IDENTIFICATION AND LOCALIZATION OF A NEW SPECIES OF Tripsacum spp. IN NAYARIT, MEXICO

There is nationwide interest in preserving the biodiversity of maize (Zea mays L.) and its wild relatives, given the current risk of loss of its genetic diversity due to presence of biotic, abiotic, socioeconomic, political and commercial issues. The aim of this study was to verify the presence of species of Tripsacum spp. by the knowledge of their genetic diversity and current geographical distribution in the State of Nayarit, Mexico. Collection of germplasm was carried out during field trips across new areas and also planned on previous knowledge of former collections. Samples of seeds and vegetative material were collected for further regeneration, identification and characterrization. Date input of the corresponding passports data was made also. One hundred and seventeen accessions of Tripsacum were collected during 2007 in the municipalities of Ahuacatlan, Jala, Santa Maria del Oro, Santiago Ixcuintla, Tepic and Jalisco, in Nayarit, Mexico. Collected accessions were classified as T. dacyloides, T. laxum, T. maizar and T. floridanum. This study constitutes the first report of presence of Tripsacum floridanum in the State of Nayarit, Mexico.