no implant, 36 mg of Ralgro,
and 220 mg Synovex S, respectively. Compa-
rable rate of gains were 0.88, 0.85, and 1.10
kg/day when the ration was supplemented
with 1 1 g of monensin per tonne of dry
matter.

Development of Schwarting hay tower
system

A special thrust bearing was made and
installed on the bung in the Schwarting hay
tower. This arrangement prevented the bung
from rotating with the central shaft and made
it possible to lower the bung below the hay
surface. This considerably reduced air leak-
age around the bung and thus improved
drying efficiency.

PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION

OF CEREALS AND SPECIAL

CROPS

Cultivar testing

Columbus, a new hard red spring wheat,
outyielded Neepawa by 12% over the past 3
yr. It is 3 days later in maturity but has
improved resistance to weathering in the
swath. Benito, a new cultivar, yielded slightly
less but is 1 day earlier than Neepawa.

Klondike and Johnson, six-rowed feed
barley cultivars, outyielded Bonanza, a com-
monly grown six-rowed malting cultivar, by 5
and 20%, respectively. Johnson, released
recently, has poor lodging resistance and is
late in maturity. Klages, Elrose, Summit, and
Norbert, two-rowed barley cultivars, yielded
4755, 4423, 3861, and 4479 kg/ha, respec-
tively, in comparison to Betzes, the standard
at 4300 kg/ha over the past 2 yr at three
testing sites in the area. Norbert, the newest
cultivar, has quality equal to Klages and has
better disease resistance, stronger straw, and
good kernel and test weight, and it is 2-3 days
earlier.

Altex rape was 7% lower yielding but 3-4
days earlier than Regent, the commonly
grown 0-0 B. napus rape cultivar. A selection
approved for licensing in 1980, 75G-2180,
yielded 7% higher than Altex at Melfort in
1980.

Management studies

The use of zero-till drills that leave the
stubble standing to hold snow produced 25%
higher yields than did discer seeding of winter
wheat on stubble over the past 2 yr. An
application of N at 112 kg/ha produced a
yield increase (over check) of 62% when using
the zero-till drill. In spring wheat, direct
seeding with the discer with a heavy packer
produced 18% more grain than hoe press-drill
seeding into a prepared seedbed on stubble
over the past 2 yr. A broadcast application of
N at 56 and 112 kg/ha increased the yield
with the discer by 57 and 65%, respectively.

Summerfallow studies over 15 yr have
shown that herbicides are valuable for replac-
ing tillage for weed control, reducing the
hazards of soil erosion, conserving energy, and
increasing production. Chemical summerfal-
low was the highest yielding treatment (3542
kg/ha) and normally tilled fallow the lowest
(3471 kg/ha). There was no significant dif-
ference in the moisture or nutrient status of

306

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

the soil between treatments applied to the
same plots in a fallow-wheat rotation for the
past 15 yr.

Effect of spring- versus fall-applied N
fertilizer on cultivar yields

Nitrogen was broadcast on wheat stubble at
45, 67, and 90 kg/ha in the spring and in the
fall with P applied at 20 kg/ha. Barley,
rapeseed (Brassica campestris), rapeseed
{Brassica napus), spring wheat, and flax were
included in the test.

Number of years tested, control yield, and
yields resulting from nitrogen applied in the
spring and fall were as follows: barley, 1 1 yr,
2712, 3596, and 3506 kg/ha; rapeseed {B.
campestris), 11 yr, 937, 1408, and 1311 kg/
ha; rapeseed (B. napus), 6 yr, 988, 1522, and
1428 kg/ha; wheat, 6 yr, 1884, 2677, and
2213 kg/ha; and flax, 3 yr, 1118, 1269, and
1282 kg/ha.

Cereals for growing-finishing pigs

Bonanza barley (1.78% N), Neepawa
spring (2.50% N), and Norstar winter wheats
(2.11% N) with soybean meal (SBM) (7.62%
N) or canola meal (CM) (5.70% N) were
used in six diets (Bonanza barley + 15%
SBM; Bonanza barley + 22% CM; Neepawa
Spring + 5% CM; Norstar winter wheat +
15% CM; Neepawa spring wheat + 15%

CM; and Norstar winter wheat -I- 5% CM)
fed ad libitum from 25 to 91 kg liveweight.
Among pigs fed the first four (16% crude
protein) diets, growth rates ranged from 802
g/day (Bonanza barley diets) to 732 g/day
(Neepawa spring wheat diet, P < 0.05).
Feed-to-gain ratio was best with the Bonanza
barley + CM diet (3.48:1), and pigs fed
Bonanza barley had the leanest carcasses. For
pigs fed the four wheat diets, differences
because of cultivar were minor at the same
level of dietary CM. Apparent digestibilities
of energy (77 versus 89%) and N (69 versus
86%) were lower (P < 0.05) for barley than
for wheat diets but palatability studies re-
vealed a preference for SBM over CM and
Neepawa spring wheat over Norstar winter
wheat.

Canola meal in market pig diets

Four diets (15.1, 15.6, 16.2, and 16.5%
crude protein) containing barley (1.98% N)
and CM (5.81% N) with percentage composi-
tions of 84.7 -I- 12.5, 82.2 + 15.0, 79.7 +
17.5, and 77.2 + 20.0, respectively, were fed
ad libitum to pigs from 29 to 91 kg liveweight.
Live performance and carcass measurements
were not significantly (P < 0.05) affected by
dietary level of CM but apparent digestibility
of energy was reduced (P < 0.05) in the 20%
CM diet, and CM levels exceeding 15%
adversely affected diet palatability.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Castell, A. G. 1980. Effects of restricting access to
feed, for one or two days per week, on the
performance of finishing pigs. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:131-138.

Castell, A. G. 1980. Effects of relative contributions
of cereal and Canola rapeseed meal to the
dietary protein on the performance of grow-
ing-finishing pigs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:709-
716.

Castell, A. G.; Bowren, K. E. 1980. Comparison of
barley cultivars in diets for growing-finishing
pigs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1 59-167.

Castell, A. G.; Falk, L. 1980. Effects of dietary
Canola seed on pigs performance and backfat
composition. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:795-797.

Nuttall, W. F. 1980. Effect of nitrogen and phos-
phorus fertilizers on a bromegrass and alfalfa
mixture grown under two systems of pasture
management. II. Nitrogen and phosphorus
uptake and concentration in herbage. Agron. J.
72:295-297.

Nuttall, W. F.; Cooke, D. A.; Waddington, J.;
Robertson, J. A. 1980. Effect of nitrogen and
phosphorus fertilizers on a bromegrass and
alfalfa mixture grown under two systems of
pasture management. I. Yield, percentage
legume in sward, and soil tests. Agron. J.
72:289-294.

Waddington, J. 1980. Chemical control of dande-
lion (Taraxacum officinale) and perennial
sowthistle (S one h us arvensis) in alfalfa (Medi-
cago sativa) grown for seed. Weed Sci. 28:164-
167.

RESEARCH STATION, MELFORT. SASK.

307

Miscellaneous

Beacom, S. E.; Knipfel, J. E. 1980. Feeding and
managing livestock during a feed shortage.
Agriculture Canada. 27 pp.

Bittman, S. 1980. Interviewed by Star Phoenix on
stabilizing forage production and alfalfa man-
agement in connection with drought.

Bowren, K. E. 1980. The effect of rotations on the
control of Canada thistle. Proceedings Canada
Thistle Symposium (18-19 Mar.), Regina,
Sask.

Bowren, K. E. 1980. Seeding without prior tillage
on parkbelt soils. Joint session of the Canadian
Societies of Agronomy, Soil Science, and
Agricultural Engineers, Edmonton, Alta.
(Aug.).

Bowren, K. E. 1980. Thirty abstracts and a sum-
mary on weed control in mustard and rapeseed.
Expert Committee on Weeds, Research
Report.

Bowren, K. E.; Castell, A. G. 1980. Agronomy
research at Cut Beaver, 1969-1974. Report on
a pilot agricultural development project in the
Saskatchewan River delta. Conservation and
Land Improvement Branch, Saskatchewan
Department of Agriculture. Regina, Sask., pp.
15-21.

Castell, A. G. 1980. Canola meal in diets for
growing-finishing pigs. Press release by the
Canola Council of Canada (Oct.).

Castell, A. G. 1980. Feeding alternatives. Proceed-
ings of the Manitoba Hog Seminar, Brandon,
Man. (Nov. 18).

Castell, A. G. 1980. Pig performance on diets based
on barley, spring or winter wheat. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60 (abstract).

Castell, A. G. 1980. Effects of barleyxanola meal
ratio in diets for market pigs. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60 (abstract).

Curry, P.; Waddington, J.; Knowles, R. P. 1980.
Ecology and control of the bromegrass seed
midge in Saskatchewan. Proceedings Joint
Meeting Entomological Society of Alberta and
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask.

Goplen, B. P.; Baenziger, H.; Bailey, L. D.; Gross,
A. T. H.; Hanna, M. R.; Michaud, R.;
Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J. 1980. Grow-
ing and managing alfalfa in Canada. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1705.49 pp.

Hanna, M. R.; Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J.;
Krogman, K. K. 1980. Alfalfa seed production
in southern Alberta. Mimeographed Publica-
tion, Alberta Alfalfa Seed Commission. 21 pp.

McCartney, D. H.; Waddington, J. 1980. Remote
sensing for estimation of productivity in a
parkland-seeded pasture at Pathlow, Sask.
Proceedings 9th Agricultural Working Group,
Canadian Advisory Committee on Remote
Sensing, Saskatoon, Sask.

Thomson, K. P. B.; Ahem, F. J.; Brown, R. J.;
Staenz, K.; McCartney, D. H.; Waddington, J.
1980. Spectral measurements of rangeland.
6th Canadian Symposium on Remote Sensing,
Halifax, N.S. (abstract).

Waddington, J. 1980. Research Report, Expert
Committee on Weeds, Western Canada Sec-
tion (five abstracts).

308

Rl SI-ARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Regina, Saskatchewan

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

R. Grover, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

d. i. gourlay

Vacant

H. C. Vanstone1

Acting Director
Administrative Officer
Information Officer
Library Technician

Biological Control of Weeds

P. Harris, B.S.F., D.I.C., Ph.D.

M. G. Maw, B.Sc., M.Sc.

K. Mortensen, B.Sc, Ph.D.

D. P. Peschken, B.S.A., M.Sc, Dr.Sci.Agr.

Head of Section; Biological
control — weeds
Biological control— weeds
Biological control — weeds
Biological control — weeds

Weed Ecology

A. G. Thomas, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. G. Bowes, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
L. Hume, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Weed surveys
Range weeds
Crop losses

Weed Physiology

J. H. Hunter, B.S.A., Ph.D.

A. I. Hsiao, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. I. McIntyre,2 B.Sc, Ph.D.

Acting Head of Section; Weed
control

Weed physiology
Weed physiology

Herbicide Behavior in the Environment

R. Grover, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. J. Cessna, B.A., Ph.D.

A. E. Smith, B.Sc, Ph.D., F.C.I.C.

Head of Section; Availability,
mobility, monitoring
Residues, metabolism, plants
Residues, metabolism, soils

RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK.

309

Seed Increase

G. R. Boughton, B.S.A., M.Sc.
E. D. Mallough,3 B.S.A.

Acting Head of Section; Increase
distribution and verification
Distribution

Experimental Farm, Indian Head, Sask.

W. B. Towill, B.S.A.

N. W. Holt, B.S.A., Ph.D.

Superintendent
Forage and new crops

Departures

J. R. Hay, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D., F.W.S.S.A. Director

Transferred to Research Station, Saskatoon, Sask.,

31 December 1980
B. C. Guild, B.H.Ec. Information Officer

Resigned 15 August 1980

VISITING SCIENTIST

B. Frick, B.Sc.
Graduate student

Weed ecology

'Seconded from Libraries Division. Finance and Administration Branch.

:On transfer of work program from August 1980.

-Seconded to a Canadian International Development Agency project in Tanzania. 2 yr, 1979.

310

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

INTRODUCTION

This report outlines the work done in 1980 at the Experimental Farm at Indian Head and
the Research Station at Regina.

The Indian Head establishment is operated as a substation. The program evaluates new
cultivars of cereal, forage, oilseed, and pulse crops for adaptability to conditions in
southeastern Saskatchewan. Management research designed to increase efficiency of
production of those crops is also conducted, as well as long-term rotation experiments.

The Regina Research Station is the center for weed control research in Canada. Four
programs, biological control, weed physiology, weed ecology, and herbicide behavior in the
environment, are under way. In 1980, Dr. Jim Hay left the Station to take up the position of
the Director at the Research Station, Saskatoon. Miss Betty Guild, the Information Officer,
also left to join the noon-hour agricultural program on CBC Radio. Dr. Knud Mortensen, a
plant pathologist, has joined the staff to investigate the possibility of using host-specific diseases
of weeds as a means of biological control.

The facilities at Regina and Indian Head are also used to increase and distribute breeder
seed and seed of new cultivars of cereal, forage, oilseed, and pulse crops developed by the
Branch.

Only a portion of the results are reported here. More can be obtained from the scientists at
the following address: Research Station, Agriculture Canada, 5000 Wascana Parkway, P.O.
Box 440, Regina, Sask. S4P 3A2.

R. G rover
Acting Director

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
Leafy spurge

A small release of a leafy spurge root-
boring beetle, Oberea erythrocephala
Schrank, made by transplanting infested
plants in Saskatchewan in October 1979,
produced some survivors in 1980. Larger
releases using adult beetles were made in the
summer of 1980 in Saskatchewan and Al-
berta. At one site, larvae became established
in only 4% of the stems with oviposition
punctures, 16% at another, and 59% at the
third site.

Feeding tests on the spurge moth, Clepsis
strigana Hb., showed that it would feed
indiscriminately on a diverse range of plants
and hence it is not suitable for introduction as
a biocontrol agent. Tests are currently under
way on two other spurge moths, Minoa
murinata (Scop.) and Lobesia occidentis
Falk.

Knapweed

The colony of the root-boring beetle Sphe-
noptera jugoslavica continued to increase on
diffuse knapweed in British Columbia.

Stenodes straminea (Haw.), a moth that
attacks both the roots and seed heads of

spotted knapweed, also developed on safflower
and globe artichoke in feeding tests and so it
is unsuitable for introduction as a biocontrol
agent.

Canada thistle

The stem-mining weevil, Ceutorhynchus
litura (F.), has been established on Canada
thistle in a range of climates across Canada,
but the loss of eggs and larvae from spring
cultivation prevents the establishment of
dense populations on cultivated land. In an
Ontario pasture, the weevils mined 77-91% of
the stems during the past 5 yr; but even this
level of attack did not stress the thistle enough
to reduce density below the original six to
eight stems per square metre.

The stem gall fly, Urophora cardui L.,
spread to over 1000 ha from a release site in
New Brunswick, but galls were found on only
6% of the stems.

St. JohnVwort

The aphid Aphis chloris Koch was released
on St. John's-wort in August 1979 near
Cranbrook, B.C., but the colony disappeared
shortly afterward. Further releases were made
in May 1980, and a strong breeding colony
was established.

RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK.

311

The moth Anaitis plagiata was released in
the summer of 1980 near Cranbrook, B.C.,
and two adults were caught in September
about 3 km away from the release point.

Field bindweed

Three beetles, Chirda guttata Oliv., Metri-
ona purpurata Boh., and Chelymorpha cassi-
dae Fab., collected in Saskatchewan, were
released near Medicine Hat, Alta., but none
were recovered in 1980.

Absinth

A survey of the abundance and distribution
of absinth in Saskatchewan showed that the
weed was spreading from several centers, all
associated with settlement from central Eu-
rope. It was concluded that the present
abundance of the weed did not warrant
biological control.

WEED ECOLOGY

Weed surveys and crop losses

The analysis of questionnaire data from the
1979 Manitoba provincial survey indicated
that 89% of the surveyed area had received a
herbicide treatment for the control of broad-
leaved weeds and 64% had been treated for
the control of grassy weeds. Only 10% of the
surveyed area did not receive a herbicide
treatment. The herbicide 2,4-D, either alone
or as part of a mixture, was applied to 32% of
the surveyed area. About 70% of the 2,4-D
applied was the amine 80 formulation. Pro-
ducers indicated in the questionnaire that
they considered wild oats, green foxtail, wild
mustard, Canada thistle, and wild buckwheat
to be their worst weed problems.

A survey of crop losses from weeds in 18
wheat fields was conducted in two soil types
near Regina. A comparison of hand-weeded
and unweeded plots indicated yield losses
(15.5%) on loam soil were higher than the
losses (4.5%) on heavy clay soil. Out of the 18
fields examined, 10 had no detectable crop
loss.

A survey of weeds of field peas in northeast-
ern Saskatchewan indicated that stinkweed,
wild oats, volunteer rapeseed, lambVquar-
ters, shepherd's-purse, Canada thistle, and
perennial sow-thistle were the most abundant
weeds remaining in the fields in August. Plots

established in 22 fields revealed that competi-
tion from weeds resulted in an average yield
reduction of 15% (range 0-49%).

Rangeland ecology

The lack of available moisture during 1980
prevented the successful establishment of
alfalfa when it was seeded directly into
herbicide-treated sod. Alfalfa seeds failed to
germinate and glyphosate failed to control the
resident vegetation. However, when adequate
moisture became available during August, a
uniform stand of alfalfa was established. This
may have occurred because of modifications
made to the direct-seeding drill. Packer
wheels placed behind the disc openers pressed
the sod close to the alfalfa seeds.

In moist years, the yield of bromegrass is
reduced by the rate of tebuthiuron required to
control brush. However, during the dry 1980
season, the yield of bromegrass on tebuthiu-
ron-treated plots was either higher or similar
to the control.

When 2,4-D was applied once in 1978,
three times in 1979, and three times in 1980
to control leafy spurge, it reduced the shoot
weight of leafy spurge 62% and increased the
yield of forage threefold. Thus, continued use
of one to three applications per year of 2,4-D
is required to maintain high forage yields and
reduce leafy spurge biomass.

Population biology of weeds

Bluebur plants that have not been vernal-
ized rarely become reproductive. When vege-
tative rosettes were transferred in late No-
vember from the field to the growth chamber,
they all produced viable seed. A controlled-
environment experiment indicated that moist
seed was the most responsive stage to the
vernalization treatment. A minimum of 4 wk
at 2°C is required for a distinct response. Seed
was buried in a cultivated field in late
November and retrieved at regular intervals
until spring. Only a few of the plants (< 1 7%)
that were grown from the seed retrieved
during the first 18 wk flowered under control-
led conditions. During the next 2 wk the seed
sprouted in the field. When these germinated
seeds were retrieved and grown, 96% of the
plants flowered.

312

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

WEED PHYSIOLOGY

Seed dormancy in prickly lettuce

Prickly lettuce seeds germinated 34% in the
dark at 18°C. Gibberellic acid (GA) was
effective in inducing maximum germination.
Red light (R) and far-red light (FR) induced
65% and 13% germination, respectively. Re-
peated reversibility of response by R and FR
is clear evidence of control by phytochrome.
After 14 days of dark moist storage, the
promotive effect of GA, R, and R + GA had
decreased dramatically. Thus, dark moist
storage treatment interferes not only with
the phytochrome-independent germination
process, but it may also decrease the effec-
tiveness of endogenous gibberellins. It is
concluded that actions of GA require residual
active form of phytochrome for initiation of
germination, and vice versa, and that both
exogenous GA and R or fluorescent light are
required for germination when both endoge-
nous hormones and active form of phyto-
chrome in prickly lettuce seeds are below
threshold levels.

loss, the 5-yr average is 3%, with maximum
observed loss approaching 7%.

Persistence in soils

For the third year, the soil persistence of
May treatments of EPTC (4 kg/ha) and
propanil (1 kg/ha) was studied at three field
locations. Overall assessment of the 3-yr study
is that propanil does not persist in the top 10
cm of soil and is completely degraded over a
single growing season. Carry-over of EPTC in
the top 15 cm of soil at the end of a growing
season is less than 5%.

The presence of MCPA in MCPB-treated
soils has been established. Although MCPA
has been suspected as being a soil metabolite,
this is the first report of its confirmed
presence.

Herbicide residues in minor crops

Residues of trifluralin and metribuzin in
fababeans, when treated with a preemergence
tank mix application, were found to be less
than the limit of detection (20 ppb) of the
analytical methodology.

HERBICIDE BEHAVIOR IN THE
ENVIRONMENT

Air monitoring studies

Polyurethane foam plugs were used to
collect airborne residues of triallate and
trifluralin from 1 May to 15 November at
Regina and Melfort. In general, triallate
residues were found daily at both sites and the
maximum concentrations were 40 ng/m3 on
27 May at Melfort and 36 ng/m3 on 15 July
at Regina, the Regina results being reflective
of the dry spring and early summer condi-
tions. Airborne residues of trifluralin were
detected daily at Melfort, the highest concen-
tration being 35 ng/m3 on 6 October, suggest-
ing perhaps a high use of this herbicide in the
fall. Little or no airborne residues of triflura-
lin were found at the Regina monitoring site.

Surface runoff losses of 2,4-D

A first of its kind 5-yr study on the surface
runoff losses of fall-applied 2,4-D has been
completed. The magnitude of loss was a
function of runoff volume, as expressed by the
equation: y = 0.45, jc = 2.45 (r2 = 0.97),
where y is the amount of herbicide in the
runoff (grams per hectare) and jc is the runoff
volume (millimetres). In terms of percentage

CROP MANAGEMENT

Long-term crop rotation studies

In 23 consecutive years, the continuous
production of unfertilized wheat has produced
an average yield of 102.8 kg/ha compared
with 1653 kg/ha for crops fertilized with N
and P at 84.0 and 44.8 kg/ha, respectively.
Over the life of the trial, yields have fluctu-
ated widely, reflecting annual rainfall pat-
terns.

Continuous cropping of wheat has given
rise to serious weed infestations. In particular,
Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop.),
green foxtail (Setaria viridis (L.) Beauv.),
thyme-leaved spurge {Euphorbia serpyllifolia
Pers.), and wild buckwheat {Polygonum
convolvulus L.) have been found difficult to
control in most crop years. Weed kinds and
numbers varied in response to soil fertility,
with thistles and spurge finding greatest
adaptation on soils that were deficient in N
and P.

The continuous cropping of wheat, flax, and
barley, with and without chemical fertilizers,
has been under study for 12 yr, during which
time wheat and barley failed to produce in 1
yr (1980) and flax in 2 yr (1974, 1980). Over
the life of the test, unfertilized wheat and

RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK.

313

barley averaged 23.1 and 28.3 kg/ha over an
1 1-yr period, whereas flax produced an aver-
age of 13.2 kg/ha over 10 crop years. Chemi-
cal fertilizer applied banded, with N at 100.0
kg/ha and P at 44.8 kg/ha, increased average
wheat yields by 106.0%, barley by 122.9%,
and flax by 81.1%.

The production of wheat on fallow with
phosphatic fertilizer has averaged 41.2 kg/ha
over the past 23-yr period, some 9.3% higher
than for nonfertilized crop. Fertilized crop
grown in a fallow-wheat-wheat sequence has
averaged 42.3 and 28.9 kg/ha, respectively,
over the same period, the stubble crop yield-
ing 32.2% less than for wheat on fallow.

Although it is evident that continuous
cropping of wheat can provide yields equal to
wheat on fallow on a cultivated hectarage
basis, its long-term practice is hampered by
inadequate weed-control measures, inability
to incorporate trash, and periodic moisture
constraints in southeastern Saskatchewan.

Protein analysis of wheat has shown that
the protein content is higher when wheat is
grown in a mixed rotation with legumes.
Fallow and stubble wheat from an 8-yr mixed
sequence averaged 14.68% and 13.10% pro-
tein, compared to 10.53% for wheat produced
in a fallow-wheat rotation. Under continuous
cropping, wheat averaged 10.68% protein.

Nonprotein nitrogen in grain legumes

Seed samples of nine grain legume species
contained 16-75 mg nonprotein nitrogen and
1 7-32 mg of nucleic acid nitrogen per gram of
total nitrogen. The corresponding ranges for

one species of field peas were 27-72 and 25-
32 mg/g total nitrogen, respectively. The total
nonprotein nitrogen was 3.6-5.7% of the total
seed nitrogen. When a nitrogen-to-protein
factor is used to calculate protein, that factor
should be corrected for the nonprotein
nitrogen.

SEED INCREASE AND
DISTRIBUTION

In 1980, Agriculture Canada released to
SeCan 43 627 kg of Fidler oats, 8374 kg of
Johnston barley, and 11 810 kg of Columbus
wheat, which were increased at Regina; and
8144 kg of Gordon winter wheat, 1257 kg of-
Manor buckwheat, and 231 kg of Musketeer
tall rye, which were increased at other loca-
tions. Breeder seed of 37 varieties was re-
leased to 475 growers.

A 7.3-ha winter nursery in California was
used by 26 breeders. Four small-hectarage
rapeseed increases were successfully com-
pleted. Improvements in mechanization of the
winter nursery equipment continue to improve
the efficiency of the planting operation. The
plant breeders involved are making more use
of the program as a selection nursery than as
a bulk-increase program.

The Food Production and Inspection
Branch and the Canadian Seed Growers
Association supplied the 1866 seed samples
grown for verification of varietal purity in
1980. In general, the contamination of sam-
ples was low again this year, with no variety
showing consistent problems.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Best, K. F.; Bowes, G. G.; Thomas, A. G.; Maw, M.
G. 1980. The biology of Canadian weeds. 39
Euphorbia esula L. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:651-
663.

Bowes, G. 1980. Improving aspen poplar and
prickly rose covered rangeland with herbicides
and fertilizer. Can. J. Plant Sci. In press.

Bowes, G. 1980. Control of aspen regrowth in
Western Canada when there is an understory
of established alfalfa. Range Manage. In press.

Cessna, A. J. 1980. Simultaneous extraction and
detection of residues of 2,4-D and bromoxynil
from wheat. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28:1229-
1232.

Cessna, A. J.; Holt, N. W ; Drew. B. N. 1980.
Tolerance and residue studies of triallate in
lentils. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1283-1288.

Cliath, M. M.; Spencer, W. F.; Farmer, W. J.;
Shoup. T. D.; Grover, R. 1980. Volatilization
of S'-ethyl-/V./V-dipropylthiocarbamate from
water and wet soil during and after flood
irrigation of an alfalfa field. J. Agric. Food
Chem. 28:610-613.

Grover. R.; Smith, A. E.; Korven. H. C. 1980. A
comparison of chemical and cultural control of
weeds in irrigation ditchbanks. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:185-195.

314

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 19*0

Harris, P. 1980. Establishment of Urophora affinis
Frfld. and U. quadrifasciata (Meig.) (Diptera:
Tephritidae) on Centaurea diffusa Lam. and
C. maculosa Lam. Z. Angew. Entomol.
89:504-514.

Harris, P. 1980. Effects of Urophora affinis Frfld.
and U. quadrifasciata (Meig.) on Centaurea
diffusa Lam. and C. maculosa Lam. Z.
Angew. Entomol. 90:190-201.

Hayden, B. J.; Smith, A. E. 1980. Persistence of
herbicides in three Saskatchewan soils. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:311-313.

Holt, N. W. 1980. Flow injection analysis — Adap-
tation to a small laboratory. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:767-769.

Hsiao, A. I. 1980. The effect of sodium hypochlo-
rite, gibberellic acid and light on seed dor-
mancy and germination of stinkweed and wild
mustard. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:643-649.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Propanil for control of green
foxtail in wheat and barley. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:177-184.

Jury, W. A.; Grover, R.; Spencer, W. F.; Farmer,
W. J. 1980. Modelling vapor losses of soil-
incorporated triallate. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc.
44:445-450.

Lee, C. C; Cessna, A. J. 1980. Reactions of
cyclopropyl-carbinol in dilute hydrochloric
acid solution. Can. J. Chem. 58:1075-1079.

Maw, M. G. 1980. Cucullis verbasci an agent for
the biological control of common mullein
{Verbascum thapsus). Weed Sci. 28:27-30.

Maw, M. G.; Steinhausen, W. R. 1980. Corrigen-
dum for biology of the tortoise beetle, Cassida
hemisphaeriea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a
possible biological control agent for bladder
campion, Silène cucubalus (Caryophyllaceae).
Can. Entomol. 112:639.

May, M. G.; Steinhausen, W. R. 1980. Cassida
azurea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) — not C.
hemisphaeriea — as a possible biological con-
trol agent of bladder campion, Silène cucuba-
lus (Caryophyllaceae) in Canada. Z. Angew.
Entomol. 90:420-422.

Mclntyre, G. I. 1980. The role of water distribution
in plant tropisms. Aust. J. Plant Physiol.
7:401-414.

Myers, J. H.; Harris, P. 1980. Distribution of
Urophora galls in flower heads of diffuse and
spotted knapweed in British Columbia. J.
Appl. Ecol. 17:359-367.

Peschken, D. P.; Lewis, E. S. 1980. Neue Fundorte
von Olibrus norvegicus (Col.: Phalacridae).
Entomologische Blatter fur Biologie und Sys-
tematic der Kafer. In press.

S-horthouse, J. D. 1980. Modification of the flower
heads of Sonchus arvensis (family Composi-
tae) by the gall former Tephritis dilacerata
(order Diptera, family Tephritidae). Can. J.
Zool. 58:1534-1540.

Smith, A. E. 1980. An analytical procedure for
bromoxynil and its octanoate in soils; persist-
ence studies with bromoxynil octanoate in
combination with other herbicides in soils.
Pestic. Sci. 11:341-346.

Smith, A. E.; Hayden, B. J. 1980. The hydrolysis of
MCPA esters and the persistence of MCPA in
Saskatchewan soils. Bull. Environ. Contam.
Toxicol. 25:369-373.

Smith, A. E.; Muir, D. C. G. 1980. Determination
of extractable and non-extractable radioactiv-
ity from prairie soils treated with carboxyl and
ring-labelled (UC)2,4-D. Weed Res. 20:123-
129.

Sosulski, F. W.; Holt, N. W. 1980. Amino acid
composition and nitrogen-to-protein factors for
grain legumes. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1327-
1331.

Watson, A. K. 1980. The biology of Canadian
weeds. 43. Acroptilon (Centaurea) repens (L.)
DC. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:993-1004.

Watson, A. K.; Shorthouse, J. D. 1979. Gall
formation on Cirsium aryense by Ditylenchus
dipsaci. J. Nematol. 1 1:16-22.

Miscellaneous

Cessna, A. J. 1980. Determination of the herbicide
triallate in alfalfa, wheat and barley foliage
using a N-P specific detector. Proceedings
15th Annual Pesticide Residue Workshop,
Regina, Sask. p. 87.

Cessna, A. J.; Guild, B. 1980. Chemical safety.
Free Press report on farming; farm chemicals
supplement (Mar. issue).

Grover, R.; Kerr, L. A. 1980. Preliminary studies
on herbicide exposure levels of farmers during
ground spraying. Proceedings 15th Annual
Pesticide Residue Workshop, Regina, Sask. p.
168.

Grover, R. 1980. Status of forage crops herbicide
registration under MUPS. Minutes Expert
Committee on Weeds (West). In press.

Grover, R. 1980. Herbigation not recommended.
News and Features 1879:9-10.

Grover, R. 1980. Grasses in fight against weeds.
News and Features 1881:11-12.

Hsiao, A. I. 1980. The hypochlorite tests: A fast
and reliable seed viability estimate for wild
oats {Avena fatua L.). Weed Sci. Soc. Am.
12:6 (abstract).

RESEARCH STATION, REGINA, SASK.

315

Huang, P. M.; Grover, R.; McKercher, R. B. 1980.
Components and particle size reactions in-
volved in atrazine adsorption by soils. Soil
Science Society of America, Annual Meeting,
Detroit, MI.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Cost of delayed seeding for
control of wild oats (Avena fatua L.). Weed
Sci. Soc. Am. 5 1 :25 (abstract).

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Incompatibility of pesticide
mixtures and tank mixing. Proceedings Soils
and Crops Workshop, University of Saskatche-
wan, Saskatoon, Sask. Publ. 427, pp. 7-13.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Recommendations for control
of Canada thistle on cultivated land in the
prairie provinces. Proceedings Canada Thistle
Symposium, Agriculture Canada, Regina,
Sask. pp. 198-200.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Improper preparation of spray
mixtures. Canadex 641.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Persian darnel. Canadex 642.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Tank mixing and the incompat-
ibility factors of herbicides and fertilizers.
Farm Light and Power 22(3): 12- 13.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Delayed seeding. The Western
Producer Weed/Chemical Special (Mar. 13).
p. 8.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. Persian darnel. The Western
Producer Weed/Chemical Special (Mar. 13).
p. 19.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. A program for control of
Canada thistle on cultivated land. The Rural
Councillor 15(6): 10.

Hunter, J. H. 1980. How Canada thistle survives.
The Rural Councillor 15(6):11.

Mclntyre, G. I.; Hunter, J. H. 1980. The promotion
of herbicide translocation by the stimulation of
root bud activity. Proceedings Canada Thistle
Symposium, Agriculture Canada, Regina,
Sask. pp. 12-16.

Maw, M. G. 1980. The fauna on Canada thistle.
Proceedings Canada Thistle Symposium, Agri-
culture Canada, Regina, Sask. pp. 110-111.

Maw, M. G.; Molloy, M. M. 1980. Prickly-pear
cactus on the Canadian prairies. Blue Jay
38(4):208-211.

Peschken, D. P.; Wilkinson, F.; Finnamore, D. B.
1980. Biological control of Canada thistle in
Canada. Proceedings Canada Thistle Sympo-
sium, Agriculture Canada, Regina, Sask. pp.
140-166.

Peschken, D. P.; Hunter, J. H.; Thomas, A. G.
1980. Damage in dollars caused by Canada
thistle in wheat in Saskatchewan. Proceedings
Canada Thistle Symposium, Agriculture
Canada, Regina, Sask. pp. 37-43.

Peschken, D. P. 1980. Supplementary screening
report on Lema cyanella (Coleoptera:
Chrysomelidae), a candidate for the biological,
control of Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). p.
9 and two tables.

Smith, A. E. 1980. The extraction of herbicides
from field weathered soils. Proceedings 12th
Annual Pesticide Residue Workshop, Mon-
treal, Que.

Smith, A. E. 1980. The persistence of 2,4-D in
Saskatchewan Soils. Canadex 609.

Smith, A. E.; Hayden, B. J. 1980. The analysis of
2,4-D,triallate and trifluralin in human urine.
Proceedings 15th Annual Seminar Pesticide
Residues, Regina, Sask.

Smith, A. E.; Hayden, B. J. 1980. The persistence
of commonly used herbicides in prairie soils.
Canadex 641.

Thomas, A. G. 1980. Saskatchewan weed survey
interpretations relative to control practices.
Proceedings Soils and Crops Workshop, Uni-
versity of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask.
Publ. 427, pp. 1-6.

Thomas, A. G. 1980. Relative abundance of
Canada thistle on cultivated land in Canada.
Proceedings Canada Thistle Symposium, Agri-
culture Canada, Regina, Sask. pp. 1 67- 181.

Thomas, A. G. 1980. Manitoba weed survey ques-
tionnaire data. Agriculture Canada and Mani-
toba Department of Agriculture. Weed Surv.
Ser. Publ. 80-4:33.

316

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

R. K. Downey, O.C., B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

F.A.I.C., F.R.S.C.
R. D. Tinline, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. J. Peters

E. J. Watson,1 B.A., M.L.S.
H. K. Milne
D. T. Spurr, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Acting Director

Acting Assistant Director
Acting Administrative Officer
Assistant Librarian
Computer Systems Programmer
Statistician

Crop Management and Project Farms

K. J. Kirkland, B.S.A., M.Sc.
S. A. Brandt, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Head of Section; Weeds and crop
management
Agronomy

Plant Breeding and Agronomy

B. P. Goplen, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. L. Crowle, B.S.A., M.Sc.

R. K. Downey, O.C., B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.,

F.A.I.C, F.R.S.C.
R. E. Howarth, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
A. J. Klassen, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. P. Knowles, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D., F.A.I.C.
G. L. Lees, B.Sc, Ph.D.
D. I. McGregor, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
L. G. Sonmor, B.S.A., M.Sc.
H. Ukrainetz, B.S.A.
D. L. Woods, B.Pharm., M.Phil., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Legume breeding
Cereals and crop management
Oilseed breeding — rapeseed

Legume bloat — biochemistry
Oilseed breeding — rapeseed
Grass breeding

Legume bloat — plant physiology
Physiology of Brassica spp.
Irrigation
Soil fertility

Oilseed breeding — mustard and
sunflowers

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK.

317

Entomology

H. Burrage, B.S.A., Ph.D., F.E.S.C.

Head of Section; Wireworms

Burgess, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Associate Head; Oilseed crop
insects

P. Arthur, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Oilseed crop insects

H. Craig, B.A.

Forage crop insects

R. F. Davis, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Insects — physiology and nutrition

F. Doane, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

Insects — ecology and behavior

B. Ewen, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., F.R.E.S.

Insects — ecology and pathology

J. Ford, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Engineering

J. H. Fredeen, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Black flies

B. Hayles,2 D.V.M. & S., Ph.D., M.R.C.V.S.

Mosquitoes, arboviruses

W. Lee, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

Pesticides — chemistry

S. McKinlay, B.Sc

Pesticides — toxicology

. K. Mukerji, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Insects — management

O. Olfert, B.Sc, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Insects — ecology

D. Westcott, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Pesticides — chemistry

Plant Pathology

R. D. Tinline, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

L. J. Duczek, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. Dueck, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. Harding, B.Sc, Ph.D.
G. A. Pétrie, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
J. D. Smith, B.Sc, M.Sc.

P. R. Verma, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Cereal root

diseases

Cereal root diseases
Oilseed crop diseases
Cereal root diseases
Oilseed crop diseases
Forage and low-temperature

diseases
Cereal root diseases

Departures

G. R. Stringam, B.S., M.S.

Resigned 1 October 1980
M. E. Taylor, B.S.A.

Retired 31 October 1980

Ph.D.

Cytogenetics of Brassica spp.
Research Information Officer

VISITING SCIENTISTS

S. N. Acharya, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Canola Council of Canada visiting fellow, 1 980
1981

Plant pathology

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

E. Acikgoz, B.Sc, Ph.D. Plant breeding

National Research Council of Canada visiting

fellow, 1980-1981
J. R. King, B.Sc, Ph.D. Plant physiology

National Research Council of Canada visiting

fellow, 1978-1980
S. K. Raina, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Insect physiology

Rotary Foundation Fellow, 1977; National

Research Council of Canada visiting fellow, 1 978—

1980

Graduate students

E. J. Cook, B.Sc (Agr.) Plant breeding

D. Dostaler, B.Sc, M.Sc. Plant pathology

D. S. Hutcheson, B.A., B.S.A. Plant breeding

C. L. Vera, Ing. Agron. Plant breeding

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:On leave, FAO assignment to Somalia, East Africa, from 1 October 1979 to 30 September 1981

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON. SASK. 319

INTRODUCTION

The Saskatoon Research Station, in conjunction with the Scott Experimental Farm, made
significant progress toward improved production and protection of grains and forage crops in
1980, despite the serious climatic difficulties of drought, hail, and frost. The release of the
world's first low coumarin sweetclover, Melilotus officinalis (L.) Lam., is a major step toward
greater and safer utilization of this important legume in North America. Similarly, the
development of a high seed- and oil-yielding replacement for the low erucic acid, low
glucosinolate rapeseed variety Candle will permit the smooth and complete changeover to
canola-type rapeseed in Western Canada. The demonstration of the efficiency of bran baits for
grasshopper control and the explanation of their effectiveness should lead to lower costs and
reduced environmental risks. However, there were disappointments, such as the first
identification in Saskatchewan fields of a serious disease of alfalfa, verticillium wilt, and the
conclusion, after much investigation, that Coniothyrium minitans Campbell does not provide
sufficient protection against sclerotinia disease to be commercialized as a biological control
agent.

We regret the retirement of Information Officer M. E. Taylor and the unexpected
resignation of Dr. G. R. Stringam. Their expertise will be greatly missed.

Previous reports and reprints of publications can be obtained from the Saskatoon
Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, 107 Science Crescent, Saskatoon,
Sask. S7N 0X2.

R. K. Downey
Acting Director

CROPS

Oilseeds

Rapeseed breeding. Eighty percent of the
1980 Canadian rapeseed crop was seeded to
varieties producing low erucic acid oil and low
glucosinolate meal. These varieties are now
widely referred to as canola in the industry.
The complete changeover to varieties with
these improved quality characteristics is
largely dependent upon the displacement of
the low erucic acid Brassica campestris L.
variety Torch, which still constitutes about
15% of the crop. Release of a new double low
B. campestris variety superior in performance
to Candle will ensure that this is accom-
plished. Strain DH-716 has averaged 8%
higher in seed yield than Candle and 0.7%
higher in oil content in 2 yr o{ cooperative
testing and will be proposed for licensing in
1981. In addition, DH-716 has a good level of
resistance to white rust-staghead disease
{Albugo Candida (Pers. ex Lev.) Ktze.), and
it will be the first Canadian B. campestris
variety to incorporate this characteristic. It is
similar to Candle in seed color, days to
maturity, and plant height. By 1983 DH-716
is expected to occupy a major portion of the B.
campestris area in Western Canada.

F, hybrids produced through natural field
crossing of B. campestris subspecies have
yielded 40% more than the check varieties
Torch and Candle in 2 yr of preliminary
evaluation. Although this material contains
high levels of erucic acid and glucosinolates,
the heterosis for seed yield and seed size is
very encouraging. Development of suitable
double low parents is under way. A program
has also been initiated to utilize the self-
incompatibility alleles in B. campestris and
tissue-culture techniques for the production of
hybrids.

Following the discovery of the virulent
strain of blackleg disease (Leptosphaeria
maculans (Desm.) Ces. & de Not.) in Sas-
katchewan, sources of disease resistance were
sought. This resistance has now been transfer-
red to canola-type rapeseed. A large number
of lines showing excellent field resistance were
grown in a disease survey in 1980. It is
expected that blackleg-resistant canola lines
could be ready for release within 2 yr if the
disease were to become limiting.

Mustard breeding. The yellow mustard
cultivar Ochre was approved for licensing in
1980. This is the first public condiment yellow
mustard licensed in Canada, and its release

320

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

means that all mustard growers can have
access to Certified seed. Originally selected
from the available landraces, this material has
been in test for many years as the standard
variety, and its yield has not yet been
exceeded.

Grasses

Licensing of Regar meadow bromegrass.
On the initiative of this Station, licensing was
requested for the Regar variety of meadow
bromegrass, Bromus riparius Rehm. This
strain is currently grown on a modest scale in
Montana and adjacent states, and has been
tested at Saskatoon for 10 yr. Its ability to
regrow rapidly after cutting suggests it could
be a useful pasture grass. When cut for hay, it
is generally lower yielding than smooth
bromegrass. Private seed companies have
indicated their intention to import Certified
seed and establish some Canadian fields for
Certified seed production in 1981.

Bromegrass seed pests. Bromegrass seed
production at Saskatoon has suffered in recent
years from damage by several insects. The
bromegrass seed midge caused serious seed
losses from 1973 to 1977. Since 1977, how-
ever, the population has been low, possibly as
a result of dry spring weather in 1978 and
again in 1980. A thrips, Limothrips consimi-
lis Pr., which usually causes floret steri-
lization, has been an important pest since
1977. In 1980, 18% of bromegrass florets
from 19 sites at Saskatoon carried this thrips,
with a maximum of 37% of the florets being
affected in one field. Larvae of the bromegrass
cutworm, Septis finitima (Gn.), occurred in
2% of bromegrass florets and caused consider-
able damage to mature panicles in 1980. This
pest had previously caused damage in 1972.

Legumes

Pasture bloat in cattle. This selection of
alfalfa plants with bloat-safe characteristics is
proceeding well. The second cycle of selection
for alfalfa plants with low initial rates of
digestion has been completed; this was accom-
plished with the use of a modified nylon bag
technique on fistulated cattle. In addition,
selections of slow-digesting alfalfa seedlings
are being made using leaf disks incubated
with pectinase and cellulase. Other strains are
being selected for resistance to leaf damage
by sonication. Leaf damage is measured by
percent chlorophyll disappearance during

sonication. Strains arising from these selec-
tion programs will be tested in cattle feeding
trials at the Kamloops Research Station.

Sweetclover breeding. Norgold, a low cou-
marin (LC) sweetclover cultivar developed at
Saskatoon, was approved for licensing in
1980. The culmination of a 22-yr breeding
program, this is the world's first LC yellow-
flowered (M. officinalis) cultivar. It is basi-
cally an LC synthetic of Yukon, the best
cultivar previously available in Canada. The
program was initiated in 1959 with 10 LC
strains obtained from H. J. Gorz (U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Nebraska), who
developed the strains through an interspecific
transfer of the LC characteristic from LC M.
alba Desr. A backcross method of breeding
was followed through six consecutive back-
crosses, with Erector as the recurrent parent
for the first two backcrosses, and Yukon as
the recurrent parent for the subsequent four.
In regional tests from 1978 through 1980,
Norgold yielded 16% more forage (dry mat-
ter) than Polara, the only other LC cultivar
available. In addition, Norgold yielded 40%
more seed than Polara. In flowering date,
Norgold is 1 or 2 days later flowering than
Yukon but 10-14 days earlier than Polara.
Norgold contains only trace amounts of
coumarin in contrast to high levels (2-3% on
a dry-matter basis) in common sweetclovers.
Thus, Norgold is similar to Polara in produc-
ing forage with no danger of causing hemor-
rhage or 'sweetclover disease' in farm live-
stock. The new cultivar Norgold is expected
to replace Polara, a M. alba LC cultivar,
because the yellow-flowered M. officinalis
cultivars are much more popular with farmers
and ranchers for their early maturity, shorter
and finer stems, and finer leaves. Norgold
should be grown wherever sweetclover is used
for livestock feed.

Agronomy and weed control

Response of rapeseed to sulfur fertilizer.
Pale yellow seedlings, retarded growth, de-
layed flowering and pod formation, fewer and
smaller pods, delayed maturity, and low seed
yield were observed when Regent rapeseed
was grown on S-deficient soils in northwestern
Saskatchewan. Where available soil N was
also low, addition of N fertilizer without S
intensified these deficiency symptoms and
further reduced yield. Application of fertilizer
containing S in the soluble sulfate form, at or
just before seeding, produced a dramatic

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK.

321

effect, resulting in vigorous, healthy plants,
large dark green leaves, numerous large and
well-filled pods, earlier maturity, and large
increases in yields. Elemental S fertilizers
applied to the soil at or just before seeding
produced little response in the plants. Elemen-
tal S should be applied the previous summer
to allow time for it to oxidize and become
available to plants.

In tests on two S-deficient soil sites, appli-
cation of ammonium sulfate as a source of S
at 25 kg/ha raised rapeseed yields by 73 and
267%. Application of ammonium sulfate at 50
kg/ha resulted in additional yields at one site
but not at the other. There were no differences
in response to S between B. campestris and B.
napus, nor among high and low glucosinolate
rapeseed varieties.

Cropping sequences on Gray Luvisol soils.
Gray Luvisol soils are typically low in organic
matter, have a relatively dense subsoil, and
are prone to spring crusting. Cropping studies
on such a soil, Loon River loam, have been
under way for the past 14 yr. When wheat
and barley were sown after alfalfa hay, yields
averaged 90% of the summerfallow crop.
Following other forage and grain crops, wheat
and barley produced 68-77% of summerfal-
low yields on these soils. However, stubble
yields of rapeseed were poor, depending on
the preceding crop, and ranged from 56 to
74% of summerfallow rapeseed.

Soil moisture measurements in the fall
indicated that summerfallow plots contained
2-4.5 cm more moisture than stubble plots,
but spring measurements showed that snow-
melt reduced this difference to 0.5-1 cm.
Thus summerfallowing such soil is inefficient,
and stubble moisture levels are normally
adequate for recropping wheat or barley.
Minimum yields of wheat and barley have
exceeded 1000 and 1350 kg/ha when the
preceding crop was alfalfa, wheat, oats,
barley, flax, or rapeseed. In only 2 of the 14
yr, yields were below these levels, and at that
time the preceding crop was brome or brome-
alfalfa hay. The highest risk of crop failure
occurred when rapeseed was stubble seeded.
Protein content of wheat and barley was
reduced except when these crops followed
summerfallow or alfalfa hay.

Wild oat control. In attempts to improve
methods of controlling wild oats in B. napus
and B. campestris rapeseed, barban at 0.15
kg/ha, about half the recommended rate, was
applied postemergence as a tank mixture with

benzoylprop-ethyl at 0.55 kg/ha. The latter is
presently recommended for control of wild
oats in wheat, but not in rapeseed. Approx-
imately 85% wild oat control, acceptable crop
tolerance, and yield increases of 100-180%
resulted from application of this mixture to
rapeseed crops at four locations. Application
of benzoylprop-ethyl alone to rapeseed at the
1.4 kg/ha maximum rate recommended for
wheat resulted in yield reductions of 20-30%.
This tank mix would be applied at the two- to
five-leaf stage of wild oats rather than at the
two-leaf stage, as with barban alone.

Volunteer cereal and grassy weed control
in oilseed crops. As a result of herbicide,
evaluation research, BAS-9052 (BASF) will
be recommended for the control of volunteer
wheat and barley and annual grass weeds in
rapeseed, mustard, flax, and sunflowers. Two
other herbicides with similar modes of action,
TF-1169 (Chipman) and RO-138895
(Maag), were identified and evaluated exten-
sively. Both provided virtually 100% control
of heavy infestations of wild oats and volun-
teer wheat and barley. Yield increases of 650
and 800 kg/ha were recorded in Candle and
Regent rapeseed, respectively.

Triazines for weed control in rapeseed. A
strain of B. campestris rapeseed, resistant to
the herbicide atrazine, was discovered in
Eastern Canada corn crops several years ago.
This characteristic was transferred into the
genetic background of Candle rapeseed by
researchers at the University of Guelph and
made available for trials for the first time in
1980. Rapeseed that is resistant to atrazine
and its triazine analogues could permit selec-
tive control of stinkweed and wild mustard as
well as other important weeds in rapeseed
crops.

When the triazine-resistant Candle strain
was sown in stinkweed-infested plots, me-
tribuzin, atrazine, and cyanazine gave 97, 85,
and 50% control of stinkweed, respectively.
Crop tolerance for atrazine and cyanazine
was excellent, whereas metribuzin caused
some reduction in seed yield. In weed-free
plots, maintained by hand weeding, the
atrazine-resistant strain yielded only 65% of
the normal Candle variety. Considerable
research remains to be done on the develop-
ment of high-yielding atrazine-resistant
strains and on the identification of the correct
application methods and rates for the best
triazine herbicide for use in Western Canada.

322

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT USD

Interactions between wild oat herbicides
applied postemergence to wheat. Reduced
effectiveness of some postemergent wild oat
herbicides has been observed under field
conditions when they were tank-mixed with
phenoxy herbicides or dicamba to broaden the
spectrum of weed control. Tank-mixing 3,6-
dichloropicolinic acid with flamprop-methyl,
difenzoquat, diclofop-methyl, and barban
caused reductions in wild oat control of 4, 7,
8, and 12%. DPX-4189 (DuPont) at 0.02 kg/
ha tank-mixed with flamprop-methyl and
diclofop-methyl reduced their efficacy on wild
oats by 7 and 16%. As the rate of DPX-4189
increased to 0.04 kg/ha, the level of antago-
nism also increased, with losses of 14 and 21%
observed for flamprop-methyl and diclofop-
methyl. No loss in efficacy was observed when
either rate of DPX-4189 was added to difen-
zoquat. These results indicate that indiscrimi-
nate tank-mixing of herbicides at the farm
level may cost the producer much more than
the potential benefits of a single application.

PLANT DISEASES

Diseases of oilseeds

Blackleg of rapeseed. The virulent strain of
L. maculans, the blackleg pathogen, occurred
in over 70% of rapeseed stubble fields in
central Saskatchewan surveyed in the fall of
1980. It was detected for the first time in the
southeastern part of the province, occurring in
7% of the fields. Infections generally were
light throughout the growing season.

The saprophytic phase of development of
the fungus, which takes place on stubble in
the fall, provides a unique opportunity both
for a substantial increase in inoculum and for
considerable genetic recombination. Several
strains of L. maculans, only one of which is
highly virulent, may develop in close proxim-
ity and produce ascospores on stubble mate-
rial still remaining in the field late in the
following year. Repeated sampling of selected
stubble fields indicated that in some instances
weakly virulent strains were notably more
successful than the virulent strain in the
competition for available substrate.

Greenhouse studies have confirmed that the
introduction of a mild and a virulent strain
into intact rapeseed plants generally results in
less severe disease than the introduction of a
virulent strain alone. When the weakly viru-
lent strain was introduced a week or more

earlier than the other, there was often sub-
stantial reduction in length of stem lesions.
More striking results were obtained with the
use of decapitated plants. Weakly virulent
strains often colonized these stubble pieces to
the exclusion of the virulent strain. The extent
of suppression of the virulent strain depended
upon the particular isolates used in the
combinations. Pairings of several isolates, on
agar plates and in decapitated plants, of the
most prevalent weakly virulent strain with
standard virulent cultures, revealed that the
former differed considerably in aggressiveness
toward the virulent strain. Studies utilizing
field material indicated that certain weakly
virulent strains from cruciferous weeds pro-
duced much larger quantities of ascospores
than did a virulent and a weakly virulent
strain from rapeseed. One of the heavily
sporulating weed strains is becoming increas-
ingly common on rapeseed stubble and has
suppressed development of the virulent strain
in decapitated plants. The antagonistic action
of the weakly virulent strains may be one of
the reasons why the virulent strain has not
become a limiting factor in the production of
rapeseed in Western Canada.

Sclerotinia stem rot of rapeseed. Four
years of epidemiological work has shown that
the most critical period for infection of
rapeseed by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.)
de Bary is during the full-bloom stage of the
crop. S. sclerotiorum, however, produces
ascospore-bearing apothecia from early bloom
until after harvest if the soil surface remains
moist. In fields where apothecia were abun-
dant, a single application of benomyl at 0.5
kg/ha, vinclozoline at 0.75 kg/ha, or a com-
bination of benomyl and vinclozoline or
glycophene applied at the time of 25% bloom
provided excellent protection. Benomyl ap-
plied by aircraft at 1 .0 kg in 55 L of water per
hectare at the 25% bloom stage reduced the
proportion of severely diseased plants from 46
to 12%. Yield in the untreated portion of the
field was 28% lower than in the benomyl-
treated plot, and numbers of sclerotia in the
seed were substantially higher.

Rapeseed naturally infested with 0.7%
sclerotia of S. sclerotiorum by weight could
be cleaned to 0.025% with screens and a high-
speed gravity table. Content of sclerotia was
further reduced by passing the cleaned sample
over a spiral cleaner.

The biological control agent C. minitans, in
dosage experiments in the field, failed to

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK.

323

provide control of sclerotinia stem rot under
conditions where 50% of the plants were
severely infected. After several years of field
testing, it has been concluded that this
organism does not destroy a sufficient percent-
age of the soil-borne sclerotial population to
achieve the required control of airborne
ascospore infection.

Diseases of cereals

Common root rot. The estimated loss from
common root rot in bread wheat in Saskatche-
wan in 1980 was 6.6%, slightly higher than in
1979 (5.5%). Screening and selection work
was continued to identify material possessing
a high degree of resistance to the disease.
Over 1000 lines of barley from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture World Collection
and from Canadian plant breeders were
evaluated and a few promising lines were
found. In the recurrent selection program
involving six crosses between fairly resistant
parents, an increasing number of wheat lines
from the F3 to F6 generation exhibited less
disease than the parents. The generation
frequencies were 21, 30, 37, and 68%. Some
of the most advanced lines showed good
yielding ability as well as high disease resist-
ance.

Common root rot of Gateway 63 barley was
reduced with seed treatments containing EL
228 (Elanco), A-6222 A (Ciba Geigy),
A-6214 A (Ciba Geigy), BAS 38901 F
(BASF), RH 2161 (Rohm & Hass), and
Baytan (Chemagro), but this was not accom-
panied by increased yield over the nontreated
control. Some treatments were phytotoxic, as
indicated by reduced emergence.

Common root rot incidence and severity in
Cypress and Neepawa wheat, grown from
seeds treated with Baytan, EL 228, and
imazalil at rates less than 0.5 g/kg of seed,
were reduced significantly in field tests at
three locations. A dosage response was appar-
ent in all cases, but no significant yield
differences among treatments were found.

Root rot severity, grain yield, and coleop-
tile-node-tillers (CNTs) of four spring wheat
cultivars were compared in imazalil-treated
and nontreated field plots of the same plant
density. Although efficacy varied among
cultivars, imazalil applied to seed at rates of
0.2 and 0.3 g/kg reduced the disease signifi-
cantly. Except in Wascana, the treatment also

significantly increased the yield of all culti-
vars. CNTs were observed rarely in non-
treated plots. In the treated plots, however,
9-19% of the total tillers were CNTs that
mostly were firm and would produce fertile
heads of grain.

Aversion factors, which may cause marked
zones of inhibition between adjacent fungal
colonies in culture, have been reported in
several fungal species including Bipolaris
setariae (Saw.) Shoemaker, and also Coch-
liobolus sativus (Ito & Kurib.) Drechsl. ex
Dastur, which is the major cause of root rot in
the prairies. At Saskatoon, a random popula-
tion of about 100 isolates of C. sativus were
paired in all combinations to test for the
distribution of these factors. In most combina-
tions the colonies grew quite close to each
other but their margins did not overlap. Less
frequently the colonies actually grew over
each other's margins or else there was a very
marked zone of inhibition between them.
When three isolates were grown on the same
plate, the reaction between any two colonies
varied, depending on the third isolate present.
Two isolates sometimes grew over each oth-
er's margins in the presence of isolate A, but
were markedly inhibitory to each other in the
presence of isolate B. Although the majority
of the isolates varied in their reaction pat-
terns, it appears that there are some isolates
that are consistently 'social' and some that are
consistently 'antisocial.' The significance of
aversion factors is not clear at present.
However, it seems likely that they have a role,
along with mating types and fertility factors,
in the mating system of C. sativus.

The distribution of fertility factors in two
populations of C. sativus has been examined.
In one group about 50 isolates from widely
separated geographic areas were intercrossed.
In the second group about 100 isolates from
the same field were intercrossed. In both
groups the same general pattern emerged.
Some isolates are very fertile (ascospores are
produced in essentially all crosses involving
them), whereas others are highly infertile
(crosses involving them rarely progress
beyond the protoperithecial stage). The ma-
jority of isolates fall between these two
extremes.

Prematurity blight. Resistance of some
common and durum wheat cultivars to pre-
maturity blight caused by Fusarium cul-
morum (W.G. Sm.) Sacc. was assessed in
growth chamber tests. Hercules. Pelissier, and

324

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Wascana appeared susceptible; Neepawa and
Wakooma resistant; and Macoun and Sinton
intermediate in reaction.

Snow molds on winter cereals. Little snow
mold injury was seen on winter cereals in
Saskatchewan in the spring of 1980. How-
ever, crop loss studies on fall rye at Saskatoon
gave unexpected results. The rye lines se-
lected at Saskatoon for resistance to various
snow molds and the cultivars Puma and
Cougar were sown in field plots and inocu-
lated in late summer in 1979 with three snow
molds, Gerlachia nivalis (Ces. ex Sacc.) W.
Gams & E. Muller (Fusarium nivale (Fr.)
Ces.), Coprinus sp. nonsclerotial low-temper-
ature basidiomycete (LTB) phase, and Typh-
ula ishikariensis Imai. var. canadensis Ars-
voll & Smith. No snow mold symptoms were
seen at snowmelt, but average grain yield
losses of 18, 13, and 10%, respectively,
resulted from these pathogens. However,
response to the pathogens varied among the
rye lines tested, and some were not signifi-
cantly affected by any of the fungi.

Diseases of legumes and grasses

Verticillium wilt of alfalfa. Verticillium
wilt, caused by Verticillium albo-atrum
Reinke & Berth., was identified in 1980 for
the first time in one dryland and a few
irrigated alfalfa fields in Saskatchewan.
Symptoms were severe on individual plants,
but incidence of the disease was low. Frost
injury complicated the recognition of wilt. An
isolate of the pathogen from alfalfa was
pathogenic to potato, but not to fababeans,
rapeseed, or sunflowers.

A low-temperature pathogen on alfalfa
and orchardgrass. A low-temperature patho-
gen, Plenodomus meliloti Dearness & Sand-
ford, was found associated with rotted crowns
of alfalfa in the fall in northwestern Alberta
and in the spring in northern Saskatchewan.
At Saskatoon, its protopycnidia were found
abundantly in winter-damaged orchardgrass,
Dactylis glomerata L., in association with a
brown root rot.

Snow mold on turf grasses. At Saskatoon,
where snow mold on a turf was mainly due to
G. nivalis in a complex with the LTB phase of
Coprinus sp. on annual bluegrass, Poa annua
L., benomyl with chloroneb and mercury
chlorides was the most effective combination
treatment tested. At Regina, on bentgrass
turf with a light infection of the LTB phase of

Coprinus sp., several single materials gave
effective control. At both locations some
materials increased disease severely, probably
by suppressing mold antagonists. A small
Coprinus sp., C. kubickae Pilat & Svrcek,
was found for the first time in North America.
This mold, which is in the same group as the
Coprinus sp. that causes snow mold, was
associated with superficial fairy rings in
bentgrass turf at Saskatoon.

ENTOMOLOGY

Oilseed insects

Flea beetles. The presence of Phyllotreta
conjuncta Gent, in Saskatchewan was estab-
lished. This is the eighth crucifer-feeding flea
beetle species known to occur in the province.
It was determined from winter sampling that
the three most important flea beetle pests of
rapeseed crops, the crucifer flea beetle, P.
cruciferae (Geoze), the striped flea beetle,
and the hop flea beetle, show individual
preferences in selecting overwintering sites
and tend to be unevenly distributed within
them. This information is valuable for assess-
ing the merits of winter sampling for estimat-
ing flea beetle abundance.

The known range of the striped flea beetle
has been extended to the open prairies of
southwestern Saskatchewan, and it has been
established that a population of this beetle
present in the Boreal forest will attack
rapeseed and can complete egg-to-adult devel-
opment in experimental rapeseed plots sown
in the forest.

Rapeseed seedlings collected from plots
treated with granular carbofuran were ana-
lyzed for carbofuran and two metabolites,
3-hydroxycarbofuran and 3-ketocarbofuran,
by a method developed at Saskatoon. Max-
imum levels of carbofuran, up to 2.9 ppm,
occurred in seedlings within 2 days of emer-
gence. The metabolite, 3-hydroxycarbofuran,
had maximum concentrations up to 6.5 ppm
in seedlings collected 5 days after emergence,
as did 3-ketocarbofuran, with a maximum
concentration of about 0.8 ppm. By 3 wk after
emergence, concentrations of carbofuran and
3-ketocarbofuran had decreased to 0.01 ppm
or less, whereas the concentration of 3-hy-
droxycarbofuran had decreased to about 0.3
ppm. These results indicate that carbofuran is
present in the seedlings at time of emergence
and could offer immediate postemergence
protection against flea beetles.

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK.

325

Bertha armyworm. The bertha armyworm
was present in northeastern Saskatchewan
rapeseed crops for the second consecutive
year. An estimated 20 000-30 000 ha were
sprayed for bertha armyworm control. Larval
populations up to 92/m2 were found. How-
ever, in many fields it was observed that
larvae continued to feed on rapeseed leaves
even after pods had formed, rather than
moving up to feed on the pods as in past
occurrences. Thus, although larval numbers
were often considerably above the previously
established economic threshold level of 12-
15/m2, little damage to seed production was
caused unless the larvae left the leaves and
began feeding on the pods. Consequently,
spraying was not always necessary when
larval densities exceeded 1 2-1 5/m2.

Insect pests of sunflowers. The abundance
of the sunflower moth, the banded sunflower
moth, and the sunflower seed maggot, Neote-
phritis final is (Leow), were monitored in July
and August collections of wild sunflower
heads. Although these pests were absent or
rare near Saskatoon, they were abundant at
certain times in southern Saskatchewan. It
was determined that the sunflower seed
maggot has two generations per year in
southern Saskatchewan, rather than one as
previously believed. Thus this pest may be
more serious than originally thought. These
results show the need for a series of annual
surveys to establish the frequency with which
these insects can be expected to cause serious
damage to sunflower crops in different areas
of Saskatchewan.

Grasshoppers

Aerial survey of grasshopper damage.
Survey by infrared aerial photography, a
technique developed over a 3-yr period,
showed that grasshopper damage to cereal
crops was strongly influenced by weather and
soil type. Crop loss from grasshoppers was
greatest in light soil zones with low precipita-
tion. In such an area northwest of Saskatoon,
estimated cereal grain losses of 400 t on 1283
ha were detected, even though the 1980
forecast predicted light grasshopper infesta-
tions in this area. In a heavy clay soil area
northwest of Swift Current, with 30 mm of
precipitation by early May and a predicted
moderate grasshopper infestation, no crop loss
was detectable. Thus, attempts to extrapolate
grasshopper damage estimates to a larger
area than that actually covered by aerial

photographic flights must take precipitation
and soil type into account.

Biological control. Considerable progress
has been made toward establishment of a
practical in vitro technique for production of
viable spores of Nosema locustae Canning, a
grasshopper pathogen that has shown poten-
tial usefulness as a biological control agent.
Germination of 75-100% was obtained in a
potato-broth medium after treating spores
with a solution of 1.2% sodium hypochlorite
at a pH of 12.1 ±0.1. These germinated
spores were then cultured in a newly devel-
oped medium, REAC-80. Horse serum had to
be added to this medium to maintain spore
viability. With this combination, the pathogen
developed through the asexual parts of its life
cycle, but died before completing the final
stages of the sexual portion of the life cycle.
Development to the sporont stage in the
sexual part of the cycle was extremely slow,
requiring at least 2 mo. By trial and error it
was found that the concentration of several of
the amino acids in the REAC-80 growth
medium, especially D-glucosamine and trypto-
phan, affected spore development to the
sporont stage and, in a few cases, these
sporonts divided to produce sporoblasts, which
is the next to last stage in the life cycle.
Although we have not yet been able to
produce the final spore stage in vitro, and the
development of germinated spores in the
growth medium is slow, it appears that
manipulation of amino acid and vitamin
concentrations in the growth medium is a
promising approach to overcoming these
obstacles. We believe that the final spore
stage can be produced in quantity in vitro only
by inoculating living insect cells with sporobl-
asts, because chitin produced by insect cells is
a vital constitutent of the spore wall.

Ultralow dosages of insecticide-treated
bran baits. A new and effective method of
grasshopper control, reported previously,
involves the use of bran baits treated with
ultralow dosages of insecticides. These baits
are effective, even when the amount of bran is
reduced to 1 .7 kg/ha. The question arose as to
why grasshoppers consumed the bran, present
in such small quantities, rather than feeding
entirely on fresh plant material available in
their surroundings. In our investigations the
migratory grasshopper did not survive or
breed well on diets of fresh wheat, rye, or
lettuce foliage alone. Apparently grasshoppers
cannot consume a sufficient volume of fresh

326

RnSFARCH BRANCH RFPORT |OS0

plant material, which is about 90% water, to
obtain adequate nourishment for growth and
reproduction. Our studies suggest that under
field conditions grasshoppers feed on green
plants until their moisture requirements are
met, and then they begin to forage and to
chew on any available dry matter. If the
material is attractive, they feed on it; if not,
they continue to forage and return to it only if
nothing else is available. Under the latter
conditions, they even eat sawdust or fiber
glass screens. So far, wheat bran is the most
attractive dry material tested. Because bran is
probably more attractive than most of the
dry-plant materials available in nature, it is a
very effective bait material.

Wireworms

Carabid and tiger beetles from a wire-
worm-infested field. Carabid and tiger beetles
were trapped in a wireworm-infested field and
its grassy borders during two growing seasons.
Eighty-seven carabid species from twenty-five
genera and seven tiger beetle species from one
genus were identified in pitfall traps. Species
diversity was greatest in the field border
collections, but the abundance of individuals
within dominant species was usually greater
in the field collections. There were about 12
dominant species of carabids, mostly in the
genera Bembidion and Amara. High numbers
of some Bembidion spp., particularly B.
obscurellum (Mtsch.) and B. quadrimacula-
tum oppositum Say, were present in the field
at the same time that wireworm eggs were
present. Therefore, these beetles may play a
role as predators of wireworm eggs.

Forage crop insects

Integrated control. An application of the
insecticide trichlorfon (Dylox, 4.2 LS formu-
lation, Chemagro Ltd.), at 550 g/ha, effec-
tively controlled infestations of the alfalfa

plant bug and plant bugs of the genus Lygus
in alfalfa seed crops. This treatment was not
hazardous to alfalfa leafcutting bee pollina-
tors if applied in the evening, allowing a
period of about 12 h between application and
bee foraging activity.

Over the past 3 yr parasites of European
origin have been released as possible biolog-
ical control agents into Lygus and alfalfa
plant bug populations at six alfalfa seed-
producing locations in Saskatchewan and
Alberta. To date no introduced parasites have
been recovered by either sampling to capture
the adults or by laboratory rearings of field-
collected hosts.

Black flies

Larval instars. Seven larval instars were
reliably identified for Simulium luggeri N. &
M. by measuring the lengths of the postgenae
of the head capsule under a binocular micro-
scope. Instars were less reliably separated by
measuring lengths of whole larvae. The
presence of an egg burster on the head also
identified the first instar, and separate cer-
vical sclerites identified the final instar.
Descriptions of the instars, now available, will
permit improved precision in researching and
larviciding this important pest of livestock
and people.

Mosquitoes

Arbovirus vectors. Mosquito populations in
southern Saskatchewan were unusually low in
1980 because of severe drought conditions.
No viruses were detected in any mosquitoes.
Seven sentinel chicken flocks, monitored by
Dr. J. O. Iversen of the Western College of
Veterinary Medicine, remained negative for
circulating antibodies of western equine en-
cephalitis and there were no reports of
infections in horses or humans.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Arsvoll, K.; Smith, J. D. 1979. Descriptions of grass
diseases. No. 4. Fusarium snow mould, fusar-
ium patch, pink snow mould, Fusarium nivale
(Fr.) Ces. Weibulls Gras-tips 22: 1 1 - 1 2.

Arsvoll, K.; Smith, J. D. 1979. Descriptions of grass
diseases. No. 5. Typhula blight, grey or speck-
led snow mould, Typhula incarnat a Lasch ex
Fr. Weibulls Gras-tips 22: 13-14.

Arsvoll, K.; Smith, J. D. 1979. Descriptions of grass
diseases. No. 6. Typhula blight, grey or speck-
led snow mould, Typhula ishikariensis I mai.
Weibulls Gras-tips 22:15-16.

Burgess, L. 1980. Prédation on adults of the flea
beetle, Phyllotreta cruciferae by lacewing
larvae (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae). Can. Ento-
mol. 112:745-746.

RESEARCH STATION. SASKATOON, SASK.

327

Burgess, L.; Wiens, J. E. 1980. Dispensing allyl
isothiocyanate as an attractant for trapping
crucifer-feeding flea beetles. Can. Entomol.
112:93-97.

Cheng, K.-J.; Fay, J. P.; Howarth, R. E.; Costerton,
J. W. 1980. Sequence of events in the digestion
of fresh legume leaves by rumen bacteria.
Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 40:613-625.

Chinn, S. H. F.; Verma, P. R.; Spurr, D. T. 1980.
Effects of imazalil seed treatment on subcrown
internode lengths and coleoptile-node-tillering
in wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1467-1472
(Note).

Corner, L. C; Robertson, A. K.; Hayles, L. B.;
Iversen, J. O. 1980. Cache Valley virus: Exper-
imental infection in Culiseta inornata. Can. J.
Microbiol. 26:287-290.

Davis, G. R. F.; Shah, B. G. 1980. Effect of
supplementary zinc on larvae of the yellow
mealworm fed rapeseed protein concentrate.
Nutr. Rep. Int. 22:491-495.

Downey, R. K.; Klassen, A. J.; Stringam, G. R.
1980. Rapeseed and mustard. Fehr, W. R.;
Hadley, H. H., eds. Hybridization of crop
plants. Am. Soc. Agron., Madison, Wl. pp.
495-509.

Ediz, S. H.; Davis, G. R. F. 1980. Repellancy of
rapeseed extracts to adults of Tribolium casta-
neum and Tribolium confusum (Coleoptera:
Tenebrionidae). Can. Entomol. 1 12:971-974.

Ewen, A. B.; Mukerji, M. K. 1980. Evaluation of
Nosema locustae (Microsporida) as a control
agent of grasshopper populations in Saskatche-
wan. J. Invertebr. Pathol. 35:295-303.

Fay, J. P.; Cheng, K.-J.; Hanna, M. R.; Howarth,
R. E.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. In vitro digestion
of bloat-safe and bloat-causing legumes by
rumen micro-organisms: Gas and foam pro-
duction. J. Dairy Sci. 63: 1 273-1 28 1 .

Gill, B. S.; Burnham, C. R.; Stringam, G. R.; Stout,
J. T.; Weinheimer, W. H. 1980. Cytogenetic
analysis of chromosomal translocations in the
tomato: Preferential breakage in heterochro-
matin. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22(3):333-341.

Goplen, B. P. 1980. Sweetclover production and
agronomy. Can. Vet. J. 21:149-151.

Goplen, B. P.; Howarth, R. E.; Sarkar, S. K.;
Lesins, K. 1980. A search for condensed
tannins in annual and perennial species of
Medicago, Trigonella, and Onobrychis. Crop
Sci. 20:801-804.

John, A.-M.; Davis, G. R. F.; Sosulski, F. W. 1979.
Protein nutrition of Tenebrio molitor L. XX.
Growth response of larvae to graded levels of
amino acids. Arch. Int. Physiol. Biochim.
87:997-1004.

Knowles, R. P. 1980. Seedling pubescence as a
genetic marker in smooth bromegrass {Bromus
inermis Leyss.). Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1163-
1170.

Kosmolak, F. G.; Crowle, W. L. 1980. An effect of
nitrogen fertilization on the agronomic traits
and dough mixing strength of five Canadian
hard spring wheat cultivars. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:1071-1076.

Lee, Y. W.; Westcott, N. D. 1980. Direct analysis
of carbofuran and 3-hydroxycarbofuran in
rape plants by reverse-phase high-pressure
liquid chromatography. J. Agric. Food Chem.
28:719-722.

Lee, Y. W.; Westcott, N. D. 1979. Quantitative
confirmation of dimethoate residues in wheat
plants by single ion mass spectrometry. J.
Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem. 62:782-785.

Lees, G. L.; Thompson, J. E. 1980. Lipid composi-
tion and molecular organization in plasma
membrane-enriched fractions from senescing
cotyledons. Physiol. Plant. 49:215-221.

McGregor, D. I. 1980. The nature of hail injury to
rapeseed. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1441-1449.

Majak, W.; Howarth, R. E.; Fesser, A. C; Goplen,
B. P.; Pedersen, M. W. 1980. Relationships
between ruminant bloat and the composition of
alfalfa herbage. II. Saponins. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:699-708.

Olfert, O. O.; Gage, S. H.; Mukerji, M. K.;
Randell, R. L. 1980. Aerial photography for
detection and assessment of grasshopper (Or-
thoptera: Acrididae) damage to small grain
crops in Saskatchewan. Can. Entomol.
112:559-566.

Smith, J. D. 1980. Is biologic control of Marasmius
oreades fairy rings possible? Plant Dis. 64:348-
354.

Stringam, G. R. 1980. Inheritance of seed color in
turnip rape. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:331-335.

Stringam, G. R.; McGregor, D. 1. 1980. Inheri-
tance and fatty acid composition of a yellow-
embryo mutant in turnip rape {Brassica
campestris L.). Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:97-102.

Huang, H. C; Dueck, J. 1980. Wilt of sunflower
resulting from infection of myceliogenically
germinating sclcrotia of Sclerotica sclerotio-
rum. Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:47-52.

Verma, P. R.; Pétrie, G. A. 1980. Effect of seed
infestation and flower bud inoculation on
systemic infection of turnip rape b\ Albugo
Candida. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:267-271.

328

RESEARCH BRANCH R I PORT 1980

Westcott, N. D.; Lee, Y. W.; Doane, J. F. 1980.
Determination of carbon dioxide production by
prairie grain wireworm and germinating wheat
seeds using mass fragmentography. J. Econ.
Entomol. 73:561-563.

Miscellaneous

Arthur, A. P. 1980. Biological control of insect
pests of oilseed crops in Western Canada. 64th
Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society
of America, Pacific Branch, (abstract), pp. 12-
14.

Arthur, A. P.; Doane, J. F. 1979. Impressions of
forensic entomology. Proceedings of the 27th
Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society
of Saskatchewan (abstract). Vol. 18, p. 13.

Bailey, L. D.; Ukrainetz, H.; Walker, D. R. 1980.
Effect of phosphorus placement on crop uptake
and yield. Proceedings of the Western Canada
Phosphate Symposium, Calgary, Alta. pp. 200-
220.

Bauer, D. J.; Arthur, A. P. 1980. Forecast; clear,
high near 90, moths. Sci. News 1 17:392.

Bauer, D. J.; Arthur, A. P. 1980. Sunflower moths
ride the winds to Saskatchewan. Chinook
3(1):10.

Burgess, L. 1980. Insect pests of Saskatchewan
rape crops — Outlook for 1980. Rapeseed Ram-
blings 2(4):8-9.

Burgess, L. 1980. The horseradish flea beetle in
Saskatchewan. Blue Jay 38(1 ):1 1-13.

Burrage, R. H., editor. 1979. Insects of cereal and
forage crops. Pesticide Research Report, Ex-
pert Committee on Pesticide Use in Agricul-
ture, pp. 253-264.

Coxworth, E. C; McGregor, D. I. 1980. Effect of
ammonia treatment on the glucosinolates and
related isothiocyanates of yellow and oriental
mustard seeds. Coxworth, E. C; Kernan, J. A.;
Moody, M. S., eds. A survey of the feed value
of various specialty crop residues and forages
before and after chemical processing. Science
Research Council. Publ. C-814-K-1-B-80. pp.
97-105.

Dedio, W.; Hoes, J. A.; Campbell, S. J.; Ukrainetz,
H.; Arthur, A. P. 1980. Sunflower seed crops.
Agric. Can. Publ. 1687. 31 pp.

Downey, R. K. 1980. Genetic capability of increas-
ing oilseed production in Western Canada.
Prairie Production Symposium, Canadian
Wheat Board. Session 1 . pp. 1-17.

Dueck, J. 1979. Control of staghead in rapeseed by
foliar application of CGA 48988. Pesticide
Research Report, Expert Committee on Pesti-
cide Use in Agriculture, p. 423.

Fredeen, F. J. H., editor. 1979. Medical and
veterinary insects. Pesticide Research Report,
Expert Committee on Pesticide Use in Agricul-
ture, pp. 265-320.

Fredeen, F. J. H.; Weiterman, G. 1979. Protection
of cows and calves from black fly attacks with
permethrin. Pesticide Research Report, Expert
Committee on Pesticide Use in Agriculture,
pp. 265-267.

Goplen, B. P.; Baenziger, H.; Bailey, L. D.; Gross,
A. T. H.; Hanna, M. R.; Michaud, R.;
Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J. 1980. Grow-
ing and managing alfalfa. Agric. Can. Publ.
1705.50 pp.

Harding, H. 1980. Cochliobolus sativus (Ito &
Kurib.) Drechsl. ex Dastur (imperfect stage:
Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc. in Sorok.)
Shoem.): A bibliography. Agriculture Canada,
Research Branch. 273 pp.

Kirkland, K. J. 1980. A comparison of herbicides to
control wild oats in wheat. Proceedings Soils
and Crops Workshop, Extension Division,
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask.
pp. 14-17.

Knowles, R. P.; Folkins, L. P. 1980. Meadow
bromegrass — a new pasture grass for Western
Canada. Canadex 130.

Lee, Y. W.; Westcott, N. D. 1980. Determination
of carbofuran and its metabolites by nitrogen-
phosphorus alkali flame ionization detector in
rapeseed plants. Proceedings of the 15th An-
nual Pesticide Residue Analysts Workshop, pp.
57-63.

McGregor, D. I. 1980. Analysis for glucosinolates
or their breakdown products in rapeseed,
rapeseed meal, and milk. Proceedings of the
Technical Rapeseed Meal Seminar, Havana,
Cuba. 84 pp.

Olfert, O. O.; Mukerji, M. K. 1980. Assessing
cereal crop grasshopper damage using infra-
red photography. Can. Agric. 25(2): 1 3- 1 5.

Piening, L. J.; Walker, D. R.: Tinline, R. D. 1980.
Role of phosphorus in plant disease tolerance
and winter hardiness. Western Canada Phos-
phate Symposium, pp. 369-394.

Shires, A.; Bell, J. M.; Blair, R.; Fedec, P.;
McGregor, D. I. 1980. A nutritional evaluation
of potential new feeds from the prairies.
Dehulled and defatted rapeseed meal. Proceed-
ings of the Western Nutrition Conference, pp.
19-41.

Smith, J. D. 1980. Didymella festucae and Phleo-
spora idahoensis on Festuca rubra in south-
west Iceland. Res. Inst. Nedri As, Hveragerdi,
Iceland. Bull. 32:1-13.

RESEARCH STATION, SASKATOON, SASK.

329

Smith, J. D. 1980. Major diseases of turfgrasses in Verma, P. R. 1979. Effect of seed treatment

western Canada. Extension Division, Univer- fungicides on common root rot and yield in

sity of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask. Publ. ■ wheat-1979. Pesticide Research Re-
409 pp 1-14

' KK' port, Expert Committee on Pesticide Use in

Smith, J. D. 1980. Snow mold resistance in turf- Agriculture, pp. 516-517.

grasses and the need for regional testing.
Proceedings of the 3rd International Turfgrass
Research Conference. Chap. 32. pp. 275-282. Westcott, N. D.; Lee, Y. W.; Arthur, A. P. 1980.

o • i i rx ,«oa <- i j r • . i • Determination of methidathion residues in

Smith, J. D. 1980. Snow molds of winter cereals in

Canada. Proceedings of the 15th Hard Red sunflowers. 15th Annual Workshop Pesticide

Winter Wheat Workers' Conference, Fort Residue Analysts (Western Canada), pp. 1 35-

Collins,CO. p. 15. 141.

330 RFSRARCH BRANCH RHPORT 1980

Research Station
Swift Current, Saskatchewan

PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Administration

W. L. Pelton, B.S.A., M.S.A.,
A. W. Strachan
P. I. Myhr, B.S.A.

Ph.D.

Director

Administrative Officer
Information Officer

Cereal Production and Utilization

T. F. Townley-Smith, B.S.A. , M.Sc, Ph.D.
D. R. Cameron, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. M. Clarke, B.Sc.(Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. M. De Pauw, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
K. E. Dunkelgod, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

D. G. Green, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

E. A. Hurd,' B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
D. S. McBean,2 B.S.A., M.Sc.

T. N. McCaig, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. G. McLeod, B.Sc(Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. E. Salmon, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Cereal breeding

Production systems

Harvest physiology

Wheat breeding

Turkey nutrition

Cereal physiology

Wheat breeding

Rye breeding

Quality physiology

Rye breeding

Turkey nutrition

Forage Production and Utilization

T. Lawrence, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

R. B. Irvine, B.S.A., Ph.D.

M. R. Kilcher, B.S.A.

J. E. Knipfel, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. Looman, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Grass breeding
Legume breeding
Pasture management
Nutrition
Range ecology

Soils and Environment

C. A. Campbell, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Soil chemistry
and fertility

RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

331

V. O. Biederbeck, B.S.A., M.Sc.
H. R. Davidson, B.Sc., Ph.D.
A. J. Leyshon, B.Sc, M.Sc.
D. W. L. Read, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Ph.D.

Soil microbiology
Agrometeorology
Forage management
Cereal fertility

Analytical Services

G. E. WlNKLEMAN, B.Sc.
H. W. MOEN3

F. G. Warder, B.S.A., M.Sc.
K. E. Wilton,4 B.A., M.L.S.

Head of Section; Chemist
Computer systems and

administration
Soil chemist
Librarian

Engineering

W. Nicholaichuk, B.E., M.Sc, Ph.D.
F. B. Dyck, B.E., M.Sc.
Y.-W. Jame, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
N. B. McLaughlin,5 B.Sc, M.Sc.
M. A. Stumborg, B.E.

Head of Section; Hydrology
Senior design engineer
Forage irrigation
Design engineer
Energy engineer

Departure

J. D. McElgunn, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Appointed Director, Research Station, Kamloops,
B.C., July 1980

Production physiology

VISITING SCIENTIST

K. Sathyanarayanaiah, B.S.Ag., M.Sc.Ag., Ph.D. Wheat breeder
Completed his Research Associate award from the
International Development Research Centre in
December and moved on to the Universidad
Autonoma Agrari in Mexico.

'Seconded to the Canadian International Development Agency (C1DA) to act as adviser to the Zambian

government on all aspects of wheat production.
^Seconded to CI DA to supervise wheat breeding at the Zambian research production project.
'Seconded from Systems and Consulting Division, Finance and Administration Branch.
'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.
'On educational leave.

332

RESEARCH BRANCH RE-PORT 11>S0

INTRODUCTION

The diversified program of research at the Swift Current Research Station emphasizes the
improvement of cultivars of cereal and forage crops and the development of technology to
improve production and utilization practices. This is accomplished through a multidisciplinary
approach to research in plant breeding, plant physiology, agronomy, soil and water
management, salinity control, nutrition, agrometeorology, and agricultural engineering.

During 1980, new cultivars of intermediate wheatgrass (Clarke) and winter rye
(Musketeer) were licensed. Both cultivars combine the better traits of former cultivars and
have potential for increasing the area seeded to these crops and for improved yields. Optimum
seeding rates, row spacings, seeding patterns, and fertilization rates were established for
several cereal and forage crops, and it was determined that five sequential years were required
for the field evaluation of forage crops. New equipment was developed for laboratory seed
cleaning and zero-tillage seeding. Studies of snow management, sewage effluent irrigation,
water use efficiency, soil salinity, and cereal harvesting led to improved management
recommendations. Canola meal proved to be cost effective in formulating poultry diets.

These and other research accomplishments are described briefly in this report. More
detailed information can be obtained from the publications listed at the end of this report, from
P. I. Myhr, or from individual scientists. Requests and correspondence should be addressed:
Research Station, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 1030, Swift Current, Sask. S9H
3X2.

W. L. Pelton
Director

FORAGE PRODUCTION AND
UTILIZATION

Clarke — A new intermediate wheatgrass

Clarke is a new cultivar of intermediate
wheatgrass released in 1980. It was developed
from a breeding program designed to combine
into one variety winterhardiness, drought
tolerance, establishment vigor, good seed
quality, and high forage and seed yield. Yield
trials indicate that Clarke equals Chief in
forage yield and produces 7% more forage
than Greenleaf. Clarke yields 28% more seed
than Chief and 45% more than Greenleaf. It
has also shown excellent winterhardiness and
drought tolerance. It is well adapted for hay
and pasture use on both dryland and irrigated
land in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Al-
berta, as well as in the northern Great Plains
states.

Seed yield of Altai wild ryegrass as
influenced by row spacing and fertilizer

A study was conducted from 1969 to 1977
to determine the effect of row spacings and
applications of N and P fertilizer on the
productivity of Altai wild ryegrass {Elymus
angustus Trim). The optimum row spacing

for highest seed production was 120 cm and
the optimum fertilizer treatment was N at 25
kg/ha plus P at 25 kg/ha annually. Doubling
the rate of N or N plus P did not significantly
increase the seed yield over that obtained
from grass receiving N at 25 kg/ha plus P at
25 kg/ha. Fertilizer treatments containing P
tended to result in a more stable year-to-year
response than those containing only N. Altai
wild ryegrass grown in 30-cm row spacings
produced higher dry matter yields for the first
4 yr than that grown in wider-spaced rows.
However, in the last 4 yr the highest yields
were obtained from grass seeded in rows
spaced 150 cm apart. Grass receiving an
annual application of N at 50 kg/ha plus P at
50 kg/ha produced significantly more forage
than that given N at only 25 kg/ha, both of
which outyielded unfertilized grass.

Productivity of grass-alfalfa pastures grown
in different stand patterns in a semiarid
region of the Canadian prairies

Russian wild ryegrass {Elymus junceus
Fisch.) and alfalfa {Medicago media Pers.)
pastures seeded in mixture, or in alternate
rows, or in a cross-seeded pattern were grazed
by cattle from 1974 to 1980 at Swift Current,
Sask. The legume was retained in the two

RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

333

component separation patterns but had de-
clined to only 1 5% in the mixture stands.

Daily gains of liveweight cattle were largest
from the cross-seeded pastures. On a land unit
basis, the beef production from cross-seeded
pastures was 13% higher than from alternate-
row pastures and 17% higher than from
mixture pastures.

The checkered pattern from cross seeding
reduced runoff. No incidence of bloat
occurred.

Number of sequential years and particular
time periods in relation to valid results

Over a 13-yr period from 1966 to 1979,
three identical tests starting in different years
were each studied for nine sequential years.
This arrangement provided for testing time
periods that varied in precipitation and in
climatic conditions in general. Main measure-
ments included yield and forage stand
changes.

Particular blocks of years tended to give
similar and comparable results, provided that
the number of sequential years exceeded five
and that first-year data were excluded.

Vegetation surveys and classification

Vegetation surveys and classification of
vegetation types were continued, with empha-
sis on wetland vegetation. Work on salt
marshes and freshwater marshes was com-
pleted; the classification of these marshes
shows strong affinities with similar Eurasian
vegetation. Work on aquatic vegetation was
begun, and water samples were taken for
chemical and for phytoplankton analyses.
Chemical analyses of these samples show that
several lakes in the Parklands and Boreal
forest may soon become severely polluted.
Electric conductivity and soluble phosphorus
content of polluted waters average 1.75 times
and 33 times, respectively, that of unpolluted
waters. Preliminary algal analyses show a
great increase in blue green algae, resulting in
damage to fish populations in the polluted
lakes.

SOILS AND ENVIRONMENT

An empirical method of estimating soil
temperatures on cropped land on the
Canadian prairies

Agronomists often require quick, easy
methods of estimating temperatures of soil

under cereal production, either to fill in
missing experimental measurements or to
help explain apparent discrepancies in results.
Methods described in the literature allow
such estimates to be made from meteorolog-
ical measurements and physical characteris-
tics of the soil, but these methods are often
mathematically complex.

A simple empirical regression and correla-
tion approach was used successfully at Swift
Current, Sask., to relate soil temperatures
under cereal and fallow cropping systems to
soil temperature at corresponding depths
under grass plots. The relationships between
temperatures under cereals (y) and those
under grass at corresponding depths (x) were
generally represented by y = x. The best
Swift Current relationships for the growing
season were used successfully (r2 = 0.9) to
predict data for different years at Swift
Current and Scott, Sask., and Lethbridge,
Alta.

Effect of nitrogen, temperature, growth
stage, and duration of moisture stress on
yield components and protein content of
Manitou spring wheat

Many studies have been carried out to
determine the effect of temperature, moisture,
and N fertility, either singly or combined, on
yield and protein contents of cereals. How-
ever, the relative importance of these environ-
mental factors is still not completely under-
stood because of their complex interactions.

Manitou spring wheat {Triticum aestivum
L.) was grown at combinations of three day
and night temperatures (27 and 12°C, 22 and
12°C, and 17 and 12°C); three levels of
fertilizer N (58, 116, and 174 kg/ha); and
three moisture stresses (nominally -0.3, -15,
and -40 bar). All plants were initially grown
at -0.3 bar; one moisture treatment was
carried through to maturity at this water
potential and the remainder were stressed at
-15 or -40 bar from either four-tiller, boot, or
late-flowering stage to maturity.

Under the conditions of this experiment,
temperature was the most important factor
affecting yield and protein, and moisture
stress the least important. Yields were equal
at 17 and 22°C, but greater than they were at
27°C. Protein was equal at 1 7 and 22° but less
than it was at 27°C. Yield increased with N
fertility except at the highest temperature or
when high moisture stress was applied from
the boot stage. Plants grown under high

334

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

moisture stress through to the boot stage (i.e.
stressed from tillering or boot) gave yield
increases when fertilized with N at 116 kg/
ha; but N at 174 kg/ha depressed the yield of
plants that were stressed from boot stage to
maturity. Yields of plants stressed from
tillering were generally greater than yields of
plants stressed from the boot stage, indicating
that the plant has the ability to adapt to early
stress.

In contrast to findings in a simulated
irrigation study, moisture stress during the
boot stage depressed rather than enhanced
seed set. Optimal temperature for spikelet
development was near 22°C. The growth
stage most critical to the determination of
number of seeds developed was the boot stage
and that for kernel weight was at or after
anthesis.

The effect of temperature on protein was
independent of N or moisture levels. High
moisture stress during the boot stage in-
creased protein even at the lowest N level, but
stress from late flowering rarely increased
protein. The effect of N on protein was
usually direct, whereas temperature and
moisture usually acted by influencing the
yield. The direct effects of N and of tempera-
ture on protein were twice and 15 times,
respectively, the effect of moisture.

ENGINEERING

Snow management by swathing at alternate
heights

Swathing stubble fields at alternate heights
for snow management resulted in an average
annual increase of 1.4 cm of entrapped soil
water over an 8-yr period. This value repre-
sents a 30% increase in stored water com-
pared with swathing stubble fields at uniform
height. The range of soil moisture conserved
varied between 0.38 and 5.19 cm. In 1977-
1978 a large-scale farm trial conserved an
extra 2 cm of available soil moisture as a
result of this practice.

If 8 cm of available water is the require-
ment for a Brown soil to produce a crop of
773 kg/ha on stubble land, then the alternate
height system of snow management makes it
possible to seed stubble land for 4 yr out of 7.
Without snow management, only 3 yr out of 7
can be considered suitable for seeding. The
additional year represents a 33% increase in
production, assuming an average yield of 773
kg/ha.

Equipment design

A simple laboratory seed cleaner with an
oscillating scalping sieve and a precisely
controlled air blast has been developed for
forage and cereal samples. The machine has
zero mixing between samples and can clean
two 500-g samples per minute.

A John Deere hoe drill was converted into a
zero-till drill by replacing the hoe openers
with a two-disc opener and modifying the
spring suspension system to the openers. The
opener has a 375-mm vertical disc that acts as
a colter and a 275-mm disc angled at 7° that
opens the furrow. Trash-cutting ability and
penetration are very good with a maximum
force of 1100 N available per colter. This is
an economical zero-till drill with superior
performance as compared with commercial
drills now available on the market.

Salt balance in a catena of four Birsay
soils under effluent irrigation

In a test using Swift Current effluent for
irrigation, the application rate was set to meet
the water requirement of the crop and to
supply 10-15% of leaching to maintain a
favorable salt balance in the soil.

After 6 yr of effluent irrigation, the results
indicate similar trends in salinity-profile
changes for the Orthic Regosol, Calcareous,
and Orthic soil series. In these three soils, salt
content in the upper layers of the root zone
increased slightly, whereas salt content in the
bottom layers of these soils decreased sub-
stantially. A net reduction of total salt content
in the top 200 cm was effected by effluent
irrigation on the Orthic Regosol and the
Calcareous soil series. In contrast, effluent
application caused a small increase of salts in
the Orthic soil because of the low initial salt
content within this profile.

Among the four soil series, the greatest
increase in total salt occurred with the
Cumulic Orthic soil. This is primarily because
of the very low salt content of this soil prior to
irrigation. In this soil, salts were also distrib-
uted much more uniformly than in any of the
other three soil types because the soil is
located in the low-lying areas and receives
considerably more water through runoff from
irrigation and snowmelt.

Effluent irrigation produced a salt content
in the upper layers of the Cumulic Orthic soil
that was distinctly higher than that in the
other three soil series. This higher salt content
was attributed to the relatively high water

RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

335

table in this area. Initially, alfalfa yields on
the Cumulic Orthic soil were considerably
higher than yields on the other three soil
series, because the former soil had a better
developed profile, and a higher humus and
nutrient content. However, the yields on the
Cumulic Orthic soil were lower than those on
the Orthic soil after 5 yr of effluent irrigation.
This yield depression was attributed to the
considerably higher salinity in the upper
layers of the Cumulic Orthic soil.

From this study, it is evident that the
requirement for adequate drainage systems to
effect salt removal by leaching is of prime
importance. Without adequate drainage,
downward percolating water fills the lower
soil spaces and causes the water table to rise.
A high water table favors upward capillary
flow of water to the surface. The soluble salt
carried upward then concentrates on the
upper layers of the soil and may thus cause
greater salinity. With proper management,
alfalfa grows well under irrigation with
sewage effluent that has a relatively high salt
content.

CEREAL PRODUCTION AND
UTILIZATION

Seeding rate of wheat

The yield potential of the two lines of wheat
(Triticum aestivum L.) derived from Norin
10, namely Norquay and line X, and of the
hard red spring wheat cultivar Neepawa were
compared at six seeding rates: 75, 150, 300,
450, 675, and 1350 seeds per square metre.
Over 2 yr, seven tests were conducted in
northwestern Canada between latitudes
55°12' and 5%°\V N. A yield component
analysis was made at one location. All differ-
ences caused by seeding rate (S) and cultivar
(C) were significant as were most S x C
interactions. The yield curves usually followed
the standard parabolic form, but the higher
the potential yield of a cultivar, the higher the
seeding rate required to realize its potential.
Optimum seeding rates per square metre
identified by inspection of yield curves were
675 for Norquay, about 450 for line X, and
about 300 for Neepawa. Using an inverse
polynomial formula the mean optimum rates
were 672, 486, and 350 seeds per square
metre, respectively. The ontogenically late
yield components (kernels per head for
Norquay and kernel size for line X) were

important for the yielding ability of these
lines derived from Norin 10. Neepawa de-
pended on the component heads per square
metre for its maximum yield. Compared with
the standard seeding rate of 300 seeds per
square metre, the optimum seeding rate for
the two cultivars derived from Norin 10
resulted in earlier maturity, similar plant
height, increased lodging, smaller kernels,
increased yield, increased test weight, and
lower percentage of grain protein. The results
suggest that new wheat lines and cultivars,
particularly if they differ from existing culti-
vars, should be tested at a wide range of
seeding rates in order to determine their full
potential.

Genotype-environment interaction

Three cultivars of each crop, wheat (Triti-
cum aestivum L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), and
barley (Hordeum vulgar e L.), were grown for
4 yr at five locations north of the 55th parallel
in northwestern Canada. There were highly
significant differences among all main effects
and interactions. Gait barley produced the
highest seed yield, followed by Centennial
barley, Random oats, and Harmon oats.
Victory oats, Olli barley, Neepawa wheat,
and Pitic 62 wheat had similar yields, whereas
Thatcher wheat was significantly lower yield-
ing. Mean environment yields ranged from
2080 to 5610 kg/ha.

The genotype-environment (GE) interac-
tion of species and cultivars was too compli-
cated to be characterized by one or two
statistics (e.g. stability variances or regression
coefficients). However, variability in the frost-
free period among years and locations con-
tributed to the GE interaction, because, for
example, some cultivars yielded well (e.g.
Pitic 62) only in those year-location environ-
ments with a relatively long frost-free period,
whereas other early maturing cultivars (e.g.
Olli) performed well even in an environment
with a short frost-free period.

Cereal harvesting

Research on harvest time of oats has shown
that time of cutting has a substantial effect on
commercial grades. Cutting at up to 35%
kernel moisture content (KMC) was accepta-
ble for feed grades, whereas cutting at lower
moistures was required to produce CW
grades.

The cultivars Random, Kelsey, and Har-
mon were cut at approximately 45, 40. 35, 30,

336

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT ll)S0

25, 20, and 15% KMC and were left to dry in
the field or were dried artificially in a forced-
air oven. Yield, grain N, and test weights
were determined, and composite samples of
each treatment combination were graded by
the Canadian Grain Commission.

Time of cutting had no effect on yield or
protein content. Both test weight and grade
improved as harvesting was delayed until the
lower KMC levels were reached. In general,
there was little difference between field-dried
and artificially dried material. Harvesting at
30-35% KMC produced No. 1 Feed oats. If
cutting was delayed until the 20-30% KMC
range, grades were generally No. 2 CW. It
was necessary to wait until the crop dried
below 20% KMC to obtain No. 1 CW grade
oats. The major reason for downgrading of
oats cut at greater than 20% KMC was the
presence of green seeds, which result from the
basipetal progression of ripening in the oat
panicle.

Research with awned and awnless wheats
has shown that awns have no effect on the rate
of drying in either standing crops or in
windrowed material. The closely related
cultivars Napayo (awned) and Manitou (awn-
less) were studied for 3 yr. The cultivars dried
at the same rate in all 3 yr, which included
both hot and dry as well as cool and moist
weather conditions.

A 3-yr evaluation test of the chemicals
paraquat, diquat, and glyphosate for desicca-
tion of Neepawa wheat showed that the
chemicals did not improve the rate of drying
of the mature crop. The chemicals were
applied at 35-40% KMC. Drying rates were
measured on treated plots and on standing
and windrowed controls. The windrowed
controls dried fastest in all years.

Zero-tillage

Zero-tillage research was initiated on three
soil types (clay, clay loam, and sandy loam) in
the spring of 1978. Zero-tillage treatments
included continuous wheat as well as wheat on
chemical fallow. They were compared with
equivalent treatments using conventional
tillage. Average yield increases for the zero-
tillage continuous wheat were higher than for
the conventional cultivated continuous wheat
when grown on the clay soil (+125 kg/ha)
but lower when grown on the sandy loam soil
(-130 kg/ha). The clay loam soil showed little
difference. Wheat yield on chemical fallow

versus conventional fallow favored the chemi-
cal fallow on two of the soils, with yield
increases of + 260 and + 225 kg/ha on the
clay and clay loam soils, respectively, but
wheat yield showed a decrease of -410 kg/ha
on the sandy loam soil. The yield results point
out the advantage of zero-tillage systems in
heavier-textured soils. However, yields alone
can be somewhat deceiving, because better
yields are not necessarily better economically.
Chemical fallow costs are about $60/ha
compared with conventional fallow costs of
$30/ha.

Salinity mapping

A field resistivity meter (Wenner array)
and two terrain conductivity meters (EM31
and EM38) were tested to examine their
performance for mapping saline areas. It was
found that all three meters functioned well
and gave a clear distinction between areas of
high and low salt content. The instruments
could be a useful aid to extension personnel
and soil surveyors. The terrain conductivity
meters have the advantage of speed. These
meters can measure salt content continuously
as the operator walks across the affected field.
The EM31 measures salts to 3.7 m whereas
the smaller, lighter EM38 is effective to 1.2
m. The Wenner array offers the advantage of
being able to distinguish salt distribution over
depth. The other two conductivity meters
measure the average salt content over depth.
However, the Wenner array is somewhat
bulky and is slower than the other meters,
which is a disadvantage because probes must
be inserted into the ground.

Water-use efficiency

Wheat water-use efficiencies on the prairies
can vary from 40 kg of grain per hectare per
centimetre of water used in a bad growing
season to over 100 kg/ha per centimetre in a
good year. Fertilization is important because
it can improve water-use efficiency (WUE) by
15% on fallow land and up to 30% on stubble
land. Water-use efficiency of cereal grains is
about twice that of oilseed crops. Fall-seeded
crops tend to have higher WUE values
because they make more efficient use of spring
moisture than spring-seeded crops. In the
Brown and Dark Brown soil zones, summer-
fallowed soils store only about 20% of the
precipitation that falls, whereas in the Black
and Gray soils, the efficiencies are often less
than 10%. The manipulation of snow cover

RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

337

could offer potential for increasing the water
supply available for dryland crops. Calcula-
tions show that if an extra 5 cm of water
could be entrapped and made available to the
crop, then stubble yields could increase by
about 20%.

Rye breeding and genetics

Support of the Expert Committee on Grain
Breeding (ECGB) for the licensing of RT 124
was requested and received in February 1980.
It was named Musketeer and subsequently
licensed in July 1980 (License No. 2037).
When seed supplies are available (fall of
1983), Musketeer could potentially be grown
on 200 000 ha in Western Canada.

Musketeer was selected from the hybrid
combination Harrach/Petkus/Dakold, which
was produced in 1969 by S. R. Buzinski and
D. S. McBean. It was first entered in the
cooperative trials in 1975 as RT 124.

The test data indicate that Musketeer
represents a distinct improvement over cur-
rently available cultivars in a number of
characteristics. Winter survival was satisfac-
tory and, in most cases, Musketeer was the
best. During the period under test, it yielded
103-108% of the highest-yielding licensed
cultivar each year. The hectolitre weight of
RT 124 was equal to that for Cougar and
Puma and greater than for Kodiak, whereas
the 1000-kernel weight was equal to that for
Kodiak. Heading and maturity for RT 124
were as early as for Frontier (2-3 days earlier
than for Kodiak). Height of RT 124 was
equal to that of Puma and Frontier; however,
its resistance to lodging was greater than that
of Frontier, Puma, and Kodiak but was not
equal to Cougar.

The licensing of Musketeer has allowed the
program to meet the establishment objective
for the period ending in 1981.

The effect of dietary nutrient density level
on strain, age, and meat yield of growing
large white male turkeys

Studies in this laboratory have demon-
strated that toms from the heavy tonnage
commercial strains respond to higher nutrient
density levels. This was accomplished by
providing more nutrients within a lower feed
intake, which allowed the birds to grow at a
faster rate at each physiological age.

An experiment to determine the influence
of nutrient density on feed intake was carried

out using heavy strains of toms. Three nutri-
ent-density levels were fed, and growth per-
formance was obtained at weekly intervals to
175 days old. The nutrient-to-joule ratio in
this series of diets remained constant at 1 1.6,
12.9, and 14.2 kJ/g metabolizable energy
(ME).

Four large white strains of male turkeys
studied utilized the dietary nutrients with
approximately the same efficiency at each of
the three nutrient-density levels. The growth
rate of the high feed-intake strains was
significantly faster at all nutrient-density
levels than that of the medium feed-intake
strains.

Meat-yield data indicated that breast meat
and total skin percentage increased with
chronological age. Certain strains showed an
increase in the yield of breast meat with an
increase in nutrient density level. The per-
centage of thigh and drumstick decreased
with age.

Nutrient-density level does not affect the
percentage of fat in the skin and gravy sample
as much as does chronological age. The
percentage of fat in the breast and thigh meat
tended to increase with chronological age and
nutrient-density level. The nutrient quality of
the finished product increased with the higher
nutrient-density level.

Canola meal for broiler chickens

Candle canola meal (CM) was incorpo-
rated into wheat-based diets of broiler chicks
at the following levels: in starter diets, CM at
281 g/kg, with a protein content of 230 and
210 g/km; in finisher diets, CM at 121 g/kg,
with a protein content of 190 and 170 g/kg
(complete replacement of soybean meal in the
low-protein diets). Nutrient-density treat-
ments assessed the effect of maintaining
dietary true metabolizable energy with added
fat in CM diets.

Liveweight gains were not affected by
either CM or nutrient density. Feed efficiency
was not affected by CM when nutrient density
was maintained with fat, but it decreased in
diets of lower nutrient density. Low-protein
diets reduced liveweights, feed efficiency, and
carcass fleshing grades and increased abdomi-
nal fat. Carcass fleshing grades were not
consistently related to actual meat yield.

Intensity of chicken flavor decreased and
frequency of off-flavors increased when the
starter diets contained CM at 281 g/kg and
the finisher diets contained CM at 121 g/kg.

338

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 11>S0

No adverse sensory effects occurred when the
diets contained CM at up to 210 g/kg in the
starter and 90 g/kg in the finisher. The effect
observed at the highest level may be related to
the levels of methionine and choline supple-
mentation of the diets.

Economics of canola meal in poultry diets

Computer modeling studies indicate that
CM is a profitable feedstuff for use in the
production of turkeys and broiler chickens.
Price ratios of CM to soybean meal (SBM)
up to 0.63 increased net returns by at least
lc/kg liveweight when CM was incorporated
into turkey diets at levels of 75-150 g/kg.
Corresponding CM-to-SBM price ratios for
chicken production were more variable but
tended to be higher for turkeys. Furthermore,
diets of lower nutrient density were often
more profitable for turkey and chicken pro-
duction than those supplemented with fat to
maintain dietary nutrient density.

Water absorption by turkey carcasses

Turkey carcasses absorb water when chilled
in cold water or slush ice. The amount
absorbed can vary from as little as 15-27
g/kg eviscerated carcass in our laboratory, to
73 g/kg reported from other laboratories. The
effect of processing procedures on water
absorption was studied. In comparison with
normally scalded carcasses, dry plucking
increased weight loss during plucking and
evisceration, and reduced chilled carcass
yield. Carcasses eviscerated when dry lost
more weight than those kept wet, and they
regained only part of the weight during
chilling. Carcasses prechilled in running
water, followed by ice slush, absorbed more
water than those chilled in ice slush alone.
Processing speed influenced water absorption,
with more rapid processing decreasing water
uptake during chilling. The factors studied
failed to account fully for the large variation
in carcass water uptake reported from differ-
ent sources.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Campbell, C. A.; Leyshon, A. J. 1980. Effect of
nitrogen supply on the seed set of spring wheat
and barley. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:785-794.

Dyck, F. B.; McLaughlin, N. B.; Lawrence, T.
1980. A simple cleaner for forage seed. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:1477-1480.

Heinrichs, D. H.; Lawrence, T.; McElgunn, J. D.
1980. Registration of Rangelander alfalfa.
Crop Sci. 20:668.

Irvine, R. B.; Harvey, B. L.; Rossnagel, B. G. 1979.
Rooting capability as it relates to soil moisture
extraction and osmotic potential of semidwarf
and normal-statured genotypes of six-row bar-
ley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:241-248.

Irvine, R. B.; Harvey, B. L.; Rossnagel, B. G. 1979.
Yield and phenotypic traits of semidwarf and
normal-statured barley {Hordeum vulgare L.)
genotypes grown under differing levels of
moisture stress. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:733-736.

Jame, Y. W.; Norum, D. I. 1980. Heat and mass
transfer in a freezing unsaturated porous
medium. Water Resour. Res. Am. Geophys.
Union 16(4):8I 1-819.

Kilcher, M. R. 1980. Influence of test period and
sequence of years on results with perennial
forage crops in a semiarid region. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1191-1201.

Kilcher, M. R.; Korven
scheduling practices

H. C. 1980. Irrigation

scheduling practices on yield and persistence of
alfalfa. Can. Agric. Eng. 22(l):61-64.

Lawrence, T. 1980. Seed yield of Altai wild
ryegrass as influenced by row spacing and
fertilizer. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:249-253.

Lawrence, T. 1980. Registration of Swift Russian
wild ryegrass. Crop Sci. 20:672.

Lawrence, T.; Korven, H. C; Winkleman, G. E.;
Warder, F. G. 1980. The productivity and
chemical composition of Altai wild ryegrass as
influenced by time of irrigation and time and
rate of N fertilization. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:1179-1189.

Lawrence, T.; Warder, F. G. 1979. Evaluation of
twenty grass populations as irrigated hay crops
for southwestern Saskatchewan. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 59:691-700.

RESEARCH STATION. SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

339

Leyshon, A. J.; Campbell, C. A.; Warder, F. G.
1980. Comparison of the effect of NO,- and
NH4-N on growth, yield, and yield components
of Manitou spring wheat and Conquest barley.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1063-1070.

Looman, J. 1980. The vegetation of the Canadian
Prairie Provinces. II. The grasslands, Part 1.
Phytocoenologia 8:153-190.

McLaughlin, N. B.; Townley-Smith, T. F. 1980. An
automated sample weighing system. Agron. J.
72:695-697.

McLaughlin, N. B.; Townley-Smith, T. F.; Dyck, F.
B. 1979. A microplot seeder. Agron. J. 71:145-
148.

Read, D. W. L.; Cameron, D. R. 1979. Relation-
ship between salinity and Wenner resistivity
for some dryland soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 59:381-
385.

Salmon, R. E. 1980. Effects of method of processing
and chilling of turkey carcasses on processing
losses, water absorption and yields. Br. Poult.
Sci. 21:253-256.

Miscellaneous

Agriculture Canada. 1980. [Beacom, S. E.; Knipfel,
J. E., authors] Feeding and managing livestock
during a feed shortage. Agriculture Canada
Bulletin. 27 pp.

Bhargava, K. K.; O'Neil, J. B.; Prior, M. G.;
Dunkelgod, K. E. 1980. Incidence of salmo-
nella contamination in broiler chickens during
rearing and processing. Poult. Sci. 59:1583
(abstract).

Cameron, D. R.; Read, D. W. L.; Warder, F. G.
1980. Miracle chemicals — Can they aid salin-
ity. Proceedings 1980 Soils and Crops Work-
shop, Saskatoon, Sask. (18-19 Feb.). pp. 127-
134.

Cameron, D. R.; Warder, F. G.; Read, D. W. L.;
Nicholaichuk, W.; Parker, G.; Glen, P. 1980.
Gull Lake salinity site: 5-year review. Proceed-
ings Saskatchewan Soil Salinity Coordinating
Committee, Saskatoon, Sask. (20 Feb.).

Campbell, C. A.; Biederbeck, V. O. 1980. Changes
in the quality of soils of the prairies as a result
of agricultural production. Proceedings Prairie
Production Symposium, Canadian Wheat
Board Advisory Committee, Saskatoon, Sask.
(29-31 Oct.).

Campbell, C. A.; Davidson, H. R. 1980. Influence
of temperature, nitrogen fertilizer and mois-
ture stress on yield and protein content of
Manitou spring wheat — a simulated dryland
study. Proceedings 1980 Soils and Crops
Workshop, Extension Division, University of
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask. pp. 23-32.

Campbell, C. A.; McGill, W. B.; Paul, E. A. 1980.
Trends in N under cereal production on the
Canadian prairies — A review. Seminar on
isotope techniques in studies of the useful
conservation and the pollutant potential of
agricultural nitrogen residues, Vienna, Austria
(25-29 Aug.). IAEA-SR-48 (abstract no. 4).

Campbell, C. A.; Weier, K.; Myers, R. J. K. 1980.
Effect of temperature and moisture on N
mineralization in some Australian soils. Cana-
dian Society of Soil Science Abstracts, Edmon-
ton, Alta. (abstract), p. 18.

Clarke, J. M.; McCaig, T. N. 1980. Evaluation of
techniques for screening for drought resistance
in wheat. American Society of Agronomists
Annual Meeting, Detroit, Mich, (abstract), p.
10.

Coxworth, E. W.; Kernan, J.; Knipfel, J. E.;
Crowle, L.; Thorlacius, O. 1980. Crop residues
and forages in Western Canada: Potential for
use either with or without chemical or physical
processing. SRC Publ. C-814-1-4-D080. 28 pp.

Davidson, H. R. 1980. A review of solar crop drying
in Western Canada. Proceedings Caribbean
Alternate Energy Program Workshop on Crop
Drying, Barbados (July).

Davidson, H. R. 1980. Solar energy applications in
agriculture. Proceedings Saskatchewan Energy
Show, Saskatoon, Sask. (25 Oct.).

DeJong, E.; Cameron, D. R. 1980. Efficiency of
water use by agriculture on the Canadian
Prairies. Proceedings Prairie Production Sym-
posium, Canadian Wheat Board Advisory
Committee, Saskatoon, Sask. (29-31 Oct.).

DePauw, R. M.; Tipples, K. H. 1980. Chester
wheat — Production discouraged but no penalty
for 1980-81. Joint press release by Canadian
Grain Commission and Research Branch, Ag-
riculture Canada (4 Mar.).

DePauw, R. M.; Townley-Smith, T. F. 1980.
Equipment and germplasm. Annu. Wheat
Newsl. 26:58.

Dunkelgod, K. E. 1980. Effect of dietary nutrient
density level on strain, age and meat yield data
of growing large white female turkeys. Poult.
Sci. 59:1602 (abstract).

Dyck, F. B. 1980. Design considerations for zero-till
drills. Proceedings Zero Tillage Symposium,
Bismarck, N.D. (9-11 Sept.).

Dyck, F. B.; Finlayson. D. G. 1980. A granular
applicator for a single row horticultural seeder.
Proceedings 5th International Conference on
Mechanization of Field Experiments, Wagen-
ingen. The Netherlands, pp. 131-1 34.

340

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Dyck, F. B.; Lawrence, T. 1980. A compact forage
plot harvester. Proceedings 5th International
Conference on Mechanization of Field Experi-
ments, Wageningen, The Netherlands, p. 9.

Dyck, F. B.; McLaughlin, N. B.; Lawrence, T.
1980. A simple cleaner for forage seed. Pro-
ceedings 5th International Conference on
Mechanization of Field Experiments, Wagen-
ingen, The Netherlands, pp. 194-197.

Kernan, J.; Coxworth, E. W.; Nicholson, H. H.;
Knipfel, J. E. 1980. Ammoniation of straw and
chaff to improve their nutritional value as feed
for ruminant animals. SRC Publ. C-814-4-G-
80. 37 pp.

Kilcher, M. R. 1980. Dryland turf in Saskatche-
wan. Proceedings Saskatchewan Turf Seminar.
6 pp.

Klein, K. K.; Salmon, R. E.; Larmond, E. 1980. A
computer model for assessing the economic
value of Candle canola meal in diets for
growing turkeys. 6th Progress Report, Re-
search on Canola Seed, Oil, Meal and Meal
Fractions, Canola Council of Canada, Winni-
peg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 23-26.

Knipfel, J. E. 1980. Phosphorus boosts productivity
of grazing animals in Western Canada. Better
Crops with Plant Food 14:14-16.

Knipfel, J. E.; Kilcher, M. R.; Lawrence, T.;
Leyshon, A. J.; McElgunn, J. D. 1980. Phos-
phorus as a major factor in determining pro-
ductivity levels of grazing animals. Proceed-
ings Western Canada Phosphate Symposium,
Calgary, Alta. (Feb.). pp. 395-41 1.

Larmond, E.; Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K. 1980.
Sensory evaluation of turkeys fed diets con-
taining Candle canola meal. 6th Progress
Report, Research on Canola Seed, Oil, Meal
and Meal Fractions, Canola Council of
Canada, Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 103-
105.

Lawrence, T. 1980. Breeding for adaptation to
environmental stress. Proceedings 26th Grass
Breeders' Work Planning Conference, Logan,
Utah.

Lawrence, T. 1980. Research Report. Proceedings
26th Grass Breeders' Work Planning Confer-
ence, Logan, Utah.

Leyshon, A. J.; Kilcher, M. R.; McElgunn, J. D.
1980. Seeding rates and row spacings for
forage crops in southwestern Saskatchewan.
Proceedings Saskatchewan Soil Fertility
Workshop, Saskatoon, Sask. pp. 106-1 10.

McCaig, T. N.; Clarke, J. M. 1980. Nonstructural
carbohydrate concentrations in cereal stems
and leaves. American Society of Agronomists
Annual Meeting, Detroit, Mich, (abstract), p.

McLeod, J. G. 1980. Musketeer, a new winter rye.
Press release, Agriculture Canada Research
Station, Swift Current, Sask. (2 Apr.).

Myhr, P. I., editor. 1980. 1979 Research Hi-Lites.
Agriculture Canada Research Station, Swift
Current, Sask.

Nicholaichuk, W. 1980. Effluent irrigation research
activities of federal agencies. Proceedings
Effluent Irrigation Workshop, Environment
Canada (6 Nov.).

Nicholaichuk, W. 1980. Snow management to
produce additional water for agriculture. Pro-
ceedings, Prairie Production Symposium, Ca-
nadian Wheat Board Advisory Committee,
Saskatoon, Sask. (29-31 Oct.).

Nicholaichuk, W.; Biederbeck, V. O.; Jame, Y. W.;
Kilcher, M. R.; Warder, F. G. 1980. Munici-
pal sewage effluent: An alternate source of
irrigation water. Proceedings Canadian Soci-
ety of Agricultural Engineers, Edmonton,
Alta. (5 Aug.).

Nicholaichuk, W.; Read, D. W. L. 1980. Snow
management by swathing at alternate heights.
Soils and Crops Workshop, Saskatoon, Sask.
(18 Feb.). pp. 55-58.

Pelton, W. L. 1980. Tillage for cereal crop produc-
tion. Proceedings Prairie Production Sympo-
sium, Canadian Wheat Board Advisory Com-
mittee, Saskatoon, Sask. (29-31 Oct.).

Read, D. W. L. 1979. K related soil fertility
research. Proceedings Potash and Phosphate
Institute of Canada Workshop, Saskatoon,
Sask. (27-28 Nov.). pp. 65-67.

Read, D. W. L. 1979. Top yields since 1973 in
southwestern Saskatchewan. Proceedings Pot-
ash and Phosphate Institute of Canada Work-
shop, Saskatoon, Sask. (27-28 Nov.). pp. 185-
187.

Salmon, R. E. 1980. Rapeseed and canola meal in
diets for starting turkeys. 6th Progress Report,
Research on Canola Seed, Oil, Meal and Meal
Fractions, Canola Council of Canada, Winni-
peg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 16-18.

Salmon, R. E. 1980. True metabolisable energy
content of rapeseed and canola meal and
cooked canola flakes. 6th Progress Report,
Research on Canola Seed, Oil, Meal and Meal
Fractions, Canola Council of Canada, Winni-
peg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 46-47.

Salmon, R. E.; Biely, J. 1980. Rapeseed meal and
rapeseed oil in poultry and livestock rations.
An annoted bibliography. Update: 1978-79.
Publ. No. 53 — Supplement, Canola Council of
Canada, Winnipeg, Man.

RESEARCH STATION, SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.

341

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K. 1980. A bioeconomic Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Larmond, E. 1980.

model of turkey production. Haresign, W.; Nutritive value of Candle canola meal in

Lewis, O., eds. Recent advances in animal turkey broiler diets of varying nutrient density,

nutrition 1980. London: Butterworths; pp. 171- 6th Progress Report, Research on Canola

184. Seed, Oil, Meal and Meal Fractions, Canola

Council of Canada, Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Gardiner, E. E. 1980. PP" 19"22'

Economics of canola meal in poultry diets. Spratt, E. D.; Read, D. W. L. 1980. Long-term

Addresses to 13th Annual Convention, Rape- benefits from residual fertilizer phosphorus for

seed Association of Canada, Winnipeg, Man. small grains and forage crops. Proceedings

pp. 76-89. Alberta Soil Science Workshop, pp. 122-138.

342 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Beaverlodge, Alberta

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

L. P. S. Spangelo, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. H. Marshall

Director
Administrative Officer

Cereal and Oilseed Crops

R. I. Wolfe, B.S.A., B.D., Ph.D.
Vacant

Head of Section; Cereal breeding
Wheat and rapeseed

Environment and Soils

W. A. Rice, B.S.A., M.Sc., Ph.D.

W. G. Bailey, B.Sc., Ph.D.

A. L. Darwent,1 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. G. N. Davidson, B.S.F., M.Sc, Ph.D.

A. M. F. Hennig, B.Sc

J. S. McKenzie, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Vacant

Head of Section; Microbiology

Micrometeorologist

Weed control

Plant pathology

Crop management

Plant survival

Soil physics

Forage Crops and Apiculture

C. R. Elliott, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

S. G. Bonin, B.S.A., Ph.D.

D. L. Nelson, B.S.A., M.Sc

T. I. Szabo, B.A.E., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Vacant

Head of Section; Grass seed
management
Grass breeding
Apiculture

Physiology and behavior of bees
Legume seed management
Apiculture pathology
Production and utilization

Experimental Farm, Fort Vermilion, Alta.

B. Siemens, B.S.A., M.Sc

Superintendent; Forage crops
management

RESEARCH STATION. BEAVERLODGE. ALTA.

343

Vacant

Crop production specialist

Departures

H. Lerer, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred to Food Production and Inspection
Branch, Ottawa, July 1980
J. B. Thomas, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Transferred to Lethbridge Research Station,
Lethbridge, Alta., December 1980

Apiculture pathology

Wheat, rapeseed

VISITING SCIENTIST

W. G. Legge, B.S.A., M.Sc.

Agriculture Research Council of Alberta

Cereal agronomy

'On a Canadian International Development Agency assignment from October 1980 to October 1982.

344

RESEARCH BRWCII R1PORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Northern Research Group, which comprises the Research Station at Beaverlodge and
the associated experimental farm at Fort Vermilion, Alta., is largely responsible for research
on agricultural problems of northwestern Canada. This report presents highlights of research
for 1980.

Considerable progress was made in several of our research activities. For example, we
determined the influence of solar irradiance on the pollination activity of the alfalfa leafcutting
bee in our region. Once the temperature threshold, 16-17°C, was surpassed, activity was
dependent on solar irradiance.

A first was achieved for Western Canada by the release of two strains of Rhizobium
meliloti to legume-inoculant manufacturers.

The new Peace alfalfa variety developed at our Fort Vermilion Experimental Farm was
licensed.

Two six-rowed feed barley lines were advanced to the stage for submission for licensing as
new varieties.

Detailed information can be obtained from the publications listed in this report.
Correspondence to individual research scientists should be addressed to: Research Station,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 29, Beaverlodge, Alta. TOH 0C0; or Experimental
Farm, Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Fort Vermilion, Alta. TOH 1N0.

L. P. S. Spangelo
Director

APICULTURE

Behavior

Effect of weather factors on honey bee
flight activity and colony weight gain. For
three consecutive years, the flight activity
from 10 honey bee colonies was recorded for a
day at the beginning, middle, and end of the
flow. The outgoing flights started at about
9.00 h, reached a maximum between 14.00
and 16.00 h, and ceased at about 21.00 h.
Multiple correlation coefficients of humidity,
temperature, wind speed, and light intensity
with flight activity ranged from +0.701 to
+ 0.978, all highly significant. Correlation
coefficients of temperature with flight activity
ranged from +0.532 to +0.947, also highly
significant. There was a significant direct
relationship between flight activity and colony
weight gain 30 min later. This weight gain
was correlated with honey bee activity and
with the above four weather factors; the
coefficients ranged from + 0.490 to + 0.837,
all highly significant. The mean daily flight
activity of a colony was highly significantly
correlated with the total weight gain of the
colony at the end of the season ( + 0.766 to
+ 0.879). This relationship was not signifi-
cant on a day with no weight gain. Mean
flight activity significantly differed between

years. Overwintered colonies flew more than
package colonies. A single day's activity was
related to the total seasonal weight gain of the
same colonies. The results suggested that a
single day's gain is also related to the total
seasonal gain, and that by weighing colonies
on two consecutive mornings the highest-
gaining colonies could be selected for
breeding.

Outdoor wintering of Italian and Cauca-
sian-Italian hybrid honey bees. Six colonies
were wintered in each of the following treat-
ments: Italians in three supers (13), Cauca-
sian-Italian hybrids in three supers (H3), and
Caucasian-Italian hybrids in two supers
(H2). These were insulated and packed in
three groups of six colonies. Each colony had
a 1 x 5-cm top and bottom entrance. During
wintering in 1974-1975, the maximum daily
temperature was always less than 10°C for
156 days.

Significantly more hybrid colonies (10 out
of 12) than Italian colonies overwintered (1
out of 6). The weight loss during the 205 days
was similar in all groups: 30.5 (13), 28.4
(H3), and 28.4 (H2) kg/colony. When devel-
opment of the colonies in spring was com-
pared, the number of combs completely
covered with bees was 2.0, 7.2, and 5.0 and

RESEARCH STATION. BEAVERLODGE. ALTA.

345

the capped brood area 595, 3990, and 2266.7
cm2 for Italian in three supers, hybrids in
three supers, and hybrids in two supers,
respectively.

The effect of queen-related problems and
swarming on brood and honey production of
honey bee colonies. Colonies with queen loss
or queen failure, or those that swarmed,
produced less honey than did normal colonies.
There was also less brood reared in colonies in
which there was queen loss or queen failure,
but brood production up to the time of
swarming was 16% greater in colonies that
swarmed than in normal colonies. On average,
honey production in colonies with queen-
related or swarming problems was only 58.5%
of normal, showing the importance of elimi-
nating these problems whenever possible.

CEREALS

Breeding

New six-rowed feed barley lines. Two six-
rowed feed barley lines, one from the cross
Jubilee/Olli and the other a selection from
Alaska, have performed very well in central
and northern Alberta. They are being pre-
sented to the appropriate expert committees.

ENVIRONMENT AND SOILS

Meteorology

Pollination activity of leafcutting bees
influenced by solar irradiance. A limiting
factor in the production of alfalfa seed is the
efficiency of the associated insect pollinators,
particularly the alfalfa leafcutting bee,
Megachile rotundata (F.). The influence of
solar irradiance, air temperature, and vapor
presssure on the pollination activity of M.
rotundata was examined. During four warm
cloudless days at Beaverlodge, Alta., it was
found that air temperature established an
environmental threshold for the initiation of
pollination activity. Once the threshold, which
occurred at 16-1 7°C, was surpassed, activity
was dependent on solar irradiance. Over the
limited range of vapor pressures observed, no
relationship between vapor pressure and
activity could be discerned. These results have
utility in defining optimum insect foraging
activity.

The influence of humidity on the pollina-
tion activity of leafcutting bees. Pollination

activity of the alfalfa leafcutting bee, M.
rotundata, in response to atmospheric humid-
ity was considered. Although pollination
activity shows a strong relationship to relative
humidity, it is shown that this relationship
falsely represents response to humidity. When
the influence of temperature is incorporated,
the effect of atmospheric vapor pressure on
pollination activity is minimal. This suggests
that care must be exercised in assessing the
effects of atmospheric humidity on biological
activity.

A method of assessing leaf area. A tech-
nique for evaluating leaf area that can be
incorporated into a destructive plant analysis
program was developed. The method exploits
the linear relationship between leaf area and
leaf dry weight. Leaf-area data used in
deriving this relationship were obtained from
photographs with the use of an image-analyz-
ing densitometer.

Soil management

Soil moisture and temperature response to
shallow tillage in the early spring. Surface
soil moisture was conserved in a loam to clay
loam soil receiving a single shallow cultivation
in the early spring, whereas in an untilled soil
surface, soil moisture declined markedly.
Tillage effects were less marked at greater
depths. Soil temperatures were found to differ
only slightly between tilled and untilled soils.

Deep tillage of two Solonetz soils in the
Peace River region. Studies on two Solonetz
soils in the Peace River region, which have
been conducted for the past 9 yr and are still
in progress, involve deep plowing and ripping
compared with conventional shallow plowing.
On both soils, a Black Solonetz, Kleskun
Si.C.L., and a Gray Solodized Solonetz,
Debolt C.L., difficulties were encountered
with subsequent cultivation, seedbed prepara-
tion, and establishment of crops. Gravimetric
soil moisture measurements and some chemi-
cal soil analyses did not show consistent or
conclusive improvement of these two soils.
Neither did the yields of barley, bromegrass,
alfalfa, or fall rye when obtained in the first
years after treatment.

In 1976, gypsum, lime, and fertilizers were
superimposed on the initial tillage treatments
and the test areas were seeded to three grass
species. Hay yields are being used to further
assess tillage and soil amendments.

346

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT NSO

Plant survival

Winter injury in alfalfa. Many alfalfa
fields in northern Alberta experienced stress
during the 1979-1980 winter. Plant samples
dug throughout the winter indicated that
5-15% of the plants in some fields had been
killed by mid-January 1980. A reduction in
plant population of this magnitude would not
noticeably affect yield, because the remaining
plants could compensate for the reduced
population. However, growth of surviving
plants was one-tenth that of growth in other
years. This lack of vigor during winter sug-
gested a reduced ability to compete with
disease organisms or with weeds, particularly
under conditions of a late, cool, wet spring.
Fortunately, the spring of 1980 was early,
warm, and very dry. As a result, alfalfa had a
competitive advantage over weeds and disease
organisms, and winter injury was minimized.

Two root- and crown-rot organisms, Pleno-
domus meliloti and Fusarium nivali, appear
to have contributed to injury in the late
summer and early fall of 1979 in one study at
the Research Station. Beaverlodge received
no precipitation after mid-July in 1979, and
the dry conditions may have been conducive
to the growth of these two organisms and the
damage they caused. In addition, crown buds
developed into shoots. These conditions ap-
pear to delay hardening and reduce the rate of
hardening. In early November, soil tempera-
ture at 5 cm dropped to -3°C, and as a
consequence of the delayed hardening, a
number of plants were injured. Other tests
indicated that stands suffered most injury by
December 1979.

FORAGE CROPS

Breeding

Peace alfalfa licensed. Peace is a landrace
cultivar developed at the Agriculture Canada
Experimental Farm, Fort Vermilion, Alta. It
is a hardy long-lived alfalfa, with good
persistence and rapid regrowth after cutting
in northern regions. It was granted license
No. 2022 in Canada in April 1980.

Yields of Peace were up to 1 5% higher than
those of Beaver over 12 station-years from
1976 to 1979 in northern Alberta. Following
the severe winter of 1977-1978 in northern
Alberta, Peace experienced the least winter
kill of 10 cultivars seeded in 1976 and yielded
more forage than Beaver at most locations in

*1 978 and 1979. Crude protein in Peace is
higher than or equal to Beaver. Using leafcut-
ting bees as pollinators, seed yields of Peace
were equal to Beaver. Because Peace flowers
1-3 days earlier than Beaver, it offers greater
potential for seed production in seasons with
early fall frost. Peace is adapted primarily to
the Peace River region of northwestern
Canada, where winterhardiness and persist-
ence are required and bacterial wilt is not a
problem.

Seed production

The relationship between latitude and the
emergence of alfalfa leaf cutting bees. Studies
in Western Canada from 1974 to 1977 on
variations in time and duration of the emer-
gence period after diapause of leafcutting
bees, M. rotundata, reared at latitudes rang-
ing from 29°N to 58°N showed that bees
reared at northern latitudes emerged sooner
and that the duration of the emergence period
was shorter than for bees from southern
latitudes. When southern bees were reared in
the north, their emergence pattern was simi-
lar to the northern strain. However, the
change in time required for emergence and
duration of emergence period of northern
strains reared in the south was less pro-
nounced. Number of days to emerge varied
inversely with length of cold treatment at
4°C, with greater variance in southern strains.

Nitrogen fixation

Selections of Rhizobium for alfalfa inocu-
lants for Western Canada. Selection and
evaluation of R. meliloti have identified
strains that are capable of improved nodula-
tion and N2 fixation for alfalfa grown on
moderately acid soils (pH 5.6-6.0) and that
are also capable of maintaining activity in
neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0).

Following extensive laboratory and green-
house testing, four strains, namely NRG-43,
NRG-61, NRG-118, and NRG-185, were
selected for field evaluation. In field tests on
moderately acid soils, inoculating alfalfa with
these strains and with combinations of them
increased yield by 60-288% over uninoculated
controls. The results from three test-years
showed that alfalfa inoculated with NRG-185
outyielded alfalfa inoculated with the BAL-
SAC strain by 8.5%. Although NRG-61
performed well in greenhouse tests, it is
somewhat slower growing than the other
strains, and field-grown alfalfa inoculated

RESEARCH STATION, BEAVERLODGE, ALTA.

347

with this strain yielded 14.3% less than that
inoculated with NRG- 185.

On the basis of the superior performance of
NRG-185 in moderately acid soils and the
ability of NRG-43 to perform well at soil pH
above 6.0, these two strains have been se-
lected for inclusion in inoculants that will
provide effective nodulation over the soil pH
range 5.6-7.0. These strains are effective on
the three common species of alfalfa (Medi-
cago sativa, M. media, and M. falcata) and
on sweetclover {Melilotus spp.).

These two strains, NRG-43 and NRG-185,
have been made available to inoculant manu-
facturers wishing to produce alfalfa and
sweetclover inoculants for Western Canada.

Synergism between effective and ineffective
strains of Rhizobium meliloti. Indigenous
ineffective strains of R. meliloti occur exten-
sively in moderately acid (pH 5.0-6.0) soils of
Alberta. In these soils the percentage of
ineffective nodules on alfalfa (A/, sativa)
increases as soil pH decreases. At pH 6.0,
23% of the nodules are ineffective, and all
nodules are ineffective at pH 5.0. Strains of
R. meliloti have been selected to produce

effective nodulation in the pH range 5.5-6.0.
The ability of these effective strains to com-
pete with the indigenous ineffective organisms
was studied. Alfalfa seedlings were inoculated
with four effective strains of R. meliloti
individually, as well as in combination with
each of two ineffective strains isolated from
acid soils. Acetylene reduction rates, nodule
numbers, nodule dry weights, and total plant
dry weights were determined 7 wk after
inoculation.

No ineffective nodules were observed on
alfalfa inoculated with combinations of effec-
tive and ineffective strains. Ineffective nodules
occurred only when the alfalfa was inoculated
with the individual ineffective strains. These
results indicate that the effective strains of R.
meliloti selected for low pH tolerance readily
out-competed the two indigenous ineffective
strains for infection sites on alfalfa roots.
Inoculation with the effective-ineffective
strain combinations resulted in greater nodule
dry weight, increased nitrogenase activity per
plant, and higher total plant dry weight than
inoculation with the individual effective
strains. This synergistic effect on yield is an
important factor to consider when selecting
strains for use in low pH soils.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Darwent, A. L. 1980. Effects of soil temperature on
the phytotoxicity of trifluralin to wild oats.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:929-938.

McKenzie, J. S.; McLean, G. E. 1980. Some
factors associated with injury to alfalfa during
the 1977-1979 winter at Beaverlodge, Alta.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:103-1 12.

McKenzie, J. S.; McLean, G. E. 1980. Changes in
the cold hardiness of alfalfa during five consec-
utive winters at Beaverlodge, Alta. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:703-712.

Nelson, D. L.; Smirl, C. B. 1979. The effect of
queen-related problems and swarming on
brood and honey production of honey bee
colonies in Manitoba. Man. Entomol. 11:45-
49.

Rice, W. A. 1980. Seasonal patterns of nitrogen
fixation and dry matter production by clovers
grown in the Peace River region. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:847-858.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Outdoor wintering of Italian and
Causcasian-ltalian hybrid honey bees. Am.
Bee J. Apic. Res. 1 20(7):5 1 3-5 14, 517.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Effect of weather factors on
honeybee flight activity and colony weight
gain. J. Apic. Res. 1 9(3): 1 64- 1 7 1 .

Miscellaneous

Bailey, W. G.; Mills, P. F. 1980. Climatology
research at the Beaverlodge Research Station.
Proceedings Annual Meetings Alberta Clima-
tologists Association. Alta. Ener. Nat. Res.
Tech. Rep. T/ 10. 1 p.

Darwent, A. L. 1980. Research summary. Weed
control in forage crops — grass seed production.
North. Res. Group Publ. 80-5. 15 pp.

Davidson, J. G. N. 1980. Candle or Torch? North.
Res. Group Newsl. 2 pp.

Davidson, J. G. N. 1980. Blackleg of rapeseed
1980: Seed treatment against the new virulent
strain. North. Res. Group Newsl. I p.

Elliott, C. R.; Howe, M. 1979. Forage introduc-
tions. North. Res. Group Publ. 79-16A. 32 pp.

348

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I "so

Elliott, C. R.; Howe, M. 1979. Forage cultivar
trials. North. Res. Group Publ. 79-168. 16 pp.

Elliott, C. R.; Howe, M. 1980. Producing grass
seeds. North. Res. Group Publ. 80-12. 9 pp.

Faris, D. G.; Thomas, J. B.; Davidson, J. G. N.;
Lock, M.; Clarke, P.; Lock, H.; Hall, H. 1980.
Tests on cereals and oilseeds in the Peace River
region. North. Res. Group Publ. 80-6. 41 pp.

Lerer, H.; Bailey, W. G.; Mills, P. F. 1980.
Pollination activity of Megachile Rotundata.
North. Res. Group Publ. 80-1 1. 3 pp.

McKenzie, J. S. 1980. Changes in the cold hardi-
ness of alfalfa {Medicago falcata) during five
consecutive winters in northern Alberta. Pro-
ceedings Alfalfa Imp. Conference, Madison,
WI. (6 July).

McKenzie, J. S., editor. 1980. Alfalfa production in
the Peace River region. North. Res. Group
Publ. 80-2. 94 pp.

"Nelson, D. L. 1979. Weather factors and their
influence on honey production. Can. Beekeep.
7:177, 180-181.

Rice, W. A.; Davidson, J. G. N. 1980. Inoculation
and treatment of legume seed. North. Res.
Group Newsl. 80-4. 2 pp.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Apicultural research at Beaver-
lodge. Am. Bee J. 1 20(3): 1 86- 191, 200-20 1 .

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Seasonal management of honey
bee colonies. Can. Beekeep. 8(7):97- 100;
(8):113;(8):129;(8):187-188.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Alberta bee breeding program.
Can. Beekeep. 8(7): 108.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Requeening. Glean. Bee Cult.
108(2):73.

Szabo, T. I. 1980. Meet the beekeepers at Beaver-
lodge. Can. Beekeep. 8(1 2): 177- 180.

RESEARCH STATION, BEAVERLODGE, ALTA.

349

Research Station
Lacombe, Alberta

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

D. E. Waldern, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
T. J. Jones

Director
Administrative Officer

Animal Science

J. A. Newman, B.Sc, Dip. An. Gen., Ph.D.

H. T. Fredeen, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.,
A. P. Sather, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
A. K. W. Tong, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

F.A.I.C.

Head of Section; Beef cattle

breeding
Animal breeding

Swine breeding and management
Beef cattle breeding and

management, rate of performance

(ROP)

Meats

A. H. Martin, B.S.A., M.S.A.
H. Doornenbal, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
G. G. Greer, B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.
L. E. Jeremiah, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
A. C. Murray, B.Sc., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Meat science

Physiology

Microbiology

Food technology

Biochemistry

Plant Breeding and Pathology

M. L. Kaufmann, CD., B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. T. Allen, B.Sc, M.Sc.

W. B. Berkenkamp, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

L. J. Piening, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Barley breeding
Oat breeding

Forage crops and forage pathology
Plant pathology

Crop Management and Soils

P. A. O'Sullivan, B.Sc, Ph.D.

D. A. Dew, B.E.

D. R. Walker, B.Sc, M.Sc.

Head of Section; Weed research
Weed biology
Soil chemistry

RESEARCH STATION, LACOMBE, ALTA.

351

Statistics and Data Processing

G. M. Weiss, B.S.A., M.Sc. Head of Section; Data processing

L. R. Fobert Computer programming

E. H. Reimer Systems and programming

Crop and Solonetzic Soil Substation, Vegreville, Alta.

Vacant Officer in Charge; Soil and crop

management

Departures

D. K. McBeath, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D. Acting Director

Appointed Director, Morden Research Station,

Morden, Man., July 1980
L. P. Folkins Forage crops

Resigned May 1980

VISITING SCIENTISTS

F. Dieguez, D.Sc.

Genetics Department, Swine Research Center,
Havana, Cuba
M. Muniz

Head, Statistics and Computing Section, Swine
Research Center, Havana, Cuba

352 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

INTRODUCTION

The Lacombe Research Station and the crops and soils substation at Vegreville are
responsible for regional agricultural research in the central Alberta Parklands. Specifically,
programs include: soil reclamation and development of cropping practices for Solonetzic soils
of east central Alberta; breeding new, high-yielding disease-resistant feed barley and oat
varieties for domestic use and export; and developing soil fertility, soil management, weed
control, and cropping systems for barley, oat, and rapeseed production in the Parklands. The
Station has regional responsibility for production and disease research of annual forage crops,
specifically screening and selecting species and varieties that will be used by beef and dairy
farmers for silage and pasture to give optimum yield per hectare of digestible energy. The
Lacombe program also includes research responsibility for regional and national programs in
swine and beef cattle breeding; the technical research aspects of ROP beef cattle and swine
testing programs; and major carcass evaluation research related to national Departmental beef
and swine carcass grading programs. The meats research includes work on the physical,
chemical, microbiological, and sensory aspects of beef and pork quality in relation to pre- and
post-slaughter conditions and carcass management, both at the meat-packing plant and retailer
level and with consideration given to cooking quality and other factors related to consumer
acceptance of the final product.

This report summarizes some of the results of research conducted at this Station during
1980.

Further information on any of these research activities, reprints of publications listed in
this report, and copies of previous reports may be obtained from the Research Station,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, Box 1420, Lacombe, Alta. TOC ISO.

D. E. Waldern
Director

ANIMAL BREEDING
Beef cattle

Exotic sire breed effects on preweaning
traits of their calves. In a project to evaluate
the meat production potential of crossbred
calves sired by exotic European beef breeds,
Limousin bulls sired calves with the longest
gestation, the least calving difficulty, the
lightest birth weight, the lowest birth to
weaning mortality, and the slowest prewean-
ing growth. Most of these effects were highly
significant statistically (P < 0.01). Charolais-
sired calves exceeded Simmental-sired calves
in calving difficulty and birth weight, but the
progeny of these two sire breeds did not differ
for other preweaning traits. The work, carried
out at the Lacombe and Brandon research
stations, involved 3939 calves from 48 West-
ern Canadian cow herds of Hereford, Short-
horn, or Angus breeding.

Sire evaluation for carcass traits with
ultrasonic data from progeny. Data obtained
by dissection of 98 steer carcasses were used

to investigate the value of live animal ultra-
sonic measurements of the subcutaneous fat
depth of progeny in estimating their sire's
merit for carcass composition traits. The
steers were all born in the same season, were
of Lacombe selected and control line Short-
horn breeding, and represented 15 sires.
Heritability estimates were derived from the
sire variance component with the use of a
statistical model that included line of breed-
ing, slaughter or carcass weight, and (ran-
dom) sire effects. The heritability estimates
were 0.21 for rib fat thickness measured
directly on the carcass, 0.23 for live animal
rib fat thickness measured by the Ithaco
Scanogram ultrasonic machine, and 0.19 for
live animal rib fat thickness measured by the
Krautkramer ultrasonic machine. Heritability
estimates for the weight of dissectible lean
and fat tissue in the carcass were 0.11 and
0.34, respectively, whereas the estimates for
the percentage of dissectible lean and fat
tissue in the carcass were 0.56 and 0.39,
respectively. Product moment correlations of
sire-predicted differences for live animal

RESEARCH STATION. LACOMBE, ALTA.

353

ultrasonic fat depth measurements with sire-
predicted differences in carcass composition
ranged from 0.93 to 0.98 for the weight of
dissectible tissue and from 0.86 to 0.96 for the
percentage of dissectible tissue. The heritabil-
ity estimates suggest that moderately high
proportions of the total variance of carcass
traits are associated with effects transmitted
by the sire (even within these uniform popula-
tions), and the correlations suggest that
carcass or live animal ultrasonic fat depth
measurements on a sufficient number of steer
progeny may be used to obtain reasonably
accurate estimates of sire-predicted differ-
ences (genetic merit) for these carcass traits.

Growth patterns of hybrid cows under two
environments. Growth patterns for 1000
crossbred females produced by crossing
Charolais, Limousin, and Simmental sires
with Angus, Hereford, and Shorthorn dams
were compared under extensive range condi-
tions at Manyberries, Alta., and semi-inten-
sive conditions at Brandon, Man. One hun-
dred and fifty Hereford x Angus females
served as controls. The females were born in
1970, 1971, and 1972, and weights were taken
at calving, breeding, and weaning each year
until 1979. The average weights of the two
herds at the initial breeding (15 mo) and final
calving in 1979 differed by less than 3%, but
their growth patterns differed widely between
locations. Weight gains of the Hereford x
Angus controls at Brandon diminished gradu-
ally from 15% during the first gestation to 2%
in the last. In contrast, the Manyberries
controls exhibited weight losses in 1973, 1974,
and 1977, compensated by a large gain
(approximately 40%) in 1976. The annual
breeding weights of the other crossbred
groups at the two locations averaged approx-
imately 20% (Charolais crosses), 12% (Sim-
mental crosses), and 8% (Limousin crosses)
heavier than their contemporary controls.
Nursing females at Brandon lost weight
during the nursing period and gained weight
during the winter gestation period. The
converse was observed at Manyberries. Fe-
males that were not nursing a calf when they
were bred gained weight throughout their
nonproductive year. Manyberries recorded
the highest frequency of barren years and
larger growth increments for nonnursing
females.

Swine

Meat quality in pigs selected for lean
tissue growth rate. In a study of more than
600 carcasses over 3 yr, it was determined
that genetic improvement in lean tissue
growth rate was far less important than year
differences in influencing the incidence of
pork quality problems (pale-soft-exudative
(PSE) or dark-firm-dry pork (DFD)).

MEATS

Beef tenderness

Shear values. Warner-Bratzler shear val:
ues were determined on four bovine muscles
(longissimus dorsi (LD), psoas major (PM),
semitendinosus (ST), and biceps femoris
(BF)) such that the muscle fibers were
sheared at angles of approximately 0°, 45°,
and 90° to their longitudinal axes. The extent
to which shear values were affected by the
angle at which the muscle fibers were sheared
was similar for LD, PM, and ST; the differ-
ence (approximately 2.9 kg) in shear value
between muscle fiber angles of 0° and 90° was
highly significant. The effect is of sufficient
magnitude that it requires careful considera-
tion as a source of variation or confounding or
both in experiments where treatment effects
on Warner-Bratzler shear values are being
assessed.

Electrical stimulation (ES) of beef car-
casses. Electrical stimulation during the
dressing process is a highly acclaimed indus-
trial technique that is gaining rapid accept-
ance in some countries. It has great economic
implications because of the possibilities of
reduced aging and storage required in addi-
tion to several other alleged benefits. Results
from two separate ES experiments carried out
at a small commercial abattoir by Lacombe
scientists demonstrated that substantial im-
provement in both initial (24 h) and subse-
quent (6 days) tenderness could be achieved
with typical Canadian feedlot cattle. Effec-
tiveness of ES was found, however, to be
highly dependent on both rate of carcass pH
decline and carcass chilling rate in the early
prerigor condition. The need to attain a
sufficiently low pH (<6.0) while the carcass
temperature still remains high (>35°C)
could in part explain the failure to observe
significant effects of ES in numerous other
technical reports.

354

Rl SI ARCH BRWII Rl PORT ll>S0

Ion content of beef and tenderness. A
recently patented (U.S.) method analyzing
beef carcass muscle for various metallic ions
has been introduced as a possible industrial
method for segregating beef carcasses into
tenderness outcome groups. The relationship
of concentrations of the minerals Cu, Fe, Ca,
Zn, Mg, Na, and K in raw meat to Warner-
Bratzler shear values of cooked meat was
investigated with the use of 120 cattle classi-
fied by breed of sire and sex or by age. Both
mineral contents and shear value were af-
fected by breed of sire, sex, age, and muscle
analyzed. Correlation analyses after adjust-
ment for these sources of variation indicated
that neither the mineral concentration of the
raw LD nor that of the semimembranosus
muscle could be used to predict the cooked-
meat shear value (tenderness).

Collagen content, aging, and tenderness. A
total of 108 LD and 36 ST muscles from
predominantly 0.5 or 0.75 blood Charolais,
Simmental, or Chianina cattle ranging in
chronological age from 11 to 15 mo and with
carcass weights of approximately 270 kg were
utilized to evaluate the effects of postmortem
aging upon tenderness and intramuscular
collagen content and solubility. In general, the
results of this study failed to provide direct
evidence that up to 480 h (20 days) of
postmortem aging significantly altered intra-
muscular collagen content or solubility in the
LD or ST muscle. In addition, the results also
failed to provide evidence of a significant
relationship between intramuscular collagen
content or solubility and shear force values in
beef carcasses with similar chronological
ages. Furthermore, no significant relation-
ships between intramuscular collagen con-
tents and solubilities of different muscles were
observed.

Retail preservation of beef

Rapid detection of beef spoilage bacteria.
Media and incubation conditions were com-
pared to establish a rapid method for the
detection of psychrotrophic (cold thriving)
spoilage bacteria from beef and to determine
the relationship between bacterial counts
obtained by such a method and retail beef
keeping quality. Of the methods tested,
incubation of plate count agar (PCA) at 25°C
gave the most accurate measure of psychro-
trophic bacterial numbers within 24 h of
sampling the meat surface. Comparison of
this method with the recommended procedure

(7°C, 10 days) revealed no significant qualita-
tive or quantitative differences in the psychro-
trophic bacterial population or in the rate of
bacterial growth on steak surfaces. Moreover,
the initial bacterial load as determined follow-
ing 25°C (24 h) incubation was directly
related to the retail case life of steaks. The
results show that by increasing the tempera-
ture of incubation of PCA to 25°C, the time
required for psychrotrophic bacterial enumer-
ation is substantially reduced, without loss of
precision; this procedure provides a rapid and
more useful estimate of retail beef keeping
quality.

Effect of retail case blower temperature on
beef spoilage. With the use of laboratory-
simulated retail conditions, a variety of retail
case blower temperatures were selected in
order to determine their influence upon the
surface temperature of rib eye steaks, bacte-
rial growth, and steak shelf life. Steak surface
temperature was found to be significantly
correlated with blower temperature and to
exceed the temperature of the incoming
blower air by 9°C. Furthermore, bacterial
growth rates and steak shelf life were signifi-
cantly and inversely related to blower temper-
ature. Under usual conditions of operation,
retail case blower temperature was -0.5°C,
resulting in a steak surface temperature of
7.3°C and a visual shelf life of 3.8 days for
steaks on retail display. However, by adjust-
ing the retail case blower temperature to a
minimum of -8.6°C, the steak surface tem-
perature was reduced to 1.9°C and the shelf
life was extended to 8.2 days. From a practi-
cal standpoint, these results indicate that
retail display cases may not be operating
maximally and a relatively simple tempera-
ture adjustment by the retailer could improve
microbial quality and more than double the
shelf life of meats on display.

PLANT BREEDING AND
PATHOLOGY

Rapeseed diseases

Effects of herbicides and fungicides on
diseases in rape. Trials at Lacombe have
demonstrated that some herbicides increased
the severity of certain diseases in rape. Of
eight herbicides tested, only trifluralin signif-
icantly increased the severity of staghead
{Albugo cruciferarum). However, a fun-
gicide, metalaxyl, included in the staghead

RESEARCH STATION, LACOMBE, ALTA.

355

test gave good control of the disease. Previous
work demonstrated that stem rot (Sclerotinia
sclerotiorum) was increased by barban
applications.

Cereal diseases

Cultural practices and root rot in cereals.
Information in the literature on the effect of
grass or fallow in a crop rotation with barley
in reducing common root rot in the succeeding
barley crop is inconsistent. Long-term rota-
tion studies at Lacombe have shown that Gait
or Gateway barley grown after bromegrass
had 50% less root rot at harvest than when
grown after fallow or continuous barley. It
has generally been believed that grasses in the
rotation enhanced root rot development. Root
rot developed more slowly during the growth
of the barley when the barley was sown after
oats or rapeseed than when it was sown after
barley or fallow, although at harvest, the
barley from all these treatments was about
equally diseased.

Agronomic studies with barley indicated
that applications of P and potash fertilizer to
soils lacking these nutrients significantly
reduced root rot and yield losses. Nitrogen
fertilizer did not affect root rot development.

In cooperative studies with scientists at
Saskatoon, severity of root rot in a number of
barley varieties was increased significantly
when depth of seeding was increased from
4-5 cm to 10 cm.

CROP MANAGEMENT AND SOILS

Weed research

Effect of time of removal of wild oats on
yield of barley and rape. Heavily seeded
infestations of wild oats were allowed to
compete with barley or rapeseed for various
intervals of time before the wild oats were
removed by hand. The loss of barley yield due
to wild oat competition started 12 days after
seeding (two-leaf stage) and continued in a
linear relationship with time until the crop
was fully headed, 60 days after seeding. The
loss in rapeseed yield started 15 days after
seeding and continued in a linear relationship
with time until 65 days after seeding. These
data indicate that postemergence wild oat
herbicides should be applied within 20 days
after seeding to obtain maximum benefit.

Control of wild oats and Tartary buck-
wheat with mixtures of metribuzin and

various postemergence wild oat herbicides.
The phytotoxicity of difenzoquat, flamprop,
barban, and diclofop to wild oats in wheat was
reduced when each of these herbicides was
applied in a tank mixture with metribuzin or
metribuzin -I- MCPA. Further greenhouse
data suggest that the antagonism may be
occurring in the spray tank as a result of an
interaction between the metribuzin active
ingredient and each of the wild oat herbicides.
No loss of metribuzin or metribuzin +
MCPA phytotoxicity to Tartary buckwheat
occurred when these herbicides were tank
mixed with each of the four wild oat
herbicides.

