Yield and growth characteristics of a high oil/protein soybean with Enhanced DGAT

Introduction of the VgDGAT1A gene in soybean [Glycine Max (L.) Merr] genotypes increased both protein and oil content and resulted in earlier maturation compared to commonly cultivated soybean genotypes (e.i. Jack). However, the effect of VgDGAT1A gene on the length of the vegetative, reproductive and the overall growth period of soybean has not been thoroughly evaluated. A randomized complete block design consisting of two transgenic soybean genotypes with VgD1-1 and VgD1-2 highly active acyl-CoA: diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) from ironweed [Vernonia galamensis (Cass) Less.] and non-transgenic control (Jack) was evaluated in field studies in 2015 and 2016 in Lexington, Kentucky. Levels of sucrose accumulation and seed weight were calculated for the three genotypes. Soybean grain yield, seed weight and seed number were similar among all genotypes in both years. Modified genotypes reached R7 (beginning of physiological maturity) stage earlier and the rate of dry weight accumulation in individual seeds ranged between 2.8 to 4.4 mg/seed/day and was not different in comparison to the control (ranged 3.4 to 4.7 mg/seed/day). While days to reach R7 was shorter in VgD, there were no differences among genotypes for pod weight (PW), seed weight (SW), pod (PS) and seed sucrose (SS) concentrations. Linear plateau and cubic models were the best fit for seed weight for both years. These results indicated that despite earlier maturation in VgD genotypes, seed growth and final soybean yield were similar among VgD and Jack. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved