C131
1. C131 is a 137-plant synthetic variety resulting from phenotypic recurrent selection for high relative feed value (using NIRS and wet chemistry techniques). Source material traces to four elite breeding lines selected for resistance to Phytophthora root rot Parental germplasm traces to DK 122, M. PHA 2001, WL 252 HQ1 Vernal1 and Ovation. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata - 16%; Ladak -19% M varia -27%; Turkistan -6%; and Flemish -32%.

2. C131 is adapted to and intended for use in the North Central and East Central regions of the United States. C131 has been yield tested in New York and Wisconsin.

3. Flower color of C131 at Syn 2 approximates 100% purple with a trace of cream, variegated, and white. The fall dormancy of C131 is similar to Vernal (Class 2).

4. C131 has high resistance to anthracnose (Race 1), bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, Phytophthora root rot, and Aphanomyces root rot (Race 1); resistance to pea aphid and spotted alfalfa aphid; moderate resistance to stem nematode; and low resistance to northern root-knot nematode. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid has not been adequately tested.

5. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced in 1994 on 137 plants under cage isolation at Bakersfield, CA. Sufficient foundation seed for the expected life of the variety will be maintained by W-L Research. One generation of Breeder (Syn 1) and two generations each of Foundation (Syn 2 or 3) and Certified (Syn 3 or 4) seed are recognized. Foundation seed must be produced above 40 degrees North latitude. The maximum permitted length of stand for Foundation and Certified seed fields are 3 and 5 years, respectively. Production of Syn 3 Foundation seed requires consent of the breeder.

6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1998.

7. It is undecided whether application will be made for Plant Variety Protection.

8. The information in this application can be turned over to the PVP office.

9.Experimental Designation: C131 Date submitted:November 1997.