Genetic diversity in barley landraces from Syria and Jordan

Single-head progenies derived from barley landraces collected along the Fertile Crescent in Syria and Jordan were evaluated for agronomic, morphological, and quality traits in a typical barley growing area in Northern Syria. A large diversity was observed both between and within collection sites, and in most cases the variation was useful for breeding purposes. Single plant progenies were identified with larger yields and more desirable expressions of agronomic characters than the original landraces. The utilization of this material in a breeding program for dry areas is discussed.