Elucidating the genetic components of root system architecture in the wild wheat relative Aegilops longissima

Common wheat (Triticum aestivum) is an important crop that provides approximately 20% of the calories consumed by humans. Wild relatives of wheat are a rich source of genes and traits that are important for current agriculture challenges. Root depth is a major factor that influence root system architecture (RSA), and thus is critical for overall plant growth and water uptake. Measurements of RSA of 200 lines of the wild wheat relative Aegilops longissima (native to Israel) was performed in unique system for analyzing the phenotypes of soil-grown roots under differential growth conditions. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) together with statistical analysis was performed on our data sets and potential gene of interests (GOIs) that might be associated with root depth was discovered. Analysis of root microbiome and metabolome of specific accessions reveal genotype specific association (and possibly GOIs) with several bacteria/metabolites with root depth trait. Moreover, the involvement of those genes in shaping root hydraulic architecture (root system architecture and tissue hydraulic properties that together regulate root water uptake) is being studied. Further analysis using cell, tissue and whole plant characterization of mutants/over expression lines will shed light on this important traits and its genetic regulation. We aim to further integrate the findings of this research into breeding program aimed at generating elite wheat lines with enhanced root activity and performance under variable environmental conditions.