Genetic Dissection of Seminal Root Architecture in Wheat

Climate change has led to unpredictable rainfall and extreme weather events that threaten food security. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedling root traits are important for early establishment and have been shown to contribute to traits of the mature plant, including drought tolerance, nutrient use efficiency and yield. Root system architecture (RSA) is a largely untapped target for crop improvement. Here, I characterise multiple root pathway quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in wheat using a high-throughput, low-cost phenotyping screen involving imaging the roots of seedlings grown in clear pots. I examine a mapping population of 201 doubled haploid progeny derived from a cross between the wheat cultivars, Avalon and Cadenza. Preliminary results indicate a repeatable QTL for root angle on chromosome 4D. Poor capture of soil water and nutrients by roots represents environmental and economic losses, which can be reduced by developing more efficient crop cultivars. This project aims to provide breeders with potentially useful markers for root traits, to help unlock yield potential, and help to understand and harness the role of roots in plant adaptive strategies.