Control of wild oats, green foxtail, and
Tartary buckwheat with mixtures of prop anil
or propanil-MCPA and postemergence wild
oat herbicides. The phytotoxicity of barban,
diclofop, difenzoquat, and flamprop to wild
oats was reduced when these herbicides were
tank mixed with propanil or propanil-MCPA.
Green foxtail control with propanil and
propanil-MCPA was poor. Propanil-MCPA
in a tank mixture with diclofop reduced
diclofop control of green foxtail. Barban in a
tank mixture with propanil increased green
foxtail and Tartary buckwheat control com-
pared with propanil alone. All other tank
mixtures of propanil or propanil-MCPA with
the four wild oat herbicides had no significant
effects on green foxtail control compared with
propanil or propanil-MCPA. Tartary buck-
wheat control with propanil was good, and the
wild oat herbicides (except barban) in tank
mixtures with propanil did not influence
Tartary buckwheat control. There was an
early chlorosis of wheat following treatments
containing propanil or propanil-MCPA, but
this disappeared later in the growing season.
Because of the reduced wild oat control with
tank mixtures of propanil or propanil-MCPA
with barban, diclofop, difenzoquat, or flam-
prop, use of these mixtures for broad-spec-
trum weed control is not recommended.

Influence of nonionic surfactants, ammo-
nium sulfate, water quality, and spray vol-
ume on the phytotoxicity of glyphosate. In
field studies addition of the surfactants Tween
20, X-77, and Triton X-100 to glyphosate
enhanced the effectiveness of low glyphosate
rates (0.14 and 0.21 kg/ha) when applied on
rape, wheat, oats, and barley. This suggests
that the amount of surfactant in the commer-
cial glyphosate formulation at these low
glyphosate rates is insufficient for maximum

356

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

herbicidal activity. Concentrations of at least
0.5% v/v Tween 20 were required for en-
hancement of glyphosate phytotoxicity in
barley. The surfactants Renex 36, Cittowet
Plus, and Dupont WK reduced glyphosate
phytotoxicity in field and greenhouse studies.
Atplus 41 IF, Surfel, and Triton X-114 also

reduced glyphosate effectiveness in several
field treatments. A number of other surfac-
tants had no significant effects on glyphosate
phytotoxicity. Thus, by addition of a suitable
surfactant, it may be possible to use rates of
glyphosate as low as 0.14 kg/ha for control of
volunteer cereals.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Allen, H. T.; Kaufmann, M. L. 1980. Cascade oat.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:283-284.

Berkenkamp, B. 1980. Effects of fungicides and
herbicides on staghead of rape. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1039-1040.

Cairns, R. R.; Lavado, R. S.; Webster, G. R. 1980.
Calcium nitrate compared with ammonium
nitrate as a fertilizer and amendment for
Solonetzic soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:587-589.

Carter, M. R.; Webster, G. R.; Cairns, R. R. 1979.
Effect of moisture changes and salinity in the
Mg/Ca ratio and ratio of Ca/total cations in
soil solutions. Can. J. Soil Sci. 59:439-443.

Dew, D. A. 1980. Relationship between leaf stages
of cereal crops or grassy weeds and days from
seeding. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 263- 1 267.

Dodds, M. E.; Bowren, K. E.; Dew, D. A.; Faris, D.
G. 1979. The effect of windrowing hard red
spring wheat at different stages of maturity at
four locations in Western Canada. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 59:321-328.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Yields and dimensions of pork
bellies in relation to carcass measurements. J.
Anim. Sci. 51:59-69.

Greer, G. G.; Jeremiah, L. E. 1980. Effect of retail
sanitation on the bacterial load and shelf-life of
beef. J. Food Protect. 43(4):277-287.

Greer, G. G.; Jeremiah, L. E. 1980. Influence of
retail display temperature on psychrotrophic
bacterial growth and beef case-life. J. Food
Protect. 43(7):542-546.

Jeremiah, L. E. 1980. Effect of frozen storage and
protective wrap upon the cooking loss palat-
ability and rancidity of fresh and cured pork
cuts. J. Food Sci. 46:187-196.

Jeremiah, L. E.; Murray, A. C; Martin, A. H.
1980. The influence of method of sample
preparation upon the quantitation of intramus-
cular hydroxproline from bovine muscle. Can.
J. Anim. Sci. 60:627-634.

Jolly, R. W.; Sather, A. P.; Patterson, R. D.;
Sonntag, B. H.; Martin, A. H.; Fredeen, H. T.
1980. Alternative market weights for swine.
III. Production economics. J. Anim. Sci.
51:804-810.

Lavado, R. S.; Cairns, R. R. 1979. Genesis of a
Solod as affected by heavy fertilization.
Arokemia aes talajtan (Hungary) 28(3-4):41 1-
416.

Lavado, R. S.; Cairns, R. R. 1980. Solonetzic soil
properties and yields of wheat, oats and barley
as affected by deep plowing and ripping. Soil
Tillage Res. J. 1:69-79.

Martin, A. H.; Sather, A. P.; Fredeen, H. T.; Jolly,
R. W. 1980. Alternative market weights for
swine. II. Carcass composition and meat qual-
ity. J. Anim. Sci. 50:699-705.

Murray, A. C; Martin, A. H. 1980. The effect of
muscle fibre angle on Warner-Bratzler shear
values. J. Food Sci. 45:1428-1429.

O'Sullivan, P. A. 1980. Control of wild oats and
Tartary buckwheat with mixtures of me-
tribuzin and various postemergence wild oat
herbicides. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 255- 1 26 1 .

O'Sullivan, P. A.; O'Donovan, J. T. 1980. Influence
of various herbicides and Tween 20 on the
effectiveness of glyphosate. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:939-945.

O'Sullivan, P. A.; O'Donovan, J. T. 1980. Interac-
tion between glyphosate and various herbicides
for broadleaved weed control. Weed Res.
20:255-260.

O'Sullivan, P. A.; Vanden Born, W. H. 1980.
Interaction between benzoylprop ethyl, flam-
prop methyl or flamprop isopropyl and her-
bicides used for broadleaved weed control.
Weed Res. 20:53-57.

O'Sullivan, P. A.; Vanden Born, W. H. 1980. The
influence of immersion in water on the efficacy
of postemergence wild oat herbicides. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:307-309.

Sather, A. P.; Martin, A. H.; Jolly, R. W.; Fredeen,
H. T. 1980. Alternative market weights for
swine. I. Feedlot performance. J. Anim. Sci.
51:28-36.

RESEARCH STATION, LACOMBE, ALTA.

357

Tong, A. K. W.; Newman, J. A. 1980. Additive
age-of-dam adjustment factors for weaning
weight of beef cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1 1-
19.

Tong, A. K. W.; Kennedy, B. W.; Moxley, J. E.
1980. Potential errors in sire evaluation from
regional genetic differences. J. Dairy Sci.
63:627-633.

Miscellaneous

Bailey, L. D.; Ukrainetz, H.; Walker, D. R. 1980.
Effect of phosphorus placement on crop uptake
and yield. Proceedings of the Alberta Soil
Science Workshop (Mar.), pp. 200-229.

Degenhardt, K. J.; Piening, L. J.; Verma, P. R.
1979. Evaluation of seed treatment fungicides
for the control of bunt in spring wheat. Pesti-
cide Research Report, p. 51 1.

Dew, D. A. 1980. Relationship between days after
seeding and leaf stages of cereals. Canadex
641.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. The evolution of swine
selection programs. Proceedings of the Nova
Scotia Pork Conference (27-28 Mar.), pp.
1-10.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Operating a closed herd.
Proceedings of the Nova Scotia Pork Confer-
ence (27-28 Mar.), pp. 11-23.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Practical within-herd applica-
tion of swine genetics. Proceedings of the Nova
Scotia Pork Conference (27-28 Mar.), pp. 24-
41.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Pig breeding programs for the
future. Proceedings of the Nova Scotia Pork
Conference (27-28 Mar.), pp. 42-54.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Pig breeding programs and
production efficiency. Proceedings of the Al-
berta Pork Congress, pp. 68-81.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. The genetics of cross breed-
ing. Pig Am. 5:12-15.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. The importance of hybrid
vigor. Proceedings of the Ontario Pork Con-
gress, pp. 17-22.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Requirements for successful
operation of pig breeding companies. Proceed-
ings of the Producer Seminar, University of
Saskatchewan (25 July). 1 2 pp., 4 fig.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Designing pig breeding
programs for the needs of 1999. Proceedings of
the Producer Seminar, University of Saskatch-
ewan (25 July).

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Sow productivity. Proceedings
of the Newfoundland Hog Production Short
Course (Aug.). 1980. Mimeographed report.
10 pp., 3 fig.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. The Canadian beef industry.
Can. Vet. J. 21:39-46.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Pig breeding: Current prob-
lems vs. future production requirements. Can.
J. Anim. Sci. 60:241-251.

Fredeen, H. T. 1980. The genetics of fat deposition
in the pig. Proceedings of the Canadian Ani-
mal Genetics Workshop, Edmonton, Alta. (7-8
Aug.).

Fredeen, H. T.; in collaboration with Lawson, J. E.;
Rahnefeld, G. W.; Newman, J. A.; Weiss, G.
M. 1980. Crossbreeding experiments with beef
cattle. Invitational Address, Proceedings of the
Annual Meeting, American Association of
Bovine Practitioners, Toronto, Ont. (Nov.). .

Jeremiah, L. E.; Martin, A. H. 1980. Electrical
stimulation of beef. II. Effect on palatability.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1068 (abstract).

Jeremiah, L. E.; Martin, A. H. 1980. Intramuscular
collagen content and solubility: Their relation-
ship to tenderness and alteration through post
mortem aging. Proceedings of the 26th Annual
Meeting of European Meat Research Workers,
pp. 296-300.

Jeremiah, L. E.; Martin, A. H. 1980. The effect of
electrical stimulation upon the retail accepta-
bility and case life of boneless rib steaks.
Proceedings of the 26th Annual Meeting of
European Meat Research Workers, pp. 30-33.

Kossatz, V. C; Leavitt, F. D.; O'Sullivan, P. A.
1980. Influence of picolinic acid herbicides and
growth regulators on Canada thistle control
with glyphosate. Proceedings of the Canada
Thistle Symposium, Regina, Sask. 66 pp.

Kossatz, V. C; Leavitt, F. D.; O'Sullivan, P. A.
1980. Selective control of Canada thistle in
rapesced. Proceedings of the Canada Thistle
Symposium, Regina, Sask. 86 pp.

Martin, A. H.; Fredeen, H. T.; L'Hirondelle, P. J.
1980. Beef carcass composition in relation to
commercial grade. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1068
(abstract).

Martin, A. H.; Fredeen, H. T.; L'Hirondelle. P. J.;
Murray, A. C. 1980. Watery pork in relation
to initial pH and commercial grade factors.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1068 (abstract).

Martin, A. H.; Murray, A. C; Jeremiah, L. E.
1980. Electrical stimulation of beef. I. Effect
on muscle quality. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1068
(abstract).

Martin, A. H.; Murray, A. C; Fredeen, H. T.;
L'Hirondelle. P. J. 1980. The effect of hot-
boning on some pork muscle properties. Can. J.
Anim. Sci. 60:575 (abstract).

358

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Murray, A. C; Doornenbal, H.; Martin, A. H.
1980. The relationship of muscle mineral
content to beef tenderness. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:1069 (abstract).

Newman, J. A. 1980. Performance testing. Pro-
ceedings of the World Shorthorn Congress,
Calgary, Alta. (July). Shorthorn News (Aug.).
pp. 42-43.

Newman, J. A. 1980. Advances in the breeding of
beef cattle. Proceedings of the Simcoe County
"Beef Day", Barrie, Ont. ( 1 7 Jan.).

Piening, L. J. 1980. The effect of seed size and land
preparation on common root rot of barley.
Minutes of the 3rd Annual Meeting of the
Expert Committee on Grain Diseases, Winni-
peg, Man.

Piening, L. J.; Duczek, L.; Atkinson, T.; Davidson,
J. 1979. The effect of seed treatment on
common root rot and smuts of barley. Pesticide
Research Report, pp. 468-47 1 .

Piening, L. J.; Walker, D. R.; Tinline, R. D. 1980.
Role of phosphorus in plant disease tolerance
and winter hardiness. Proceedings of the Al-
berta Soil Science Workshop (Mar.), pp. 369-
394.

Ramirez, C; Kennedy, B. W.; Tong, A. K. W.;
Moxley, J. E. 1980. Genetic relationship
between feed intake and milk production. Can.
J. Anim. Sci. 60:549 (abstract).

Sather, A. P.; Martin, A. H.; Fredeen, H. T. 1980.
The meat quality of pigs selected for lean
tissue growth rate. Frystein, Sline, Standal,
eds. Proceedings of the Norwegian Food Re-
search Institute Symposium on porcine stress

and meat quality, Jeloy, Moss, Norway (17-19
Nov.). pp. 274-282.

Sether, M. S.; Kennedy, B. W.; Tong, A. K. W.;
Moxley, J. E.; Downey, B. R. 1979. Genetic
and environmental factors influencing test-day
somatic cell counts in Holsteins. J. Dairy Sci.
62:148 (abstract).

Smith, D.; Piening, L. J. 1980. Plenodomum
meliloti and Pyihium sp. associated with
winter damage to winter cereals in Alberta and
Saskatchewan. Minutes of the 3rd Annual
Meeting of the Expert Committee on Grain
Diseases, Winnipeg, Man.

Tinline, R. D.; Davidson, J.; Atkinson, T.; Piening,
L. J.; Duczek, L. 1979. Differential reactions
of barley cultivars to common root rot between
locations. Proc. Can. Phytopath. Soc. 46:71.

Tong, A. K. W.; Newman, J. A. 1980. New
additive age-of-dam adjustment factors for
ROP beef herd test programs. Canadex
420.41.

Tong, A. K. W.; Newman, J. A.; Martin, A. H.;
Fredeen, H. T. 1980. Ultrasonic measurements
as predictors of beef carcass composition.
Canadex 420.40.

Waldern, D. E.; Tucker, R.; Kalnin, C; Fisher, L.
J. 1980. The use of stem processed aspen in
diets for beef and dairy cattle. Proc. Pac.
Northwest Anim. Nutr. Conf. 15:117-139.

RESEARCH STATION, LACOMBE, ALTA.

359

Research Station
Lethbridge, Alberta

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

J. E. Andrews, F.A.I.C, B.S.A., M.S.,
T. G. Atkinson, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. B. Arnason, B.S.A.

C. G. SCHOENING

M. G. McCormick

Ph.D. Director

Assistant Director
Head, Administration
Finance Officer
Personnel Officer

Scientific Support

G. C. R. Croome, B.A., M.Sc.F.

G. K. Honey, B.S.A.

G. C. Kozub, B.Sc, M.Sc.

J. P. Miska,1 B.A., B.L.S.

C. M. Running Mains,' B.A., B.L.S.

G. B. Schaalje, B.S., M.S.

Scientific Editor

Technical Information Officer

Statistician

Library Area Coordinator

Librarian

Statistician

Animal Parasitology

W. O. Haufe, B.A., M.Sc., D.I.C., Ph.D.

R. W. Baron, B.Sc., Ph.D.

M. A. Khan, G.V.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

W. A. Nelson, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. H. Robertson, B.A., M.Sc.

J. A. Shemanchuk, CD., B.Sc, M.Sc.

J. L. Shipp, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. G. Taylor, B.S.P., Ph.D.

J. Weintraub, B.A., M.S.

P. R. Wilkinson, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Bioclimatology

Immunology

Toxicology

Parasitology

Serology

Biting-fly ecology

Black fly ecology

Pesticide chemistry

Cattle grub ecology

Tick ecology and control

Animal Science

E. E. Swierstra, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
C. B. M. Bailey, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Reproductive
physiology
Animal physiology

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

361

T. D. Carruthers, D.V.M., Ph.D.

K.-J. Cheng, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. H. Coulter,2 B.Sc, Ph.D.

R. Hironaka, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. E. Lawson, B.S.A., M.S. A.

G. J. Mears, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. A. P. Vesely, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Reproductive physiology

Rumen microbiology

Reproductive physiology

Animal nutrition

Beef cattle breeding

Animal physiology

Sheep and dairy cattle breeding

Crop Entomology

S. McDonald, CD., B.Sc., M.Sc.

W. A. Charnetski, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. M. Hardman, B.Sc, M.Sc, D.I.C., Ph.D.

A. M. Harper, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

B. D. Hill, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

C. E. Lilly, B.Sc, M.Sc.

K. W. Richards, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

SCHABER, B.Sc

Struble, B.A.,

M.Sc, Ph.D.
M.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Toxicology

Insecticides

Grasshoppers

Aphids

Residue chemistry

Potato and sugarbeet pests

Insect pollinators

Forage crop pests

Insect attractants

Economics

K. K. Klein,3 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

K. D. Russell,3 B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
R. P. Zentner,3 4 B.S.A., M.Sc.

Head of Section; Livestock
production

Irrigated crop production
Dryland crop production

Plant Pathology

D. W. A. Roberts, B.A., Ph.D.

K. J. Degenhardt, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

F. R. Harper, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. A. Nelson,5 B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. A. Traquair, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Acting Head of Section;

Coldhardiness physiology
Smuts and oilseed diseases
Cereal leaf diseases
Potato and bacterial diseases
Forage and low temperature

diseases

Plant Science

D. B. Wilson, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Irrigated pastures

J. R. Allan, B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D.

Aquatic plant physiology

M. N. Grant, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Winter wheat breeding

M. R. Hanna, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Forage legume breeding

M. S. Kaldy, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Food science

G. A. Kemp, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Vegetable breeding

D. R. Lynch, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Potato breeding

M. D. MacDonald, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Corn breeding

W. H. Mains,6 B.Sc.Eng.

Forage systems engineering

362

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

D. J. Major, B.Sc.(Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
K. H. May, B.Sc.(Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.
R. W. Morrison, B.Sc.(Agr.), Ph.D.

J. R. Mover, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
H.-H. Mundel, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
S. Smoliak, B.Sc, M.S.
J. B. Thomas, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

E. D. P. Whelan, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

Crop physiology

Barley breeding

Spring wheat breeding

Weed control

New crops

Dryland pastures

Soft white spring wheat breeding

Wheat cytogenetics

Soil Science

D. C. MacKay, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

J. B. Bole,7 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. M. Carefoot, B.S.A., M.S. A.

C. Chang, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. F. Dormaar, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

S. Dubetz, B.Sc, M.S.

S. Freyman, B.Sc, M.S.A., Ph.D.

D. Gould, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. Hobbs, B.Sc(Eng.)

M. N. Kucey, B.Sc, Ph.D.

W. Lindwall,8 B.Sc, M.Sc

G. L. McCready, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. Palmer, B.S., Ph.D.

J. Rennie,9 B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
G. Sommerfeldt, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Plant nutrition

Plant nutrition

Chemical analyses

Soil physics

Organic matter

Irrigation agronomy

Dryland agronomy

Soil denitrification

Irrigation engineering

Soil fertility

Agricultural engineering

Biophysical chemistry

Physical chemistry

Nitrogen fixation

Drainage engineering

Departures

D. M. Bowden, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
Transferred to Western Regional Headquarters,
Saskatoon, Sask., 11 July 1980

E. E. Gardiner, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Transferred to Agriculture Canada Research
Station, Agassiz, B.C., 1 July 1980

W. M. Hamman, B.Sc(Agr.), Ph.D.

Resigned 29 February 1980
E. J. Hawn, D.F.C., CD., B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Retired 30 December 1980
A. Johnston, LL.D., F.A.I.C, F.S.R.M., B.S.A.,
M.S.

Retired 30 December 1980
M. Oosterveld, B.Sc(Eng.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

Resigned 19 September 1980
G. W. Swailes, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

Retired 29 December 1980
S. A. Wells, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Retired 15 August 1980

Animal nutrition

Poultry nutrition

Weed control

Forage and nematode diseases

Range ecology

Hydrology
Cutworms
Barley breeding

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

363

VISITING SCIENTISTS

J. P. Fay, Ph.D. Rumen microbiology

National Research Council of Argentina

(CONICET), postdoctorate fellow, 1978-1981
R. G. Holmberg, Ph.D. Grasshoppers

Athabasca University, on sabbatical leave, 1980—

1981

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:On transfer of work to the Animal Research Institute, Werribee, Australia, from September 1980 to September

1981.
'Seconded from the Regional Development and International Affairs Branch, Agriculture Canada.
4On educational leave, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, from September 1978 to September 1981.
5On transfer of work to the Agriculture Canada Research Station, Vancouver, B.C., from March to May 1980.
6On educational leave, Universtiy of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta., from September 1979 to September 1980.
7On leave of absence to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria, from January 1980 to

December 1981.
8On educational leave to Iowa State University, Ames, from August 1980 to August 1983.
^On leave of absence to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Centro de Energia Nuclear Na Agricultura,

Piracicaba, Brazil, from September to December 1980.

364 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Research Station at Lethbridge is the largest establishment in the Research Branch,
with a wide variety of research programs that serve the most agriculturally diverse area of the
prairies. Situated on the dryland area known as the Palliser Triangle, the Station also serves
extensive irrigated farming and cattle-producing enterprises. The multidisciplinary research
programs contribute notably to the continuing success and intensification of agricultural
production in this area, as well as having impact at the regional and national levels.

The brief reports that follow exemplify the diversity of the research. Highlighted are some
of the examples of progress that is being made in both basic and applied research to improve
the efficiency of agricultural production. For example, Elbee, the first cultivar of northern
wheatgrass to be licensed in Canada, was released this year, as was Nova, a more winter-hardy,
higher-yielding cultivar of sainfoin. Methods for reclaiming a saline seep area have been
demonstrated on a field scale. Highland cattle have been found to have valuable traits when
used in breed crosses. New, more effective and less persistent pesticides have been identified to
control such disease pests as cattle ticks and biting flies, grasshoppers, and seed pathogens. The
use of sterile males in combination with insecticides proved effective in reducing cattle grub
populations on a large ranching area. Progress in understanding basic mechanisms that control
earliness and cold resistance in crops and resistance to pests in animals is laying the
groundwork for the future development of crops and animals better able to succeed in
environments that now limit their productivity.

New research topics, relating to Departmental priorities, aim to develop new technology
that permits improved conservation of soil and efficiency of energy use; to develop new
marketable crops for diversifying production, expanding markets, and reducing imports; to
reduce dependence on pesticides; and to increase fundamental scientific knowledge.
Specifically, new programs were established in soft white spring wheat breeding, control of
verticillium wilt in alfalfa, and biological fixation of nitrogen.

Several scientists, who have made significant contributions to agriculture during their long
careers, retired during the year. They include Dr. S. A. Wells, barley breeder; Dr. A. Johnston,
agrologist; Dr. G. A. Swailes, entomologist; and Dr. E. J. Hawn, plant pathologist.

This report summarizes some of the main research results of 1980. Further detailed
information may be obtained from the scientists or from publications listed in the report.
Correspondence or requests for reprints should be addressed to: Research Station, Agriculture
Canada, Lethbridge, Alta. Tl J 4B1 .

J. E. Andrews
Director

ANIMAL PARASITOLOGY effectively repelled black flies for 2, 10, and

. 11 days, respectively. A ready-to-use 5% dust

Biting flies of permethrin at doses 0f 1, 2, and 4 mg ai/kg

Topical applications of permethrin, cyper- effectively repelled black flies for 4, 5, and 8

methrin, and resmethrin were tested under days, respectively,
field conditions as repellents to protect cattle
from black flies. Technical cypermethrin in ethanolic solu-

Technical permethrin in ethanolic solution tion at doses of 1 and 2 mg ai/kg repelled

with active ingredient (ai) at doses of 1, 2, 4, black flies for 3 and 4 days, respectively.

and 6 mg/kg of body weight effectively Aqueous mixtures of 40% cypermethrin EC at

repelled black flies by preventing at least 70% doses of 2 and 4 mg ai/kg repelled black flies

of the flies present from taking a blood meal for at least 5 days,
for up to 8 days and for at least 1 1 days at

doses of 12 mg ai/kg. Aqueous mixtures of Technical resmethrin in ethanolic solution

20% emulsifiable concentrate (EC) per- at doses of 2 and 6 mg ai/kg repelled black

methrin at doses of 1, 2 and 6 mg ai/kg flies for 1 and 2 days, respectively.

RESEARCH STATION. LETHBRIDGE, ALTA. 365

Warble control

Host resistance to warble grubs in cattle.
Biological experiments have provided clear
evidence that cattle are born with some
degree of resistance to warble grubs (innate
resistance) and develop more resistance with
infestation (acquired resistance). In first
infestations of calves with varying numbers of
eggs, percentage survival to the warble stage
decreased as the number of eggs increased, in
a dosage-response manner. A similar pattern
occurred when the calves were infested by
injecting hatched larvae, except that the
percentage survival was greater for grubs
than for eggs (e.g. 14% survival with an
injection of 100 eggs versus 58% survival for
100 larvae).

With initial larval infestations most calves
were susceptible or moderately susceptible,
but about 5% of calves were innately resist-
ant. Acquired resistance was shown to be
caused by previous infestations and not by
aging factors. Grub survivals were equal in
animals receiving initial infestations in their
1st yr to 5 yr of age. When repeated infesta-
tions were administered at low levels (e.g. 200
eggs, with about 12% larval survival), resist-
ance did not develop until the fourth annual
infestation. However, with high-level first
infestations (e.g. 100 larvae injected with 50-
70% survival), the susceptible calves showed
resistance on the second infestation, and
resistance persisted or improved slightly in
subsequent reinfestations. The small number
of innately resistant cattle remained so
through a series of infestations. The acquired
resistance persisted even through a 3-yr
period of noninfestation. These experiments
have provided parameters of resistance and
susceptibility in cattle for immunological
studies now in progress.

Eradication of cattle grubs. Eradication of
the common cattle grub, Hypoderma linea-
tum (de Vill.), by a combination of systemic
insecticides and sterile-fly releases was
achieved on a cooperating cattle ranch after
the third annual release program. The eradi-
cation has persisted to the present, 2 yr later,
despite nontreatment of parts of the herd with
insecticides at various times. Neighboring
ranches adjacent to the areas of sterile-fly
releases have now failed to produce grubs of
this species, which suggests a dispersal of the
sterile flies. Grubs of the northern warble fly,
H. bovis, subjected only to chemical control
treatment, have persisted in the ranch herd

and neighboring herds. Releases of sterile H.
bovis have now been initiated on the cooperat-
ing ranch.

Control of manure-breeding flies

In cooperation with a cattle feedlot, repli-
cated experimental pens of 40 steers were
arranged to assess the effects of stirofos oral
larvicide premix in the cattle feed at 58 mg/
kg diet under conditions of good and poor
manure removal. Treatment began in mid-
August, coinciding with the season's last
cyclic increase of house fly breeding, and
ended in mid-October. House fly breeding
reached peak numbers in late September. Full
fly emergence was only realized in the un-
treated uncleaned pens; in the treated un-
cleaned pens, numbers of flies emerging
increased slightly for the first 2 wk of treat-
ment then were suppressed to a level of 90-
100% control for the remaining 9 wk. The
manure from both untreated and treated
cleaned pens never produced significant num-
bers of flies, probably because of weathering.
This effect also appeared in bioassayed ma-
nure samples, even though they were pro-
cessed in the laboratory for optimal house fly
breeding. There was no evidence that the
treatment suppressed the nontarget insects in
the manure. Treatment of the cattle rations
had no adverse effects on growth performance
or morbidity levels among the cattle.

Cattle lice

A spot-on application of chlorpyrifos at 20
mg ai/kg body weight was safe and effective
for controlling the short-nosed cattle louse
during the winter. The treatment, applied to
chronically infested pregnant cows on 6
February, reduced the louse population by up
to 89% for 10 wk, and a retreatment was not
necessary. The treatment met the special
requirements for winter control of lice in that
it caused neither the welting and chilling of
cattle nor the side effects associated with the
death of warble larvae if the host is infected.
The treatment did not significantly reduce the
whole-blood cholinesterases, nor did it cause
adverse clinical effects or abortions.

Before treatment, the cows were anemic
and showed a 50% reduction in some of their
blood components including the erythrocytes,
leukocytes, hemoglobin, and the packed cell
volume. Eighteen weeks after treatment, the
cows had recovered from anemia and the

366

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

blood components had returned to normal
levels.

Control of tick paralysis

In a field test in British Columbia, cattle
either sprayed along the back line with 0.5%
phosmet or 0.25% lindane wettable powders
(2 L/animal) or treated with 8% phosmet (90
mL/animal) or 44% chlorpyrifos (14 mL/
animal) pour-ons were protected from paraly-
sis-causing Rocky Mountain wood ticks de-
spite a heavy infestation that caused revers-
ible paralysis in five of 10 untreated cattle.
The 8% phosmet pour-on is the only prepara-
tion so far tested that is already registered for
application to cattle and is as effective as the
0.25% lindane spray for which the registration
is now under review.

Pesticide chemistry

In chemical research on livestock insecti-
cides, the four stereoisomers of permethrin
were isolated by reacting the individual acid
components with m-phenoxybenzyl alcohol
and purifying the crude products by column
chromatography. The availability of these
isomers has allowed the initiation of field tests
with each of these chemicals as potentially
important biting fly repellents for cattle.
Procedures were also optimized for the syn-
thesis of a new pyrethroid acid intermediate,
derivatives of which have shown insecticidal
activity in screening tests with mosquito
larvae. A new analytical procedure, based on
high-resolution gas chromatography with
glass capillary columns, was developed that
permits resolution of complex mixtures of
closely related chemicals in various formula-
tions and extracts of citronyl insect repellent.
It was concluded that citronyl is composed of
a mixture of four isomeric products.

Host resistance

Infestations of sheep ked, Melophagus
ovinus L., stimulate the production of hu-
moral antibody toward sheep ked salivary
gland proteins. Both the primary and second-
ary antibody responses closely trace the rise
and fall of two consecutively applied ked
populations on both resistant and susceptible
sheep, with the peaks occurring 5.5 and 4 mo
postinfestation, respectively. Acquired resist-
ance was demonstrated for both innately
resistant and susceptible sheep by the deter-
mination of significantly lower secondary
infestations in both groups, despite antibody

responses that were similar to those observed
for primary infestations. Because secondary
antibody responses are transient and not
elevated above primary responses, antibodies
are probably not the principal mediators of
acquired resistance to sheep keds.

Bioeconomics of animal pests

The host-parasite relations of horn flies on
cattle were modeled with a combination of
mathematical simulations and quantitative
measurements of host-parasite responses in
experiments on irrigated pastures. These
studies defined the parameters and the im-
pacts of infestations on rate of growth and
productivity of yearlings during the summer
grazing season. Horn flies have evolved an
adaptative obligatory relation with cattle, in
which impact is mediated by herd behavior
over a wide range of infestation levels. During
most years, infestations are subject to host-
parasite regulation, and changes in herd
behavior are quantal so that impact remains
nearly constant. This impact amounts to a
reduction of 17-20% of potential rate of
growth with mean infestations of 12-230 flies
per animal, the range of host-parasite regula-
tion. Definition and measurement of this
biological parameter have facilitated an accu-
rate estimate of the minimum loss of effi-
ciency in beef production. From detailed
statistics of cattle populations, losses to horn
fly and similar biting fly attack were calcu-
lated to exceed 65 million kg of animal gain in
Canada in 1979.

ANIMAL SCIENCE
Beef cattle

Legume bloat. Whole leaflets of three
bloat-causing legumes (alfalfa, red clover,
and white clover) and three bloat-safe leg-
umes (birdsfoot trefoil, cicer milkvetch, and
sainfoin) were incubated with rumen bacteria,
and their digestion was monitored by dry
matter loss, gas production, and electron
microscopy. The bloat-causing species were
characterized by high initial rates of leaching
(loss of organic dry matter — proteins, amino
acids, and carbohydrates), gas production,
and microbial digestion (weight loss). The
initial release of organic matter may elicit a
positive chemotactic response in rumen bacte-
ria, resulting in their attraction and subse-
quent attachment to stomata and damaged
sites of the leaflets. Electron microscopy

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

367

showed that after penetration through these
openings, bacteria multiply in the intercellu-
lar spaces of leaf tissue forming large popula-
tions before the plant cell walls are digested
allowing actual bacterial digestion of cellular
components such as chloroplasts and further
bacterial proliferation. This bacterial invasion
of the intercellular spaces (resulting in disin-
tegration of leaf tissues in some legumes), and
then of the cells themselves, proceeds more
quickly in bloat-causing than in bloat-safe
legumes. These results support our theory that
the initial rate of digestion and disintegration
of plant tissues appears to be an important
determinant of the bloat-causing potential of
forage legumes.

Monensin. Addition of monensin (Rumen-
sin, Eli Lilly and Co.) to an artificial rumen
immediately depressed the rate of digestion of
roughage and of roughage-concentrate
(50:50) feeds. Methane and propionate pro-
duction were affected only with the roughage-
concentrate feed. The beneficial effect of
monensin on feed efficiency may therefore be
due to a combination of the energetic advan-
tages of a higher propionate fermentation, the
reduced loss of carbon by methanogenesis,
and the increased amounts of feed protein
escaping microbial degradation in the rumen.

Rumen microbiology. All 54 bacteria
picked from the clear zones of cellulose agar
were identified as the cellulolytic bacterium
Ruminococcus flavefaciens. However, using a
cotton-enrichment culture technique, 11 of 15
cotton-solubilizing cultures were identified as
Bacteroides succinogenes and the remaining
four cultures were identified as R. flavefa-
ciens. Therefore methods for assessing cellulo-
lytic flora based on the formation of clearings
in cellulose agar are unlikely to accurately
reflect the numbers oi B. succinogenes pre-
sent. Our experiments have also illustrated
the ability of B. succinogenes to compete
successfully with R. flavefaciens and other
cellulolytic rumen bacteria in adhering to the
surface of plant cell walls on both alkali-
treated and untreated cereal straws. These
findings suggest that B. succinogenes is im-
portant in the rumen digestion of such highly
ordered forms of cellulose as straws.

Feeding value of triticale. A feeding trial
with beef steers was conducted to compare
triticale and barley. Each of the grains was
processed by two methods, tempered-rolled
and dry-rolled. Tempered-rolled triticale and

tempered-rolled barley supported similar
rates of gain (1.27 and 1.32 kg/day) that were
higher than those obtained by feeding dry-
rolled triticale or dry-rolled barley (1.14 and
1.09 kg/day). Triticale and barley were of
similar feed value for the steers used in the
experiment. Both triticale and barley must be
processed to maintain coarse particle-size feed
to obtain satisfactory rates of gain.

Reproductive efficiency of first-cross beef
cows in two environments. Growth patterns
and productivity were evaluated on 10 first-
crosses of cow under farm (Brandon) and
ranch (Manyberries) conditions in a joint
program of the Brandon, Lacombe, and
Lethbridge research stations. First-cross cows
sired by Charolais were heavier at breeding
and at weaning of their calves than those sired
by Simmental or Limousin, whereas Here-
ford-Angus were the lightest. First-cross cows
out of Hereford or Shorthorn dams were
heavier than those out of Angus at Manyber-
ries but not at Brandon. All the sire-breed
(Charolais, Simmental, and Limousin) and
dam-breed (Hereford, Angus, and Shorthorn)
combinations (except Limousin crosses)
ranked above the Hereford-Angus control for
the weight of calf weaned per mating opportu-
nity. At Brandon, Simmental-sired cows
exceeded Charolais-sired cows and those out
of Shorthorn exceeded those out of Angus
dams for that trait. For both comparisons, the
reverse was true at Manyberries.

Performance of Highland cattle under
range conditions. The growth potentials of
Hereford, Highland, Highland x Hereford,
and Hereford x Highland calves were com-
pared. Carcass traits were studied on steer
calves, and heifer calves were evaluated as
mother cows. Highland calves were smaller at
birth and weaning and would have required a
significantly longer feeding period to attain
the final live and carcass weights, muscle
development, and uniform fat cover achieved
by the other calf groups. The superior
slaughter weight progeny of Hereford x
Highland dams were mainly due to heavier
weaning weights. Those cows produced
greater weights of milk, fat, solids-not-fat.
and protein than the straightbred Highland
and Hereford dams, and they appeared to
have a productive advantage over the
Highland x Hereford. On the basis of these
results, the straightbred Highland cannot be
recommended, but the crossbreds have proved
to be excellent range cows.

368

RISFARCH BRANCH R I PORT NSO

Sheep

Mastitis. For 10 yr, udders of ewes were
scored at lambing for 'meatiness' and masti-
tis, as determined by the California mastitis
test (CMT). At weaning, the udders were
again scored for mastitis, determined by
palpation and stripping. They were also
scored for lumps, nodules, and scars in the left
and right halves, and for size and shape.
About 10% of udders after lambing went
through some degree of infection (CMT
positive) but only 6% of these udders had
mastitis at weaning. Of the 86 ewes culled for
mastitis, 72 had no previous record of udders
with lumps, nodules, or scars. Ewes with
'meaty' udders or udders with nodules did not
appear to be handicapped in terms of weight
of lamb weaned.

CROP ENTOMOLOGY

Forage crop insects

Alfalfa seed crops. The integrated pest
management program for seed alfalfa in the
county of Newell increased in grower partici-
pation by 25% and in area by 33% from 1979.
Population levels were low for alfalfa weevils
and moderate for lygus bugs; adelphocorids
increased slightly over 1979. Pea aphid num-
bers increased in July but insecticides were
not required because predator populations
were high and provided adequate control.

Phenology modeling is being used as an aid
in managing the alfalfa weevil and in warning
when control is necessary. In this way, the
impact of insecticides on beneficial insects and
pollinators can be reduced. Initial levels of the
adult population coupled with daily weather
data, including maximum and minimum
temperatures, are introduced into the com-
puter model, which predicts the relative
abundance and time of appearance of each
life stage in the field. As the season progresses
and inputs are updated, the forecast becomes
progressively more precise and accurate.

Alfalfa pollinators. Surveys of alfalfa
leafcutting beekeepers in Western Canada
during the last decade show that on the
average parasites or predators, or both,
account for less than 1% of bee larval mortal-
ity. Good management by beekeepers has
invalidated the criticism that the loose cell
system of bee management with laminated
grooved nesting materials is conducive to
population increases of detrimental insects.

Twenty-one species oï insects are now
known to be capable of causing larval mortal-
ity of the leafcutting bee, an increase of nine
species since 1968. Chalcidoid wasps are the
most frequently occurring parasites, with
Pteromalus venustus Walker the most com-
mon. Dibrachy confusus Girault has in-
creased within the last 3 yr, and three other
chalcidoid species are of lesser importance.
The predators causing concern are dried fruit
moths, cuckoo bees, and various debris-
feeding beetles. A serious predator in the
United States, the checkered flower beetle,
has been collected in attractant traps in the
southern Alberta foothills and from beekeep-
ing operations in northern Alberta but not
from major areas of alfalfa seed production.

Alfalfa forage crops. Thirty-six species of
insects in five families of the order Hemiptera
(Homoptera) were identified in collections
from forage alfalfa in Alberta. Only one
species, the pea aphid, was a major pest of
alfalfa and most were pests of other crops.
Although several of the leafhoppers collected
are capable of transmitting various plant
diseases, none appear to be causing serious
damage to alfalfa in the province.

Pea aphid populations were above normal
in forage alfalfa in late Juiy but were reduced
by five groups of predators, namely ladybird
beetles, hover flies, lacewings, pirate bugs,
and damsel bugs, and by the parasites
Aphidus spp. The fungus Entomophora sp.
was present in some fields but was not a major
factor in reducing pea aphid populations in
1980.

Insect pest species trapped while migrating
from cut alfalfa included aphids, lygus,
adelphocorids, leafhoppers, alfalfa butterflies,
blister beetles, and grasshoppers. Predators
also captured in the sticky traps were ladybird
beetles, hover flies, lacewings, anthocorids,
and staphylinids. All these pests and preda-
tors can move readily from cut alfalfa to
adjacent seed or forage crops.

Chemical control. In field tests on seed
alfalfa, five candidate insecticides, namely
isofenphos, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, fen-
valerate, and permethrin, gave equal or better
control at 72 h for Lygus spp. and third to
fourth instar Hypera postica larvae than did
currently registered insecticides. Of these five,
only isofenphos and cypermethrin gave effec-
tive control of first and second instar alfalfa
weevil larvae.

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE. ALTA.

369

Cutworms

Sex aitractants. Two three-component
attractant blends, developed for army cut-
worm, exhibited a twofold increase in attract-
ancy over the initial blend. Both blends
contained a minor component that was syner-
gistic at 0.002-2.0% but inhibitory at 8%, and
both were effective for 4 mo at 100 /xg/
dispenser.

The main component of the pheromone of
the European oak leaftier, Tortrix viridana,
was identified and a synthetic blend was
developed. It is being used to monitor this
species in West Germany.

Male antennal olfactory responses to 200
synthetic compounds were determined for
army, pale western, and striped cutworms,
and for beet webworm. This indicated the
main chemicals that may be involved (attract-
ants and inhibitors) with these species. Minor
pheromone components were identified from
female extracts of the darksided cutworm,
bertha armyworm, and Mamestra brassicae,
a European species.

Attractant-treated dispensers (3500 involv-
ing 17 species) were provided to five research
stations in Canada and to entomologists in
Oregon, Nebraska, and North Dakota for
field-monitoring purposes.

Four funnel-type sex attractant traps con-
taining an insecticide to kill captured moths
were field tested and were found to be more
effective than cone-type traps for capturing
male adults of army and redbacked cutworms.
They were efficient throughout the flight
period and required minimum maintenance.

Population monitoring. Density levels of
eight lepidopteran species were recorded from
sex attractant traps over a wide area of
southern Alberta for the 3rd yr. Male adults
collected in 1980 indicated an increase in
clover cutworm, bertha armyworm, darksided
cutworm, and pale western cutworm popula-
tions of 1.5-5.5 times those recorded in 1979.
However, redbacked, army, and variegated
cutworms and Leucania commoides showed
decreased levels.

In 1980, infestations o( army cutworm
larvae were recorded in areas where adult
males trapped in 1979 exceeded 1000/trap
(29 locations). Larval populations of red-
backed, darksided, and pale western cut-
worms (2.2/m2) were lower than 1979. Light
infestations of the bertha armyworm were
recorded in the survey area but larvae of the
other species were not detected.

Chemical control. Field evaluation of insec-
ticides for army cutworm control in winter
wheat indicated that after 3 days under dry
soil conditions, neither cypermethrin nor
permethrin gave better control than chlorpyri-
fos. After 7 days, permethrin at 0.12 kg/ha
gave 100% control, whereas cypermethrin at
0.12 and chlorpyrifos at 0.56 kg/ha gave 72
and 78% control, respectively.

Grasshoppers

Population studies. The annual survey for
adult grasshoppers indicated that populations
were 49% higher this year than in 1979.
Severe and very severe infestations (5-10 and
>10 adults per square metre) occurred for
the first time since the 1976 survey. Areas of
light infestation covered 16 311 km2; moder-
ate, 6917 km2; severe, 2543 km2; and very
severe, 539 km2. Most of the areas of higher
infestations were to the north and east of
Calgary, extending to the Saskatchewan
border, whereas areas south of Calgary had
mainly normal levels (less than one adult per
square metre).

Because in 1980 grasshoppers became
adults several weeks earlier than normal in
most areas, the egg-laying season was unusu-
ally long. Therefore populations of nymphs
and adults are expected to be higher in 1981
and more insecticide controls will probably be
required than the minimal amount that was
reported used in 1980.

Chemical control. In laboratory tests with
synthetic pyrethroid insecticides, del-
tamethrin, although twice as toxic as di-
methoate, was not as effective as fenpropanate
for controlling fifth-stage nymphs of Melano-
plus bivittatus.

Row-crop insects

Pests of sugar beets, potatoes, and other
vegetable crops did not cause economic dam-
age in southern Alberta during 1980.

A survey of the European corn borer
conducted in the corn-growing areas of south-
eastern Alberta using BAB-type traps baited
with sex attractants failed to recover any
males of this pest, nor were larvae detected in
the fields examined.

In studies on sex attractants for males of
the common June beetle, isoamylamine was
the most consistent attractant of the synthetic
amine compounds tested. Males responded
from early May to late June and daily flight
activity occurred during the first 1-2 h after

370

RESEARCH BRANCH RIPORT ll>S0

sunset. Peak counts were taken on clear calm
evenings when air temperatures at sunset
were 18°C or higher.

Circular areas of dead sugar beets, 4-5 m
in diameter, caused concern in the Coaldale
area. Upon examination, no soil insects or
nematodes were found in the damaged areas
and fungi within the shrunken root tissue
were diagnosed as secondary saprophytes. It
was concluded that this damage was caused
by intense lightning strikes. The presence of
dead sow thistle plants within the damaged
area substantiated this conclusion.

Insecticide residues

The degradation of fenvalerate in soil was
studied under controlled environmental condi-
tions to determine whether the results would
approximate those determined in the field.
Pots of Lethbridge loam soil, treated at 70
g/ha, were incubated under simulated field
conditions for 8 wk. Fenvalerate residues
declined with a half-life of 5.2 wk, slightly
faster than the half-life of 6.0 wk previously
observed in a microplot field experiment.

Residue methodology was developed to
determine fenvalerate in alfalfa forage. At
fortification levels of 0.1-10 ppm, recoveries
were 92-100%. In a field experiment, fenval-
erate at 150 g/ha was applied to alfalfa on 27
June, and the residues were monitored for 28
days. Fenvalerate residues decreased at a
first-order exponential rate, with the initial
level of 8.75 ppm having a half-life of 1 1 days.
In this experiment, the effect of new crop
growth in diluting fenvalerate residues was
minimal.

most conditions. An increase in the relative
size of the beef enterprise shifted the eco-
nomic threshold in the direction of fewer flies
for all control methods studied. Farms in the
Brown soil zone generally had lower economic
thresholds than farms in the other soil zones
and thus could afford to control horn flies at
lower population levels.

Poultry

Broiler nutrition. Modifications were made
to an existing linear programming model to
permit an analysis of canola meal in diets of
broiler chicks. It was found that canola meal
could profitably replace at least some soybean
meal under most conditions. If the price ratio
between canola and soybean meals is less than
0.7, at least 100 g/kg of the starter diets and
50 g/kg of the finisher diets should be canola
meal. If the price ratio drops below 0.6, at
least 200 g/kg of the starter diets and 90 g/kg
of the finisher diets should be canola meal.

Forages

Pasture systems. Optimal stocking rates
and pasture species were determined for
grazing steers on irrigated pasture in southern
Alberta. Legumes produced higher net rev-
enues per hectare than did grass pastures due
to higher digestibility of legumes and savings
in nitrogen fertilizer that would be required
on grasses. It was more profitable to use the
flush of spring growth (a characteristic of
grass pastures) than to sell it as hay. It could
be used either as hay for feeding later in the
year or as feed for additional purchased stock.

ECONOMICS SECTION
Beef cattle

Horn fly control. A farm-level simulation
model was used to determine economic
thresholds of horn fly control on farms of
different grain and beef enterprise ratios in
three soil zones, namely Dark Brown, Brown,
and Black. Nine methods of control were
analyzed under three levels of beef prices.

Repeated applications of insecticide
throughout the horn fly season (June to
September) were optimal under most condi-
tions tested. However, even one or two
applications of insecticide resulted in suffi-
cient payoff to warrant the cost of control.
The economic threshold level of control was
found to be at very low fly populations under

PLANT PATHOLOGY

Potato diseases

Virus and ring rot bacteria interactions.
The relative seriousness of infection by ring
rot bacteria (RR) or potato viruses S and X
(V), or both, was indicated by the signifi-
cantly different marketable yields obtained
from uninfected plants (31.7 t/ha) and from
plants infected with V (26.1), with RR (18.9),
or with both V and RR(14.5).

Latent infection with ring rot bacteria.
Failure to detect ring rot infection (latent
infection) was dependent on bacterial dosage.
In 1979, Netted Gem potato seed pieces each
inoculated with about 300 bacterial cells
caused infection of 9% of the developing
plants but no symptoms. Inoculation with

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

371

lower dosages produced no determinable
infection or symptoms. Of plants grown in
1980 from tubers that had developed from
seed pieces inoculated in 1979 with 300 cells,
90% were infected and 39% had symptoms.
For comparable plants from seed pieces
inoculated in 1979 with 30 cells, the equiv-
alent values in 1980 were 70% and 14%.
Plants originating from three-cell inoculated
seed pieces had no detectable infection or
symptoms.

Forage crop diseases

Life cycle of the low-temperature Copri-
nus. Major advances have been made in
studies of the life cycle of the low-tempera-
ture Coprinus sp. that causes crown rot (snow
mold) in alfalfa and other overwintering
forage crops. In addition to producing spores
that can be dispersed by the wind, this fungus
frequently produces resting bodies or sclerotia
that allow it to survive warm summer periods
and to persist in the soil. Strains that consist-
ently produce sclerotia in culture are less
pathogenic than nonsclerotial strains but have
been shown to be genetically compatible with
the low-temperature Coprinus in mating tests.

The identification of this pathogen on
apples and pears in cold storage in Oregon has
extended its host range and geographic
distribution.

Verticillium wilt of alfalfa. Federal, pro-
vincial, and university plant pathologists
cooperated in a national survey to determine
the distribution and severity of verticillium
wilt of alfalfa, which before 1980 had been
reported only in British Columbia. The Leth-
bridge Research Station provided overall
coordination by developing a standardized
format for conducting the survey and record-
ing the results. About 1% of farms growing
alfalfa in each province, except Newfound-
land, were sampled.

The high incidence of the disease in south
central British Columbia was confirmed and
five infected crops in both southern Alberta
and southern Saskatchewan were detected.
Only one occurrence of verticillium wilt was
reported in Ontario and none in Manitoba,
Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, or
Prince Edward Island.

Although verticillium wilt is now well
established in British Columbia, the localized
and small number of infested fields detected
in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario makes
it feasible to attempt eradication measures.

Plowing down infested fields and crop rotation
have been recommended in Alberta and
Saskatchewan. All alfalfa seed marketed
commercially must now be treated with
thiram fungicide to prevent the further spread
of the disease by that means.

Pea diseases

The fungicide captan has been used in
commercial practice for almost 20 yr to
control seedling rot, a serious disease of peas
in Canada. Studies over the past 3 yr have
demonstrated that the new fungicide metal-
axyl, applied to peas at rates as low as 5 g/100
kg of seed, controlled seedling rot more
effectively than captan applied at the stan-
dard rate of 100 g/100 kg of seed. Results of
this research are being used by the manufac-
turer to support an application to register
metalaxyl for use on peas in Canada. Use of
this fungicide should allow growers to reduce
seeding rates by at least 10% and still obtain
consistent, uniform stands of peas even when
conditions are favorable for severe seedling
rot.

Cereal diseases

Bunt of winter wheat. Bunt is a common
problem of winter wheat in southern Alberta,
and failure of registered fungicide seed treat-
ments to control it has been reported. Three
types of bunt spores are microscopically
distinguishable: smooth-walled spores like
Tilletia foetida, rough-walled spores like T.
caries, and very rough-walled spores with a
surrounding sheath like T. controversa.

Studies were carried out to characterize the
T. controversa-\\ke spores. They were found
to be intermediate between T. controversa
and T. caries in spore morphology, germina-
tion characteristics, and mode of infection.
Although the intermediate type was like T.
controversa in causing greater infection via
soil-borne inoculum than via seed-borne inoc-
ulum, a candidate fungicide that is not
effective against true T. controversa control-
led soil-borne infection by the intermediate.
Soil-borne inocula oi' T. caries, T. foetida,
and the intermediates were not effectively
controlled by the registered fungicide tested.
This could account for the reports of inade-
quate control by seed treatments. True T.
controversa has yet to be detected in the
winter wheat growing area of southern
Alberta.

372

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Powdery mildew. The combined use of
candidate seed treatment (triadimenol) and
foliar (triadimefon) fungicides reduced the
average incidence of powdery mildew on the
top three leaves of the susceptible, soft white
spring wheat cultivar, Springfield, from 42%
to 7%. The yield of Springfield was concomi-
tantly increased by 27%. In contrast, the yield
of Fielder, the currently grown, mildew-
resistant cultivar, was not increased by treat-
ment and was equal to that of the fungicide-
treated Springfield. The conclusion that the
powdery mildew resistance of Fielder provides
a yield advantage conservatively estimated at
20-25% over the previously grown cultivar,
Springfield, is supported by comparative yield
data for the two cultivars over the past 6 yr.

Coldhardiness of wheat

It was reported previously that coldhardi-
ness was correlated with the ratio of the
quantities of invertase I to invertase II in
leaves of several varieties of wheat when these
varieties were grown for the same length of
time under the same conditions. However,
when one variety was hardened for different
lengths of time or under different conditions,
the ratios of invertase I to invertase II were
not related to the relative effectiveness of the
cold-hardening treatments. This apparent
discrepancy has now been traced to the
increase in the ratio of invertase I to invertase
II that occurs as the leaves age. When
comparable tissues (roots, leaves, or elongat-
ing leaf tissues) in Kharkov 22 MC winter
wheat were examined, the ratio of invertase I
to invertase II was consistently higher in cold-
hardened than in unhardened tissues, even
though the ratios of invertase I to invertase II
differed widely between the different tissues.
Only the same tissue types of strictly compa-
rable physiological age can be used if the
ratios of invertase I to invertase II are to
correlate with the levels of coldhardiness.

PLANT SCIENCE

Physiology

Photoperiodism in corn. Twelve early ma-
turing inbred lines of corn (Zea mays L.)
were grown in controlled environments at
photoperiods of 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23,
or 24 h. Days from emergence to anthesis
increased as photoperiod increased for 10 of
the 12 inbreds. The photoperiod response of
the inbreds was adequately described by a

three-line model previously used for other
plant species. Genotypic variability for the
photoperiod response was identified.

The basic vegetative phase, which is the
time from emergence to anthesis in optimal
photoperiod conditions, ranged from 37 to 57
days. The photoperiod sensitivity, expressed in
days delay to anthesis per hour increase of
photoperiod, ranged from 0 to 2.5. The
maximum optimal photoperiod, which is the
longest photoperiod at which no photoperiod-
induced delay in anthesis is observed, ranged
from 14 to 24 h and the critical photoperiod,
above which no further delay in anthesis
occurs, ranged from 21 to 24 h. The photope-
riod-induced phase varied from 0 to more
than 17 days. A lack of correlation between
components of the photoperiod response sug-
gests independent regulation of these
components.

Coldhardiness of wheat. Total aspartic
acid, representing the acid and amide (as-
paragine) forms, increased markedly in the
crown of cold-hardened winter wheat with
increasing rates of N fertilizer applied alone.
At the highest N rate, equivalent to 180 kg/
ha, aspartic acid content was about double
that at the zero N rate. When P was applied
with the N, the increase in aspartic acid was
considerably smaller. The content of most
other amino acids decreased or remained
essentially unchanged with the application of
N. Phosphorus applied in the absence of N
had little or no effect on the amino acid
content.

In controlled environment experiments, N
fertilization of the soil decreased coldhardi-
ness of winter wheat, whereas P applied in the
absence of N had little effect. When applied
together, P counteracted the effect of N and
produced plants as hardy as those that had
received no fertilizer.

The characteristic changes in the total
aspartic acid content of hardened winter
wheat crowns, in response to N and P fertil-
ization, could be utilized to evaluate the effect
of various fertilizer regimes on the coldhardi-
ness of the crop.

Forage crops

Elbee northern wheatgrass. Elbee, the first
cultivar of northern wheatgrass, Agropyron
dasystachyum (Hook.) Scribn., a native
species, to be released in Canada, was devel-
oped at Lethbridge and licensed for sale in

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

373

1980. Its main attributes are excellent germi-
nation, high seedling vigor and drought
tolerance, moderately aggressive creeping
root system, early spring growth, and peren-
nial growth habit. It is well adapted for
pasture and hay production as seeded range in
the Brown, Dark Brown, and Black soil zones
of the prairies and for ecological repair and
revegetation of industrially disturbed areas,
roadsides, and other areas that receive little or
no maintenance. It can grow in sandy soils, as
well as on heavy clay but is best adapted to
medium and coarse textured soils. The culti-
var is an eight-clone synthetic, with six of the
clones originating in Alberta and two from
Saskatchewan.

Nova sainfoin. Nova, a new variety of
sainfoin, was licensed in 1980. The release of
Nova concludes a breeding program, started
in 1964, that led to the release of the first
Canadian sainfoin variety, Melrose, in 1969.

Sainfoin is a perennial forage legume that
does not induce bloat in ruminant animals. It
has proved to be particularly well suited to
dryland pasture or combined hay-pasture
usage in southern Alberta, and the new
variety Nova is likely to be grown mainly in
this area.

Nova is more winter-hardy and higher-
yielding than Melrose or other varieties of
sainfoin. During the severe winter of 1 978—
1979, Nova suffered only a 7% loss of stand in
a Lethbridge test, compared with a 22% loss
for Melrose and a 90% loss for two varieties
from the United States. Nova's forage yield
was evaluated for several years at seven
locations in Western Canada. It had a 7%
yield advantage over Melrose when consid-
ered over all years at all locations.

Weeds

Triallate herbicide and N fertilizer. Joint
experiments were conducted with the Bran-
don Research Station to determine the effi-
cacy of triallate herbicide and the availability
of nitrogen (N) in combined applications of
triallate plus urea. Triallate did not affect the
conversion of urea to NH4- and NO,-N. The
concentration of triallate in solution was not
altered by NH4-N at initial concentrations of
N up to 1400 /ag/g of soil.

In the field, spring applications of triallate
in all of the granular forms resulted in
reduced wild oat control compared to triallate
in the emulsifiable concentrate (EC) form.
Triallate coated on urea gave similar wild oat

control to that obtained with commercial 10
G granules. Fall treatments resulted in simi-
lar wild oat control for all methods of triallate
application. Combined and separate applica-
tions of triallate and urea fertilizer produced
similar wheat yields when the wild oat control
was similar. The results indicate that triallate
can be applied with solution N fertilizer in
both spring and fall and with dry N fertilizer
in the fall.

Special crops

Soybean emergence. The moisture content
of seeds of two early cultivars of soybeans
were adjusted to 7, 13, or 23% to determine
its effect on emergence from soil at air
temperatures of 9, 14, or 17°C. Seedling
emergence ranged from 88% to 95% over all
treatments. Differences were observed in the
number of days required to reach 50% emer-
gence, an indication of seedling vigor. From
the coolest to the warmest temperatures, time
to 50% emergence averaged 27, 15, and 10
days. Increased seed moisture content caused
slight reduction in time to 50% emergence
only at the lowest temperature.

On the basis of these results, on-farm
adjustment of seed moisture cannot be recom-
mended as a means of hastening the develop-
ment of soybeans. Instead, delaying seeding
until the soil warms to 10-1 5°C and using
sound seed is preferable. This failure to
hasten plant development through manage-
ment manipulation emphasizes the continuing
need to breed earlier maturing varieties for
the prairies.

Selecting beans for high di nitrogen fix-
ation. Tolerance of beans, Phaseolus vulgaris
L., to suboptimal temperatures is essential for
growth under environmental conditions in
Western Canada. When grown under a tem-
perature regime typical of spring in southern
Alberta with air temperatures increasing by
l°C/wk through a range from 10 to 23°C,
cultivar Aurora fixed N at a rate of 433 mg/
plant. Sanilac and Comtesse de Chambord
averaged 307 mg/plant, and Kentwood, 214
mg/plant. At a higher temperature regime
(15-23°C), Aurora again fixed the most N:
(456 mg/plant); the other three cultivars fixed
an average of 370 mg/plant.

The amount of N, fixed increased as the
time to reach maximum acetylene- (C:H,-)
reducing activity lengthened. In Aurora,
maximum activity occurred at physiological
maturity. This finding indicated that contrary

374

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

to previous reports, N2 fixation does not stop
at pod set in beans but continues up to plant
maturity. Results also suggest that to prolong
the time of active N2 fixation, it may be
advantageous to select beans with as long a
vegetative stage as is consistent with ensuring
maturity. Although the lower temperature
regime, compared to the higher regime,
delayed the initiation of N2 fixation by 21
days, Aurora compensated by producing 26%
greater nodule dry weight and 40% higher
maximum C2H2 reducing activity when fix-
ation began. Growth and N2 fixation of the
other three cultivars were adversely affected
by the lower temperature regime, not because
of lower nodule numbers or mass but because
of lower nodule activity. The vigorous root
growth of Aurora at suboptimal temperatures
may explain its superior N2 fixation at lower
temperatures.

Breeding early corn. Maturity, stalk
strength, and yield were evaluated in 575
experimental hybrids in replicated trials at
Vauxhall, Alta. Of these hybrids, 25 have
been selected for further testing, using as the
main criterion a kernel dry matter (DM)
content of 55-60% after 1900-2000 corn
development units had been accumulated.
The hybrids were also selected for satisfactory
stalk strength. Three or four of these hybrids
are likely to be tested further in Alberta Corn
Committee licensing trials.

SOIL SCIENCE

Soil-crop relations

Whole and cut potatoes for seed. Whole
and cut seed pieces (70 ± 10 g) were
compared at two plant spacings (21 and 28
cm) and four rates of N fertilization (0, 50,
100, and 150 kg/ha). Total yields from whole
seed were not significantly different from
those of cut seed (54.2 versus 53.0 t/ha), but
whole seed produced 14% more tubers than
cut seed. The 21 -cm spacing produced 7%
more tubers than the 28-cm spacing, but total
yields were not different. Yields (ranging
from 41.1 to 61.4 t/ha) were significantly
increased with each increment of N. With
increasing increments of N, the number of
tubers were increased 23, 33, and 30% over
those of the check, which also resulted in
decreased specific gravity of tubers. Of the
total yield in the experiment, 94% comprised
marketable tubers. The results, which confirm

those of last year, showed that there is no
yield advantage to using whole seed for
commercial growers, but that there could be
an advantage for seed producers.

Seasonal effects on decomposing grass
roots. Root collections of blue grama, Boute-
loua gracilis (H.B.K.) Lag., were made at
various times near Manyberries, Alta., over a
3-yr period. The root samples were analyzed
for C, N, ethanol/benzene-extractable C,
methoxyl groups, lignin, soluble and struc-
tural carbohydrates, and calorific value.
Significant seasonal fluctuations occurred for
all characteristics. Over 50% of the root mass
disappeared between October and May and
this loss occurred regardless of soil moisture
levels. Using the expression (C:N) (% lignin)/
(% carbohydrate"05) as an index of decom-
posibility, roots collected in October 1974 and
in October 1975 were potentially the least
resistant, and roots collected in July 1974,
May 1975, and May 1976 the most resistant
to decomposition. The methoxyl group con-
tents were also low in October 1974 and in
October 1975. The chemical composition of
the roots in the fall is apparently related to
the root-mass losses between October and
May. It is postulated that under the xero-
phytic conditions that are mandatory for blue
grama to flourish, late winter - early spring
represents a crucial time for the decrease of
its root mass.

Response of soybeans to inoculation. Two
soybean cultivars, with or without Rhizobium
inoculant, were grown with five levels of N
fertilizer (0, 20, 40, 80, and 160 kg/ha), with
or without irrigation. The mean yield from
the nonirrigated experiment was 1028 kg/ha
compared to 1834 kg/ha from the irrigated
experiment. When inoculant was used, there
was no response to N. Without inoculant,
yields on the irrigated plots increased with
each increment of N from 1234 to 1716 kg/
ha, but they did not reach that of the
inoculated plants (2100 kg/ha). Maple Presto
matured about 2 wk earlier and yielded
slightly more than the cultivar X005.
Soybeans may have a more important role to
play as a soil-improving crop as the cost of
fertilizer N increases.

N fixation and coldhardiness in alfalfa. In
a controlled environment experiment, rhi-
zobial activity or applied N in the absence of
P significantly reduced the coldhardiness of
alfalfa seedlings. Although the rhizobia fixed

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

375

only slightly more N than 20 kg/ha, the
coldhardiness was reduced to a level equiv-
alent to the addition of N at a rate of 100 kg/
ha. Plants that received P at 100 kg/ha
developed a high degree of coldhardiness
regardless of the level of added N or rhizobial
activity.

Irrigated soils

Water requirements of sorghum. The sea-
sonal and periodic water requirements of
irrigated grain sorghum were determined at
the Vauxhall Substation over a 3-yr period.
Daily water use peaked at a relatively low 6
mm. Because of its long growing period, the
potential seasonal water use of 500 mm for
sorghum was 10-20% higher than that of
other cereals, but it appears to have apprecia-
ble yield tolerance for restricted water supply.

Nitrate-nitrogen movement in irrigated
sandy soils. The downward movement of
N03-N was studied in farm fields of sandy
soils first broken and irrigated either in 1975
or 1976. Sites were divided into two groups
according to the characteristics of the soil
texture profile, with one uncultivated check
site for each soil group. Samples taken at
regular intervals to a depth of 210 cm in the
spring and the fall of 1979 showed that the
NO3-N content was higher in the cultivated
than in the check soils. The average total
NO3-N stored in the group I soil (sandy loam
to 60-90 cm and clay loam to 210 cm) from
90 to 210 cm depth was about 73 kg/ha; the
average in group II soil (sandy loam to 210
cm) from 75 to 210 cm depth was about 32
kg/ha. These amounts of NO_,-N could be
attributed to the downward movement of
NO3-N from the high initial mineralization of
newly broken soil. The annual N fertilizer
application seemingly contributed very little
to leaching losses of NO,-N under proper
fertilization and irrigation, even in these
sandy soils.

Denitrification in irrigated soils. The appli-
cation of rendering plant effluent high in
nutrients (1060 kg N + 60 kg P per hectare
each year) to soil through irrigation was
found to have no effect on the populations of
denitrifying bacteria. However, the addition
of feedlot manure (180 t/ha a year) to
irrigated soil was found to increase the
numbers of denitrifying bacteria in the sur-
face soil (0-15 cm) by a factor of 10 (from
2.1 x 106 bacteria per gram of soil to 1.7 x
107). The high organic matter content of the

feedlot manure is probably responsible for the
increase in numbers of denitrifying bacteria.
Nitrate concentrations up to 300 ppm N03-N
have been measured in surface horizons (0-15
cm) of soils receiving feedlot manure (180
t/ha a year). Thus, denitrification is one
possible mechanism of removing excess N
from soils receiving waste and of preventing
N03 contamination of the groundwater.

Salt-affected soils

Causes and remedies of dryland salinity.
Shallow groundwater and surface runoff were
identified as the main sources of water that
caused salinization of soil in a closed drainage
basin near Nobleford, Alta. Disturbance of
the naturally equilibrated ecosystem and
drainage courses, creation of retainers to hold
snow and water, drainage of runoff water into
the basin, and features of the bedrock, soil,
and topography contributed to the problem.

Various management practices to arrest,
and possibly reduce, salinity problems were
identified as: continuous cropping and thus
using the moisture where it falls; growing
perennial forage crops to use more moisture;
removing retainers that collect snow and
surface runoff; avoiding drainage of excess
water into the lowland; and draining the
discharge areas by using the water for irri-
gation or by pumping it out of the basin.
These remedial practices are proving effective
in the reclamation of this site.

Irrigation of Solonetzic soil. After four
seasons of sprinkler irrigation, 120 sites on a
Solonetzic soil were resampled. The irrigation
study was established in 1975 on a He-
maruka-Halliday complex at Enchant, Alta.
Total soluble salts in the top 90 cm had
decreased by an average of 25% for all sites as
indicated by electrical conductance and cation
analyses. Salt concentration increased slightly
in soils initially low in soluble salts (<2 mS/
cm) but declined by about 50% in those with a
high initial level. The sodium adsorption ratio
of the soil to the 90-cm depth also decreased
as a result of the decrease in salt concentra-
tion. Salt concentration was unchanged in the
90-120 cm depth but had increased by about
10% in the 120-150 cm depth. These changes
in salinity levels suggest that the soluble salt
concentration of Solonetzic soils can be
lowered to acceptable values with proper
irrigation management.

Biological reclamation of Solonetzic soils.
Laboratory studies comparing the leaching of

376

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1<>S0

disturbed Solonetzic soil in columns (15 cm
diam. x 60 cm) indicate that dilute H2S04
removed 38% more sodium and increased the
flow rate through the column four- to five-fold
over that observed with distilled water leach-
ing.

Under laboratory conditions, Thiobacillus
thioparus and Thiobacillus thiooxidans were
compared for their abilities to oxidize elemen-
tal sulfur applied to Solonetzic soils. T.

thioparus oxidized 84% of the sulfur in 12 wk
and lowered the surface pH of the soil from
9.1 to 3.5. In contrast, T. thiooxidans was
inhibited by the initial alkaline pH and the
salt content of the soil, and oxidized only 34%
of the sulfur in 1 2 wk. A mixed culture of the
two organisms did not act synergistically, but
again oxidized 30-35% of the available sulfur
in 12 wk.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Arn, H.; Priesner, E.; Bogenschiitz, H.; Buser, H.
R.; Struble, D. L.; Rauscher, S.; Voerman, S.
1979. Sex pheromone of Tortrix vihdana: (Z)-
1 1-tetradecenyl acetate as the main compo-
nent. Z. Naturforsch. 34c: 1 281-1 284.

Arn, H.; Stadler, E.; Rauscher, S.; Buser, H. R.;
Mustaparta, H.; Esbjerg, P.; Philipsen, H.;
Zethner, O.; Struble, D. L.; Bues, R. 1980.
Multicomponent sex pheromone in Agrotis
segetum: Preliminary analysis and field evalua-
tion. Z. Naturforsch. 35c:986-989.

Bole, J. B.; Pittman, U. J. 1980. Spring soil water,
precipitation, and nitrogen fertilizer: Effect on
barley grain protein content and nitrogen yield.
Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:471-477.

Bole, J. B.; Pittman, U. J. 1980. Spring soil water,
precipitation, and nitrogen fertilizer: Effect on
barley yield. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:461-469.

Bowden, D. M.; Kozub, G. C. 1979. Variations in
the blood composition of non-pregnant Here-
ford and Angus heifers fed individually in
confinement on two levels of energy intake.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 59:663-674.

Bowden, D. M; Osbourn, D. F.; Gill, M.; Gibbs, B.
G. 1980. Legume silages as supplements to a
maize silage plus urea diet for young calves.
Anim. Prod. 30:355-364.

Cheng, K.-J.; Bailey, C. B.; Hironaka, R.; Coster-
ton, J. W. 1979. Bloat in feedlot cattle: Effects
of rumen function of adding 4% sodium chlo-
ride to a concentrate diet. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
59:737-747.

Cheng, K.-J.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. The formation
of microcolonies by rumen bacteria. Can. J.
Microbiol. 26:1 104-1 113.

Cheng, K.-J.; Fay, J. P.; Howarth, R. E.; Costerton,
J. W. 1980. Sequence of events in the digestion
of fresh legume leaves by rumen bacteria.
Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 40:613-625.

Cuff, W. R.; Hardman, J. M. 1980. A development
of the Leslie matrix formulation for restructur-
ing and extending an ecosystem model: The
infestation of stored wheat by Sitophilus
oryzae. Ecol. Model. 9:281-305.

Dinsdale, D.; Cheng, K.-J.; Wallace, R. J.; Good-
lad, R. A. 1980. Digestion of epithelial tissue
of the rumen wall by adherent bacteria in
infused and conventionally fed sheep. Appl.
Environ. Microbiol. 39:1059-1066.

Dormaar, J. F.; Johnston, A.; Smoliak, S. 1980.
Organic solvent-soluble organic matter from
soils underlying native range and crested
wheatgrass in southeastern Alberta, Canada.
J. Range Manage. 33:99-101.

Dormaar, J. F.; Pittman, U. J. 1980. Decomposition
of organic residues as affected by various
dryland spring wheat-fallow rotations. Can. J.
Soil Sci. 60:97-106.

Dubetz, S.; Gardiner, E. E. 1980. Protein content
and amino acid composition of seven wheat
cultivars subjected to water stress: Effects of
nitrogen fertilizer treatments. J. Nutr. 2:517-
523.

Fay, J. P.; Cheng, K.-J.; Hanna, M. R.; Howarth,
R. E.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. In vitro digestion
of bloat-safe and bloat-causing legumes by
rumen microorganisms: Gas and foam produc-
tion. J. Dairy Sci. 63:1273-1281.

Forsberg, C. W.; Cheng, K.-J. 1980. The constitu-
tive nature of alkaline phosphatase in rumen
bacteria. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:268-272.

Freyman, S. 1980. Quantitative analysis of growth
in southern Alberta of two barley cultivars
grown from magnetically treated and un-
treated seed. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:463-47 1 .

Gardiner, E. E.; Dubetz, S.; Kemp, G. A. 1980.
Growth responses of chicks fed fababean diets.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:433-439.

Grant, M. N. 1980. Registration of Norstar wheat
(Reg. No. 626). Crop Sci. 20:552.

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

377

Hanna, M. R. 1980. Nova sainfoin. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:1481-1483.

Hardman, J. M.; Smoliak, S. 1980. Potential
economic impact of rangeland grasshoppers
(Acrididae) in southeastern Alberta. Can.
Entomol. 112:277-284.

Hardman, J. M.; Turnbull, A. L. 1980. Functional
response of the wolf spider, Pardosa vancou-
veri, to changes in the density of vestigial-
winged fruit flies. Res. Popul. Ecol. 21:233-
259.

Harper, F. R.; Seaman, W. L. 1980. Ergot of rye in
Alberta: Distribution and severity, 1972-1976.
Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:227-231.

Harper, F. R.; Seaman, W. L. 1980. Ergot of rye in
Alberta: Estimation of yield and grade losses.
Can. J. Plant Pathol. 2:222-226.

Haufe, W. O. 1980. Control of black flies in the
Athabasca River — Evaluation and recommen-
dations for chemical control of Simulium
arcticum Malloch. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta. 38 pp.

Haufe, W. O. 1980. Editorial: Facing the challenge
of a new decade for biometeorology. Int. J.
Biometeorol. 24:177-178.

Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., editors. 1980.
Control of black flies in the Athabasca River —
Technical report. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta. 241 pp.

Hill, B. D.; Todd, B. G.; Stobbe, E. H. 1980. Effect
of 2,4-D on the hydrolysis of diclofop-methyl in
wild oat (Avenafatua). Weed Sci. 28:725-729.

Kaldy, M. S.; Freyman, S. 1980. Total amino acid
composition of cold-hardened winter wheat
crowns grown under various levels of N and P.
Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 1 1:147-153.

Kaldy, M. S.; Johnston, A.; Smoliak, S. 1980.
Amino acid composition of rough fescue. J.
Range Manage. 33:295-296.

Kaldy, M. S.; Johnston, A.; Wilson, D. B. 1980.
Nutritive value of Indian bread-root, squaw-
root, and Jerusalem artichoke. Econ. Bot.

34:352-357.

Kaldy, M. S.; Kereliuk, G. R. 1978. Rapid removal
of HC1 from protein hydrolysates. Lab. Pract.
27:868.

Keller, D. G. 1980. Milk production in cattalo cows
and its influence on calf gains. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:1-9.

Kempton, A. G.; Moneib, N.; McCready, R. G. L.;
Capes, C. E. 1980. Removal of pyrite from
coal by conditioning with Thiobacillus fer-
rooxidans followed by oil agglomeration. Hy-
drometallurgy 5:117-125.

Kosmolak, F. G.; Larson, R. I.; McKenzie, H.
1980. Milling and baking quality of Rescue-
Cadet reciprocal substitution lines. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:1333-1341.

Krogman, K. K.; MacDonald, M. D.; Hobbs, E. H.
1980. Response of silage and grain corn to
irrigation and N fertilizer. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:445-451.

Krogman, K. K.; MacKay, D. C. 1980. Horizon
mixing in solonetzic and associated soils: Effect
on drought-stressed barley and wheat. Can. J."
Soil Sci. 60:721-729.

Krogman, K. K.; McKenzie, R. C; Hobbs, E. H.
1980. Response of fababean yield, protein
production, and water use to irrigation. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:91-96.

Lawson, J. E.; Fredeen, H. T.; Newman, J. A.;
Rahnefeld, G. W. 1980. Crosses of three exotic
and three British breeds: Performance in two
environments of two-year-old cows and their
calves. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:81 1-824.

Lutwick, L. E.; Kozub, G. C; Smith, A. D. 1980. A
two-factor systematic design for fertilizer
studies. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:657-663.

Lutwick, L. E.; Smith, A. D. 1979. Yield and N
uptake by seven perennial grass species as
affected by high rates of N fertilizer. J. Range
Manage. 32:433-436.

Major, D. J. 1980. Effect of simulated frost injury
induced by paraquat on kernel growth and
development in corn. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:419-
426.

Major, D. J. 1980. Photoperiod response charac-
teristics controlling flowering of nine crop
species. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:777-784.

McCarley, E.; Rennie, R. J. 1980. A computer
program to interpret multiple biochemical tests
to identify dinitrogen-fixing soil bacteria. Rev.
Ecol. Biol. Sol 17:501-507.

McCowan, R. P.; Cheng, K.-J.; Costerton, J. W.
1980. Adherent bacterial populations on the
bovine rumen wall: Distribution patterns of
adherent bacteria. Appl. Environ. Microbiol.
39:233-241.

McCready, R. G. L.; Bland, C. J.; Gonzales, D. E.
1980. Preliminary studies on the chemical,
physical, and biological stability of Ba/RaS04
precipitates. Hydrometallurgy 5:109-1 16.

378

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

McCready, R. G. L.; Grinenko, V. A.; Krouse, H.
R. 1980. Sulfur isotope fractionation by Pro-
teus vulgaris and Salmonella Heidelberg dur-
ing reduction of thiosulfate. Can. J. Microbiol.
26:1173-1177.

McCready, R. G. L.; Krouse, H. R. 1980. Sulfur
isotope fractionation by Desulfovibrio vulgaris
during metabolism of BaS04. Geomicrobiol. J.
2:55-62.

McKeen, W. E.; Traquair, J. A. 1980. Aphanomy-
ces sp., an alfalfa pathogen in Ontario. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:42-44.

McKenzie, H.; Grant, M. N. 1980. Survival of
common spring wheat cultivars grown in mix-
tures in three environments. Can. J. Plant Sci.
60:1309-1313.

McKenzie, H.; Pittman, U. J. 1980. Inheritance of
magnetotropism in common wheat. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:87-90.

Morrison, I. N.; Hill, B. D.; Dushnicky, L. G. 1979.
Histological studies on the effects of ben-
zolyprop ethyl and flamprop methyl on growth
and development of wild oats. Weed Res.
19:385-393.

Nelson, G. A. 1980. Long-term survival of Coryne-
bacterium sepedonicum on contaminated sur-
faces and in infected potato stems. Am. Potato
J. 57:595-600.

Nelson, W. A.; Kozub, G. C. 1980. Melophagus
ovinus (Diptera: Hippoboscidae): Evidence of
local mediation in acquired resistance of sheep
to keds. J. Med. Entomol. 17:291-297.

Palmer, C. J.; Blanchar, R. W. 1980. Modification
of Tempe pressure cell for the measurement of
saturated hydraulic conductivities. Soil Sci.
Soc. Am. J. 44:430-431.

Palmer, C. J.; Blanchar, R. W. 1980. Prediction of
diffusion coefficients from the electrical con-
ductance of soil. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 44:925-
929.

Rennie, R. J. 1979. Comparison of l5N-aided
methods for determining symbiotic dinitrogen
fixation. Rev. Ecol. Biol. Sol 16:455-463.

Rennie, R. J. 1980. Dinitrogen-fixing bacteria:
Computer-assisted identification of soil iso-
lates. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:1275-1283.

Rennie, R. J. 1980. |SN-isotope dilution as a
measure of dinitrogen fixation by Azospirillum
brasilense associated with maize. Can. J. Bot.
58:21-24.

Rogers, R. B.; Dubetz, S. 1980. Effect of soil-seed
contact on seed imbibition. Can. Agric. Eng.
22:89-92.

Rood, S. B.; Major, D. J. 1980. Diallel analysis of
flowering in corn using a corn heat unit
transformation. Can. J. Genet. Cytol. 22:633-
640.

Rood, S. B.; Major, D. J. 1980. Responses of early
corn inbreds to photoperiod. Crop Sci. 20:679-
682.

Rood, S. B.; Pharis, R. P.; Major, D. J. 1980.
Changes of endogenous gibberellin-like sub-
stances with sex reversal of the apical inflores-
cence of corn. Plant Physiol. 66:793-796.

Schaber, B. D. 1980. External morphology of the
adult thistle flea beetle, Altica carduorum
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Proc. S.D. Acad.
Sci. 59:80-90.

Smoliak, S.; Johnston, A. 1980. Elbee northern
wheatgrass. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:1473-1475.

Sommerfeldt, T. G.; Chang, C. 1980. Water and
salt movement in a saline-sodic soil in southern
Alberta. Can. J. Soil Sci. 60:53-60.

Soon, Y. K.; Bates, T. E.; Moyer, J. R. 1980. Land
application of chemically treated sewage
sludge: III. Effects on soil and plant heavy
metal content. J. Environ. Qual. 9:497-504.

Struble, D. L.; Arn, H.; Buser, H. R.; Stâdler, E.;
Freuler, J. 1980. Identification of 4 sex phero-
mone components isolated from calling females
of Mamestra brassicae. Z. Naturforsch.
35c:45-48.

Struble, D. L.; Buser, H. R.; Arn, H.; Swailes, G.
E. 1980. Identification of sex pheromone com-
ponents of redbacked cutworm, Euxoa ochro-
gaster, and modification of sex attractant
blend for adult males. J. Chem. Ecol. 6:573-
584.

Taylor, W. G. 1980. A convenient synthesis of ethyl
( ± )-m,/raAW-3(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-di-
methylcyclopropanecarboxylate by the Witting
reaction. Synthesis 7:554-555.

Traquair, J. A. 1980. Conspecificity of an unidenti-
fied snow mold basidiomycete and a Coprinus
species in the section Herbicolae. Can. J. Plant
Pathol. 2:105-115.

Traquair, J. A.; Kokko, E. G. 1980. Spore morphol-
ogy in Coleosporium plumeriae. Can. J. Bot.
58:2454-2458.

Robertson, R. H. 1980. Antibody production in
cattle infected with Hypoderma spp. Can. J.
Zool. 58:245-251.

Traquair, J. A.; McKeen, W. E. 1980. Electron
microscopy of developing Aphanomyces oogo-
nia and oospores. Mycologia 72:378-394.

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE. ALTA.

379

Vesely, J. A.; Bowden, D. M. 1980. Effect of
various light regimes on lamb production by
Rambouillet and Suffolk ewes. Anim. Prod.
31:163-169.

Wallace, R. J.; Cheng, K.-J.; Czerkawski, J. W.
1980. Effect of monensin on fermentation
characteristics of the artificial rumen. Appl.
Environ. Microbiol. 40:672-674.

Walsh, D. S.; Vesely, J. A.; Mahadevan, S. 1980.
Relationship between milk production and
circulating hormone levels in dairy cows. J.
Dairy Sci. 63:290-294.

Whelan, E. D. P. 1980. A new source of cytoplas-
mic male sterility in sunflower. Euphytica
29:33-46.

Whelan, E. D. P.; Dedio, W. 1980. Registration of
sunflower germplasm composite crosses CMG-
1, CMG-2, and CMG-3. Crop Sci. 20:832.

Whelan, E. D. P.; Dorrell, D. G. 1980. Interspecific
hybrids between Helianthus maximiliani
Schrad. and H. annuus L.: Effect of backcross-
ing on meiosis, anther morphology, and seed
characteristics. Crop Sci. 20:29-34.

Wilkinson, P. R.; Fyfe, R.; Martin, J. E. H. 1980.
Further records of Ornithodoros ticks on
prairie falcons and in bat-inhabited buildings
in Canada. Can. Field-Nat. 94:191-193.

Zebold, S. L.; Whisler, H. C; Shemanchuk, J. A.;
Travland, L. B. 1979. Host specificity and
penetration in the mosquito pathogen Coelo-
momyces psorophorae. Can. J. Bot. 57:2766-
2770.

Zentner, R. P.; Sonntag, B. H.; Bole, J. B.; Pittman,
U. J. 1979. An economic assessment of dryland
cropping programs in Western Canada: Eco-
nomic variability. Can. Farm. Econ. I4(6):9-
19.

Miscellaneous

Atkinson, T. G.; Larson, R. I. 1979. Control of
wheat streak and wheat spot mosaics through
resistance to their mite vector. Proc. Can.
Phytopathol. Soc. 46:53 (abstract).

Beltaos, S.; Charnetski, W. A. 1980. Mixing of
insecticide: One dimensional analysis of me-
thoxychlor concentration data. Haufe, W. O.;
Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control of black flies in
the Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollu-
tion Control Division, Alberta Department of
Environment, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 123-130.

Bird, C. D.; Harper, A. M. 1980. F. H. Wolley-
Dod, Alberta's pioneer lepidopterist. Alta.
Natur. 10(2):49-55.

Bole, J. B.; Pittman, U. J. 1979. Crop response to
applied sulphur in southern Alberta and
uptake of subsoil sulphates. Effective use of
nutrient resources in crop production. Alberta
Department of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta.
pp. 335-338.

Bowden, D. M. 1980. Energy used by crossbred
cows to produce a weaned calf. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:1045-1046 (abstract).

Charnetski, W. A. 1980. Aerial versus ground
application of pesticides: Penetration of crop
canopy. Proceedings 27th Annual Meeting
Canadian Pesticide Management Society, pp.
226-227.

Charnetski, W. A. 1980. Black fly control in
Alberta — Methoxychlor larviciding. Proceed-
ings of the 27th Annual Meeting Canadian
Pesticide Management Society, pp. 204-212.

Charnetski, W. A. 1980. Methoxychlor residue
check sample study for water, fish muscle, and
fish oil. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds.
Control of black flies in the Athabasca River —
Technical report. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta. pp. 93-95.

Charnetski, W. A.; Currie, R. A. 1980. Pretreat-
ment background insecticide and PCB residues
and posttreatment methoxychlor insecticide
residues in fish from the Athabasca River.
Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control
of black flies in the Athabasca River— Techni-
cal report. Pollution Control Division, Alberta
Department of Environment, Edmonton, Alta.
pp. 75-87.

Charnetski, W. A.; Currie, R. A.; Calder, J. 1980.
Methoxychlor, organochlorine, and ganophos-
phorus insecticides and unidentified hydrocar-
bon residues in bed material of Lake Athaba-
sca and the Athabasca delta. Haufe, W. O.;
Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control of black flies in
the Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollu-
tion Control Division, Alberta Department of
Environment, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 89-92.

Charnetski, W. A.; Depner, K. R. 1980. Distri-
bution and persistence of methoxychlor in
Athabasca River mud and bedload. Haufe, W.
O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control of black
flies in the Athabasca River — Technical re-
port. Pollution Control Division, Alberta De-
partment of Environment, Edmonton, Alta. pp.
63-73.

Charnetski, W. A.; Depner, K. R.; Beltaos, S. 1980.
Distribution and persistence of methoxychlor
in Athabasca River water. Haufe, W. O.;
Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control of black flies in

380

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

the Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollu-
tion Control Division, Alberta Department of
Environment, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 39-61.

Cheng, K.-J.; Bailey, C. B.; Wallace, R. J.;
Czerkawski, J. W.; Costerton, J. W. 1979.
Role of adherent bacteria in urea digestion in
ruminants. Report 15th Conference Rumen
Function, Chicago, IL.

Cheng, K.-J.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. Adherent
rumen bacteria — their role in the digestion of
plant material, urea and epithelial cells.
Ruckebusch, Y.; Thivend, P., eds. Digestive
physiology and metabolism in ruminants. MTP
Press Ltd., Lancaster, U.K. pp. 227-250.

Cheng, K.-J.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. The impor-
tance of a specific adherent bacterial popula-
tion to the normal physiological function of the
rumen. 2nd International Symposium Micro-
bial Ecology, (abstract), p. 58.

Cheng, K.-J.; Dinsdale, D.; Wallace, R. J.; Good-
lad, R. A. 1980. The digestion of epithelial
tissue of the rumen wall by adherent bacteria
in infused and conventionally fed sheep. Proc.
Annu. Meet., Can. Soc. Microbiol. 30:73
(abstract).

Cheng, K.-J.; McCowan, R. P.; Costerton, J. W.
1980. Distribution and enzyme activity of the
bacterial population adherent to the epithelium
of the bovine rumen. Annu. Meet. Am. Soc.
Microbiol. 80:104 (abstract).

Chesnais, J. P.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.
Darisse, J. P. F.; Hickman, C. G.; Lee, A. J.
Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980
Foundation animal performance in the na
tional dairy breeding project. Can. J. Anim
Sci. 60:560 (abstract).

Costello, R. A.; Khan, M. A. 1980. Control of
insects and ticks on livestock. B.C. Ministry of
Agriculture. Publ. 80-1. 20 pp.

Coulter, G. H. 1980. Effect of dietary energy on
testes weight and sperm output of 2-year-old
Hereford and Angus bulls. Proceedings 72nd
Annual Meeting American Society of Animal
Science, pp. 106-1 1 1.

Coulter, G. H. 1980. Evaluating the breeding
soundness of beef bulls. Can. Agric. 25(3):29-
31.

Coulter, G. H. 1980. Testicular development: Its
management and significance in young beef
bulls. Proceedings 8th Technical Conference
on artificial insemination and reproduction. 6
pp.

Coxworth, E.; Crowle, L.; Kernan, J.; MacKay, D.
C; Sommerfeldt, T. G.; Spurr, D. 1980.
Fertilizer effects on the feed value of wheat
and barley straw. Saskatchewan Research
Council. SRC Pub. C-814-M-1-E-80. 51 pp.

Croome, G. C. R.; Wilson, D. B., editors. 1980.
Research Highlights — 1979. Agriculture
Canada Research Station, Lethbridge, Alta.
93 pp.

Depner, K. R. 1980. Appendix I: Black fly larvicid-
ing operations: Guidelines, specifications,
schedules, and procedures for large rivers.
Haufe, W. O., ed. Control of black flies in the
Athabasca River — Evaluation and recommen-
dations for chemical control of Simulium
arcticum Malloch. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta. pp. 32-36.

Depner, K. R.; Charnetski, W. A. 1980. Divers and
television for examining riverbed material and
populations of black fly larvae in the Athaba-
sca River. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R.,
eds. Control of black flies in the Athabasca
River — Technical report. Pollution Control
Division, Alberta Department of Environment,
Edmonton, Alta. pp. 239-241.

Depner, K. R.; Charnetski, W. A.; Haufe, W. O.
1980. Effect of methoxychlor on resident popu-
lations of the invertebrates of the Athabasca
River. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds.
Control of black flies in the Athabasca River —
Technical report. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta. pp. 141-150.

Depner, K. R.; Charnetski, W. A.; Haufe, W. O.
1980. Population reduction of the black fly
Simulium arcticum at breeding sites in the
Athabasca River. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G.
C. R., eds. Control of black flies in the
Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollution
Control Division, Alberta Department of En-
vironment, Edmonton, Alta.

Dormaar, J. F.; Pittman, U. J. 1979. Decomposition
of organic residues. Effective use of nturient
resources in crop production. Alberta Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. (ab-
stract), p. 330.

Dubetz, S. 1979. Effect of fertilizers and irrigation
on soybeans. Effective use of nutrient resources
in crop production. Alberta Department of
Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 272-277.

Dubetz, S. 1980. Potassium-related soil fertility
research on irrigated land. K related soil
fertility research and top yields in research
plots and trials in Western Canada. Potash and
Phosphate Institute of Canada, Etobicoke,
Ont. pp. 24-25.

Dubetz, S. 1980. Top yields of irrigated crops in
Alberta. K related soil fertility research and
top yields in research plots and trials in
Western Canada. Potash and Phosphate Insti-
tute of Canada, Etobicoke, Ont. pp. 1 58- 1 64.

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

381

Dubetz, S.; Gardiner, E. E. 1980. High-protein
wheat — Production and use. Agric. Can.
25(2):10-12.

Fay, J. P.; Cheng, K.-J.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. In
vitro digestion experiments to select non-bloat
causing legumes. 2nd International Sympo-
sium Microbial Ecology, (abstract), p. 58.

Fay, J. P.; Cheng, K.-J.; Hanna, M. R.; Howarth,
R.; Costerton, J. W. 1980. Gas and foam
production during digestion of legumes by
rumen microbes. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1038
(abstract).

Fredeen, H. T.; Weiss, G. M.; Rahnefeld, G. W.;
Lawson, J. E.; Newman, J. A. 1980. Growth
patterns of hybrid crosses under two environ-
ments. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1042 (abstract).

Fredeen, H. T.; Weiss, G. M.; Rahnefeld, G. W.;
Lawson, J. E.; Newman, J. A. 1980. Productiv-
ity of hybrid cows in relation to breed cross and
environment. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:1041-1042
(abstract).

Freyman, S. 1980. Effect of cultural practices on
cold hardiness and survival of winter wheat.
Proceedings 15th Hard Red Winter Wheat
Workers Conference, Ft. Collins, CO. pp. 64-
68.

Goplen, B. P.; Baenziger, H.; Bailey, L. D.; Gross,
A. T. H.; Hanna, M. R.; Michaud, R.;
Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J. 1980. Grow-
ing and managing alfalfa in Canada. Agric.
Can. Publ. 1705.49 pp.

Gould, W. D. 1979. Inhibition of urease activity.
Effective use of nutrient resources in crop
production. Alberta Department of Agricul-
ture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 1 43- 1 58.

Gould, W. D.; Bole, J. B. 1980. Phosphorus trans-
formations at the root-soil interface. Western
Canadian Phosphate Symposium. Alberta
Department of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta.

Hanna, M. R.; Richards, K. W.; Waddington, J.;
Krogman, K. K. 1980. Alfalfa seed production
in southern Alberta. Alberta Alfalfa Seed
Commission. Mimeographed report. 21 pp.

Harper, A. M. 1979. Biology and control of the pea
aphid. Alberta Department of Agriculture.
Agdex 622-8.

Harper, A. M. 1980. A bibliography of papers
presented at the annual meetings of the Ento-
mological Society of Alberta— 1953-1978.
Entomological Society of Alberta. 56 pp.

Haufe, W. O. 1980. Appendix 11: Monitoring
procedures and guidelines for environmental
accountability in larviciding operations. Haufe,
W. O. Control of black flies in the Athabasca
River — Evaluation and recommendations for

chemical control of Simulium arcticum Mal-
loch. Pollution Control Division, Alberta De-
partment of Environment, Edmonton, Alta.

Haufe, W. O.; Depner, K. R.; Charnetski, W. A.
1980. Impact of methoxychlor on drifting
aquatic invertebrates. Haufe, W. O.; Croome,
G. C. R., eds. Control of black flies in the
Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollution
Control Division, Alberta Department of En-
vironment, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 159-168.

Haufe, W. O.; Depner, K. R.; Kozub, G. C. 1980.
Parameters for monitoring displacement of
drifting aquatic invertebrates. Haufe, W. O.;
Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control of black flies in
the Athabasca River — Technical report. Pollu-
tion Control Division, Alberta Department of
Environment, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 1 69- 181. -

Hironaka, R. 1980. Estimation of digestible energy
requirements for maintenance and gain in
Hereford steers fed all-concentrate diets. Proc.
West. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci. 31:226-227.

Hobbs, E. H. 1980. Lethbridge Research Station
climate-related research. Socioeconomic im-
pacts of climate. Canadian Forestry Service,
Edmonton, Alta. NOR-X-217. pp. 87-88.

Hobbs, E. H. 1980. Some climatologically based
research at the Agriculture Canada Research
Station, Lethbridge. Leggat, K. R., ed. Pro-
ceedings 1980 Annual Meeting Alberta Clima-
tology Association, Alberta Energy Nat. Res.,
Tech. Rep. T/l 0-1 980. p. 36.

Johnston, A.; Smoliak, S. 1979. The Canadian
Arctic. Rangelands 1:181-182.

Khan, M. A. 1980. Protection of cattle from black
flies. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds.
Control of black flies in the Athabasca River-
Technical report. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta.

Klein, K. K.; Salmon, R. E.; Larmond, E. 1980. A
computer model for assessing the economic
value of Candle canola meal in diets for
growing turkeys. Sixth progress report: Re-
search on canola seed, oil, meal and meal
fractions. Canola Council of Canada, Winni-
peg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 23-26.

Krogman, K. K. 1979. Root activity in a Brown
Solonetizic soil. Effective use of nutrient re-
sources in crop production. Alberta Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 278-
283.

Larmond, E.; Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K. 1980.
Sensory evaluation of turkeys fed diets con-
taining Candle canola meal. Sixth progress
report: Research on canola seed, oil, meal and
meal fractions. Canola Council of Canada,
Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 103-105.

382

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT ls>S0

Lawson, J. E. 1980. Evaluation of exotic British
breed crosses. Rangelands 2:157.

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Harris, D. L.;
Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980.
First lactation performance in pureline and
crossline dairy cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:561 (abstract).

Lee, A. J.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Roy, G. L.;
Vesely, J. A.; Winter, K. A. 1980. Breed group
differences for growth in pureline foundation
phase of the national dairy cattle breeding
project. 72nd Annual Meeting, American Soci-
ety of Animal Science, (abstract), p. 1 22.

Lutwick, L. E. 1979. N fertilization of exotic
dryland grasses in the Dark Brown and Brown
and Black soil zones. Effective use of nutrient
resources in crop production. Alberta Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 235-
240.

Lynch, D. R. 1980. New developments in potato
breeding (Pacific Northwest). Proceedings 8th
Annual Meeting Prairie Potato Council, Win-
nipeg, Man. pp. 21-27.

Major, D. J. 1980. Environmental effects of flower-
ing. Hybridization of crop plants. American
Society of Agronomy — Crop Science Society
of America, Madison, WI. Ch. 1, pp. 1-15.

Major, D. J.; Bole, J. B.; Charnetski, W. A. 1980.
The contribution of leaves to rapeseed yield.
Can. Agric. 25(3):1 1-13.

Major, D. J.; Hamman, W. M. 1980. Guide to
sorghum production in Alberta, 1980. Alberta
Corn. Commission, Lethbridge, Leafl.

McCready, R. G. L.; Krouse, H. R. 1979. The
potential use of stable isotopes in evaluating
the effect of oxidized sulfur compounds on soil
microorganisms. Effective use of nutrient re-
sources in crop production. Alberta Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 284-
317.

Mears, G. J.; Lai, P. C. W.; Van Petten, G. R.;
Lorscheider, F. L. 1980. Fetal-maternal trans-
fer and catabolism of ovine alphafetoprotein.
Physiologist 23:58 (abstract).

Oosterveld, M. 1979. Dryland salinity can be
controlled. Effective use of nutrient resources
in crop production. Alberta Department of
Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. (abstract), pp.
339-340.

Palmer, C. J.; Krogman, K. K. 1980. Effect of
irrigation on the salinity status of a Solonetzic
soil. Annual Meeting Canadian Society of Soil
Science (abstract), p. 15.

Rennie, R. J. 1979. The effect of nitrification
inhibitors on Nitrobacter sp. Effective use of
nutrient resources in crop production. Alberta
Department of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta.
pp. 159-168.

Richards, K. W. 1980. Basic biology of cuckoo
bees, Coelioxys. Man. Leafcutter Bee Newsl.
4:7-8.

Richards, K. W. 1980. Canadian bee and seed
research. Proceedings 10th Annual Interstate
Alfalfa Seed Growers Conference and Trade
Fair, Ontario, OR.

Richards, K. W. 1980. Influences of the cleptopara-
sitic bee Psithyrus on its ancestral host Bom-
bus (Hymenoptera: Apidae). 2nd International
Congress Syst. Evol. Biology, University of
British Columbia, B.C. (abstract), p. 321.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K. 1980. A bioeconomic
model of turkey production. Haresign, W.;
Lewis, D., eds. Recent advances in animal
nutrition 1980. Butterworths, London, pp. 171-
184.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Gardiner, E. E. 1980.
Economics of canola meal in poultry diets.
Can. Poultryman 67( 1 ): 1 4, 30-3 1 , 52-59.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Gardiner, E. E. 1980.
Economics of canola meal in poultry diets.
Addresses to 13th Annual Convention, Rape-
seed Association of Canada, pp. 76-89.

Salmon, R. E.; Klein, K. K.; Larmond, E. 1980.
Nutritive value of Candle canola meal in
turkey broiler diets of varying nutrient density.
Sixth progress report: Research on canola seed,
oil, meal and meal fractions. Canola Council of
Canada, Winnipeg, Man. Publ. 57. pp. 23-26.

Shemanchuk, J. A. 1980. Distribution, seasonal
incidence and infestation of cattle by Simu-
lium arcticum and other black fly adults.
Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds. Control
of black flies in the Athabasca River — Techni-
cal report. Pollution Control Division, Alberta
Department of Environment, Edmonton, Alta.
pp. 201-205.

Shemanchuk, J. A. 1980. Protection of cattle on
farms. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C. R., eds.
Control of black flies in the Athabasca River —
Technical report. Pollution Control Division,
Alberta Department of Environment, Edmon-
ton, Alta.

RESEARCH STATION, LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.

383

Shemanchuk, J. A.; Anderson, J. A. 1980. Bionom-
ics of biting flies in the agricultural area of
central Alberta. Haufe, W. O.; Croome, G. C.
R., eds. Control of black flies in the Athabasca
River — Technical report. Pollution Control
Division, Alberta Department of Environment,
Edmonton, Alta. pp. 207-214.

Smoliak, S. 1979. Range renovation through strip
tillage. Effective use of nutrient resources in
crop production. Alberta Department of Agri-
culture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 231-234.

Smoliak, S.; Johnston, A. 1980. Russian wildrye
lengthens the grazing season. Rangelands
2:249-250.

Sommerfeldt, T. G. 1979. Soil as a medium for
manure disposal. Effective use of nutrient
resources in crop production. Alberta Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 191-
200.

Struble, D. L.; Arn, H.; Buser, H. R. 1980.
Characterization and field evaluation of the
minor components of the sex pheromone of
Euxoa ochrogaster (Guenée). Proceedings
16th International Congress of Entomology
(abstract), p. 80.

Struble, D. L.; Swailes, G. E. 1980. Attractant for
army cutworm moths. Can. Pat. No. 1086645.

Swailes, G. E.; Struble, D. L. 1980. Attractant for
darksided cutworm moths. Can. Pat. No.
1085722.

Timmermans, J. G.; Bole, J. B.; Robertson, J. A.
1979. Fall application of N fertilizer in south-
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in crop production. Alberta Department of
Agriculture, Edmonton, Alta. pp. 44-55.

Tinline, R. D.; Davidson, J. G. N.; Harding, H.;
Atkinson, T. G.; Piening, L. J.; Duczek, L. J.
1979. Differential reactions of barley cultivars
to common root rot between locations. Proc.
Can. Phytopathol. Soc. 46:71 (abstract).

Traquair, J. A.; Ammirati, J. F. 1979. Gold mine
fungi. Proc. Can. Phytopathol. Soc. 46:72
(abstract).

Traquair, J. A.; Hiratsuka, Y. 1979. A tropical rust
on imported plants. Proc. Can. Phytopathol.
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Traquair, J. A.; Kokko, E. G. 1979. Scanning
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(abstract).

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Comparing sheep breeds for
lamb production in Western Canada. Can.
Agric. 25(2):30-31.

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Hard udder syndrome in sheep.
Sheep Can. 5(l):7-9.

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Induction of year-round breed-
ing with light control: Answers to your ques-
tions. Sheep Can. 5(4): 1 9-2 1 .

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Performance of Southdown and
Hampshire rams in lamb production. Sheep
Can. 5(2):9-12.

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Sheep breeding year-round.
Can. Agric. 25(l):20-23.

Vesely, J. A. 1980. Year-round breeding of sheep.
Can. Wool Grower 49(2):36-37.

Whelan, E. D. P. 1978. Cytology and interspecific
hybridization. Carter, J. F., ed. Sunflower
science and technology. Agronomy 9. Ch. 10,
pp. 339-369.

Winter, K. A.; McAllister, A. J.; Batra, T. R.;
Chesnais, J. P.; Darisse, J. P. F.; Emsley, A.
B.; Lee, A. J.; Roy, G. L.; Vesely, J. A. 1980.
Heifer growth in pureline and crossline dairy
cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:560 (abstract).

384

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Agassiz, British Columbia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

J. E. Miltimore, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

D. C. Ottoson, B.A.

J. Repstock

M. I. Tuttle,1 B.Sc., B.L.S.

Director

Analyst Programmer

Administrative Officer

Librarian

Animal Science

J. R. Hunt, B.S.A., Ph.D.

W. T. Buckley, B.Sc, Ph.D.

L. J. Fisher, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

R. J. Forrest, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

E. E. Gardiner, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Poultry physiology
Ruminant mineral biochemistry
Dairy cattle nutrition
Animal physiology, meat studies
Poultry nutrition

Crop Science

J. A. Freeman, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

N. A. Fairey, B.Sc., M.Sc, Ph.D.
S. G. Fushtey, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D
C. G. Kowalenko, B.S.A., M.Sc,
E. F. Maas, B.S.A., M.Sc.
A. R. Maurer, B.S.A., M.Sc.
P. W. Perrin, B.Sc, Ph.D.

Ph.D.

Head of Section; Physiology of
small fruits, herbicides
Field crop physiology
Turf management and cereals
Soil biochemistry and fertility
Plant nutrition, nonsoil media
Physiology of vegetable crops
Postharvest physiology

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

RESEARCH STATION, AGASSIZ, B.C.

385

INTRODUCTION

During the year Dr. E. E. Gardiner transferred from the Lethbridge Research Station to
continue research on poultry nutrition here. Dr. S. G. Fushtey was appointed to undertake
research in turf management. Dr. D. K. Taylor had continued to carry that research program
since his retirement in 1978.

Research highlights during the year included the discovery, in cooperation with the
University of Manitoba, of a noninvasive technique for measuring whole-body protein turnover;
the assurance that selenium supplements to dairy cattle present no hazard to humans drinking
the milk; and a demonstration that an analogue of napropamide shows promise for weed
control in strawberries.

The text summarizes highlights of research conducted in 1980. The list of publications
provides a more detailed indication of research activities. Requests for information on these
and other projects and for reprints or correspondence should be directed to: Research Station-,
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada, P.O. Box 1000, Agassiz, B.C. VOM 1A0.

J. E. Miltimore
Director

ANIMAL SCIENCE

Performance of Limousin x Holstein (FJ
crossbreds. A comparison was made in effi-
ciency of feed utilization between 39 purebred
Holstein steers and 92 Limousin x Holstein
crossbreds (42 steers and 50 heifers). The two
steer groups had similar rates of gain but the
crossbreds were more efficient. The two steer
groups gained faster and were more efficient
than the female crossbreds. When slaughtered
at 500 kg, the females had the fattest car-
casses (20.6%), followed by the Holsteins
(18.1%), and then the crossbred males
(16.0%). The crossbred steers had approx-
imately 4% more lean meat than the females
or the Holsteins. The Holsteins had the most
bone, 11.8%, followed by the crossbred males
with 9.8%, and then the females with 8.9%.

Carcass characteristics of Hereford steers
reared on grass and finished on high forage
rations. Sixty red whiteface steers gained 0.7
kg/day on lush pasture for 168 days from 9
May to 24 October. Ten steers reared on grass
were slaughtered, and the remaining fifty
gained 1.0 kg/day for an average 70-day
period on grass or corn silage with a minimum
of grain. During the finishing period, dressing
percent, rib fat depth, and rib eye area
increased by 1.4, 6.0, and 7.5%, and white
marbling score and carcass color decreased by
10.8 and 30%, respectively. Of the ten steers
finished on grass, four graded Canada A 1 , five
graded Bl, and one graded CI. Of the 50

steers finished on maximum silage, 37 graded
Canada A 1 , 1 2 graded A2, and 1 graded B 1 .

Selenium in dairy cattle rations. Selenium
in the form of sodium selenite was added to
the grain mixture fed lactating cows at levels
that provided daily intake of 0, 6.0, 1 2.0, 24.0,
48.0, or 100 mg sodium selenite. The Se
content of the milk, urine, and feces was
determined in samples taken on the last 2
days of the 8-day feeding period. There was
an increase in fecal levels of Se with each
dietary increment, and there was a marked
but variable response in the Se content in the
urine. The amount of Se in the milk was not
influenced by the quantity of sodium selenite
in the diet. In a subsequent trial, theoretically
toxic levels of sodium selenite (170 and 260
mg/day) were fed to lactating cows. This
resulted in a 10- and 40-fold increase in the
Se content of feces and urine, respectively,
but only a threefold increase in the Se content
of milk. The results of these two trials have
indicated that lactating cows have an effective
mechanism for maintaining relatively normal
levels of selenium in the milk, even when
dietary intake of Se is abnormally high.

Additives for grass silage. A series of trials
have been carried out at the Research Station,
Agassiz, with the use of lactating cows to test
the effectiveness of various additives in im-
proving the quality of grass silage. These
products included three general categories:
mixtures that stimulate a rapid increase in
acidity; dried cultures of lactic acid bacteria:

386

RESEARCH BRANCH RIPORT h>S0

and enzyme mixtures that stimulated lactic
acid fermentation. The compounds that disso-
ciated to stimulate a rapid drop in pH were
effective in preventing a secondary butyric
acid type of fermentation and in decreasing
surface spoilage. The dried culture of lactic
acid bacteria, although it stimulated fermen-
tation, did not improve animal performance.
The last category of products was not effective
in changing the characteristics of fermenta-
tion or in improving animal performance
compared with untreated silages. The results
of these trials have been used to assist in the
decisions on whether such products should be
registered as silage additives in Canada.

Estimation of whole-body protein turnover.
A radioisotope method for the estimation of
whole-body protein synthesis, accretion, and
degradation was developed in cooperation
with the University of Manitoba. The method
utilized single injections of L-[1-14C] leucine or
dl-[1-,4C] lysine, collection of expired l4C02,
and measurement of amino acid and N
balance. Accumulation of 14C in protein-
bound lysine, body lipids, perchloric acid
soluble material, urine, feces, and gastrointes-
tinal contents 3 or 9 h after injection was
measured to evaluate the method. The results
showed that the new procedure should be
readily adaptable to larger animals.

Refuse-screening studies. Refuse screen-
ings contain weed seeds, straw, chaff, dust,
and soil particles. In two experiments where
refuse screenings replaced ground wheat in
the broiler diet at 15 and 20% of the diet, it
was found that replacing 15% wheat with
refuse screenings depressed growth by 1.5%
while depressing feed efficiency by 4%. Simi-
lar results were found when the diet contained
20% refuse screenings. Other parameters such
as mortality, leg problems, and carcass grade
were unaffected by the inclusion of refuse
screenings in the diet. All four strains of
broilers used in the above tests responded
similarly to refuse screenings, which are
currently too expensive for inclusion in broiler
diets.

Factors influencing roaster grades. Several
years ago, the expected percentage of birds
that graded Canada A was 70-80%, but it is
now common to find only 20-30% grade A
birds in a flock at slaughter time. In a series of
experiments it was noted that growth rate was
not an important factor. Reducing growth by
decreasing the protein content of the starter

dîet from 23 to 20% for the first 4 wk of life in
the broiler house reduced the final body
weight by more than 5%, but the percentage
of grade A carcasses was not affected.

Strain of bird has been found to be an
important factor. Six strains have been tested,
with yield of grade A carcasses ranging from
20 to 70%. The best strain of bird for roaster
production had a good carcass grade with
fewer leg problems, but it exhibited the
marked disadvantage of slower growth rate
and reduced efficiency of feed conversion.
These latter two attributes create difficulty in
a controlled-marketing system, where chicks
are used both for roaster and broiler produc-
tion, and the system does not allow extra
placements when roaster stock hatches exceed
expectations. However, of the strains of
broiler stock tested, differences in carcass
quality were of sufficient size to recommend
that the local broiler industry change to a
different strain providing the change did not
affect the returns to the producers of hatching
eggs.

CROP SCIENCE

A comparison of napropamide, R23758,
and trifluralin for weed control in strawber-
ries. In a preplant trial, R23758 (analogue of
napropamide) at 2.24 kg/ha gave slightly
better control of broad-leaved weeds than
napropamide at 4.5 kg/ha, with only a few
shepherd's-purse escaping. R23758 gave ex-
cellent control of lady's-thumb, whereas a few
escaped in the napropamide-treated plots.
Both herbicides gave excellent control of
annual blue grass. Trifluralin at 0.75 and 1.5
kg/ha gave poor broad-leaved weed control,
with shepherd's-purse, common groundsel,
and pineappleweed escaping. Lady's-thumb
was partly controlled. However, it gave good
control of common chickweed and fair to good
control of annual blue grass. Napropamide
and R23758 caused some initial injury to
Totem and Tyee strawberry plants.

Fruit rot control in raspberries. Several
fungicides were tested for fruit rot control in
raspberry cultivars Haida and Willamette.
Captan and iprodione produced a significant
increase in sound berries in Willamette; and
captan, chlorothalonil, vinclozolin, and iprodi-
one produced significant increases in Haida.
In the postharvest trials, both iprodione and
vinclozolin proved most effective, whereas
thiophanate-methyl was least effective in

RESEARCH STATION, AGASSIZ, B.C.

387

reducing Botrytis. Captan, chlorothalonil,
CGA 64251, and iprodione caused significant
reduction in Pénicillium. No treatment con-
trolled Rhizopus. In another test, captan and
anilazine were equally effective for the control
of Botrytis and Pénicillium, but neither
fungicide controlled Rhizopus.

Sodium hypobromite digestion for boron
analyses. A sodium hypobromite digestion
method was developed for determining total B
in plant materials. The lower temperature of
digestion, as compared with muffle furnace
ashing, and alkaline conditions result in
negligible volatilization losses. The method is
fast, simple, and compatible with a curcumin
colorimetric procedure for B. In fact, the
digestion conditions contributed to eliminat-
ing nitrate, fluoride, and Fe interferences that
can occur using the curcumin colorimetric
method. Attempts to apply the sodium hypo-
bromite digestion to determine total B in soils
were unsuccessful. Published alternatives
(sodium carbonate fusion and hydrofluoric
acid dissolution) for total B were also unsuc-
cessful on the range of soils examined. The
unsuccessful attempts to determine total B
shows a basic gap in our knowledge of soil B.

Filbert response to fertilizer applications.
A fertilizer trial conducted over 3 yr on two
locations with two cultivars showed that soil

extraction values and leaf nutrient concentra-
tions have potential for predicting fertilizer
requirements. The two cultivars responded
similarly to soil conditions and fertilizer
applications. A concentration plateau of leaf
N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, and Mn occurred from
mid-August to mid-September, which makes
this period a suitable sampling time for
diagnostic purposes. Leaf B concentrations
were not as stable over time, and there was
considerable variability of concentration at a
given sampling time. Positive correlations
were found between soil extraction and leaf
concentration values for P, K, and Mn.

Response of raspberries to fertilizer nitro-
gen and boron applications. A field fertilizer
trial conducted over a 4-yr period showed that
B and N soil applications can increase rasp-
berry yield. The 4-yr yield was increased 23%
by yearly applications of 1 kg/ha. There was a
45% increase from B in 1 yr. High rates of N
application (134 and 201 kg/ha) increased
the 4-yr yield by 10% and at least part of this
increase was due to increased berry size. A
rate of 67 kg/ha did not increase yield. The
yield increases from high N applications were
probably not economical. Fertilizer N and B
recommendations from leaf tissue analyses do
not appear to be possible because of erratic
fluctuations of concentrations of these nutri-
ents wtihin a given year and from year to
year.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Fairey, N. A. 1980. Hybrid maturity and the
relative importance of grain and stover for the
assessment of the forage potential of maize
genotypes grown in marginal and non-mar-
ginal environments. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:539-
545.

Fairey, N. A. 1980. The effects of hybrid maturity,
date of planting, and date of harvesting on
growth and development of forage maize. Can.
J. Plant Sci. 60:1367-1375.

Fisher, L. J. 1979. Supplementation with protected
lipid as a means of alleviating "spring pasture"
induced milk fat depression. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
59:707-712.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. An evaluation of steam treated
aspen as a substitute for corn silage in the
rations of lactating cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:379-384.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. A comparison of rapeseed meal
and soybean meal as a source of protein and
protected lipid as a source of supplemental
energy for calf starter diets. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
60:359-366.

Fisher, L. J.; Hoogendoorn, C; Montemurro, J.
1979. The effect of added dietary selenium on
the selenium content of milk, urine and feces.
Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:79-86.

Forrest, R. J. 1976. Changes in carcass proportions
and fat deposition in control and hormone-
treated Holstein-Friesian steers. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 56:721-725.

Forrest, R. J. 1980. A comparison of growth and
carcass characteristics between Holstein-Frie-
sian steers and Simmental x Holstcin (F,)
crossbreds. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:591-598.

Freeman, J. A. 1980. Quackgrass control in rasp-
berries. Acta Hortic. (The Hague) 1 12:82-89.

388

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT |OS0

Hill, A. T.; Hall, J. W. 1979. Effects of various
combinations of oil spraying, washing, sanitiz-
ing, storage time, strain and age of layer upon
albumen quality, changes in storage and mini-
mum sample sizes required for their measure-
ment. Poult. Sci. 59:2238-2242.

Hill, A. T.; Eissinger, R. C; Hamilton, D. M.;
Patko, J. 1980. Albumen decline, variability
and sampling in marketing eggs from 8 com-
mercial strains. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:979-989.

Hill, A. T.; Hunt, J. R. 1980. Cage reversal effects
upon laying performance. Proceedings of the
6th European Poultry Conference, Hamburg.
Vol. 4, pp. 90-98.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Studies on the dynamics of
"recently" clay-fixed NH4+ using l5N. Can.
J. Soil Sci. 60:61-70.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Transport and transforma-
tions of fertilizer nitrogen in a sandy field plot
using tracer techniques. Soil Sci. 1 29:2 1 8-22 1 .

Miscellaneous

Buckley, W. T.; Tait, R. M. 1980. Effect of
elevated dietary copper on blood components
of lambs. Canadian Society of Animal Science,
30th Annual Conference, Edmonton, Alta. (3-
7 Aug.) (abstract).

Fairey, N. A. 1980. Forage corn report. British
Columbia Corn Committee, Agassiz Research
Station. 29 pp.

Fairey, N. A. 1980. Corn and grass: varieties and
management for forage. Proceedings of the
12th Annual Dairy Producers Short Course,
British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and
Food, Abbotsford, B.C. (Feb.-Mar.). pp. 2-37.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Animal behaviour and the
livestock industry. Seminar Proceedings, Brit-
ish Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and
Food, Richmond, B.C. (23 Oct. 1979).

Fisher, L. J. 1980. The economic response of
lactating cows to treatment for parasites. Can.
J. Anim. Sci. 61:Paper 80-5002 (abstract).

Fisher, L. J. 1980. The effects of adding buffers to
corn silage at feeding time. Can. J. Anim. Sci.
61:Paper 80-2003 (abstract).

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Selenium deficiency shows up
more often. Country Life Valley Magazine
(July), p. 15.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Forage quality: implications for
mineral and protein nutrition. 12th Annual
Dairy Producers Short Course, British Colum-
bia Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Ab-
botsford, B.C. (Feb.-Mar.). pp. 1-7.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. East Chilliwack Cooperative and
Agassiz study buffer feeding. Country Life
(Feb.). pp. 39-40.

Fisher, L. J.; Schneider, F.; Shelford, J. A. 1980.
The use of milk progesterone to monitor
estrous cycles (Mar.). Canadex 410.30.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Agassiz, one of 1979's top honor
list herds. Holstein-Friesian Journal (May).
pp. 56 and 58.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Silage buffers. East Chilliwack
Cooperative (ECC) Dairy Leader (Nov.). pp. 1
and 6.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Bicarbs for bossy. Country
Guide (Oct.). p. D28.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Processing forage crops to
maximum quality for dairy cows. Proceedings
of the Western Nutrition Conference, Sas-
katoon, Sask. (4-5 Mar.), pp. 172-182.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Non-conventional feedstuffs.
Butterfat (Sept.-Oct.). pp. 28-30.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Forage, making do with poorer
quality. Butterfat (Nov. -Dec), pp. 7-9 and 40.

Fisher, L. J. 1980. Silage additives. Can. Agric.
25(1):15-17.

Freeman, J. A. 1980. Phytotoxic response of some
crops to pesticide combinations. Proceedings of
the 27th Annual Meeting of the Canadian Pest
Management Society (3-6 Aug.). pp. 1 3-20.

Hill, A. T.; Hunt, J. R. 1980. Grading eggs for
albumen quality. Poult. Sci. 59:1620
(abstract).

Hill, A. T.; Hunt, J. R. 1980. Cage orientation
effects on layer performance. Poult. Sci.
59:1620 (abstract).

Hunt, J. R.; Hill, A. T. 1980. Etiology of clubbed
down syndrome. Poult. Sci. 59:1623 (abstract).

Hunt, J. R.; Hill, A. T. 1980. Clubbed down, a
problem on the increase (Dec). Canadex 660.

Hunt, J. R.; Hill, A. T. 1980. Factors influencing
the grade of roaster chicken (Dec). Canadex
450.40.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Top yields in field trials
conducted by staff of the Agassiz Research
Station. Proceedings of the Potash and Phos-
phate Institute of Canada Workshop on potas-
sium related soil fertility research, and top
yields in research plots and trials in Western
Canada, Saskatoon, Sask. (Nov. 1979). Potash
and Phosphate Institute of Canada, Etobicoke,
Ont. pp. 140-143.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Update — fertilizers and
soils. Proceedings of the 12th Annual Dairy
Producers Short Course, British Columbia
Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Abbotsford,
B.C. (Feb.-Mar.). pp. 29-31.

RESEARCH STATION, AGASSIZ, B.C.

389

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Raspberry fertilizer trials:
yield results and relevance to diagnostic leaf
tissue analyses. Proceedings of the 22nd An-
nual Lower Mainland Horticulture Im-
provement Association Growers Short Course,
Abbotsford, B.C. (Feb.). p. 6.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Nitrogen and sulfur
applications to corn and broccoli. Proceedings
of the 22nd Annual Lower Mainland Horticul-
ture Improvement Association Growers Short
Course, Abbotsford, B.C. (Feb.). p. 47.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Lime effects on micronutri-
ents in cauliflower. Proceedings of the 22nd
Annual Lower Mainland Horticulture Im-
provement Association Growers Short Course,
Abbotsford, B.C. (Feb.). p. 97.

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Response of raspberries to
fertilizer application in the Fraser Vally of
British Columbia. Presented at the 3rd Inter-
national Rubus Symposium, Corvallis, WA.
(6-13 July) (abstract).

Kowalenko, C. G. 1980. Fertilizer N x B x S
interaction study on forage grass on a coastal
B.C. soil. Titles and abstracts for the Canadian
Society of Soil Science, Annual Meeting,
Edmonton, Alta. (3-7 Aug.). pp. 20-2 1 .

Kowalenko, C. G.; Van Laerhoven, C. 1980. Lim-
ing trials on corn production. Technical Re-
port, Research Station, Agassiz, B.C.

Maas, E. F. 1979. Greenhouse production in Aus-
tralia and New Zealand. Proceedings of the
2nd Annual Meeting, Pacific Region of the
Canadian Society of Horticultural Science,
Victoria, B.C. (18 Oct.). pp. 5-6.

Maas, E. F. 1980. The use of soilless media for
seedling blocks. Proceedings of the 22nd An-
nual Lower Mainland Horticulture Im-
provement Association Growers Short Course,
Abbotsford, B.C. (5-7 Feb.). pp. 57-58.

Maas, E. F. 1980. Sawdust culture of vegetables in
the tropics. Proceedings of the 5th Interna-
tional Congress on Soilless Culture, Wagen-
ingen, Netherlands (18-24 May), pp. 391-393.

Maurer, A. R. 1980. Producing vegetable trans-
plants in soil blocks. Proceedings of the 22nd
Annual Lower Mainland Horticulture Im-
provement Association Growers Short Course,
Abbotsford, B.C. (5-7 Feb.). pp. 54-56.

Maurer, A. R.; Heal, V. L. 1980. Broccoli produc-
tion over an extended season. Proceedings of
the 22nd Annual Lower Mainland Horticul-
ture Improvement Association Growers Short
Course, Abbotsford (5-7 Feb.). pp. 84-89.

Perrin, P. W. 1980. B.C. research program in
vegetable storage. Proceedings of the Vegeta-
ble Storage Seminar, Delta, B.C. (6-7 Mar.),
pp. 104-109.

Perrin, P. W. 1980. Vegetable storage. Proceedings
of the 22nd Annual Lower Mainland Horticul-
ture Improvement Association Growers Short
Course, Abbotsford, B.C. (5-7 Feb.). p. 90.

Schneider, F.; Shelford, J. A.; Fisher, L. J. 1980.
Early and late conception, influence of lacta-
tion. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 61 (abstract).

390

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT |0s0

Research Station
Kamloops, British Columbia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

D. McElgunn, B.Sc., M. Se., Ph.D.

. L. Pringle, B.S.A., M.S. F.

Broersma, B.S.A., M. Se.

McLean, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D., F.A.I.C

F.S.R.M.

. Majak, B.Sc., M.Sc, PhD.

A. Quinton, B.S., Ph.D.

G. Stout, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

L. van Ryswyk, B.S.A., M.S. A., PhD.

Director; Forage physiology
Superintendent, Prince George;

Ecology, forage
Forage agronomy and soils, Prince

George
Range ecology

Plant biochemistry
Range science
Plant physiology
Soil science

RESEARCH STATION, KAMLOOPS. B.C.

INTRODUCTION

The program at the Range Research Station, Kamloops, and at the Experimental Farm,
Prince George, emphasizes research on forage production and utilization in British Columbia
rangelands as well as forage crops grown for pasture and winter feeds. Basic studies on
poisonous plants, bloat, and winterhardiness are also conducted.

Only highlights of our 1980 research are reported. Details of our work can be obtained
from the Director, Agriculture Canada, Range Research Station, 3015 Ord Road, Kamloops,
B.C. V2B8A9.

J. D. McElgunn
Director

FORAGES

Method to determine membrane freezing
injury

The release of hydrogen cyanide from
Amelanchier alnifolia was monitored at 30°C
and -10°C following lethal freezing at both
slow and fast rates. Assuming that hydrogen
cyanide release indicates membrane damage,
it was concluded that during a fatal freeze-
thaw cycle, membrane damage occurred
during cell contraction and therefore was not
dependent upon membrane area expansion
during thawing.

Alfalfa coldhardiness studies

Water stress at a nonacclimating tempera-
ture (18-20°C) increased the coldhardiness of
Medicago sativa L. (alfalfa) plants. This
increased coldhardiness was retained when
the previously water-stressed plants were cold
acclimated (2-9°C) in the absence of water
stress. Water stress during cold acclimation
also increased coldhardiness. Alfalfa was
demonstrated to suffer injury, measured as
decreased growth following freezing, at suble-
thal temperatures. During cold acclimation,
the turgor potential (i//p) of watered plants
increased, whereas the solute potential and
the water content per unit of dry weight
decreased. The large positive i//p of accli-
mated plants indicates that the decreased
water content per unit of dry weight is related
to an increased proportion of tissue dry matter
rather than to tissue dehydration.

Pinegrass herbage removal and its effects
on yield

Pinegrass (Calamagrostis rubescens) was
clipped at several frequencies and at varying

intensities at three sites in the Douglas fir
{Pseudotsuga menziesii) zone of British
Columbia. The effect of herbage removal on
pinegrass vigor could be assessed by measur-
ing tiller height, tiller numbers per square
metre, or yield per square metre the year
following clipping. Variability in pinegrass
cover at a site necessitated measuring initial
plot cover so that an analysis of covariance
could be done to statistically isolate its affect.
Initial pinegrass cover did not affect the
tiller's highest measurement, however. The
decrease of plant vigor as a result of herbage
removal depended upon the degree and time
of herbage removal and either the environ-
mental conditions during the year of clipping
or the plant history before herbage removal,
or both. Pinegrass vigor was most sensitive to
clipping during the first half of July, when
growth is slowing down and summer dor-
mancy is setting in. To maintain pinegrass
vigor it is recommended that pinegrass be
grazed for a short time while it is actively
growing (early in June) and then later when
midsummer dormancy is well established
(August). If pinegrass must be grazed in July,
then it should be rested during July of the
following year. Further work is required to
establish grazing schemes that will maximize
animal production and maintain adequate
pinegrass vigor.

Color— the critical photo interpretation
elements in the identification of rangeland
plant communities on color and color-
infrared aerial photography

A review of the literature indicates color-
infrared is preferred over normal color film
for range vegetation identification. This pref-
erence leads to difficulties when attempting to

392

RI SI ARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

identify variable colored grasses, forbs, and
shrubs.

On color-infrared photography, blue and
green plants appear as magenta hues. Confu-
sion exists when attempting to identify senes-
cent yellow and white grasses, because both
appear white. Purples, reds, and browns
appear as hues of yellow. Color shifts also
occur when the effects of flowers or stems that
are not green interact with the color of the
plant. This leads to the general conclusion
that color-infrared original transparencies are
best suited for the identification of green
vegetation, whereas normal color transparen-
cies are best used in identifying healthy
vegetation that is not green.

Further complexities arise because species
progress through a dynamic range of seasonal
color changes, with many having two to four
phases. Therefore, color criteria for species
identification in July are different from those
for June or September.

Color is the critical element of photo
interpretation but is not the only diagnostic
tool in plant identification. Other photo
interpretation characteristics, such as
growth-form distribution, habitat, and pat-
tern and texture, must be used in conjunction
with species and photographic colors to
accurately identify rangeland species and
plant communities. The elements of photo
interpretation for the identification of approx-
imately 30 dominant plant species have been
identified, with special emphasis on interac-
tions of plant colors with multidate-multiscale
color and color-infrared aerial photography.

BEEF: COW-CALF
Biochemistry

Arrowgrass toxicity during the growing
season. The cyanide potential of arrowgrass
{Triglochin maritima) was monitored during
the growing season for 2 yr (1978 and 1979)
to determine periods of peak toxicity. Arrow-
grass samples from various sites were col-
lected about every 2 wk, ground in dry ice,
and incubated to release hydrogen cyanide,
which was trapped in alkali. The highest
concentration of the cyanogenetic glucoside
triglochinin was revealed in new growth of
leaves and spikes in spring. Saline habitats
yielded arrowgrass with lower triglochinin
levels than nonsaline sites. Cyanogen levels in
leaves were elevated substantially when severe
moisture deficits prevailed on rangelands

during the latter part of the growing season in
1979. The results of this survey provide a
basis for predicting arrowgrass toxicity to
ruminants.

Metabolism of aliphatic nitro compounds
in bovine rumen fluid. Metabolic studies with
rumen fluid were conducted to determine
rates of disappearance for 3-nitropropanol
(3NPOH) and 3-nitropropionic acid (NPA),
forage constituents that can be toxic to
ruminants and nonruminants. The in vitro
rate of disappearance for NPA was substan-
tially greater (P < 0.01) than for 3NPOH.
The nitro compounds were metabolized most
effectively when the inoculum originated from
cattle that were fed orchardgrass soilage
rather than orchardgrass hay - alfalfa soilage
or alfalfa hay. The in vivo ruminai clearance
rate was substantially greater (P < 0.05) for
3NPOH than for 2-nitropropanol, a nitro
compound that was not metabolized in vitro,
which would be predicted if metabolism in the
rumen contributed to the rate of 3NPOH
disappearance.

Bloat studies. Although herbage proteins
are generally recognized as foaming agents in
pasture bloat, a possible secondary role for
saponins has not been ruled out. The role of
saponins in pasture bloat was reexamined by
feeding fresh herbage from high saponin (HS)
and low saponin (LS) near-isogenic strains of
alfalfa to rumen-fistulated cattle. Each alfalfa
strain was fed to six animals for 100 days.
Feeds from the two alfalfa strains differed
significantly in saponin concentration but
were equal in protein concentration. At 1.5-2
h after feeding, the cattle were examined for
evidence of frothy rumen ingesta and bloat.
The HS and LS alfalfa produced 86 and 103
cases of frothy rumen ingesta and 50 and 61
cases of bloat, respectively. There were no
significant differences (P > 0.1) between HS
and LS alfalfa in the occurrence of bloat or of
frothy rumen contents. Generally, saponin
concentrations in rumen fluid were below
detectable levels and below the estimated
level of toxicity to the animals. In view of
these results and other strong evidence oppos-
ing the saponin theory of pasture bloat, we
conclude that saponins do not contribute to
the occurrence of alfalfa pasture bloat by
either the toxic or the foaming modes of
action.

RESEARCH STATION, KAMLOOPS, B.C.

393

Beef cattle management

Growth of bluebunch wheatgrass. Vegeta-
tive and reproductive growth of bluebunch
wheatgrass in interior British Columbia have
been documented for a 3-yr period. Plants
began growing immediately after the snow
melted in the spring, with measurable growth
occurring where soils had warmed to 6 ±
0.5°C at 10-cm depths. Growth ceased from 7
May to 15 July, and plants fully matured
from 7 July to 10 August, with actual dates
for each particular site dependent upon the
local microclimate. Fall regrowth was not
predictable, occurring only during 1973. Seed
production was erratic, unpredictable from
our data, and not of sufficient magnitude to
sustain the grass population if improper
grazing was allowed. Management implica-
tions are a rotation of early grazing to allow
spring regrowth and fall grazing when plants
are mature and dormant.

Brush and shrub survey (1980)

A bulletin entitled Nutrient distribution in
major shrubs and grasses in interior British
Columbia was prepared to assist range users

in evaluating the benefits of grazing 16 of the
major shrubs in British Columbia. Forage
samples were collected at 2-wk intervals from
a total of 72 sites at nine locations for the
growing season and were also collected peri-
odically when dormant. These were then
analyzed for dry-matter digestibility, nitro-
gen, acid detergent fiber, lignin, calcium,
phosphorus, and several minerals. The infor-
mation on both minerals and on several
secondary species is not included in this
bulletin.

Deer-cattle compatabilities (1980)

Studies conducted over the past 8 yr have
indicated a niche or separation in the living
environments of cattle and deer. Proper
management of cattle enhances the range for
forage utilization by deer, when grazing to
prescribed utilization limits is maintained.

This is accomplished when cattle graze a
fall range to the extent that the cured stalks of
bunchgrasses are removed. The new growth of
grass is then available to deer. Deer are
reluctant to use this growth if long stiff
stubble is present. Similarly, cattle also prefer
ranges where the old growth of plants has
been removed before grazing.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Majak, W.; Clark, L. J. 1980. Metabolism of
aliphatic nitro compounds in bovine rumen
fluids. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 60:319-325.

Majak, W.; Howarth, R. E.; Fesser, A. C; Goplen,
B. P.; Pedersen, M. W. 1980. Relationship
between ruminant bloat and the composition of
alfalfa herbage. II Saponins. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:699-708.

Majak, W.; McDiarmid, R.; Hall, J. W.; van
Ryswyk, A. L. 1980. Seasonal variation in the
cyanide potential of arrowgrass (Triglochin
maritima). Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 235- 1 241 .

Majak, W.; McDiarmid, R. E.; Powell, T. W.; van
Ryswyk, A. L.; Stout, D. G.; Williams, R. J.;
Tucker, R. E. 1979. Relationships between
alkaloids in reed canarygrass (Phalaris arun-
dinacea) soil moisture and nitrogen fertility.
Plant Cell Environ. 2:335-340.

Majak, W.; Neufeld, R.; Corner, J. 1980. Toxicity
of Astragalus miser var. serotinus to the
honeybee. J. Apic. Res. 19:196-199.

Majak, W.; Quinton, D. A.; Broersma, K. 1980.
Cyanogenic glycoside levels in Saskatoon serv-
iceberry. J. Range Manage. 33:197-199.

Majak, W.; Udenberg, T.; Clark, L. J.; McLean, A.
1980. Toxicity of Saskatoon serviceberry to
cattle. Can. Vet. J. 21:74-76.

McLean, A.; Clark, M. B. 1980. Grass, trees and
cattle on clearcut logged areas. J. Range
Manage. 33:213-217.

Quinton, D. A.; Horejsi, R. J.; Flinders, J. T. 1980.
Influence of bush control on Texas white-tailed
deer diets. J. Range Manage. 32:93-97.

Quinton, D. A.; Montei, A. K.; Flinders, J. T. 1980.
Bush control and Rio Grande turkeys in north
central Texas. J. Range Manage. 33:95-99.

Stout, D. G. 1980. Alfalfa water status and cold
hardiness as influenced by cold acclimation
and water stress. Plant Cell Environ. 3:237-
241.

Stout, D. G.; Majak, W.; Reaney, M. 1980. In vivo
detection of membrane injury at freezing
temperatures. Plant Physiol. 66:74-77.

394

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I *>S0

Stout, D. G.; McLean, A.; Brooke, B. M.; Hall, J.
1980. Influence of simulated grazing (clipping)
on pinegrass growth. J. Range Manage.
33:286-291.

Stout, D. G.; Simpson, G.; Flotre, D. H. 1980.
Drought resistance of Sorghum bicolor. 3 Seed
germination under osmotic stress. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:13-24.

Willms, W.; Bailey, A. W.; McLean, A. 1980.
Effect of fall burning or clipping Agropyron
spicatum on the spring foraging behaviour of
mule deer and cattle. J. Appl. Ecol. 1 7:69-84.

Willms, W.; Bailey, A. W.; McLean, A. 1980. The
effect of clipping or burning on some morpho-
logical characteristics of Agropyron spicatum
plants. Can. J. Bot. 58:2309-2312.

Willms, W.; Bailey, A. W.; McLean A.; Tucker, R.
1980. The effects of fall grazing or burning
bluebunch wheatgrass range on forage selec-
tion by deer or cattle in spring. Can. J. Anim.
Sci. 60:113-122.

Willms, W„; Bailey, A. W.; Tucker, R. E. 1980.
The effects of fall defoliation on the utilization
of bluebunch wheatgrass and its influence on
the distribution of deer in spring. J. Range
Manage.

Willms, W.; McLean, A.; Kalnin, C. 1980. Nutri-
tive characteristics of grasses on spring range
in south central British Columbia in relation to
time, habitat and fall grazing. Can. J. Plant
Sci. 60:131-137.

Willms, W.; McLean, A.; Tucker, R.; Ritcey, R.
1980. Deer and cattle diets on summer range
in British Columbia. J. Range Manage. 33:55-
59.

Miscellaneous

McLean, A. 1980. Grazing opportunities and con-
straints in the 1980's. Proceedings 20th Stock-
men's Conference, Kamloops, B.C. (7-8 Feb.).
pp. 89-94.

McLean, A. 1980. Morphology and physiology of
pinegrass. Proceedings British Columbia Min-
istry of Agriculture - University of British
Columbia Seminar on resource planning,
Kamloops, B.C. (11-12 June). In press.

McLean, A. 1980. Coordinated resource manage-
ment. Alberta Cattle Commission Research
Symposium, Red Deer, Alta. (27-28 June)
(abstract).

McLean, A., editor. 1980. Range management
handbook. British Columbia Cattlemen's Asso-
ciation, Wayside Press, Vernon, B.C. 104 pp.

McLean, A.; Bawtree, A. H. 1980. Seeding British
Columbia rangelands. Rangelands 2:1 18-120.

Milroy, J. E.; McLean, A. 1980. History of range
administration and research in B.C. Range-
lands 2:56-59.

Quinton, D. A. 1980. Nutrition and reproductive
efficiency. University of British Columbia,
Animal Science. 430.

Quinton, D. A. 1980. Multiple species manage-
ment— deer and cattle compatability. Univer-
sity of British Columbia Grazing Systems
Seminar.

Reaney, M.; Stout, D. G.; Majak, W. 1980.
Measurement of membrane injury on fro?en
cells. Plant Physiol. Annu. Suppl. 65:44.

Stout, D. G. 1980 An answer to Levitt's reply. Plant
Cell Environ. 3:160-161.

Stout, D. G. 1980. Influence of cold acclimation on
membrane injury at freezing temperature.
Plant Physiol. Annu. Suppl. 65:44.

Stout, D. G. 1980. The moment of injury during a
freeze-thaw cycle. Proceedings Canadian Soci-
ety of Plant Physiologists, p. 3.

Stout, D. G.; Brooke, B. M. 1980. Pinegrass growth
and storage reserves. University of British
Columbia Grazing Systems Seminar.

Watson, E. K.; van Ryswyk, A. L. 1980. Color—
the critical interpretation elements in the
identification of rangeland plant communities
on color and color-infrared photography. Pro-
ceedings 6th symposium Canadian Society for
Remote Sensing, Halifax, N.S. (May).

Watson, E. K.; van Ryswyk, A. L. 1980. Remote
sensing. An application to range inventory in
British Columbia. Can. Agric. 25(4): 15-19.

RESEARCH STATION, KAMLOOPS, B.C.

395

Saanichton Research and Plant Quarantine

Station

Sidney, British Columbia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Administration

J. M. Molnar, B.S.A., M.Sc

J. L. Bertrand

M. A. Watson,1 B.A., M.Lib.

Ph.D.

Director
Office Manager
Librarian

Research

R. E. Harris, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
R. G. Atkinson, B.S.A., Ph.D.
A. W. Chiko, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
W. C. Lin, B.S., M.Sc, Ph.D.
N. V. Tonks, B.S.A., M.S.

Head of Section; Tissue culture

Plant pathology

Viruses — ornamentals

Plant physiology — ornamentals

Entomology

E. M. van Zinderen Bakker, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D. Vegetable physiology

Plant Quarantine

R. Johnson,2 B.S.A.
B. Warnar, B.S.A.

Head of Section; Grape viruses
Tree fruit viruses

Departure

C. M. Winter,2 B.S.A.

Plant quarantine

SAANICHTON RESEARCH AND PLANT QUARANTINE STATION, SIDNEY, B.C.

397

EXTENSION SERVICES

Vacant Greenhouse and vegetable crops

D. P. Elliott,3 B.Ed. Greenhouse biological control

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:Food Production and Inspection Branch.

'British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food.

398 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

INTRODUCTION

The Saanichton Research and Plant Quarantine Station has a dual responsibility. Firstly,
it is the ornamentals and greenhouse vegetable research center for British Columbia, and
secondly, it is responsible for the national post entry quarantine program for Canada.

The Station's research programs are oriented to solving problems and giving direct service
to the ornamentals and vegetable industry. Emphasis in research is being given to nutritional
and physiological problems in floriculture, plant propagation, postrooting development of
nursery plants, eradication of viruses, rapid multiplication of grapes and ornamentals by tissue
culture, and control of pests and diseases in vegetables and ornamentals.

The quarantine program is responsible for testing for virus infection of all imported tree
fruit, grape, and small fruit plant material that is not accompanied by an acceptable
phytosanitary certificate, and for verifying the reliability of recognized foreign certification
programs for fruit nursery stock by testing plant samples from imported commercial shipments
for virus infection (audit program). Tests are conducted on promising selections from
Canadian tree fruit and grape breeders to ensure that original releases to the industry are free
from detectable viruses. We have established plantings of valuable virus-free fruits and grapes
as a repository for Canadian fruit industries and research programs.

Requests for information or publications should be addressed to the Saanichton Research
and Plant Quarantine Station, Agriculture Canada, 8801 East Saanich Road, Sidney, B.C.
V8L1H3.

J. M. Molnar
Director

ORNAMENTALS

Carbonated mist and high-intensity sup-
plementary lighting in cutting propagation.
Injection of C02 into the intermittent mist
water (C02 mist) promoted rooting of Ilex
aquifolium 'Short spra', /. aquifolium 'Ital-
ian', Juniperus sabina, Magnolia sou-
langeana, Magnolia sieboldii, and Rhododen-
dron 'Anah kruschke'. Ilex crenata,
Juniperus squamata, Rhododendron 'May
Day', and Rhododendron 'Elizabeth' failed to
respond to C02 mist. Daily 16-h supplemen-
tary lighting with high-pressure sodium
(HPS) lamps increased rooting of M. sou-
langeana and Rhododendron 'Anah kruschke'
and reduced rooting of J. sabina, J. squa-
mata, and Rhododendron 'May Day', but the
treatment had no effect on rooting of five
other genotypes tested.

Accelerated growth of woody ornamentals.
Growth of seedlings of Pseudotsuga men-
ziesii, Tsuga canadensis, and Picea glauca
was greater under HPS lamps and low-
pressure sodium (LPS) lamps than in natural
daylight. For continuous growth of P. glauca,
a cold treatment (2°C) for 8 wk was required.
HPS lighting was more effective when it was
given before than after the cold treatment. In

a separate experiment, both HPS and LPS
increased the growth of/, crenata, Rhododen-
dron catawbiense, and four cultivars of Rho-
dodendron. Weekly application of commer-
cial fertilizer (20-20-20) at 200 ppm
enhanced the lighting effects more than did
100 ppm.

Larval age in relation to black vine weevil
control with soil drenches. Permethrin 50%
emulsifiable concentrate (EC) with active
ingredient (ai) at 0.1 g/L, acephate 15.6% EC
at 1.0 g/L, and malathion 50% EC at 1.2 g/L
were applied as soil drenches on 4-, 8-, and
12-wk old black vine weevil larvae on con-
tainer-grown fuchsia. On 4-wk larvae, mala-
thion and acephate gave complete control,
permethrin treatments had an average of 1.8
larvae, and untreated checks had 8.6 larvae
per pot. On 8-wk larvae, malathion continued
to give almost complete control, acephate
treatments had 3.2 larvae per pot, and per-
methrin was ineffective at 8.2 larvae per pot
compared with 9.2 for untreated checks. On
12-wk larvae, none of the treatments were
effective.

Phytophthora root rot. Ridomil (metal-
axyl), representing a new class of fungicides,

SAANICHTON RESEARCH AND PLANT QUARANTINE STATION, SIDNEY, B.C.

399

holds great promise for the control of Phy-
tophthora root rot of ornamentals. A preplant
plus a postplant drench of Ridomil 5% wetta-
ble powder (WP) at 400 and 800 mg/L has
prevented the development of root rot for over
8 mo in Lawson cypress var. allumi in pots of
soil infested with cultures of P. cinnamomi
(inoculum dose 4.5% v/v).

Virus diseases. The following viruses or
virus-like agents from ornamentals with mot-
tled leaves (ML) or with flower breaking (FB)
or with both symptoms were detected by
mechanical transmission to herbaceous indi-
cator plants and by electron microscopy or
serological tests: Daphne (ML) — small
spherical viruslike particles, possibly ne-
poviruses, from both D. mezereum and D.
odora, long flexuous rod-shaped particles,
tentatively thought to be Daphne virus Y,
from D. mezereum, and bacilliform particles,
probably alfalfa mosaic virus, from D. odora;
Gladiolus (ML, FB) — cucumber mosaic virus
and long flexuous rod-shaped particles; Cym-
bidium (ML) and Saintpaulia ionantha
(FB) — particles typical of tobamoviruses.

SMALL FRUITS

Virus eradication in grape. Shoot tips from
38 heat-treated accessions were established in
vitro and all but one was successfully rooted.
Sixty-eight percent of the resulting plants
tested negative on herbaceous indicators
compared to 52% for plants produced by the
standard shoot-tip graft method.

Over 64% of the plants produced from
tissue heat-treated in Erlenmeyer flasks for
7-42 wk at intermittent 36 or 40°C, which
were indexed, were negative on herbaceous
indicators. The majority of the positive read-
ings were for plants produced from tissue
which had less than 16 days heat treatment.

Rapid propagation of virus-free grapes.
The cause of the difficulty in establishing and
growing some shoot tips in vitro was found to
be due to light, nutrient, or moisture stress in
the mother plant, and not to genotype differ-
ences. The abnormal growth caused by the
stress can be overcome by adjusting the
cytokinin or by eliminating adenine sulfate in
the medium or by both methods.

Over 100 plants of each of 25 accessions
were increased in cooperation with the British
Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food

for establishing virus-free propagation
vineyards.

VEGETABLES

Greenhouse

Tomato variety trials. Eleven new and
eleven superior cultivars, hybrids, and selec-
tions from previous years were tested. Quanto,
Vendor, Lucy, Nancy, and three selections
from Vendor were the most promising. The
three selections from Vendor had larger fruit
than Vendor, ranging from 109 to 120 g
compared with 106 g for Vendor.

Effect of supplementary light and .the
temperature of soil and air on greenhouse
tomatoes. Tomatoes (var. Vendor) were
seeded on two dates 3 wk apart in two air
temperatures (19/14°C and 22/16°C day/
night) and two soil temperatures (15 and
18°C), both with and without supplementary
HPS lamps for 16 h/day.

The high air and soil temperatures had no
beneficial effects, but decreased the number of
flowers on the first truss except in the treat-
ment without supplementary light. Supple-
mentary light decreased the time required to
grow plants for transplanting from 61 to 42
days, decreased the flowering from 80 to 64
days, increased early yield (27 May) an
average of 0.5 kg/plant, and increased total
yield an average of 0.4 kg/plant. Average
fruit size, however, decreased from 1 15 to 106
g. The late seeding produced a higher early
yield but smaller fruit than the early seeding
under the HPS lights.

Biological control program for whitefly
and mite control on greenhouse vegetables. A
private company, Applied Bio-Nomics Ltd.,
was formed in 1980 under the provisions of a
grant issued under the Agricultural and Rural
Development Subsiduary Agreement to rear
and distribute mite predators and whitefly
parasites to commercial greenhouse growers.
Agriculture Canada and the British Columbia
Ministry of Agriculture and Food continue to
cooperate in this project.

Field

Early zucchini production with polyethyl-
ene tunnels and mulches. Zucchini plants
transplanted from the greenhouse into 1 10-cm
wide clear polyethylene mulches covered with
50-cm high clear polyethylene tunnels were
most vigorous and produced an early (June)

400

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

yield of 2.6 kg/plant and total (15 August)
yield of 9.2 kg/plant compared with 1.0 and
8.7 kg/plant in the uncovered clear polyethyl-
ene mulch. Plants in black polyethylene
mulch covered with a clear polyethylene
tunnel produced 2.0 and 8.5 kg/plant com-
pared with uncovered plants in black mulch
with 0.8 and 6.8 kg/plant for early and total
yields, respectively.

Survival, yield, and head size of overwin-
tered cauliflower. Ninety-three percent of
Armado April cauliflower plants seeded on 16
July 1979 and transplanted to the field on 13
September survived. The heads were har-
vested from 22 April to 6 May and averaged
586 g. Comparable figures for 1 August
seeding and 21 September transplanting were
88% survival, with an average head size of
457 g (cooperative test with Agassiz Research
Station).

PLANT QUARANTINE

During 1980, four tree fruit and 1 1 grape-
vine samples were received for research and
two samples for audit purposes. Material was
indexed onto 1976 woody indicator plants for
tree fruits and 1003 woody plants for grape-
vines as well as onto 2000 herbaceous indica-
tor plants.

As a result, 38 tree fruit accessions, of
which 29 came from heat therapy, as well as
29 grapevine accessions, of which two were
produced from heat therapy, were indexed
and released. Most of these releases were
added to the material in the Repository for
national and international distribution. The
Repository now contains 796 cultivars, of
which 546 are tree fruits and 250 are grape-
vine cultivars. A total of 90 tree fruit plants
and 157 grapevine plants were subjected to
heat treatment.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Atkinson, R. G. 1980. Control of Phomopsis black
rot of greenhouse cucumbers by soil drenches.
Can. J. Plant Sci. 60:747-749.

Stevenson, J. H.; Harris, R. E. 1980. In vitro
plantlet formation from shoot-tip expiants of
Fuchsia hy brida cv. Swingtime. Can. J. Bot.
58:2190-2192.

Tekauz, A.; Chiko, A. W. 1980. Leaf stripe of
barley caused by Pyrenophora graminea: oc-
currence in Canada and comparisons with
barley stripe mosaic. Can. J. Plant Pathol.
2:152-158.

Miscellaneous

Chiko, A. W. 1980. Barley stripe mosaic in Mani-
toba in 1978. Can. Plant Dis. Surv. 60:1 1-12.

Harris, R. E.; Stevenson, J. H. 1979. Virus elimina-
tion and rapid propagation of grapes in vitro.
Int. Plant Prop. Soc. Proc. 29:95-106.

Molnar, J. M. 1980. Carbonated mist trials at
Saanichton. Dig This 5(2):14-15.

Molnar, J. M. 1980. Ornamentals research at
Saanichton. Western Canadian Society for
Horticulture. Reports of Proceedings of 36th
Annual Meeting, pp. 57-65.

Molnar, J. M.; Lin, W. C. 1980. CO: enrichment
and high intensity lamps. Landscape Alta.
3(5):18-23.

Molnar, J. M.; Lin, W. C. 1980. Researchers in
British Columbia study the benefits of supple-
mentary lighting. Am. Nurseryman
151(ll):74-79.

SAANICHTON RESEARCH AND PLANT QUARANTINE STATION, SIDNEY, B.C.

401

Research Station
Summerland, British Columbia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

G. C. Russell, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
H. F. Madsen, B.A., PhD.
L. C. Godfrey, B.Sc.
V. B. Smith,' B.A., M.L.S.

Director

Associate Director
Head, Administration
Librarian

Entomology - Plant Pathology

R. D. McMullen, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D.

F. L. Banham, B.A.

A. J. Hansen, Dip. Agr., M.Sc, Ph.D.

W. J. McPhee, B.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

H. F. Madsen,2 B.A., Ph.D.

M. D. Proverbs, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

J. T. Slykhuis, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.
J. Vakenti, B.Sc, M.Sc

Head of Section; Bionomics of pear

psylla
Stone fruit insects
Tree fruit virus diseases
Tree fruit fungus diseases
Integrated control
Control of codling moth by the

sterility method
Stone fruit virus diseases
Orchard mite control

Food Processing

J. A. Kitson, B.A., M.S.

H. A. Buttkus, B.S.A., MA.

D. B. Cumming, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

B. J. Edwards, B.Sc, M.Sc.

D. R. MacGregor, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

G. E. Strachan, B.S.A., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Engineering new

products

Food biochemistry
Food technology
Nutrition — processing products
Product development and

microbiology
Enology and food technology

Pomology and Viticulture

E. J. Hogue, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Herbicides,
vegetation management, nutrition

RESEARCH STATION, SUMMERLAND. B.C.

403

L. G. Denby, B.S.A., M.S.A.

W. D. Lane, B.Sc. (Agr.), M.Sc, Ph.D.

N. E. Looney, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

M. Meheriuk, B.Sc, B.Ed., M.Sc, Ph.D.

Viticulture, grape breeding
Apple and cherry breeding
Pomology, plant physiology, growth
regulators
Fruit storage and biochemistry

Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering

D. S. Stevenson, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.
A. P. Gaunce, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

P. B. Hoyt, B.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.
A. L. Moyls, B.A.Sc, M.S., Ph.D.

G. H. Neilsen, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
P. Parchomchuk,3 B.A.Sc, M.S.

Head of Section; Soil moisture
Pesticide and environmental

chemistry
Soil chemistry and management
Agricultural equipment —

development and assessment
Soil fertility and plant nutrition
Agricultural equipment —

development and assessment

Departures

H. A. Buttkus

Deceased March 1980
M. D. Proverbs

Retired December 1980

Food biochemistry

Control of codling moth by the
sterility method

VISITING SCIENTISTS

F. Mage,4 Lie Agr., Dr. Agr.
O. Lau,5 B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
C. H. Klaren,6 B.Sc, M.Sc,

Ph.D.

Pomology
Pomology
Pomology

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

:On transfer of work to New South Wales Department of Agriculture at Bathurst, Australia, from August 1980 to

July 1981.
'On a Canadian International Development Agency (CI DA) assignment from October 1979 to October 1981.
4On work transfer from Njos Agriculture Research Station in Western Norway from November 1979 to February

1980.
'British Columbia Tree Fruits Research Associate since July 1976.
'Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council Postdoctorate fellow from November 1980 to November

1981.

404

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I^SO

INTRODUCTION

The Research Station, Summerland, is the center for tree fruit research in Western
Canada and also has a major role in grape production research. This report contains results of
research in plant breeding; physiology; nutrition; insect, disease, and weed control; irrigation;
and agricultural engineering. Research into new processes and products, storage conditions,
and diseases is also reported.

Only a few highlights of the research conducted during 1980 are contained in this report.
Further information and more detailed reports are available from Agriculture Canada,
Research Station, Summerland, B.C. VOH 1Z0.

G. C. Russell
Director

ENTOMOLOGY - PLANT
PATHOLOGY

Male removal for codling moth control

Work was continued for the second year to
determine whether removal of male moths by
sex pheromone traps would prevent this pest
from increasing to injurious numbers in areas
where a previous program of sterile-moth
release had almost eliminated the insect.

In a nonisolated area, four male moths were
captured (17 traps per hectare) in each of two
apple orchards (2.5 and 4 ha) compared with
19 males in a neighboring 12-ha monitored
orchard (one trap per hectare). At harvest,
fruit damaged by the codling moth was less
than 0.02% in each of the three orchards, that
is, well below the economic threshold level
(ca. 0.5%). However, the codling moth is
evidently becoming reestablished; 1980 is the
first year in which codling moth damage was
observed in the two orchards where males had
been removed following cessation of sterile-
moth release in 1978.

In a semi-isolated area, two apple and pear
orchards (17 ha each) were subjected to the
male-removal technique (17 traps per hec-
tare), and two neighboring orchards (3.5 and
12 ha) were monitored (one to two traps per
hectare). Two male moths were captured in
one of the male-removal orchards, but no
moths were taken in the other three orchards.
For the second consecutive year, no fruit
damaged by the codling moth was found in
any of the four orchards. Orchard isolation
plus the suppressant effect of a mid-July spray
of azinphos-methyl or diazinon for leafroller
control may be responsible for the virtual
absence of codling moths in these orchards.

Codling moth vigor enhanced by fluctuating
rearing temperatures

Field investigations comparing the vigor of
codling moths reared on artificial diet at
fluctuating temperatures (21-32°C) and con-
stant temperature (27°C) indicated that the
adult male response to sexually receptive
females, to synthetic sex pheromone, and to
ultraviolet light was enhanced by fluctuating
rearing temperatures and was indirectly
proportional to prevailing field temperatures.
However, fluctuating rearing temperatures
did not enhance the sexual attractiveness of
the female moth. During copulation, newly
emerged males from the fluctuating-tempera-
ture colony transferred marginally fewer
eupyrene sperm bundles than constant-tem-
perature males of similar age. Sperm transfer
with older males was not measurably affected
by the rearing regimen. However, 5-day-old
males of both colonies transferred two times
or more sperm than 1 -day-old males. Field
population males reared on apple transferred
more sperm than colonized male insects of the
same age reared on artificial diet. This
suggests that the artificial diet is somehow
deficient or, more likely, that genetic changes
induced by prolonged colonization have ad-
versely affected the laboratory insect.

Peach twig borer control on peach

Damage to Redhaven and Valiant peach
fruits by first- and second-brood peach twig
borer larvae was effectively controlled by one
summer spray of deltamethrin at 40 g/ha or
azinphos-methyl at 1.4 kg/ha, applied by
hand gun at 1725 kPa in 3370 L/ha during
the first-brood moth flight. Treatments were
applied 10 days after male moths captured in

RESEARCH STATION, SUMMERLAND, B.C.

405

traps baited with peach twig borer pheromone
reached an average of two or more moths per
trap per week. These single treatments were
only marginally less effective than two appli-
cations of each insecticide, one at the pink-
bud stage and one during first-brood moth
flight. At harvest, fruit damage in blocks that
received only the first-brood flight spray of
deltamethrin or azinphos-methyl was 0.8 and
0.9%, respectively, whereas those that re-
ceived sprays at both pink-bud stage and first-
brood moth flight had 0.0 and 0.2% damage,
respectively. Damage in an untreated check
block was 34.2%. Flagging injury on terminal
twig growth caused by overwintered larvae
was effectively controlled by deltamethrin or
azinphos-methyl applied at the pink-bud
stage. Two weeks following petal fall, trees in
plots that received these treatments had an
average of 0.2 and 1.3 flagged twigs per tree,
respectively. In blocks that did not receive a
pink-bud stage spray, there was an average of
23.9 flagged twigs per tree. In late summer,
European red mite populations were much
higher in the blocks sprayed with del-
tamethrin than in the check and the azinphos-
methyl treated blocks.

Pest management for peach twig borer

Peach twig borer pheromone trap captures
of two moths per week for the first-brood
moth flight and five moths per week for the
second-brood moth flight were evaluated as
indicators of population levels requiring treat-
ment to prevent significant economic loss due
to damage by this pest. Traps baited with
peach twig borer pheromone were deployed at
one per hectare in 23 ha of orchard compris-
ing 19 contiguous blocks of mixed apricot and
peach plantings. Sprays of azinphos-methyl
were applied to only those blocks where the
above-critical levels of trap capture were
attained. The sprays were applied 10-14 days
after the critical level was reached. Of the 19
blocks, 1 1 required treatment during the first-
brood moth flights and 12 during the second-
brood moth flights. At harvest, there was no
detectable damage to fruit by the peach twig
borer in 10 of the blocks, whereas in eight
blocks the damage ranged from 0.04 to
0.20%. Damage in the remaining block aver-
aged 2.65%, which was considerably above
the 0.5% acceptable limit. In comparison,
fruit damage by the peach twig borer in these
blocks during the previous 2 yr ranged from 0
to 80% when control treatments were applied

according to conventional calendar date rec-
ommendations and grower practice.

Peachtree borer monitoring

Pherocon 1C traps baited with laboratory-
prepared septums containing synthetic
peachtree borer sex pheromone were much
more attractive to male moths than three
other combinations of traps and attractant.
Two replicates of each combination were
tested over a 12-wk period in a 1-ha nursery
block of seedling peaches. The traps and
pheromones were renewed after 6 wk. During
the season, Pherocon 1C traps baited with
laboratory septums caught an average of 36.0
moths per trap, Pherocon 1C traps baited,
with Conrel hollow-fiber dispensers or sep-
tums impregnated with pheromone extracted
from Conrel hollow-fiber dispensers caught
23.0 moths per trap, and Kitterman traps
baited with laboratory septums caught an
average of 1 1 .5 moths per trap.

Integrated leafhopper control on grapes

For the second consecutive year, good
control of the Virginiacreeper leafhopper was
obtained by two applications of carbaryl at
0.28 kg/ha, applied by a low-volume airblast
sprayer, with 1120 L of spray per hectare.
The sprays were applied to Baco Noir grape-
vines when 80% of the eggs of the first
generation and second generation were
hatched and the majority of the leafhoppers
were at early nymphal stages susceptible to
the pesticide. In 1980, maximum parasitism
of leafhopper eggs by Anagrus epos was only
10.3%, whereas in a duplicate experiment in
1979, egg parasitism was 97.0%.

Berry russetting of fresh market grapes

Much of the russetting injury attributed to
feeding by adults and nymphs of the western
flower thrips on the developing berries of fresh
market grapes during the blossom period
appears to be caused at later stages of
development, possibly from wind-induced
friction. No reduction of fruit russetting on
Bath grapes resulted from application of
several pesticides effective for control of thrips
applied at the 0-5% and 33-50% blossom
stages. Counts of thrips in both the insecti-
cide-treated plots and the untreated control
plots were near zero 1 wk after treatment. In
addition, assessments of the degree of berry
russetting at intervals through the growing
season disclosed gradually increasing amounts

406

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

of berry russetting in all plots. At harvest,
berry-russetting damage varied from 26.8 to
35.5% in the insecticide-treated plots com-
pared with 26.0% in the untreated control
plot.

Effect of Ribavirin on chlorotic leafspot
virus in apple

Previous experiments with chlorotic leaf-
spot virus (CLSV) in Chenopodium quinoa
had shown that the carboxamide Ribavirin
(ICN Canada) can inhibit CLSV multiplica-
tion. These experiments were expanded to
determine whether Ribavirin also inhibits
virus multiplication in apple trees.

Five groups of five apple seedlings were
chip-inoculated with CLSV and treated at
various times and intervals with 80 mL of 500
ppm Ribavirin. After 3 mo, the seedlings were
individually checked for CLSV content by sap
transmission to the indicator C. quinoa. All
treated trees gave a negative reaction,
whereas those from an untreated control
group contained CLSV.

These results show that Ribavirin can
inhibit CLSV multiplication in growing apple
trees. It should therefore be possible to use
this compound for the elimination of CLSV
from nursery material destined for virus-free
collections or budwood programs.

Apple replant problems

The growth of apple seedlings in pots of soil
from several orchards in which replanted trees
grew poorly was increased substantially in
some soils by treating with disinfecting chem-
icals or heat before planting. The most
effective treatments were fumigation with
methyl bromide or chloropicrin, heating to
60°C or higher for 1 h, or mixing captan in
the soil. Liming also was beneficial in several
soils. Tests are under way to determine the
effectiveness of such treatments to prevent
replant problems in orchards.

Little cherry disease

In some sweet cherry orchards where some
trees have been found affected by the little
cherry disease, several associated trees that
have consistently produced normal fruit have
been found to carry an agent that causes red
leaf symptoms resembling the effects of little
cherry virus on Sam test trees. Tests are
under way to determine if any of these agents
are mild strains of the little cherry virus that
do not affect the fruit; such strains might be

used to immunize cherry trees against natural
infection by severe strains of the virus.

Control of postharvest rots on apple

Pressure infiltration of Ca to reduce inter-
nal breakdown of apples can result in high
incidences of storage rot problems. This is
primarily due to a buildup of rot organism
propagule and spore loads in the Ca solution
that is recycled during use. The value of the
addition of a suitable fungicide to the Ca
infiltration solution was demonstrated in an
experiment using intentionally reinforced
inoculum levels of Pénicillium and three
varieties of apples, Mcintosh, Spartan, and
Golden Delicious. Without reinforced inocu-
lum, zero pressure, and without fungicide, the
rot incidence after 3.5 mo in storage was 6.6,
0.8, and 3.3%, respectively, for each variety.
At an infiltration pressure of 138 kPa, with
reinforced inoculum level, and without fun-
gicide, the rot incidence was 38.3, 22.4, and
36.9%, respectively. With the addition of 250
ppm of benomyl to the above pressurized
infiltration system and with reinforced inocu-
lum level, the rot incidence was reduced to
2.8, 0.0, and 0.0%, respectively.

FOOD PROCESSING

The manufacture of fruit leathers

Fruit leathers are in commercial production
in two British Columbia processing plants.
Current production methods based on trial-
and-error technology produce a product sub-
ject to considerable variation in color, aroma,
flavor, and texture. A pilot-plant project
investigated the effect of variations in the
following factors: total solids, soluble solids,
alternate sugar sources, acidity, pectins, film
thickness, inclusion of particulate material,
cooking versus raw purees, sulfur dioxide,
dehydrator air velocity, drying temperature,
and humidity of dehydration air. Low-sugar
leathers (12%) dried more rapidly and had a
more pulpy texture than moderate to high
sugar levels (18-20%). Alternate sugar
sources could not be distinguished organolep-
tically in the finished leathers. Sugar-to-acid
ratio descriptors ranged from very sweet (67)
to bland (13). Sulfur dioxide was the most
effective means of controlling browning. Up to
900 ppm S02 could be added to apple puree
without creating an off-flavor in the leather.
Apple puree was the most versatile fruit pulp
tested. It produced acceptable leathers alone

RESEARCH STATION, SUMMERLAND, B.C.

407

or blended with other tree fruits or berries.
Leathers enriched with skim-milk powder or
soya flour developed off-flavor rapidly. Case-
hardening during drying was reduced to an
acceptable level if dehydration air was main-
tained at not higher than 90-93°C and at not
less than 5% relative humidity. Higher tem-
peratures accelerated loss of aroma and
caramelization. A special set of jaws was
constructed for an Ottawa texture measure-
ment device and a standard dye was used for
cutting samples. Work is in progress to relate
treatment variables to tensile strength of fruit
leathers.

Compressed survival rations

A semiautomatic bar compression unit was
designed, built, and used by a cooperating
processor to produce a 24 000 unit pack of
various types of fruit, biscuit, and meat bars.
These bars were test marketed and were well
accepted. Meat and biscuit bars vacuum
packed in foil have presently undergone a 2-yr
shelf-life test without significant loss of
quality.

Fruit juice in large drums

Fruit canned in pear juice is becoming
increasingly popular. Unfortunately use of
reconstituted concentrate gives an undesirable
dark color and burnt flavor. Single-strength
juice has the desired quality, but it must be
either frozen or sterilized and held in a
hermetically sealed container.

Tests conducted on cooling of 204-L drums
with cold-water sprays showed that a barrel
standing on end could be cooled from 97°C to
38.5°C in 20 min. Drums lying on their sides
took longer to cool, even when agitated. This
is presumably due to the more favorable
configuration for convection currents in the
upright drums. This short cooling time makes
it practical to hot fill, seal, and store standard
204-L barrels of single-strength fruit juice at
room temperature. This system will be used
commercially in the 1981 season.

Extruded fruit milk snack bars

A stem-jacketed extruder head with 6 X 30
mm aperture was designed, built, and used to
produce a series of fruit snack bars. A typical
base formula for protein-enriched bars con-
tained 46% drum-dried fruit sauce flakes, 9%
skim-milk powder, 36% pear-juice concen-
trate, and 9% honey. This was extruded at
100°C and cut into 90-mm bars weighing 25

g. Samples of this formulation alone and
formulas with 10% added chopped dried
apricots or 10% unsweetened dried coconut
were vacuum sealed in foil laminate pouches
stored at 0, 20, and 37°C. After 6 mo at 37°C,
all samples showed significant nonenzymatic
browning but were judged to be marginally
acceptable for flavor and color. Samples
stored at 20°C were still acceptable after 8 mo
of storage.

Drum drying fruit purees

A laboratory drum drier has been modified
by addition of automatic feed, a vapor-
removal system beneath the rolls, chilled air
supply for cooling the dry product sheet, and.
variable speed takeoff rolls. Use of these
attachments and additives to increase the
fiber content of fruit purees and to improve
their sheet-forming characteristics has made
it possible to dry successfully such difficult-to-
dry products as cherry, raspberry, and straw-
berry purees.

The most effective additive to aid sheet
formation was found to be low-methoxyl
pectin at 0.5-1.0%. Dry berry flakes produced
by this system have made potential uses in
low-moisture products including powdered
drink and milk-shake mixes, dry-fruit bars,
and fruit-flavored baking mixes.

Safety caps on juice bottles

A safety hazard occurs in reclosed bottles
of fruit juice, which may explode in the home
owing to fermentation. Pilot-plant tests on
breaking pressures of bottles have led a
closure manufacturer to design a screw cap
with a built-in pressure release that relieves
gas before dangerous pressures are reached.

POMOLOGY AND VITICULTURE

Orchard soil management and soil
temperatures

A micrologger was installed in an orchard
of Starkrimson Red Delicious on M26 root-
stock with temperature-measuring probes at
20- and 100-cm depths in plots with a grass
sod, plots kept clean with herbicides, and plots
tilled periodically. Soil temperatures during
the summer of 1980 were affected appreciably
by the soil surface treatments. The highest
mean temperature at 20 cm under grass was

23.0, whereas under a clean surface it was

27.1, and under the tilled surface, 25.3°C. At

408

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

100 cm depth, the differences were not as
great, but in the same order: under grass 18.6,
under herbicide-clean surface 21.0, and under
tilled surface 20.5°C. By mid-September,
however, the mean temperatures were all
similar and by the end of October, mean
temperatures under the grass surface were
higher than those under the clean surface.

Dichlorprop shows promise as a preharvest
fruit drop control agent for apples

Dichlorprop sprays, at concentrations of
20-40 ppm, provided generally satisfactory
protection against preharvest drop of Mcin-
tosh apples in each of three seasons. The
protection was comparable to that provided
by 10-20 ppm fenoprop, a material no longer
registered for this use in Canada, and fre-
quently superior to 20 ppm naphthaleneacetic
acid (NAA). An examination of chemical
residue levels in fruits harvested 2 h to 10
days after spraying showed that dichlorprop is
more persistent than NAA. NAA residues
decline rapidly in fruits on the tree; therefore
the period of effective drop protection is short.

Effect of Amid-thin on maturity and
storage behavior of Barlett pears

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)
(Amid-thin, Union Carbide) effectively thins
Bartlett pear fruits when applied shortly after
bloom. However, it has been suggested that
this spray advances maturity and thus affects
fruit storage behavior. A study to test this
assertion involved 15 commercial orchards in
the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys.
Treated and untreated fruits were evaluated
at harvest and after 60 days of -1°C storage.
Results at harvest showed no differences in
flesh firmness or skin color and only very
small differences were detectable after the 60-
day storage period. However, core browning
of stored fruits was slightly higher in the
NAD-treated lots. Future work is needed to
confirm this effect on core browning. At
present the fruit-thinning benefit heavily
outweighs the risk of a sig/iificant core
browning problem.

NAA and carbaryl combination applied in
various spray volumes effectively thins
Spartan apples

Within the range of 560 to approximately
3350 L/ha the amount of water applied with
constant amounts of NAA and carbaryl per
hectare did not appear to influence the

amount of fruit removal achieved in chemical
thinning experiments conducted in two sea-
sons. The sprays were applied 15 days after
full bloom in each year. In two of three
experiments, significantly superior fruit re-
moval was achieved with NAA (25 g actual
per hectare) tank-mixed with carbaryl (4.5 kg
of 50% wettable powder per hectare) than
with either chemical applied singly. In all
experiments, NAA alone was more effective
than carbaryl alone.

Pear rootstock evaluation, management
practices

Four Old Home x Farmingdale clonal
rootstocks continue to rate as significantly
better than seedlings for stimulating produc-
tivity of Swiss Bartlett pears during the first 6
yr after orchard establishment.

In another trial, pear planting and training
methods were confirmed as having a signifi-
cant influence in promoting fruiting of Anjou
pears in the first 7 yr after planting.

Increased seed set from mentor-like
pollination with unrelated pollen

Unrelated pollen that was either heat killed
at 65°C for 2 h or viable was applied to
emasculated apple, apricot, and sweet cherry
flowers, followed the next day by application
of compatible pollen. The control was heat-
killed compatible pollen. The unrelated pollen
{Balsamorhiza sagittata) increased seed set
from 100 to 177% of the mentor pollen
control. The stimulation of seed set was
effective when the foreign pollen was killed or
viable and was negatively correlated with
percent seed set of the control. Other pollens
{Taraxacum officinale and Juniperus com-
munis) also increased set, and the degree of
stimulation was positively correlated with
pollen grain volume. Mineral analysis of the
pollen indicated that the physiological basis of
the effect was not inorganic ions, and proteins
implicated in incompatibility reactions are
unlikely to have survived the heat treatment.
The results of the experiments indicate that
stimulation of seed set by the foreign pollens
could have been due to release of pollen tube
growth promoters such as gibberellic acid.

Selective media for dwarf growth habit of
apple in vitro

Three strains of Mcintosh apple with
standard, spur, and extremely spurry growth
habit were grown in vitro as meristem-tip

RESEARCH STATION, SUMMERLAND, B.C.

409

cultures. The optimum concentration of ben-
zyladenine (BA) for both shoot production
and weight increase was 6 /iM BA, but the
strains' tolerance for toxic concentrations
varied greatly, with the spur strains tolerating
higher concentrations than the standard, and
the extreme spur tolerating more than the
spur. By adjusting the BA concentration, it
was possible, therefore, to have a selective
medium that allowed vigorous growth of spurs
but killed standard strains. The medium
should be useful for selecting mutations to
spur growth from cultures of standard habit.

Low-oxygen storage of Mcintosh apples

Oxygen levels of 1% in the storage atmo-
sphere resulted in superior retention of quality
in Mcintosh apples compared with fruit
stored in atmospheres of 2% or more oxygen.
Firmness values after 60 days of storage were
similar to those at harvest. Shelf life was also
enhanced by the low-oxygen treatments. No
injury was found in fruit from the 1% oxygen
storage treatment.

Storage of Okanagan-grown table grapes

Storage of Himrod and Interlaken grapes
after 30 and 60 days, respectively, resulted in
poor quality from excessive berry rot. Inci-
dence of berry rot, primarily Botrytis, was
reduced by changing the Grape Guard (the
S02 generating pad) after 30 days and by
precooling grapes for 24 h with the polyliner
open rather than precooling with a closed
polyliner. High moisture retention in the
polyliners may be responsible for the progres-
sive deterioration of the stems during storage
of the grapes.

SOIL SCIENCE AND
AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING

Soil calcium applications

Five years of leaf and fruit analyses were
completed on a soil Ca application experiment
started in 1974-1975. By 1979 soil exchange-
able Mn had been significantly decreased
down to a 20-cm depth in the Ca(OH)2
treatment, whereas exchangeable Mg was
decreased down to 30 cm in the CaS04
treatment. Fruit Ca concentration at harvest
was not significantly increased by soil Ca
applications in any year. Leaf Mg was signif-
icantly reduced each year by CaS04 applied
in excess of 3000 kg/ha. Significant leaf Mn

reduction occurred only in the fourth and fifth
years of Ca(OH)2 treatments at 6000 and 3
x 2000 kg/ha.

Trickle irrigation of soil columns with
saturated Ca(OH)2 solutions resulted in the
most effective depth penetration of soluble Ca
(to 20 cm after 80 cm irrigation). Depth
incorporation, slurry application, and applica-
tion of Ca combined with high N fertilization
rates (N at above 250 kg/ha) were of inter-
mediate effectiveness (to 10 cm). Doubling
irrigation quantities had no measurable effect
on downward leaching of surface-applied Ca.

Nutrition survey

Chemical analyses were completed for soil
and leaf samples collected in a 1979 survey of
48 Starkrimson Red Delicious trees in 16
orchards on seedling rootstock and 48 Mcin-
tosh trees in six orchards on M 2 rootstock. A
considerable pH decline had occurred in the
soils, and soil P and K levels were high,
whereas soil Mg was low. Leaf N was more
frequently high than low. Leaf Mg, Zn, and
Ca were frequently low (necessitating annual
Mg and Zn foliar sprays), though leaf B was
adequate. Leaf P and K levels both appeared
normal and nondeficient.

Manual bin hauler

An inexpensive ($200 for materials) bin
hauler has been designed, constructed, and
orchard tested. The unit rolls easily on two
large automobile wheels when pulled by hand.
A fork frame slides under the bin whose
frame is connected to the wheel frame at a
pivot point. A hydraulic jack between the
frames forces them apart and lifts the bin.
The unit is capable of lifting and setting down
a 450-kg bin of apples. The bin hauler frees a
farmer's tractor and permits a picker to keep
his bin nearby.

Calcium infiltration

The Ca content of Spartan apples was
increased 35-50% by applying pressure to a
CaCl2 solution surrounding the fruit. For most
years when the Ca content is low, this
increase would be enough to bring the Ca
level to the 250 ppm level required to prevent
storage breakdown. A larger facility was built
this year, and more pressurizing experiments
were done on this year's crop. Some vacuum
techniques were also tried. Test results next
spring will hopefully point out the optimum

410

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

procedure, and work can begin on the design
of a packinghouse unit.

Fumigation of fruit for export markets

Low-temperature fumigation with methyl
bromide at 48 g/m3 for 2 h at 17°C killed
more than 30 000 codling moth eggs and
larvae on infested cherries. Fumigant residues
were within internationally accepted tolerance
levels.

Fumigation and dip treatments developed
at Summerland to kill mites and fire blight on
apples were applied to infested apples, which
were then shipped to plant quarantine officiais
in South Africa for examination. They ac-
cepted our treatments as a basis for commer-
cial shipments. Several bins of Red Delicious
apples were fumigated with ethylene dibro-
mide, dipped in acetic acid, packed, and sent
to South Africa. Market acceptance will, in
part, determine future shipments.

Lysimeter studies: apple yields in 1980

For the year 1 October 1979 to 30 Septem-
ber 1980, although the amount of irrigation
water applied was raised from 50% in 1979 to
60% in 1980 of the usual amount for the
Summerland area, and the total precipitation
and irrigation received by the lysimeters

increased from 900 to 1 176 mm, the percent-
age of drainage water from the sandy loam
soil increased marginally over the previous
year to 22 and 23% from grassed and culti-
vated lysimeters, respectively. The higher
level of drainage from cultivated than from
grassed plots was not so evident as in other
years. Drainage from the silt loam soil was
again almost nil for the year.

Apple yields from the Mcintosh trees on
the sandy loam were 15.8 kg and 20.4 kg/tree
under grass and cultivation, respectively.
Corresponding yields on the silt loam were
31.9 kg and 35.8 kg/tree. These differences,
though showing a trend toward higher aver-
age yields with cultivation than with grass,
were not significant. However, the difference
between the two soils was most striking with
an overall average yield (calculated on the
basis of tree spacing) of 48 t/ha on the silt
loam, almost twice the 26 t/ha on the sandy
soil. This difference cannot be attributed to N
fertilizer. There appears to be an inherent
higher productivity in the silt soil than in the
sandy soil. These fruit production levels were
on trees grown from nursery stock planted in
1974 with relatively low yearly applications of
N and with less than half the irrigation
quantities that are normal for the Summer-
land area.

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Gaunce, A. P.; Madsen, H. F.; McMullen, R. D.;
Hall, J. W. 1980. Dosage response of codling
moth stages to fumigation with methyl bro-
mide. Can. Entomol. 1 12:1033-1038.

Li, T. S. C; Hornby, C. A. 1980. Reciprocal cross
analysis of three physiological characters in
tomatoes under two temperature regimes. Can.
J. Plant Sci. 60:1289-1293.

Li, T. S. C; Hornby, C. A. 1980. Reciprocal cross
analysis of growth component stages in toma-
toes under two temperature regimes. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:163-166.

Looney, N. E. 1980. Growth regulator use in
commercial apple production. Skoog, F., ed.
Proceedings in life sciences. Spring-Verlag,
Heidelberg and New York. pp. 409-418.

McPhee, W. J. 1980. Some characteristics of
Alternaria alternata strains resistant to iprodi-
one. Plant Dis. 641 (9):847-849.

Madsen, H. F.; Carty, B. J. 1979. Two years
experience in a commercial apple orchard. J.
Entomol. Soc. B.C. 76:35.

Madsen, H. F.; Madsen, B. J. 1980. Response of
four leafroller species (Lepidoptera: Tortri-
cidae) to sex attractants in B.C. orchards. Can.
Entomol. 112:427-430.

Neilsen, G. H.; Culley, J. L.; Cameron, D. R. 1980.
Nonpoint runoff from agricultural watersheds
into the Great Lakes. J. Great Lakes Res. Int.
Assoc. Great Lakes Res. 6(3): 195-202.

Parchomchuk, P.; Stevenson, D. S. 1980. Water
distribution uniformity of undertree sprinklers
in high density orchards. Transactions of the
American Society of Agricultural Engineers,
pp. 88-91.

RESEARCH STATION, SUMMERLAND, B.C.

411

Slykhuis, J. T. 1980. Eriophyid mites as vectors of
plant disease agents. Maromorosch, K.; Harris,
K. F., eds. Vectors of plant disease agents.
Academic Press Inc., N.Y. pp. 325-356.

Slykhuis, J. T.; Li, T. S. C; Yorston. J. 1980.
Evaluation of wall deposits in phloem cells to
detect little cherry disease in sweet cherry
trees. Plant Sci. 64(7):664-666.

Welsh, M. F.; Uyemoto, J. K. 1980. Differentiation
of syndromes caused in apple by graft-trans-
missible xylem-affecting agents. Phytopathol-
ogy 70(4):349-352.

Miscellaneous

Denby, L. G. 1980. Nectarines, a luxury crop with
a delicate future. B.C. Grower 2(2):4-6, 19.

Denby, L. G. 1980. Summerland's grape program.
B.C. Grower 2(4):21.

Hansen, A. J. 1980. Keep out the pox. B.C. Grower
2(2):4-6, 12.

Hapgood, P.; Denby, L. G. 1980. B.C. vineyards
shall show effects of 1978-79 winter. The
Goodfruit Grower, 15 July: 10.

Hogue, E. J. 1980. Orchard floor vegetation man-
agement. Proceedings of the 11th Annual
British Columbia Fruit Growers' Association
Horticultural Forum, pp. 76-78.

Kitson, J. A. 1980. Half-century of food processing
research and development at Summerland.
Can. Agric. 25(l):29-30.

Lane, W. D. 1980. Test tube propagation of apple
and pear. Can. Agric. 25(2):24-26.

Lane, W. D. 1980. Meristem-tip culture of pear
breeding prospects. EUCARPIA Apple and
Pear Breeding Conference, Angers (3-7 Sept.
1979). pp. 181-188.

Looney, N. E. 1980. Early results indicate success-
ful apple thinning with NAA plus carbarvl.
B.C. Grower (Feb.):22-23.

Looney, N. E. 1980. Some observations on the
condition of Yakima Valley fruit crops follow-
ing the Mount St. Helens' eruption of May 18,
1 980. Country Life in B.C. 66(6):35-36.

Looney, N. E. 1980. Some growth regulator and
cluster thinning effects on berry quality and
annual productivity of de Chaunac grapes.
HortScience 15(3):401.

McPhee, W. J. 1980. Botrytis cinera: A cause for
concern on grapes. B.C. Grower (Mar.):29-3 1 .

Madsen, H. F. 1980. Codling moth: Can this pest
be controlled without toxic chemicals? B.C.
Grower (Feb.): 14, 19.

Meheriuk, M.; Denby, L. G. 1979. An evaluation of
several pear varieties. B.C. Grower (July):8-
10.

Meheriuk, M. 1980. CA-storage — Do you know
how it works? B.C. Grower's News 1(1):1 1.

Meheriuk, M. 1980. Relationship studied in Okana-
gan grown apples. B.C. Grower's News
1(0:22.

Meheriuk, M. 1980. Storage quality of Bartletts
highly dependent on cooling rate and delays
prior to storage. The Goodfruit Grower
(Aug.):2.

Russell, G. C. 1980. Current research and future
trends at the Summerland Research Station.
Proceedings of the 1 1th Annual British Colum-
bia Fruit Growers' Association Horticultural
Forum, pp. 64-74.

Slykhuis, J. T. 1979. The little cherry disease — a
persistent mystery. Proc. Can. Phytopathol.
Soc. 45:69.

Slykhuis, J. T.; Yorston, J.; Raine, J.; McMullen,
R. D.; Li, T. S. C. 1 980. Current status of little
cherry disease in British Columbia. Can. Plant
Dis. Surv. 60(4):37-42.

Stevenson, D. S.; Brownlee, C. H. 1980. Water
conservation measures for the Okanagan Val-
ley. British Columbia Ministrv of Agriculture
and Food Bulletin (Mav). ISBN: 0-7719-8358-
1.5 pp.

412

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Research Station
Vancouver, British Columbia

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

M. Weintraub, B.A., Ph.D., F.N.Y.A.S.
H. A. Reid

Director
Administrative Officer

Scientific Support

C. M. Cutler,1 B.A., M.L.S.

T. Matsumoto,1 B.S.A., M.Sc, M.L.S.

Library Coordinator, Pacific area
Librarian

J. W. Hall, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Statistical Services

Statistician

Entomology

A. R. Forbes, B.A., M.S., Ph.D.
W. T. Cram, B.S.A., M.S., Ph.D.

B. D. Frazer, B.Sc, Ph.D.
J. Raine, B.S.A., M.S.

A. T. S. Wilkinson, B.S.A.

Head of Section; Virus vectors
Strawberry insects, ecology
Aphid ecology

Berry insects, leafhopper vectors
Soil insects

Plant Pathology

N. S. Wright, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.

H. A. Daubeny, B.S.A., M.S.A., Ph.D.
S. H. De Boer, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.
H. S. Pepin, B.S.A., M.A., Ph.D.
R. Stace-Smith, B.S.A., Ph.D.

T. C. Vrain, D.E.A., Ph.D.

Head of Section; Potato diseases,

serology

Plant breeding, small fruits
Bacterial diseases
Root rots, red stele of strawberry
Raspberry viruses, virus

characterization
Nematology

RESEARCH STATION, VANCOUVER, B.C.

413

Virus Chemistry and Physiology

H. W. J. Ragetli, Ir., Ph.D.

R. I. Hamilton, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

G. G. Jacoli, B.A., Ph.D.

J. H. Tremaine, B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.

Head of Section; Chemistry and
ultrastructural cytopathology of
viruses

Virology, virus interactions and
seed transmission

Biochemical virology

Biophysical virology

Departures

D. G. Finlayson, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

Retired 29 December 1980
F. C. Mellor, B.S.A.

Retired 29 December 1980
P. Zuk, B.A.

Retired 29 December 1980

Root maggots, toxicology
Strawberry viruses, thermotherapy
Stored-product insects

Graduate students

D. J. Donnelly, B.Sc

D. E. Henderson, B.Sc.

A. J. Smulders, B.Sc

K. B. Verma, B.Sc.

M.Sc.

Plant virology
Entomology
Plant pathology
Entomology

'Seconded from Libraries Division, Finance and Administration Branch.

414

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT I WO

INTRODUCTION

The research programs of the Vancouver Research Station continue to reflect its dual role
as the national center for plant virus research and as the regional center for helping to solve
problems presented by pests, diseases, and weeds in vegetables, small fruit, and other
horticultural crops. This report gives only the highlights of these programs, which range from
the strategic laboratory research needed for background information to rapid transfer of the
new knowledge and technology to the clientele of the programs — the primary producer of
horticultural crops.

This year saw the retirement of three experienced scientists, two entomologists and a plant
virologist. However, their replacements are expected soon, so that research in these areas can
continue uninterrupted.

Requests for details of our research program, for reprints of this report, or for reprints of
publications listed should be addressed to the individual scientists or to: Research Station,
Agriculture Canada, 6660 N.W. Marine Drive, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1X2.

M. Weintraub
Director

VIRUS CHEMISTRY AND
PHYSIOLOGY

Physical, chemical, and serological
properties of viruses in vitro

When protein of the bean strain of southern
bean mosaic virus (SBMV) was cleaved with
cyanogen bromide (CNBr), a highly basic
peptide, CB-1, was isolated by ion exclusion
and ion-exchange chromatography. Twelve
peptides were separated from a tryptic digest
of CB-1 by ion-exchange chromatography;
their composition was similar to that of
peptides released from ethylenediami-
netetraacetic acid swollen virus particles by
limited tryptic digestion. The composition and
TV-termini of the tryptic peptides indicated
CB-1 was from the N-terminus of SBMV
protein and contained 48 amino acid residues.
In polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
(PAGE) at pH 3.9, CB-1 moved rapidly to
the cathode and contained nine arginine
residues, three lysine residues, and no acidic
amino acid residues. It interacted with puri-
fied viral RNA, sodium dextran sulfate, and
calf thymus DNA. Antiserum to the CB-1
peptide, conjugated to tomato bushy stunt
virus, reacted with SBMV, but SBMV antise-
rum did not react with CB-1 or the CB-1-
tomato bushy stunt virus conjugate. Electro-
phoresis patterns of CNBr peptides from the
proteins of four strains of SBMV showed
marked similarity between the cowpea and
Ghana strains, and between the bean and

Mexican strains. From the cowpea strain a
highly basic CNBr peptide, cCB-1, was
isolated, which resembled the peptide from
the bean strain.

Virus infection

To determine the minimum wound size
required for effective virus establishment,
commercial abrasives were fractionated by
elutriation and ultrafiltration, and their parti-
cle modes were determined by light micros-
copy. On the basis of local lesion development
the 12-15 /Ltm size range (based on the largest
dimension of the highly irregular particles)
was the most effective for infection. However,
hardness, particle geometry, quality of cutting
edges, and pressure applied during inoculation
are important contributing factors. Crude
juice from leaves of Brucea antidysenterica
and semipurified preparations obtained from
leaf extracts were tested for antiviral activity.
Both reduced infection by 90-100%, whether
mixed with the virus inoculum or applied to
leaves up to 1 h after inoculation. The
antiviral agent in these preparations is proba-
bly bruceantin. Pure bruceantin at 7.5 fig
reduced the infectivity of 70 ju-g of tobacco
mosaic virus per millilitre on Nicotiana
glutinosa by 87%.

Ultrastructural responses to virus infections

A pollen-borne virus from the sweet cherry
cultivar Stella induced in systemically in-
fected cells of Chenopodium quinoa and C.
amaranticolor large, complex X-bodies and

RESEARCH STATION, VANCOUVER, B.C.

415

two other types of inclusions: cylindrical virus
aggregates, apparently not reported before,
and virus crystals. The cylindrical aggregates
occurred in many nuclei, often in great
numbers and occupying a large portion of the
nucleoplasm; they were less abundant in the
cytoplasm. Virus crystals, found exclusively in
the cytoplasm, contained complete virions and
sometimes virus capsids.

Virus transmission by seed and pollen

An improved method for rapid serologic
diagnosis of pea seed-borne mosaic virus
(PSbMV) in pea seeds appears promising.
This technique utilizes electron microscopy of
seed homogenates previously treated sequen-
tially with PSbMV antiserum produced in
rabbits and antirabbit serum produced in
goats (double decoration immunoelectron
microscopy).

The virus from the sweet cherry Stella was
seed-transmitted to more than 90% of the
progeny in Chenopodium quinoa. Plants from
infected seeds were stunted and deformed,
and ultrathin sections of leaf tissue contained
cytoplasmic viral crystals.

Aster yellows disease

Spiroplasms that can be cultured in vitro
have been suggested as the true agent for
aster yellows (AY) disease. We found that
mycoplasma-like organisms (MLO) from
AY-diseased plants degenerated in callus
cultures, and that at one stage filaments
resembling spiroplasms occurred. Attempts to
isolate and culture spiroplasms from primary
and secondary calluses derived from AY-
diseased plants failed. This suggests either
that filamentous MLO are not spiroplasms or
that the so-called AY spiroplasm is in fact
'spiroplasm citri', carried as a contaminant by
the AY vector.

Cell cultures to obtain virus- and
mycoplasma-free progeny

Cell cultures were obtained from potato
expiants infected with potato viruses X, S,
and M (PVX, PVS, and PVM) and were
maintained in a synthetic medium. Calluses
regenerated from these cells were found to be
free of PVX when assayed by electron micros-
copy (EM). Five cell lines were cloned for
evaluation of their susceptibility to virus in
vitro. As a prerequisite, naked protoplasts
were prepared from the potato cell cultures,
and their ability to regenerate cell walls and

divide was determined. Cell walls reformed by
the fourth day of culture, but only a few
newly formed cells underwent complete cell
division. Cell cultures were also obtained from
expiants of aster, tobacco, and Vinca infected
with AY. Calluses regenerated from these
cultures failed to show MLO in the EM, and
regenerated plants appeared healthy.

Little cherry disease

A procedure to isolate little cherry disease
(LCD) agents directly from infected cherry
tissue was applied to some 60 leaf samples,
mostly from infected field trees. Yields of
LCD-linked virus-like rods were too low for
physical-chemical analysis, but they sufficed
for determination of their isoelectric point and
for bioassay on cherry seedlings. Fractions
from one field tree contained a spherical virus,
identified as peach rosette mosaic virus, which
also causes decline in grapes. It has not been
previously isolated from cherry. Its possible
role in the LCD syndrome will be investi-
gated.

Migration in PAGE was identical for
dsRNA from sweet cherry inoculated by
grafting with LCD from Shiro-fugen flower-
ing cherry, Vancouver; sweet cherry, Chilli-
wack; and dodder-transmitted LCD, Creston.
No evidence of a viroid-like RNA was ob-
tained in nucleic acid preparations of several
LCD-infected trees. No dsRNA was obtained
from sweet cherry seedlings, slash-inoculated
in 1979 with LCDA-dsRNA purified by
PAGE or with crude phloem extracts from
LCD trees.

A simple procedure was established for
rapid development of terminal calluses in
petioles of excised cherry leaves. These cal-
luses continued to grow for several months
without differentiating. The leaves survived
for at least 2 mo beyond their normal life span
on the trees. Cells of petiole tissue from LCD
trees retained all three LCD-related cellular
inclusions for up to 22 days after excision, but
callus cells were free from these inclusions.

PLANT PATHOLOGY

Virology

Blueberry leaf mottle virus (BBLMV) is
serologically related to grapevine Bulgarian
latent virus (GBLV). Relationships were
determined after purification through sucrose
density gradients between BBLMV, a Euro-
pean isolate of GBLV, and an isolate from

416

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

New York state reported to be serologically
related to GBLV. The molecular weight of
the coat protein subunit for all three viruses
was 54 000 in 5% sodium dodecyl sulfate
polyacrylamide gels. The RNA of BBLMV
was single-stranded and exhibited a
rM = 60°C and 15.4% hyperchromatism when
melted over a temperature range of 30-99°C.
RNA-1 and RNA-2 of all three viruses were
resolved in 2.4% polyacrylamide gels and had
molecular weights of 2.35 and 2.15 x 106,
respectively.

Sixty-nine red raspberry cultivars and
selections in the British Columbia breeding
program were indexed in 1980. Symptoms in
some of the inoculated Chenopodium quinoa
plants were unlike those of tomato ringspot
virus or of raspberry bushy dwarf virus,
detected in previous years. Reaction of a
range of host plants suggested that the virus
might be tobacco streak virus (TSV), and
agar gel serology tests confirmed the diagno-
sis. TSV has occasionally been isolated from
red raspberry in the United States, and it has
been found in the wild trailing blackberry and
from several blackberry cultivars in British
Columbia, but it has not previously been
detected in raspberry in British Columbia.
The virus was detected in the cultivar Path-
finder, which was imported from Wyoming
via Oregon, and in eight selections: one from
Scotland, five from Oregon, and two from
British Columbia. Possibly the cultivar Path-
finder and the five Oregon seedlings were
infected when imported. The Scottish selec-
tion and the two British Columbia selections
were probably infected by pollen transmission
from the Oregon material during 3 yr of
exposure in the field.

Virus-free potatoes

Twenty-one new accessions were rendered
virus-free by heat therapy and meristem tip
propagation. Seven seedlings, deemed un-
likely to become useful cultivars, were dis-
carded. The current collection, free from all
known viruses and viroids, contains 141
selections including the 56 cultivars on the
current list of Canadian-licensed cultivars. In
1980, 269 tuber samples were sent on request
to potato improvement agencies, growers, or
research establishments in seven provinces, 1 1
states, Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia,
Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Korea, and
France.

'The annual survey for potato viruses X and
S in seed potato control areas involved 162 ha
of Elite and Foundation seed. Neither virus
was found on 16 of the 25 farms surveyed. Of
the total, 108 ha (67%) were apparently virus-
free; the remainder contained up to 12%
infection as estimated from confidence inter-
vals {P = 0.05).

Small fruits

Strawberry. The incidence of Botrytis in
1980 was the highest since 1976, allowing
evaluation of strawberry and raspberry selec-
tions for fruit rot resistance. Among the
strawberry selections tested, 73-9-79 and
Tyee showed the most resistance to posthar-
vest Botrytis fruit rot; 73-9-79 also showed
the greatest resistance to Pénicillium but was
only moderately resistant to Rhizopus', and
W72-0 12-82 had a particularly low prehar-
vest fruit rot.

Strawberry seedlings that ripen 2 wk ear-
lier than Totem were selected from the cross
of two early ripening parents, BC70-22-82
and Earliglow. The fruit was of good quality,
and the plants were productive and appeared
to be virus-tolerant, a combination of traits
that has been difficult to obtain.

Raspberry. Evalution of raspberry breeding
selections to preharvest and postharvest fruit
rot were continued. Selections showing low
preharvest Botrytis fruit rot were Mailing Leo
and SCRI 6820/54. Postharvest Botrytis
resistance was shown by 72-6-104, Nootka,
Skeena, and 74-10-66; Rhizopus resistance by
72-6-104, SCRI 6820/54, Nootka, and
Skeena; and Pénicillium resistance by 76-
6-104. Correlations between cane Botrytis
and preharvest and postharvest Botrytis fruit
rot were not significant, indicating cane
reactions are not associated with fruit reac-
tions. Chilcotin, Meeker, and Nootka showed
strong resistance to cane Botrytis.

Two dominant genes in the native North
American red raspberry, Rubus strigosus,
give immunity or high resistance to the aphid
Amphorophora agathonica. The combination
of these genes with the immunity gene Ag,
from Rubus idaeus cultivar Lloyd George
should prevent or delay the emergence of new
resistance-breaking strains of the aphid. The
use of R. strigosus as a parent also brings
other useful characteristics, such as resistance
to spur blight, into the gene pool.

RESEARCH STATION, VANCOUVER, B.C.

417

Bacteriology

The serogroup typing scheme developed for
Erwinia carotovora permitted identification
of specific strains of the blackleg - soft rot
organisms in field samples. Persistence of
these bacteria in the field differed: some
strains were isolated from potato plants
throughout the growing season; others were
present only shortly after plant emergence.
Furthermore, virulence on potato varied
among E. carotovora var. atroseptica strains
in four serogroups.

Serological cross-reactions occurred when
antisera against Corynebacterium sepedoni-
cum were tested with two plant pathogenic
Corynebacterium spp. and a nonpathogenic
coryneform bacterium isolated from a symp-
tomless potato plant. The cross-reactions were
detected by both the immunofluorescence and
immunodiffusion tests. Ratio of cross-reaction
titer to specific activity titer was lower in sera
collected soon after immunization than in sera
collected several weeks later. The usefulness
of serological tests for diagnosis of bacterial
ring rot in potato was limited because of
cross-reactions with other organisms.

Nematology

The effects of fall and spring applications of
Nemacur, a systemic nematocide to control
root lesion nematodes in raspberries, on yield
and soil nematode densities were measured
with active ingredient (ai) at two rates, 8 and
16 kg/ha. In untreated plots nematode densi-
ties increased 50%; in treated plots densities
were decreased by 55%, 6 mo and 1 yr after
treatment. There were no effects on yield in
the 1st yr after treatment. Residues in fruit
were 0.2 and 0.4 ppm in plots treated in April
at 8 or 16 kg ai/ha. No residues were detected
in fruit from plots treated in the fall with up
to 32 kg ai/ha. The value of fatty acid
derivatives for nematode control was studied.
With 1-decanol, the LD95 for root knot
nematode eggs was higher than for juveniles.
In greenhouse soil infested with Meloidogyne
hapla eggs or juveniles, a drench of 2000 ppm
of potassium caprate gave only 25% control,
and drenches of 1000 ppm of formaldehyde,
methyl decanoate, or 1-decanol gave 93.3,
90.4, and 72.3% control, respectively. How-
ever, in microplots with soil treated with 1000
ppm of 1-decanol or methyl decanoate, nema-
tode survival was variable but generally high.

A nematological survey of nurseries of the
lower mainland included 103 fields with a

variety of stock in 33 nurseries. Most fields
had a light infestation of Pratylenchus pene-
trans, but nematode damage was slight. A
survey of alfalfa fields in the Okanagan and
Kootenay valleys and adjacent areas demon-
strated the relatively widespread presence of
the alfalfa stem nematode (Ditylenchus dip-
saci), a new pest of alfalfa in British
Columbia.

ENTOMOLOGY

Vectors

Little cherry disease (LCD). Tests at the
Summerland Research Station between 1977*
and 1980 strongly suggest that the apple
mealybug, Phenacoccus aceris (Signoret), is
the vector of LCD. Assessment by electron
microscopy at the Vancouver Research Sta-
tion of the trees used in these tests shows that
the mealybug can transmit the cellular inclu-
sions associated with LCD from diseased to
healthy trees. In a survey of the lower Fraser
valley and Vancouver Island, no apple mealy-
bug was found on any of its common hosts,
although it had been previously recorded in
these areas.

Morphology and fine structure. The stylets
of the asparagus aphid, Brachycolus asparagi
Mord., were sectioned and examined by
transmission electron microscopy. As with all
true aphids previously examined, the mandib-
ular stylets are innervated by two dendrites
contained in a central canal.

Aphid survey. New records brought the
number of known aphid species in British
Columbia to 326. The asparagus aphid, B.
asparagi, which was first found in British
Columbia in 1979, is now a serious pest of
asparagus in the southern interior of the
province.

Aphid ecology. Aphidophagous mites
(Anystis sp.) have been implicated as a
regulating factor of populations of pea aphids
on alfalfa. In a survey of the lower mainland,
these mites were found in 21 of 102 aphid
samples, mostly on wild host plants in nonag-
ricultural habitats. This suggests that pesti-
cides or agricultural practices reduce popula-
tions of these mites in crops.

Aphid vector-virus relationships. In trans-
mission tests of mild and severe potato leaf
roll virus (PLRV), one, two, or four Myzus
persicae (Sulzer) were used to transmit the

418

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1080

virus from infected to healthy Physalis flori-
dana. The greater the number of vectors, the
higher the rate of transmission. The original
severity of symptoms was not always repro-
duced in the indicators.

Pest control

Pests of small fruits. The root weevil,
Sciaphilus asperatus Bonsd, was found for
the first time, and in large numbers, on
strawberry in association with three Otiorhyn-
chus spp. This weevil is a pest in England and
Sweden. Larvae of the curled rose sawfly,
Allantus cinctus L., were observed on straw-
berry for the first time in Richmond, B.C. For
control of leafrollers and spanworms on
blueberries, methoxychlor, Ambush, carbaryl,
diazinon, parathion, and guthion, applied as
prebloom and postblossom sprays, were effec-
tive. All were superior to malathion, the
present method of control. Decamethrin ap-
plied to cranberry uprights that were heavily
infested with larvae of the blackheaded
fireworm, Rhopobota naevana (Hiibner),
reduced the numbers of larvae found alive in
uprights from 40 in the untreated plots to
seven in the treated plots.

Wireworms. In a test to control the Euro-
pean wireworm, Agriotes obscurus (L.), in
corn in silt loam, four granular insecticides,
cloethecarb, fonofos, bendiocarb, and
chlorpyrifos, were applied in the furrow at 1 .7
kg ai/ha. Bendiocarb and fonofos reduced the
wireworm population by 90%, cloethecarb by
76%, and chlorpyrifos by 73%. In potatoes,
broadcast treatments of granular fonofos,
bendiocarb, and chlorpyrifos reduced unmar-
ketable tubers to 5%, 11%, and 18%, respec-
tively. In the check plots 43% of the potatoes
were unmarketable. In a comparison of band
and furrow treatments, the percentage of
unmarketable tubers for the furrow treat-
ments at 1.7 kg ai/ha were: fonofos, 10;
chlorpyrifos, 16; bendiocarb, 17; and cloethe-
carb, 19; and for the band treatments at 3.4
kg ai/ha they were: bendiocarb, 18; cloethe-
carb, 25; and chlorpyrifos, 33. In the check
plots 56% of the tubers were unmarketable.

Aphids and tuber flea beetles on potatoes.
A pest management program has been devel-
oped for aphids and tuber flea beetles on
potato. First-generation beetles are controlled

by granular insecticides, incorporated in
preplanting. Aphids and second and third
generations of flea beetles are controlled by
sprays that are timed to prevent a buildup of
populations.

Root maggots, aphids, and caterpillars on
brassica crops. A pest management program
has been developed for cabbage maggots and
leaf-feeding insects of seeded or transplanted
brassica crops. Cabbage maggots are control-
led by a band of granular insecticides, applied
and incorporated by the seeder or by sprays
applied immediately after transplanting.
Birlane, Dasanit, and Furadan granules pro-
vide good protection; drenches of Amaze,
Birlane, carbosulfan, or Lorsban, applied
immediately after seedling emergence and
again 28 days later, also give good results.
Aphids, caterpillars, and second and third
generations of maggots are controlled by
sprays of a pyrethroid (cypermethrin, de-
camethrin, or fenvalerate), applied jointly
with pirimicarb, an insecticide specifically for
aphids. The number of applications is kept to
a minimum by treating only when assess-
ments of populations deem it necessary.
Thuricide did not control larvae of the dia-
mondback moth.

Weeds. Ceutorhynchus litura F., a weevil
whose larvae mine the stems and crowns of
Canada thistle, was released at Ladner in
1975. In 1980, 44% of the thistles at the
release site were infested, compared with 55%
in 1979. The gall fly, Urophora styllata F.,
which attacks the flowers of bull thistle, was
released near Ladner in 1973. In 1980, 40% of
the seed heads were infested, compared with
46% in 1979. Larvae of the flea beetle,
Longitarsus jacobaeae (Waterh.), released to
control tansy ragwort, were found in the roots,
crowns, and adjacent soil of 17 of 19 tansy
ragwort plants examined at Nanaimo, B.C.
The density of flowering plants in 1980 was
half that of 1979.

Residue chemistry

An analytical method was developed to
determine residues of Nemacur, Nemacur
sulfoxide, and Nemacur sulfone by gas chro-
matography. The method provides for the
individual determination of the three com-
pounds, without the need for an oxidation
step.

RESEARCH STATION, VANCOUVER, B.C.

419

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Barritt, B. H.; Torre, L. C; Pépin, H. S.; Daubeny,
H. A. 1980. Fruit firmness measurements in
red raspberry. HortScience 15:38-39.

Buckley, D. J.; Frazer, B. D.; St. Amour, G. 1979.
An inexpensive portable printing event re-
corder for behaviour studies. Behav. Res.
Methods Instrum. 11:561-563.

Cram, W. T. 1980. Fecundity of the black vine
weevil, Otiorhynchus sulcatus (F.) (Coleop-
tera: Curculionidae), fed foliage from some
current cultivars and advanced selections of
strawberry in British Columbia. J. Entomol.
Soc. B.C. 77:25-26.

Crowley, C. F.; De Boer, S. H. 1980. Sensitivity of
some Erwinia carotovora serogroups to macro-
molecular bacteriocins. Can. J. Microbiol.
26:1023-1028.

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. Tyee strawberry. Can. J.
Plant Sci. 60:743-746.

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. Red raspberry cultivar
development in British Columbia with special
reference to pest response and germplasm
exploitation. Acta Hortic. 1 12:59-67.

Daubeny, H. A.; Pepin, H. S.; Barritt, B. H. 1980.
Postharvest Rhizopus fruit rot resistance in
red raspberry. HortScience 15:35-37.

De Boer, S. H. 1980. Serological relationships
among flagella of Erwinia cartovora var.
atroseptica and some E. carotovora var. car-
tovora serogroups. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:567-
571.

