PLSCI 5030

Hemp Breeding and Genetics

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2024-2025.

This course will cover the foundations of plant genetics and plant breeding with a focus on the breeding of hemp for different market classes. topics for discussion will include; reproductive mechanisms, germplasm diversity, genomics of cannabinoid production, and genetic control of flowering. The class will include a mixture of lecture format and small group discussions of current literature.

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite for undergraduate students: college-level biology course, plus BIOMG 2800 or PLSCI 2250.

• Explain the genetics that control hemp characteristics and how favorable alleles can be combined to improve plant traits.
• Apply molecular marker and genome technology for rapid selection and the assessment of homozygosity and diversity.
• Compare the inheritance of quantitative traits vs. qualitative traits to develop breeding and selection schemes for long-term improvement.
• Quantify the relative contributions of genetics vs. environment in determining trait variation.
• Choose appropriate techniques for the cross-pollination and inbreeding of hemp.
• Devise a plan for the development of different types of cultivars of hemp.
• Analyze the outcomes of phenotypic, genotypic, and recurrent selection techniques.
• Develop a selection protocol based on the genetic basis of different phenotypic traits that are important targets of genetic improvement for hemp.
• Develop schemes that incorporate tissue culture and genetic transformation in hemp improvement.
• Identify and defend an appropriate strategy for intellectual property protection in a modern hemp breeding program.

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