CAN COTTON BE BRED FOR UTILITY VALUE?

摘要

Cotton cultivars are not bred for utility value of the fiber beyond the suite of fiber properties measured by HVI or single instruments. Fiber properties measured by HVI and single instruments only partially predict the success and profitability of yarn production. Technological evolution in yarn manufacture from mainly ring spinning to open end spinning has resulted in more stringent demands for fiber utility value. Utility value of fiber can be defined as the amount of yarn produced per unit of fiber, plus yarn strength and quality. But, the commercialization of cotton cultivars is not contingent upon establishing satisfactory fiber utility value. This paper will explore means by which selection for utility value could be incorporated into cultivar development.