Wheat protein improvement (Var. Atlas 66)

Atlas 66 has been the main genetic source of high protein in the ARS-Nebraska program. At least two genes condition protein level in Atlas 66. One of them is linked with a gene for leaf-rust resistance. Although the level of protein in wheat is variable due to environment, the protein advantage of lines derived from Atlas 66 over other similarly grown wheat persists in a wide array of environments. High protein in wheat is compatible with high yield, desirable agronomic traits, and satisfactory processing quality. New sources of high protein have been identified. High protein wheats provide more lysine and other essential amino acids per unit weight of grain than do ordinary wheats. At low protein levels, lysine per unit protein is negatively correlated with protein but no significant correlation exists at high protein levels.