Kevin Foster

Mechanisms of drought tolerance of albo tedera (Bituminaria bituminosa var albomarginata)

Kevin’s research will contribute new and unique information about the drought resistance of the perennial herbaceous pasture legume albo tedera (Bituminaria bituminosa var. albomarginata) both as a seedling and as a mature plant.

He will conduct detailed investigations into the drought adaptations and physiological traits that have allowed this species to persist and be productive in low-to medium-rainfall zones of the Western Australian wheatbelt. A better understanding of drought tolerance mechanisms will allow specific traits to be targeted in selection and breeding programs that will enhance the potential for the adoption of this species into low-rainfall pasture systems.

Kevin’s research falls into the CRC’s Program 2 research area and is related to the Perennial Legumes Forages For a Mediterranean Climate Project.

Objectives:

• Confirm drought resistance in albo tedera in five months old and mature plants in the field under drought
• Determine the mechanisms and physiology of drought tolerance in the field
• Examine drought tolerance in albo tedera in seedlings in the glasshouse and relate to field results
• Establish if albo tedera seedlings can nodulate effectively in the field without bacterial cultures.

For more information email Kevin.