Genotypic variability for nodal root angle in sorghum and its implications on potential water extraction

Sigh, Vijaya, van Oosterom, Erik, Jordan, David and Hammer, Graeme (2010). Genotypic variability for nodal root angle in sorghum and its implications on potential water extraction. In: , Proceedings of the 1st Australian Summer Grains Conference. Australian Summer Grains Conference 2010, Gold Coast , Australia, (). 21-24 June 2010.

Author Sigh, Vijaya
van Oosterom, Erik
Jordan, David
Hammer, Graeme
Title of paper Genotypic variability for nodal root angle in sorghum and its implications on potential water extraction
Conference Paper Type Fully Published Paper
Conference name Australian Summer Grains Conference 2010
Conference location Gold Coast , Australia
Conference dates 21-24 June 2010
Proceedings title Proceedings of the 1st Australian Summer Grains Conference
Place published Barton, A.C.T., Australia
Publisher Grains Research and Development Corporation
Publication date 2010
Total pages 10
Language eng
Abstract/Summary Little information exists on the extent of genetic variation for root architecture in sorghum and its potential implications on drought tolerance. The aims of this study were to (1) develop a screening method for nodal root angle in sorghum seedlings, (2) identify genetic variation for this trait in a diverse range of sorghum inbred lines and hybrids, (3) assess the functional implications of such variation on water extraction patterns of mature plants, and (4) identify QTLs for nodal root angle to facilitate selection for the trait in molecular breeding programs. Screening for root angle of seedlings was done in small custom-made root chambers. Nodal root angle varied from 15º to 50º (relative to the vertical), and this genetic variation was independent of plant size. In hybrids, differences in nodal root angle were associated with the male parent and with interactions between male and female parents, indicating significant specific combining ability. Two QTLs for root angle were identified and these were unrelated to QTLs for plant size. Selected lines with contrasting root angle were grown in large chambers to assess implications on water extraction in mature plants. Lines with narrow angle tended to extract more water at depth below the plant, whereas wide angled lines tended to increase lateral water extraction. Results indicate that nodal root angle in the seedling stage can potentially affect water extraction patterns of mature plants, and that this trait is independent of plant size, suggesting it could be a useful trait to improve drought tolerance of sorghum.
Q-Index Code E1
Q-Index Status Provisional Code
Institutional Status UQ

Document type: Conference Paper
Sub-type: Fully Published Paper
Collections: School of Agriculture and Food Sciences
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
 
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Created: Mon, 19 Mar 2012, 09:48:14 EST by Dr Erik Van Oosterom on behalf of Qld Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation