Archetypes of inflorescence: genome-wide association networks of panicle morphometric, growth, and disease variables in a multiparent oat population

Abstract

There is limited information regarding the morphometric relationships of panicle traits in oat (Avena sativa) and their contribution to phenology and growth, physiology, and pathology traits important for yield. To model panicle growth and development and identify genomic regions associated with corresponding traits, 10 diverse spring oat mapping populations (n = 2,993) were evaluated in the field and 9 genotyped via genotyping-by-sequencing. Representative panicles from all progeny individuals, parents, and check lines were scanned, and images were analyzed using manual and automated techniques, resulting in over 60 unique panicle, rachis, and spikelet variables. Spatial modeling and days to heading were used to account for environmental and phenological variances, respectively. Panicle variables were intercorrelated, providing reproducible archetypal and growth models. Notably, adult plant resistance for oat crown rust was most prominent for taller, stiff stalked plants having a more open panicle structure. Within and among family variance for panicle traits reflected the moderate-to-high heritability and mutual genome-wide associations (hotspots) with numerous high-effect loci. Candidate genes and potential breeding applications are discussed. This work adds to the growing genetic resources for oat and provides a unique perspective on the genetic basis of panicle architecture in cereal crops.

SPR9 encodes a 60 S ribosomal protein that modulates panicle spreading and affects resistance to false smut in rice (Oryza sativa. L)

“…In recent years, studies on different crops have found that plant panicle architectures are closely related to plant disease resistance [ 45 , 46 ]. In rice, it was found that the spike characters were related to the occurrence of RFS.…”

Highlighting plant science with a GENETICS and G3 series on Plant Genetics and Genomics

“…Here, seven manuscripts use genome-wide molecular markers to describe diversity and map genomic regions contributing to trait variation. Carlson et al . (2023) present a comprehensive quantitative genetic analysis of agronomically important traits in cultivated oat ( Avena sativa ) using an impressive array of nine multi-parent families and a TILLING population.…”

Highlighting plant science with a GENETICS and G3 series on Plant Genetics and Genomics

“…Here, 7 manuscripts use genome-wide molecular markers to describe diversity and map genomic regions contributing to trait variation. Carlson et al . (2023) present a comprehensive quantitative genetic analysis of agronomically important traits in cultivated oat ( Avena sativa ) using an impressive array of 9 multiparent families and a TILLING population.…”