De Boer, S. H.; Copeman, R. J. 1980. Bacterial
ring rot testing with the indirect fluorescent
antibody staining procedure. Am. Potato J.

57:457-465.

Donnelly, D. J.; Stace-Smith, R.; Mellor, F. C.
1980. In vitro culture of three Rubus species.
Acta Hortic. 112:68-75.

Forbes, A. R.; Chan, C. K. 1980. The aphids
(Homoptera: Aphididae) of B.C. 8. Further
additions. J. Entomol. Soc. B.C. 77:38-41.

Hamilton, R. I. 1980. Defenses triggered by pre-
vious invaders: viruses. Horsfall, J. G.; Cow-
ling, E. B., eds. Plant diseases. Academic
Press, New York. pp. 269-303.

Hill, A. T.; Hall, J. W. 1980. Effects of various
combinations of oil spraying, washing, sanitiz-
ing, storage time, strain, and age of layer upon
albumin quality changes in storage and mini-
mum sample sizes required for their measure-
ment. Poult. Sci. 59:2237-2242.

Johns, L. J.; Stace-Smith, R.; Kadota, D. Y. 1980.
Occurrence of a rod-shaped virus in fuchsia
culture. Acta Hortic. 1 10:195-203.

Kutney, J. P.; Townsley, P. M.; Jacoli, G. G. 1980.
Tripdiolide from tissue culture of Trypteryg-
ium wilfordii. Heterocycles 14:1465-1467.

Mathur, S. P.; Hamilton, H. A.; Vrain, T. C. 1980.
Influence of some field applied nematicides on
microflora and mineral nutrients in an organic
soil. J. Environ. Sci. Health B 15:61-76.

Mellor, F. C; Stace-Smith, R. 1980. A heat-stable
black raspberry necrosis virus. Acta Hortic.
95:71-75.

Meloche, F.; Pilon, J. G.; Mailloux, G.; Vrain, T. C.
1980. Inventaires des problèmes entomo-
logiques et nématologiques dans le plantations
de tabac jaune au Québec. Ann. Soc. Entomol.
Que. 25:81-89.

Pépin, H. S.; MacPherson, E. A. 1980. Some
possible factors affecting fruit rot resistance in
red raspberry. Acta Hortic. 1 12:205-209.

Pepin, H. S.; MacPherson, E. A.; Clements, S. J.
1980. Effect of triadimefon on the growth of
red raspberry. Can. J. Plant Sci. 60: 1 203- 1 208.

Ramsdell, D. C; Stace-Smith, R. 1980. Blueberry
leaf mottle, a new disease of highbush blue-
berry. Acta Hortic. 95:37-48.

Stout, D. C; McLean, A.; Brooke, B.; Hall, J.
1980. Influence of simulated grazing (clipping)
of pinegrass growth. J. Range Manage.
33:286-291.

Tremaine, J. H.; Ronald, W. P.; Kelly, E. M. 1980.
Chemical and serological properties of a cyan-
ogen bromide peptide from southern bean
mosaic virus. Can. J. Microbiol. 26:1450-1459.

Vrain, T. C; Baker, L. R. 1980. Reaction of hybrid
carrot cultivars to Meloidogyne hapla. Can. J.
Plant Pathol. 2:163-168.

Vrain, T. C; Belair, G.; Martel, P. 1979. Nonfumi-
gant nematicide for control of root-knot nema-
todes to protect carrot root growth in organic
soils. J. Nematol. 11:328-333.

Vrain, T. C; Rousselle, G. L. 1980. Distribution of
plant parasitic nematodes in Quebec apple
orchards. Plant Dis. 64:582-583.

Miscellaneous

Brown, M. J.; Wilkinson, A. T. S. 1979. Aldicarb
residues in potatoes. Pestic. Res. Rep.
1979:185.

420

RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

Cran, W. T.; Neilson, C. L. 1980. Major insect and
mite pests of berry crops in British Columbia.
Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Victoria,
B.C. Publ. 78-12. 24 pp.

Crête, R.; Martel, P.; Vrain, T. C. 1979. Les
légumes sont menacés d'abord dans leurs
racines. Bull Agric. (mars).

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. Foreword to Rubus, breed-
ing and machine harvesting symposium. Acta
Hortic. 112:11.

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. Report on the Rubus
symposium held in the Pacific northwest.
HortScience 15:670-671.

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. Tyee strawberry. Agrologist
9:28.

Daubeny, H. A. 1980. What raspberry variety
should I plant? Proc. Lower Mainland Hortic.
Improv. Assoc. 22:26-28.

Daubeny, H. A.; Barritt, B. H. 1980. The Tyee
strawberry variety. Proc. Lower Mainland
Hortic. Improv. Assoc. 22:7-10.

Daubeny, H. A.; Barritt, B. H. 1980. Virus diseases
in local strawberry fields. Proc. Lower Main-
land Hortic. Improv. Assoc. 22:34-36.

Daubeny, H. A.; Barritt, B. H. 1980. Tyee, a new
strawberry variety from British Columbia.
Proc. West. Wash. Hortic. Assoc. 70:150-153.

Daubeny, H. A.; Lawrence, F. J.; Martin, L. W.;
Barritt, B. H. 1980. Tyee, a new strawberry
cultivar suited to machine harvest. Strawberry
mechanization. Agriculture Experiment Sta-
tion, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
Bull. 645. pp. 40-42.

De Boer, S. H. 1979. New detection method for
incitant of potato bacterial ring rot. Can.
Agric. 24(4): 15- 17.

Finlayson, D. G.; Mackenzie, J. R. 1979. Combina-
tion sprays for control of foliar pests of Brus-
sels sprouts. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:106-107.

Finlayson, D. G.; Mackenzie, J. R. !979. Effec-
tiveness of in-furrow treatments against onion
maggot. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:149-150.

Finlayson, D. G.; Mackenzie, J. R.; Wilkinson, A.
T. S. 1979. Control of tuber flea beetles in
potato. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:183-184.

Freeman, J. A.; Pepin, H. S. 1979. Control of pre-
and postharvest fruit rot in raspberries. Pestic.
Res. Rep. 1979:378.

Freeman, J. A.; Pepin, H. S. 1979. Assessment of
CGA 64251, anilazine and captan for control
of pre- and postharvest fruit rot in raspberries.
Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:379.

Freeman, J. A.; Pepin, H. S. 1979. Evaluation of
DPX 4424 and benomyl for the control of pre-
and postharvest fruit rot in raspberries. Pestic.
Res. Rep. 1979:380.

Freeman, J. A.; Pepin, H. S. 1979. control of pre-
and postharvest fruit rot in strawberries. Pes-
tic. Res. Rep. 1979:383.

Hamilton, R. I.; Ragetli, H. W. J.; Stace-Smith, R.;
Tremaine, J. R.; Wright, N. S. 1980. Mellor,
F.; Weintraub, M., eds. Plant virus and antise-
rum bank. Research Station, Vancouver, B.C.
Research Branch, Agriculture Canada. 70 pp.

Hiebert, E.; Tremaine, J. H.; Ronald, W. 1979.
Characterization of the capsid protein of to-
bacco etch virus before and after in situ
degradation. 9th International Congress of
Plant Protection. Phytopathology 69:1031
(abstract).

Mackenzie, J. R.; Finlayson, D. G. 1979. Cabbage
maggot control in direct-seeded broccoli and
cauliflower. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:102-103.

Pepin, H. S. 1979. Evalution of fungicides for the
control of cotton ball of cranberry. Pestic. Res.
Rep. 1979:368.

Pepin, H. S.; Maurer, A. R. 1979. Control of
Botrytis pod rot and white mold of beans.
Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:394.

Peschken, D.; Wilkinson, A. T. S.; Finnamore, D.
1980. Biological control of Canada thistle in
Canada. Proceedings Canadian Thistle Sym-
posium, pp. 140-166.

Vrain, T. C. 1979. Tolerance of carrot cultivars to
Meloidogyne hapla. J. Nematol. 11:316-317
(abstract).

Vrain, T. C. 1980. Fatty acids and their derivatives
for nematode control. J. Nematol. 12:240
(abstract).

Vrain, T. C. 1980. Book review: Root-knot nema-
todes {Meloidogyne species). Lamberti, F.;
Taylor, C. E., eds. Revue de Nématologie.
Academic Press. Vol. 3. pp. 317-318.

Vrain, T. C. 1980. Nematode populations in Que-
bec apple orchards. Proc. Can. Phytopathol.
Soc. 46:73 (abstract).

Wilkinson, A. T. S. 1979. Comparison of chlordane
and fonofos broadcast treatment for the control
of wireworms. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:137.

Wilkinson, A. T. S. 1980. Wireworms in British
Columbia. Can. Agric. 25(2): 1 6- 1 8.

Wilkinson, A. T. S.; Finlayson, D. G.; Brown, M.
J.; Mackenzie, J. R. 1979. Broadcast and
furrow treatments for the control of wire-
worms. Pestic. Res. Rep. 1979:186-188.

RESEARCH STATION, VANCOUVER, B.C.

421

POSTGRADUATE THESIS

In partial fulfillment of a degree by the Department of Plant Science, University of British
Columbia, all or a significant portion of the research was carried out at the Research Station at
Vancouver.

Donnelly, D. J. 1980. In vitro culture of four Rubus species.

422 RESEARCH BRANCH REPORT 1980

PROGRAM STRUCTURE OF THE
RESEARCH BRANCH

Departmental aim

The basic aim for Agriculture Canada, within the framework of overall government objectives and in
cooperation with provincial governments, is to develop and assist the Canadian agricultural and food
system, to provide for the needs of Canadians, for export markets, and for international aid
commitments in a manner which assures: (a) a dependable supply of safe, nutritious food at
reasonable prices to consumers; and (b) equitable returns to producers and processors.

Branch objectives and goals

LAND RESEARCH

1 Soil management and conservation

To obtain an understanding of the properties that limit the productivity of selected soils.
GOAL 1 : SOIL MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION. By 1 982, to have produced information that
will provide a basis for improved management of selected problem soils, by studying their chemical,
biological, and physical properties.

2 Land inventory and evaluation

To obtain a reliable inventory of Canadian soils and to develop improved methods for their
characterization, classification, and evaluation.

GOAL 1 : LAND INVENTORY AND EVALUATION. By 1 984, to have promoted better utilization of the
soil resources in selected regions of Canada, by developing a soil inventory and more reliable
methods and criteria for classifying and mapping soils; and to have developed procedures for
evaluating the capability of Canadian soils for agricultural production.

WATER RESEARCH

1 Irrigation, drainage, and desalination

To improve water management, irrigation, and drainage on Canadian soils in order to increase

productivity.

GOAL 1 : IRRIGATION, DRAINAGE, AND DESALINATION. By 1 982, to have increased the production

of selected soils, by improving water use efficiency and by developing superior methods of irrigation,

drainage, and desalination.

2 Meteorological and climatic indices

To increase the use of climate resource information.

GOAL 1: METEOROLOGICAL AND CLIMATIC INDICES. By 1982, to have increased the use of
climatic resource information in weather-sensitive agricultural operations, in assessing productivity,
and in research applications by improving methodology, assessing and interpreting available data,
and deriving selected meteorological and climatic indices.

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

1 Energy utilization and conservation

To improve on-farm production and the use and conservation of energy.

GOAL 1: ENERGY UTILIZATION AND CONSERVATION. By 1982, to have reduced the farmers'
dependence on fossil fuels and to have reduced energy costs, by applying known technology and
developing and applying new technology.

2 Environmental quality

To develop agricultural management practices consistent with production and environmental
requirements.

GOAL 1 : ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY. By 1 982, to have provided information and to have developed
and applied technology for controlling pollution from plant nutrients and residue components of
selected animal and crop production systems, by conducting field and laboratory studies; and to
have determined the environmental acceptability of existing and new pesticide management

423

systems by using models and performing chemical analyses of new pesticides and their residues in
the soil.

ANIMAL PRODUCTION RESEARCH

1 Beef cattle

To improve the efficiency of beef production and the quality of beef products.

GOAL 1 : BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND MANAGEMENT. By 1 983, to have provided new information
that will make possible a 5% increase in beef yield per breeding cow, while maintaining or improving
carcass and meat quality, through a program of selection, crossbreeding, and reproductive
physiology; to have developed new or improved cow-calf systems, rangeland management, crop
residue use, and feedlot feeding systems; and to have developed measures against metabolic
disorders and deficiencies.

2 Dairy cattle

To improve the efficiency of milk production.

GOAL 1 : BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND MANAGEMENT. By 1 982, to have provided new information
that will make possible a 10% improvement in overall efficiency of milk production, by improving
crossbreeding and intensive management systems; and through a systems approach, to have
provided improved techniques that will make possible more economical utilization of feed resources
for milk production under various geographic and economic environments.

3 Swine

To improve the efficiency of swine production and the quality of pork and pork products.
GOAL 1 BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND MANAGEMENT. By 1 983, to have provided new information
that will make possible a 5% increase in yield of pork per unit feed energy, while improving pork
quality, through research on breeding, reproductive physiology, and improved feeding and
management systems.

4 Poultry

To improve the efficiency of production of eggs and poultry meat and the quality of the products.
GOAL 1 BREEDING, NUTRITION, AND MANAGEMENT. By 1 983, to have provided new information
on breeding, nutrition, and management of laying hens that will make possible increases of 4% in the
weight of eggs and 10% in yield of meat per unit feed energy, and new information on the factors
influencing interior and shell quality of eggs, through breeding and selection, reduction of metabolic
disorders, and development of superior feeding and management systems.

5 Sheep

To improve the efficiency of sheep production and the quality of mutton and lamb products.
GOAL 1:BREEDING, NUTRITION, PHYSIOLOGY, and MANAGEMENT. By 1983, to have provided
new information that will make possible increases of 10% in lamb production per year and 5% in
growth rate of lambs, through breeding, improved reproductive efficiency, and development of
superior feeding and management systems.

6 Other animals and honey bees

To improve the efficiency of production of other animals and honey bees, and the quality of their
products.

GOAL 1: DISEASE, PHYSIOLOGY, FEEDING, AND MANAGEMENT. By 1982, through extramural
research, to have made possible a 5% increase in the productivity of fur-bearing animals, by
improving feed products, reducing losses caused by disease, and increasing understanding of
reproductive processes; and, through in-house research, to have provided new information that will
make possible a 2% increase in the productivity of honey bees, by applying knowledge of
pheromone chemistry, genetics, and disease control, and by improving overwintering and other
management practices.

CROP PRODUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
1 Wheat

To increase production and protection of wheat through multidisciplinary research.
GOAL 1: BREEDING AND MANAGEMENT. By 1982, to have provided new information and
technology that will make possible a 5% increase in unit yield of wheat, while maintaining or
improving quality to meet market demand, by developing superior varieties and improving
management practices.

424

2 Other cereal crops

To increase production of barley, oats, corn, and rye and buckwheat through multidisciplinary

research.

GOAL 1 BARLEY. By 1981, to have provided new information and technology that will make

possible a 5% increase in unit yield of barley, while maintaining or improving quality to meet market

demand, by developing superior varieties and improving management practices.

GOAL 2: OATS. By 1 981 , to have provided new information and technology that will make possible a

5% increase in unit yield of oats, while maintaining quality to meet market demand, by developing

superior varieties and improving management practices.

GOAL 3: CORN. By 1 981 , to have provided new information and technology that will make possible a

1 0% increase in unit yield of grain corn and silage corn, while maintaining quality to meet market

demand and to have obtained a 1% increase in area cropped with corn, by developing superior

inbred or hybrid varieties of grain and silage corn and improving management practices.

GOAL 4: RYE AND BUCKWHEAT. By 1 981 , to have developed one winter rye and one buckwheat

cultivar and improved management practices that will increase the yield potential by 5%, while

maintaining or improving quality to meet market demands.

3 Oilseed crops

To increase the efficiency of production through multidisciplinary research on rapeseed and

mustard, sunflowers, soybeans, and flax.

GOAL 1: RAPESEED AND MUSTARD. By 1981, to have provided new information and technology

that will make possible a 5% increase in unit yield of rapeseed and mustard, and an improvement in

the quality of the seed and processed products to meet market demand, by developing superior

varieties and improving management practices.

GOAL 2: SUNFLOWERS. By 1 981 , to have provided new information and technology that will make

possible a 1 0% increase in unit yield of sunflower seed in the Black soil zones and a 1 0% increase in

the commercial production of sunflowers in the Brown soil zones, while maintaining or improving the

quality of the seed and processed products to meet market demand, by developing superior inbred

and hybrid varieties and improving management practices.

GOAL 3: SOYBEANS. By 1981, to have provided new information and technology that will make
possible a 5% increase in unit yield of soybeans and to have given an indication of their value as a
crop in nontraditional regions, while maintaining or improving quality to meet market demand, by
developing superior varieties and improving management practices.

GOAL 4: FLAX. By 1 981 , to have provided new information and technology that will make possible a
5% increase in unit yield of flax, while maintaining or improving quality to meet market demand, by
developing superior varieties and improving management practices.

4 Forage crops

To increase the efficiency of forage crop production systems and the quality of forage crops through
multidisciplinary research.

GOAL 1 : LEGUMES AND GRASSES. By 1 984, to have provided new information and technology that
will make possible a 1 0% increase in unit yield of digestible dry matter in forage legumes and forage
grasses, by developing superior varieties, improving management practices, and increasing seed
production.

5 Horticultural crops

To improve the efficiency of production of tree fruits, berries, vegetables, potatoes, and ornamentals
through multidisciplinary research.

GOAL 1 : TREE FRUITS. By 1 980, to have developed new information and technology that will make
possible a 1 0% increase in unit yield of tree fruits, while maintaining or improving their quality for
fresh and processed use, by developing superior cultivars and improving management practices.

GOAL 2: BERRIES. By 1980, to have developed new information and technology that will make
possible a 5% increase in berry yield, while achieving higher standards of quality for fresh and
processed use, by developing superior cultivars with greater winterhardiness and disease
resistance, and improving management practices.

GOAL 3: VEGETABLES. By 1 980, to have developed new information and technology that will make
possible a 5% increase in unit yield of vegetable crops, while achieving higher standards of quality
for fresh and processed use, by developing superior cultivars and improving management practices.

GOAL 4: POTATOES. By 1980, to have provided new information and technology that will make
possible a 5% increase in unit yield of potatoes, while achieving higher standards of quality for fresh

425

and processed use, by developing superior cultivars and improving pest control and management
practices.

GOAL 5: ORNAMENTALS. By 1980, to have developed and introduced six new and improved
cultivars of greenhouse crops, nursery stock, and turf grasses that are needed by the ornamentals
trades; to have achieved a 5% increase in the yield of commercial ornamental crops, by improving
cultural practices; and to have reduced energy consumption in greenhouses to 1 0% lower than
previous levels.

6 Field crops

To improve the efficiency of production through multidisciplinary research on tobacco; field peas,
beans, and other pulses; and new crops.

GOAL 1: TOBACCO. By 1980, to have provided new information and technology that will make
possible a better understanding of tobacco quality and a 10% increase in unit yield of tobaccos
improved to meet market demand, by developing superior cultivars, improving management
practices, and applying knowledge of tobacco quality characteristics.

GOAL 2: FIELD PEAS, BEANS, AND OTHER PULSE CROPS. By 1981, to have provided new
information and technology that will make possible a 5% increase in unit yield of field peas, beans,
and other pulse crops, while maintaining or improving quality to meet market demand, by developing
superior varieties and improving management and postharvest storage practices.
GOAL 3: NEW CROPS. By 1981, to have determined the potential and suitability for commercial
production of 1 0 selected new crops, through assessment of their production and market aspects,
and to have demonstrated the method of growing, protecting, and utilizing five new crops previously
identified as having this potential.

PRODUCTION SUPPORT RESEARCH

1 Supportive research and development

To provide new research information on crops, animals, and soils.

GOAL 1; WINTERHARDINESS. By 1984, to have defined and described selected physiological
activities in plants, by completing biochemical and physiological studies, and to have shown how
these properties can be used to improve efficiency of crop production.

GOAL 2: NITROGEN FIXATION. By 1984, to have developed information on new or more effective
ways of fixing atmospheric nitrogen, by studying hosts, bacteria, and the biological processes.
GOAL 3: CYTOGENETICS. To develop methods of producing doubled haploids for breeding cereal
and crucifer species; to establish cell and protoplast cultures for more efficient selection of useful
mutants, for parasexual hybridization, and for whole-plant regeneration in several crop species; and
to analyze cytogenetic relationships that facilitate interspecific transfer of genes in cereal and
bromegrass species.

GOAL 4: RESEARCH SERVICES. To continue to maintain a Canadian collection of plant gene
resources and a storage and retrieval system for gene data; to produce and distribute special seed
for plant breeders; to provide research and service in electron microscopy and analytical chemistry
and to provide editing, text processing, and graphics services for research programs and to maintain
computerized national information systems on agricultural research and on pesticides.
GOAL 5: ENGINEERING AND STATISTICS. To continue to support Branch and Departmental
research and development, by providing services in statistical design, analysis, and interpretation
and by developing instruments, apparatus, and equipment.

2 Protection

To provide new broad research information on the protection of animals and crops from diseases,
insects, and weeds.

GOAL 1 : BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL CONTROL AND ECOLOGY OF WEEDS. By 1 984, to have
developed new information and technology for determining the potential for biological control of 25
major weeds, by selecting, establishing, and assessing suitable biotic agents, to have developed
environmentally safe and effective methods for controlling selected weeds with herbicides, by
studying their mode of action, methods of application, and persistence in the environment, and to
have provided technological information that will make it possible to reduce crop losses caused by
weeds, by studying the ecology of 30 selected weeds and gathering information on their biological
importance, reactions to herbicides, cultural management practices, and other biological
characteristics.

GOAL 2: INTEGRATED CONTROL OF INSECT PESTS ON RAPESEED. By 1984. to have provided
new information and technology that will make possible the development of one or more

426

management systems for controlling insect pests in rapeseed crops, by studying insects and their
natural control factors, and evaluating the benefit-to-cost and benefit-to-risk relationships and the
impact of control procedures on environmental quality.

GOAL 3: DISEASE AND INSECT CONTROL. By 1 984, to have achieved a better understanding of the
mode of action, degradation, and side effects of selected insecticides and fungicides, and to have
improved the control of injurious insects and fungal diseases with the use of chemical pesticides and
with the development of more effective chemical agents.

GOAL 4: CONTROL OF PLANT VIRUSES AND MYCOPLASMS. By 1 984, to have improved control of
plant viruses and mycoplasms, by developing further information on their biochemistry and
ultrastructure, their vector-host relationships, and their mechanisms of movement and infection in
plants.

GOAL 5: CONTROL OF NEMATODE DISEASES. By 1984, to have improved control of nematode
diseases, by identifying the species on major agricultural crops, studying their host-parasite
relationships, and improving the effectiveness of nematocide use in integrated control systems.
GOAL 6ANIMAL PROTECTION. By 1 984, to have developed efficient, economical, and environmen-
tally acceptable methods for protecting livestock from arthropod pests and parasites, and to have
increased livestock productivity, through improved animal protection and improved management of
parasites.

3 Biosystematics

To clarify the taxonomy of and provide identification services for vascular plants, insects, arachnids,
nematodes, and fungi found in Canada.

GOAL 1: VASCULAR PLANTS. By 1981, to have resolved the taxonomy of selected groups of
vascular plants, particularly those relating to Canadian agriculture, by completing floristic surveys
and inventories of selected areas, developing and maintaining a National Vascular Plant Herbarium
and a collection of living plants, and providing an efficient identification and information service.
GOAL 2: INSECTS, ARACHNIDS, AND NEMATODES. By 1 981 , to have completed the taxonomy of
selected groups of insects, arachnids, and nematodes, particularly those relating to Canadian
agriculture, by making faunal surveys and inventories of selected areas, developing and maintaining
a national collection of these biota, and providing an efficient identification and information service.
GOAL 3: FUNGI. By 1 981 , to have improved the taxonomy of selected groups of fungi, particularly
those relating to Canadian agriculture, by completing fungal surveys and inventories of selected
areas, developing and maintaining a National Herbarium and Culture Collection, and providing an
efficient identification and information service.

FARM INPUT SUPPLY RESEARCH
1 Machinery and structural research

To provide information and technology needed for improving and better utilizing farm structures and

machinery.

GOAL 1 : MACHINERY AND STRUCTURES TECHNOLOGY. On a continuing basis, to support branch

and departmental programs on farm machinery and structures, by providing, developing, and

assessing new and existing technology.

PROCESSING RESEARCH

1 Processing technology

To develop new food processing technology and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of food

processing systems, including background research on the chemical and physical changes that take

place during processing, and evaluation at a pilot-plant scale, as required.

GOAL 1 : FOOD PROCESSING. By 1 985, to have developed or improved technology and equipment

for extracting and utilizing components of selected plant and animal agricultural products and

converting fresh material into attractive and stable processed foods.

GOAL 2: FOOD QUALITY. By 1 985, to have developed new or improved technology for measuring

and improving the quality of selected food products at intermediate and final stages of processing,

and to have improved food quality in the finished product, by studying the reactions that take place

during processing.

2 New-product development

To develop and characterize useful new ingredients or products for presentation to private industry
for evaluation and application, and to develop the technology required to produce them, including
evaluation at a pilot-plant scale, as required.

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GOAL 1 : NEW FOOD PRODUCTS AND INGREDIENTS DEVELOPMENT. By 1 985, to have developed
methods and processes of interest to industry for new food products and ingredients with valuable
functional or nutritional properties with commercial potential.

DISTRIBUTING RESEARCH
1 Stored products

To improve the technology and effectiveness of off-farm storage of fresh fruits and vegetables, and to

reduce losses in stored grains and oilseeds by controlling insects.

GOAL 1: STORAGE OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. By 1985, to have developed new information

and technology that will make possible a 1 0% extension of the storage life of fresh fruits and

vegetables, while maintaining or improving product quality, by physiological studies and the

development of optimum storage conditions.

GOAL 2: STORAGE OF GRAINS AND OILSEEDS. By 1985, to have developed methods and

provided recommendations that will make possible a 1 0% reduction in losses caused by infestation

of insects, mites, and fungi in cereals, oilseeds, and their products during storage, by conducting

surveys of pest populations and research on control measures.

FOOD SAFETY AND NUTRITION RESEARCH

1 Food safety

To increase consumer protection by conducting research to reduce antinutritional factors and

microbiological and chemical contaminants in agricultural products and foods.

GOAL 1 : TOXICANTS AND CONTAMINANTS. By 1 985, to have defined potential hazards caused by

selected undesirable material in feedstuffs and foods, by studying their occurrence and their

interactions in the food system, and to have developed control procedures for their prevention or

removal.

2 Nutrition

To assist in improving the general level of nutrition of Canadian consumers.

GOAL 1: FOOD COMPOSITION AND NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY. By 1985, to have provided new
information and technology that will make it possible to improve human nutrition, by monitoring the
composition of animal and plant material, formulating food products derived from them, and
determining the availability of selected nutrients.

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STRUCTURE DU PROGRAMME DE LA
DIRECTION GÉNÉRALE DE LA RECHERCHE

Objectif du Ministère

L'objectif fondamental du ministère de l'Agriculture du Canada, dans le cadre de l'ensemble des
objectifs gouvernementaux et en collaboration avec les gouvernements provinciaux, est de dévelop-
per le réseau agro-alimentaire canadien, de l'aider à répondre aux besoins des marchés national et
étrangers, et à remplir ses engagements en matière d'aide international de manière à assurer:

(a) aux consommateurs, un approvisionnement sûr d'aliments sains et nutritifs à prix raisonnable et

(b) aux producteurs et aux transformateurs, une rémunération équitable.

Objectifs et buts de la Direction générale

RECHERCHE SUR LES TERRES

1 Gestion et conservation des sols

Trouver les principales causes qui nuisent à la productivité de certains sols.

BUT 1: GESTION ET CONSERVATION DES SOLS. D'ici 1982, chercher de nouveaux moyens
d'améliorer la pratique de sols sélectionnés, par l'étude de leurs caractéristiques chimiques,
biologiques et physiques.

2 INVENTAIRE ET ÉVALUATION DES SOLS

Constituer un inventaire complet des sols canadiens et améliorer des méthodes pour mieux les
caractériser, les classifier et les évaluer.

BUT 1: INVENTAIRE ET ÉVALUATION DES TERRES. D'ici 1984, rendre possible une meilleure
utilisation des ressources pédologiques dans certaines régions du Canada, en constituant un
inventaire et en établissant des méthodes et des critères plus efficaces de classification et de
cartographie des sols; et élaborer des méthodes d'évaluation des ressources pédologiques cana-
diennes pour la production agricole.

RECHERCHE SUR LES EAUX

1 Irrigation, drainage et dessalinisation

Améliorer les techniques d'utilisation des ressources hydriques, l'irrigation et le drainage des sols
canadiens dans le but d'en améliorer la productivité.

BUT 1 : IRRIGATION, DRAINAGE ET DESSALINISATION. D'ici 1 982, augmenter la production de sols
sélectionnés, en accroissant l'efficacité de l'utilisation des ressources hydriques et en mettant au
point de meilleures méthodes d'irrigation, de drainage et de dessalinisation.

2 Indices météorologiques et climatologiques

Accroître l'utilisation des données sur les ressources climatiques.

BUT 1 : INDICES MÉTÉOROLOGIQUES ET CLIMATOLOGIQUES. D'ici 1 982, accroître l'utilisation de
l'information climatologique, particulièrement en ce qui a trait aux opérations agricoles tributaires
du climat, au chapitre des prévisions sur la productivité et dans le domaine de l'application des
recherches, grâce à l'amélioration des méthodes, l'évaluation et l'interprétation des données
disponibles, et l'élaboration d'indices météorologiques et climatiques choisis.

ÉNERGIE ET QUALITÉ DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT

1 Utilisation et conservation de l'énergie

Améliorer la production, l'utilisation et la conservation de l'énergie sur l'exploitation.
BUT 1 : UTILISATION ET CONSERVATION DE L'ÉNERGIE. D'ici 1 982, atténuer la dépendance des
agriculteurs envers les combustibles fossiles et réduire les coûts de l'énergie, par l'application des
techniques actuelles et par l'élaboration et l'application de techniques nouvelles.

2 Qualité de l'environnement

Élaborer des pratiques de gestion agricole correspondant à la production et respectant

l'environnement.

BUT 1: QUALITÉ DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT. D'ici 1982, grâce à des études sur le terrain et en

laboratoire, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles de contrôle de la pollution

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causée par les éléments nutritifs végétaux et les résidus de divers systèmes de production animale et
végétale; et déterminer jusqu'à quel point l'environnement peut tolérer les systèmes actuels et futurs
d'utilisation des pesticides, par l'emploi de modèles et d'analyses chimiques des nouveaux
pesticides et de leurs résidus dans le sol.

RECHERCHE SUR LA PRODUCTION ANIMALE

1 Bovins de boucherie

Accroître l'efficacité de la production bovine et améliorer la qualité des produits.

BUT 1: REPRODUCTION, NUTRITION ET CONDUITE. D'ici 1983, mettre au point de nouvelles
données qui permettront d'accroître de 5% les rendements en viande par vache reproductrice, tout
en maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité des carcasses et de la viande, grâce à la mise en oeuvre
d'un programme de sélection, de croisement et de physiologie reproductive; mettre au point des
systèmes d'élevage vache-veau nouveaux ou améliorés ainsi que des systèmes de gestion des
pâturages, d'utilisation des résidus de cultures et d'alimentation du bétail en parcs; et perfectionner
des mesures préventives contre les troubles et les déficiences métaboliques.

2 Bovins laitiers

Accroître l'efficacité de la production laitière.

BUT 1 : REPRODUCTION, NUTRITION ET CONDUITE DES TROUPEAUX. D'ici 1 982, mettre au point
des données qui permettront d'accroître de 1 0% l'efficacité globale de la production laitière, grâce à
des systèmes de croisement et de production intensive; et améliorer des techniques systématisés
permettant l'utilisation plus économique des aliments dans la production laitière en fonction des
diverses conditions géographiques et économiques.

3 Porcs

Accroître l'efficacité de la production porcine et améliorer la qualité de la viande et des produits du
porc.

BUT 1: REPRODUCTION, NUTRITION ET CONDUITE. D'ici 1983, mettre au point de nouvelles
données qui permettront d'accroître de 5% le rendement de porc par unité d'énergie alimentaire
tout en améliorant la qualité de la viande, par des recherches sur l'amélioration génétique, la
physiologie de la reproduction et la mise au point de meilleurs systèmes d'alimentation et de gestion.

4 Volailles

Accroître l'efficacité de la production des oeufs et améliorer la qualité des produits.

BUT 1: REPRODUCTION, NUTRITION ET CONDUITE. D'ici 1983, mettre au point de nouvelles
données sur l'amélioration génétique, la nutrition et la conduite des pondeuses qui permettront
d'accroître de 4% le poids des oeufs et de 10% la production de viande par unité d'énergie
alimentaire, en plus de mettre au point de nouvelles données sur les facteurs déterminants de la
qualité intérieure de l'oeuf et de sa coquille, par l'amélioration génétique et la sélection, et aussi par
la diminution des troubles du métabolisme et la mise au point de meilleurs systèmes d'alimentation
et de conduite des troupeaux.

5 Moutons

Améliorer l'efficacité de l'élevage ovin et la qualité des produits du mouton et de l'agneau.

BUT 1 : REPRODUCTION, NUTRITION, PHYSIOLOGIE ET CONDUITE. D'ici 1 983, grâce à l'améliora-
tion des races et à une plus grande efficacité de la reproduction ainsi qu'à l'élaboration de meilleurs
systèmes d'alimentation et de conduite des troupeaux, mettre au point de nouvelles données qui
permettront d'accroître de 1 0% la production d'agneaux par année et de 5% le taux de croissance
des agneaux.

6 Autres animaux et abeilles

Accroître l'efficacité de la production des autres animaux et des abeilles, et améliorer la qualité de
leurs produits.

BUT 1 : MALADIES, PHYSIOLOGIE, ALIMENTATION ET CONDUITE. D'ici 1 982, grâce à la recherche
extra-muros, accroître de 5% la productivité des animaux à fourrure en améliorant les produits
alimentaires, en réduisant les pertes dues aux maladies et en accroissant les connaissances de la
reproduction; et grâce à la recherche interne, mettre au point de nouvelles données qui permettront
d'accroître de 2% la productivité des abeilles, en effectuant des recherches sur la chimie des
phérormones, la génétique et la lutte contre les maladies, et en améliorant la conduite des ruchers au
cours de l'hiver et d'autres modes de gestion.

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RECHERCHE SUR LA PRODUCTION ET L'AMÉLIORATION DES CULTURES

1 Blé

Poursuivre des recherches pluridisciplinaires pour améliorer la production et la protection du blé.
BUT 1: PRODUCTION ET GESTION. D'ici 1982, mettre au point des données et des techniques
nouvelles permettant d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire du blé, tout en maintenant ou en
améliorant la qualité pour répondre aux besoins du marché, grâce à la création de variétés
supérieures et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

2 Autres cultures céréalières

Poursuivre des recherches pluridisciplinaires pour améliorer la production de l'orge, de l'avoine, du

maïs, du seigle et du sarrasin.

BUT 1: ORGE. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant

d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire d'orge, tout en maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité pour

satisfaire la demande du marché, grâce à la création de variétés supérieures et à l'amélioration des

pratiques culturales.

BUT 2: AVOINE. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant

d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire de l'avoine, tout en maintenant la qualité pour répondre aux

besoins du marché, par la création de variétés supérieures et l'amélioration des pratiques

culturales.

BUT 3: MAÏS. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant

d'accroître de 1 0% le rendement unitaire du maïs-grain et du maïs d'ensilage, tout en maintenant la

qualité pour satisfaire la demande du marché, et accroître de 1% la superficie cultivée de maïs,

grâce à la création de variétés autofécondées supérieures, d'hybrides supérieurs de maïs-grain et

de maïs d'ensilage, et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

BUT 4: SEIGLE ET SARRASIN. D'ici 1 981 , mettre au point un cultivar de seigle d'hiver et un cultivar

de sarrasin, et améliorer des pratiques culturales de façon à augmenter le rendement potentiel de

5% tout en maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité pour répondre aux besoins du marché.

3 Oléagineux

Mener des recherches pluridisciplinaires pour améliorer l'efficacité de la production du colza, de la
moutarde, du tournesol, du soja et du lin.

BUT 1 : COLZA ET MOUTARDE. D'ici 1 981 , mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles
permettant d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire du colza et de la moutarde, et d'améliorer la
qualité de la graine et de ses produits pour répondre aux besoins du marché, grâce à la création de
variétés supérieures et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

BUT 2: TOURNESOL. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles qui
permettront d'accroître de 1 0% le rendement unitaire des graines de tournesol dans les zones de
sol noir et de 10% la production de graines de tournesol dans les zones de sol brun, tout en
maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité de la graine et de ses produits pour répondre aux besoins des
marchés, par la création de variétés autofécondées supérieures et d'hybrides supérieurs, et
l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

BUT 3: SOJA. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant
d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire du soja, et démontrer sa valeur comme culture possible
dans de nouvelles régions, tout en maintenant ou en améliorant sa qualité pour répondre aux besoins
du marché, grâce à la création de variétés supérieures et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.
BUT 4: LIN. D'ici 1981, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant
d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire du lin, tout en maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité pour
répondre aux besoins du marché, par la création de variétés supérieures et l'amélioration des
pratiques culturales.

4 Cultures fourragères

Poursuivre des recherches pluridisciplinaires pour augmenter l'efficacité des systèmes de produc-
tion de cultures fourragères ainsi que la qualité de ces dernières.

BUT 1 : LÉGUMINEUSES ET GRAMINÉES FOURRAGÈRES. D'ici 1 984, mettre au point des données
et des techniques nouvelles permettant d'accroître de 1 0% le rendement unitaire en matière sèche
digestible des légumineuses et des graminées fourragères, grâce à la création de variétés supérieu-
res, à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales et à l'accroissement de la production de semences.

5 Horticulture

Améliorer, par le biais de la recherche pluridisciplinaire, l'efficacité des fruits de verger, des petits
fruits, des légumes, des pommes de terre et des plantes ornementales.

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BUT 1: FRUITS DE VERGER. D'ici 1980, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles
permettant d'accroître de 1 0% le rendement unitaire des fruits de verger, tout en maintenant ou en
améliorant les normes de qualité des produits frais et transformés, grâce à la création de meilleurs
cultivars et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

BUT 2: PETITS FRUITS. D'ici 1980, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles
permettant d'accroître de 5% le rendement des petits fruits, tout en respectant des normes plus
élevées de qualité des produits frais et transformés, grâce à la création de cultivars supérieurs
résistant mieux au froid et aux maladies, et grâce à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.
BUT 3: LÉGUMES. D'ici 1 980, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant
d'augmenter de 5% le rendement unitaire des légumes, tout en respectant des normes plus élevées
de qualité des produits frais et transformés, grâce à la création de meilleurs cultivars et à
l'amélioration des pratiques culturales.

BUT 4: POMMES DE TERRE. D'ici 1980, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles
permettant d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire des pommes de terre, tout en respectant des
normes plus élevées de qualité des produits frais et transformés, grâce à la création de cultivars
supérieurs et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales et des moyens de lutte contre les ravageurs.

BUT 5: PLANTES ORNEMENTALES. D'ici 1 980, créer et introduire six nouveaux cultivars améliorés
de plantes de serre, de pépinière et de graminées à gazon correspondant à la demande de ce
marché; accroître de 5% le rendement des plantes ornementales dans le secteur commercial, par
l'amélioration des pratiques culturales; enfin, réduire de 10% la consommation d'énergie dans les
serres.

6 Grandes cultures

Mener une recherche pluridisciplinaire pour améliorer l'efficacité de la production du tabac, des
pois, des haricots, d'autres légumineuses et de nouvelles cultures.

BUT 1: TABAC. D'ici 1980, mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant
d'élargir les connaissances sur la qualité des tabacs et d'accroître de 1 0% le rendement unitaire des
variétés de tabac améliorées en vue de répondre à la demande du marché, par la création de
meilleurs cultivars, l'amélioration des pratiques culturales et l'application des connaissances
acquises dans le domaine de la qualité du tabac.

BUT 2: POIS, HARICOTS ET AUTRES LÉGUMINEUSES. D'ici 1 981 , mettre au point des données et
des techniques nouvelles permettant d'accroître de 5% le rendement unitaire des pois, des haricots
et d'autres légumineuses tout en maintenant ou en améliorant la qualité pour répondre à la demande
du marché, grâce à la création de variétés supérieures et à l'amélioration des pratiques culturales et
des techniques d'entreposage après récolte.

BUT 3: NOUVELLES CULTURES. D'ici 1981, déterminer les possibilités d'implantation dans le
commerce de 10 nouvelles cultures par l'évaluation des conditions de production et de mise en
marché, et décrire les méthodes de production, de protection et d'utilisation de cinq nouvelles
cultures dont les possibilités ont déjà été reconnues.

RECHERCHE D'APPUI À LA PRODUCTION
1 Recherche et développement d'appui

Fournir de nouvelles données de la recherche sur les cultures, les animaux et les sols.

BUT 1 : RUSTICITÉ. D'ici 1 984, définir et décrire diverses activités physiologiques des végétaux par

des études biochimiques et physiologiques, et montrer comment ces caractéristiques peuvent être

utilisées pour améliorer l'efficacité des productions culturales.

BUT 2: FIXATION DE L'AZOTE. D'ici 1 984, mettre au point des données sur les méthodes nouvelles

ou améliorées de fixation de l'azote atmosphérique, par l'étude des hôtes, des bactéries et des

fonctions biologiques.

BUT 3: CYTOGÉNÉTIQUE. Chez les espèces de céréales et de crucifèracèes, élaborer des

méthodes de production de matériaux haploïdes doublés aux fins de l'amélioration génétique; chez

plusieurs espèces culturales, établir des cultures cellulaires et des protoplastes pour une meilleure

sélection des mutants utiles, pour la création parasexuelle d'hybrides et pour la régénération de

plantes entières; chez les espèces de céréales et de brome, élucider les relations cytogènétiques

facilitant le transfert de certains gènes entre diverses espèces.

BUT 4: SERVICES DE RECHERCHE. Maintenir de façon permanente une collection canadienne des

ressources phytogènètiques ainsi qu'un fichier central de données génétiques produire des

semences spéciales à l'intention des phytosèlectionneurs et assurer leur distribution; assurer un

service et de la recherche en microscopie électronique et en chimie analytique; fournir des services

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d'illustration aux programmes de recherche et maintenir des systèmes nationaux d'information
mécanographiée sur la recherche agricole et sur les pesticides.

BUT 5: INGÉNIERIE ET STATISTIQUE. Appuyer de façon permanente les programmes de recherche
et de développement de la Direction générale et du Ministère par l'élaboration, l'analyse et
l'interprétation des statistiques, et la conception d'instruments, d'appareils et d'équipement.

2 Protection

Mettre au point de nouvelles données de recherches applicables de façon générale à la protection
des animaux et des cultures contre les maladies, les insectes et les mauvaises herbes.
BUT 1 : LUTTE BIOLOGIQUE ET CHIMIQUE, ET ÉCOLOGIE DES MAUVAISES HERBES. D'ici 1 984,
mettre au point des données et des techniques nouvelles permettant de déterminer les possibilités
de réussite de la lutte biologique contre 25 des plus importantes mauvaises herbes, par la sélection,
l'élevage et l'évaluation d'agents biotiques appropriés; et mettre au point des méthodes de lutte
efficaces et non dommageables à l'environnement, capables d'éliminer certaines mauvaises herbes
au moyen d'herbicides, grâce à des études sur leur mode d'action, les façons de les appliquer et leur
persistance dans l'environnement; et mettre au point des données techniques nouvelles permettant
de réduire les baisses de rendement causées par les mauvaises herbes, grâce à l'étude écologique
de 30 mauvaises herbes sélectionnées et à la collecte de données sur leur importance biologique,
sur leur réaction aux herbicides et aux pratiques culturales, et sur leurs autres caractéristiques
biologiques.

BUT 2: LUTTE INTÉGRÉE CONTRE LES INSECTES DU COLZA. D'ici 1984, mettre au point des
données et des techniques nouvelles qui permettront l'élaboration d'un ou de plusieurs systèmes de
lutte contre les insectes du colza, en menant des recherches sur ces insectes et leurs prédateurs, et
en évaluant les rapports coût-bénéfice et risque-bénéfice ainsi que l'impact des méthodes de lutte
sur la qualité de l'environnement.

BUT 3: MALADIES ET LUTTE CONTRE LES INSECTES. D'ici 1984, élargir les connaissances des
modes d'action, de la dégradation et des effets secondaires de divers insecticides et fongicides, et
rendre possible la lutte améliorée contre les insectes ravageurs et les maladies fongiques par les
pesticides chimiques, tout en développant des agents chimiques plus efficaces.
BUT 4: LUTTE CONTRE LES VIRUS ET LES MYCOPLASMES. D'ici 1 984, améliorer les méthodes de
lutte contre les virus et les mycoplasmes des végétaux en menant des études plus poussées sur leur
biochimie et leur ultrastructure, les rapports vecteur-hôte et les mécanismes de transport et
d'infection à l'intérieur des plantes.

BUT 5: LUTTE CONTRE LES NEMATODES. D'ici 1984, améliorer les méthodes de lutte contre les
maladies causées par les nematodes en identifiant les espèces qui s'attaquent aux principales
cultures, en étudiant les rapports hôte-parasite et en déterminant les méthodes d'utilisation les plus
efficaces des nématicides dans la lutte intégrée contre les ravageurs.

BUT 6: PROTECTION DES ANIMAUX. D'ici 1 984, mettre au point des méthodes pratiques, efficaces,
économiques et écologiques pour assurer la protection des troupeaux contre les arthropodes et les
parasites, et augmenter la productivité du bétail grâce à l'amélioration de la protection des
troupeaux et de la lutte contre les parasites.

3 Biosystématique

Clarifier la taxonomie et assurer un service d'identification des plantes vasculaires, des insectes, des
arachnides, des nematodes et des champignons du Canada.

BUT 1: PLANTES VASCULAIRES. D'ici 1981, résoudre les problèmes relatifs à la taxonomie de
groupes sélectionnés de plantes vasculaires, en particulier celles qui intéressent le secteur agricole
canadien, en effectuant des relevés floristiques et en constituant des répertoires de la flore pour les
régions choisies, en montant et en conservant un herbier de plantes vasculaires ainsi qu'une
collection de plantes vivantes, et en fournissant, à partir de ces travaux, un service efficace
d'information et d'identification.

BUT 2: INSECTES, ARACHNIDES ET NEMATODES. D'ici 1 981 , compléter la taxonomie de groupes
sélectionnés d'insectes, d'arachnides et de nematodes, particulièrement ceux qui intéressent le
secteur agricole canadien, en effectuant des relevés de la faune, en dressant des répertoires pour les
régions choisies, en montant et en conservant une collection nationale de ces biotes et en
fournissant, à partir de ces travaux, un service efficace d'identification et d'information.

BUT 3: CHAMPIGNONS. D'ici 1981, améliorer la taxonomie de groupes sélectionnés de champi-
gnons, surtout ceux qui intéressent le secteur agricole canadien, en effectuant des relevés mycologi-
ques et en constituant des répertoires des champignons pour les régions choisies, en montant et en
conservant un herbier national et une collection des cultures de champignons et en fournissant, à
partir de ces travaux, un service efficace d'identification et d'information.

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RECHERCHE SUR LES FACTEURS DE PRODUCTION AGRICOLE
1 Recherche sur la machinerie et les bâtiments

Mettre au point des données et des techniques nécessaires à l'amélioration et à une meilleure
utilisation des bâtiments et de la machinerie agricoles.

BUT 1 . TECHNOLOGIE DE LA MACHINERIE ET DES BÂTIMENTS. Appuyer de façon permanente les
programmes de la Direction générale et du Ministère concernant la machinerie et les bâtiments
agricoles en fournissant, perfectionnant et évaluant les techniques courantes et nouvelles.

RECHERCHE SUR LA TRANSFORMATION

1 Technologie de la transformation

Élaborer de nouvelles techniques de transformation alimentaire et améliorer l'efficacité des systè-
mes de transformation, en favorisant la recherche de base sur les modifications chimiques et
physiques que subissent les aliments au cours de la transformation ainsi que l'évaluation par des
projets-pilote, le cas échéant.

BUT 1 : TRANSFORMATION ALIMENTAIRE. D'ici 1 985, mettre au point ou améliorer des techniques
et de l'équipement afin d'extraire et d'utiliser des composantes de produits agricoles sélectionnés,
d'origine végétale ou animale, et afin de convertir des produits frais en aliments transformés qui se
conservent bien et ont une apparence savoureuse.

BUT 2: QUALITÉ DES ALIMENTS. D'ici 1985, mettre au point des techniques nouvelles ou
perfectionnées d'évaluation et d'amélioration de la qualité de divers produits alimentaires sélection-
nés aux niveaux intermédiaire et final de leur transformation et rehausser la qualité des produits
alimentaires finis par une meilleure connaissance des réactions qui surviennent au cours de la
transformation.

2 Développement de nouveaux produits

Mettre au point et caractériser des ingrédients ou produits nouveaux et utiles en vue de les soumettre
au secteur privé pour évaluation et fabrication, et mettre au point également la technologie
nécessaire à leur production, y compris leur évaluation par des projets-pilotes, le cas échéant.

BUT 1 : CRÉATION DE NOUVEAUX PRODUITS ET INGRÉDIENTS ALIMENTAIRES. D'ici 1 985, mettre
au point des méthodes et des procédés intéressant le secteur chargé de trouver de nouveaux
produits et ingrédients alimentaires qui pourraient offrir de bonnes propriétés fonctionnelles et
nutritionnelles, et une valeur commerciale.

RECHERCHE CONCERNANT LA DISTRIBUTION

1 Produits entreposés

Améliorer les techniques et l'efficacité de l'entreposage des fruits et des légumes frais hors des
exploitations; dans les entrepôts, réduire les pertes de céréales et d'oléagineux par une lutte
soutenue contre les insectes.

BUT 1 : ENTREPOSAGE DES FRUITS ET DES LÉGUMES. D'ici 1 985, mettre au point des données et
des techniques nouvelles qui permettront une prolongation de 10% de la conservation en entrepôt
des fruits et légumes frais, tout en maintenant ou en améliorant leur qualité, grâce à des études
physiologiques et à l'élaboration de meilleures conditions d'entreposage.

BUT 2: ENTREPOSAGE DES CÉRÉALES ET DES OLÉAGINEUX. D'ici 1 985, élaborer des méthodes
et faire les recommandations permettant de réduire de 1 0% les pertes que causent les insectes, les
acariens et les champignons aux céréales, aux oléagineux et à leurs produits en entreposage, grâce
à des études sur les populations de parasites et des recherches sur les moyens de lutte.

RECHERCHE SUR LA SALUBRITÉ DES ALIMENTS ET LA NUTRITION

1 Salubrité

Augmenter la protection du consommateur par des recherches visant à diminuer les facteurs
antinutritionnels et les contaminants microbiologiques et chimiques dans les produits agricoles et
les aliments.

BUT 1: ÉLÉMENTS TOXIQUES ET CONTAMINANTS. D'ici 1985, définir les dangers possibles de
certains éléments nocifs que renferment les aliments de consommation animale et humaine, grâce à
des recherches sur leur présence dans les aliments et leurs interactions dans le circuit alimentaire,
et élaborer des méthodes de contrôle pour leur prévention ou leur élimination.

434

2 Nutrition

Contribuer à l'amélioration du régime alimentaire général du consommateur canadien.
BUT 1: COMPOSITION ET VALEUR NUTRITIVE DES ALIMENTS. D'ici 1985, mettre au point des
données et des techniques nouvelles permettant de rehausser la valeur nutritive des aliments de
consommation humaine, par le contrôle de la composition des sources alimentaires animales et
végétales, par la formulation des produits alimentaires qui en sont dérivés et par l'évaluation de la
disponibilité de divers éléments nutritifs dans les aliments.

435

DATE DUE

DATE DE RETOUR

APR 0
AVR L

5 1986

LOWE-MARTIN No. 1137

IBRARY / BIBLIOTHEQUE

AGRICULTURE CANADA OTTAWA Kl A 0C5

3 1073 0005M0Mb 0

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Full text of "Research Branch report, 1980 = Rapport de la Direction générale de la recherche, 1980"

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