Identification of molecular markers for cold tolerance. AgCenter researchers have identified cold-responsive genes in a cold-tolerant energy cane (sugarcane bred exclusively for biomass). These genes are being mapped on the sugarcane chromosomes to identify molecular markers linked to cold tolerance genes. Identified genes and linked markers will be applied two ways: 1) selecting sugarcane with cold tolerance genes to extend the cropping season by protecting against occasional freezing temperatures and sugar loss due to subsequent bacterial invasion and 2) screening for cold tolerance genes in early generation hybrids to allow expansion of their cultivation as a second generation bioenergy crop outside of the traditional Sugar Belt.