Abstract
The fibrous root system is a visible sign of ecological adaptation among barley natural populations. In the present study, we utilized rich barley diversity to dissect the genetic basis of root system variation and its link with shoot attributes under well-water and drought conditions. Genome-wide association mapping of phenotype data using a dense genetic map (5892 SNP markers) revealed 17 putative QTL for root and shoot traits. Among these, at 14 loci the preeminence of exotic QTL alleles resulted in trait improvements. The most promising QTL were quantified using haplotype analysis at local and global genome levels. The strongest QTL was found on chromosome 1H which accounted for root dry weight and tiller number simultaneously. Candidate gene analysis across the targeted region detected a crucial amino acid substitution mutation in the conserved domain of a WRKY29 transcription factor among genotypes bearing major and minor QTL alleles. Similarly, the drought inducible QTL QRdw.5H (5H, 95.0 cM) seems to underlie 37 amino acid deletion and substitution mutations in the conserved domain of two related genes CBF10B and CBF10A, respectively. The identification and further characterization of these candidate genes will be essential to decipher genetics behind developmental and natural adaptation mechanisms of barley.
Highlights
Natural populations of crop plants have evolved vital traits which play fundamental role in their production and adaptation (Annicchiarico et al, 2013; Vadez, 2014)
Genetic diversity of barley natural population is known for its inherent morphological novelties, geographic and environmental adaptations
The first objective of the present work was to establish a state of the art genetic resources based on morphological novelties, geographic distribution and inherent environmental adaptation
Summary
Natural populations of crop plants have evolved vital traits which play fundamental role in their production and adaptation (Annicchiarico et al, 2013; Vadez, 2014). The improved performance of crop plants under drought appeared as one the most important question of current and future challenges of plant breeding with respect to climate change scenario (Pennisi, 2008; Comas et al, 2013). Roots and their architecture are seen as the most important plant organ for crop productivity and adaptation to drought stress due to their versatile ability in capturing water and nutrients. Deeper and more profuse root systems increase the drought
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
