Genetic control of stem elongation in legume crops and its potential relevance

Abstract

Stem elongation has a major influence on plant height and has been a key trait targeted in crop improvement, as illustrated by the green revolution. Particularly in cereal crops, there is a growing awareness of how genetic variation for elongation may be applied to specific challenges in production and may interact with other aspects of development. In comparison, this understanding is less developed in legume crops despite their significance in global agriculture and may have additional implications considering their distinct differences in growth habit and inflorescence structure. This review outlines the relevance of stem elongation in legume crops, provides an overview of its genetic control, and concludes with a discussion of potential interactions with other production traits, including stress tolerance and symbioses.