Future Breeding Programs Research Articles

Seasonal Changes in Salicylic and Jasmonic Acid Levels in Poplar with Differing Stress Responses

Poplars are essential tree species with critical roles in wood production, ecological conservation, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation. Plants of different poplar populations exhibit varying responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, largely driven by phytohormones—key regulators of plant growth and stress responses. Phytohormones control fundamental processes such as cell division, growth, tissue differentiation, organ development, and resistance to environmental challenges such as temperature extremes and drought. In this study, we conducted a quantitative analysis of phytohormone levels in the leaves of two populations of poplar species from the same geographical region over a one-year period, covering the early, mid, and late growth stages. Our results revealed that salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) concentrations in the stress-resistant poplar (RP) increased significantly during the late growth stage (September), particularly in response to elevated pathogen pressure and fluctuating climatic conditions. In contrast, the susceptible poplar (SP) consistently exhibited lower levels of SA and JA across all growth stages, particularly during the mid-growth stage (characterized by high temperatures and low precipitation) and the late growth stage, when pathogen stress typically intensifies. The limited increase in phytohormone levels in the SP suggests a weaker defense response compared with the RP. These findings demonstrate that climatic factors significantly influence the phytohormonal dynamics in poplars, with the RP exhibiting more robust regulation of SA and JA to mitigate both biotic and abiotic stresses. This study provides a theoretical framework for better understanding the resistance mechanisms in Populus and offers insights for improving stress tolerance in future breeding programs.

Molecular Characterization and Pathogenicity of Colletotrichum falcatum Causing Red Rot on Sugarcane in Southern Florida

Red rot disease reduces sugarcane yield and impacts the sugar quality, posing an important threat to the sugarcane industry in Florida. Although Colletotrichum falcatum, the causal agent of red rot in Florida, was first reported in 1984 based on morphology, molecular and pathological data have remained limited, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive characterization. Thirteen isolates were obtained from three local sugarcane varieties in Belle Glade, Florida. Phylogenetic analyses of five genetic markers (ITS, ACT, TUB2, GAPDH, and CHS-1) confirmed all the strains as C. falcatum. In addition, the study documented the disease progression at the cellular level and assessed the pathogenicity of representative strains using the leaf sheath and whole-seedling inoculation methods. The varieties CP96-1252 and CP89-2143 showed greater host resistance. These findings represent the first report of C. falcatum causing red rot in southern Florida, offer valuable insights for/into red rot management, and provide a basis for future breeding programs to enhance sugarcane resistance to red rot disease.

Analysis of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Yield-related Traits of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Linseed is recognized as an excellent source of essential minerals, nutrients, and is particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), making it highly recommended for cardiovascular health. It is cultivated mainly for both linen and oil production, which is used for the production of paints, varnishes, and linoleum paste. The objective of the present investigation was to analyze genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and yield traits among 75 linseed genotypes including ten checks using Randomized Block Design with three replications at Oilseeds Research Farm, Kalyanpur, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, (India) during Rabi season 2019-20. Analysis of variance revealed significant variation across all studied traits. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) ranged from low to high, with the lowest GCV and PCV observed for days to maturity, number of seeds per capsule, and days to 50% flowering. Conversely, the highest GCV and PCV values were recorded for seed yield per plant (g), number of capsules per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, and plant height. All traits recorded the highest heritability. High heritability and genetic advance were recorded for seed yield per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, plant height, thousand seed weight, number of primary branches and oil content, indicating the presence of additive gene action for these characters. In conclusion, the genotypes studied show significant genetic variation for yield and its attributes, which should be leveraged in future breeding programs.

Chromosome-level genome assembly and functional annotation of Citrullus colocynthis: unlocking genetic resources for drought-resilient crop development

Main conclusionThe chromosome-level genome assembly of Citrullus colocynthis reveals its genetic potential for enhancing drought tolerance, paving the way for innovative crop improvement strategies.This study presents the first comprehensive genome assembly and annotation of Citrullus colocynthis, a drought-tolerant wild close relative of cultivated watermelon, highlighting its potential for enhancing agricultural resilience to climate change. The study achieved a chromosome-level assembly using advanced sequencing technologies, including PacBio HiFi and Hi-C, revealing a genome size of approximately 366 Mb with low heterozygosity and substantial repetitive content. Our analysis identified 23,327 gene models, that could encode stress response mechanisms for species’ adaptation to arid environments. Comparative genomics with closely related species illuminated the evolutionary dynamics within the Cucurbitaceae family. In addition, resequencing of 27 accessions from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) identified genetic diversity, suggesting a foundation for future breeding programs. This genomic resource opens new avenues for the de novo domestication of C. colocynthis, offering a blueprint for developing crops with enhanced drought tolerance, disease resistance, and nutritional profiles, crucial for sustaining future food security in the face of escalating climate challenges.

Development of infectious clones of mungbean yellow mosaic India virus (MYMIV, Begomovirus vignaradiataindiaense) infecting mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] and evaluation of a RIL population for MYMIV resistance.

Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) is a major constraint for the low productivity of mungbean, mainly in South Asia. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach, integrating field and challenge inoculation evaluations to identify effective solutions. In this study, an infectious clone of Begomovirus vignaradiataindiaense (MYMIV) was developed to obtain a pure culture of the virus and to confirm resistance in mungbean plants exhibiting resistance under natural field conditions. The infectivity and efficiency of three Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains (EHA105, LBA4404, and GV3101) were evaluated using the susceptible mungbean genotype PS16. Additionally, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population comprising 175 lines derived from Pusa Baisakhi (MYMIV susceptible) and PMR-1 (MYMIV resistant) cross was developed and assessed for YMD response. Among the tested Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains, EHA105 exhibited the highest infectivity (84.7%), followed by LBA4404 (54.7%) and GV3101 (9.80%). Field resistance was evaluated using the coefficient of infection (CI) and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC), identifying seven RILs with consistent resistant reactions (CI≤9) and low AUDPC (≤190). Upon challenge inoculation, six RILs exhibited resistance, while RIL92 displayed a resistance response, with infection occurring in less than 10% of plants after 24 to 29 days post inoculation (dpi). Despite some plants remaining asymptomatic, MYMIV presence was confirmed through specific PCR amplification of the MYMIV coat protein (AV1) gene. Quantitative PCR revealed a very low relative viral load (0.1-5.1% relative fold change) in asymptomatic RILs and the MYMIV resistant parent (PMR1) compared to the susceptible parent (Pusa Baisakhi). These findings highlight the potential utility of the developed infectious clone and the identified MYMIV-resistant RILs in future mungbean breeding programs aimed at cultivating MYMIV-resistant varieties.

Evaluation of Agronomic and Genetic Diversity in M2V1 Generation of Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)

Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is an ornamental plant widely used as a potted or cut flower due to its vibrant colors and diverse flower shapes. High genetic diversity is essential for successful breeding programs aimed at developing superior varieties. Genetic information can be obtained by estimating variance components and heritability values, key parameters in plant breeding. A high heritability value suggests that genetic factors influence a plant's characteristics more than environmental factors. This study assessed the genetic diversity and performance of vegetative propagation from 2nd generation mutant plants (M2V1). The research was conducted at the Pasir Sarongge experimental field in Cianjur Regency from July to October 2023, using a randomized complete block design with 17 genotypes and three replicates. The genotypes included 14 from vegetative propagation of M2V1 mutant plants and three comparison varieties: “Maharani”, “BAIP 2”, and “BAIP 3”. Data analysis was performed using PKBT-STAT 3.1 software, followed by the honest significant difference (HSD) test at the 5% level. The results revealed significant differences among genotypes in plant height, stem diameter, canopy width, leaf width, flower weight, flower diameter, number of flowers per plant, total flower weight per plant, and flower stalk length. Floret types observed were either all ligulate or all tubuligulate, with flower colors ranging from orange to yellow to white. Traits such as canopy width, flower weight, flower diameter, and stalk length, which exhibited broad genetic diversity and high heritability, can be used for selection in future marigold breeding programs.

Genetic analysis of Vicia faba L.: Advancements, hereditary traits, and correlations in ‘Sakha 3’ × ‘Nubaria 3’

Genetic diversity, heritability, and genetic advance are crucial considerations in the field of plant breeding. This research aimed to evaluate these factors for traits related to yield in faba bean (Vicia faba L.), specifically focusing on the F3 and F4 generations resulting from the cross between ‘Sakha 3’ and ‘Nubaria 3’. In the initial season (2021/ 2022), 200 families from each F3 population were cultivated with specific spacing, and selection criteria included seed yield per plant (SYP) and the number of pods per plant (NPP). Top-performing plants were identified for the second cycle of pedigree selection. In the following season (2022/2023), the F4 families were arranged in a randomised complete block design. Traits like the number of branches per plant (NBP), NPP, SYP, and seed index (SI) showed substantial phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, indicating their noteworthy variation. Phenotypic and genotypic correlation analyses showed positive associations between SYP and the NBP and NPP. Additionally, path coefficient analysis indicated that these traits had high positive direct effects on SYP. This research provides valuable insights into the genetic variability, heritability, and selection parameters for yield-related traits in faba bean, offering a foundation for future breeding programs aimed at improving yield and productivity.

Genotype by Environment Interaction Using AMMI, GGE Biplot and Multivariate Analysis of Nepalese Aromatic Rice Landraces

Aromatic group of rice comprises fine, medium, long and extra-long grain that has rich in agro-biodiversity, carries historical and cultural significance in Nepalese society. The objective was to identify stable, high-yielding aromatic rice landraces for Nepal Thirty aromatic rice landraces including two released varieties as standard checks were evaluated at three locations during 2020 and 2021. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The combined analysis of variance indicated differences among genotypes and genotype-environment interactions for grain yield. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis revealed that genotypic effects for 69%, genotype × environment interaction effects for 28% and environmental effects accounted for 3% of the total sum of squares. Similarly, GGE biplot analysis showed that the principal components (PC1 and PC2) accounted for 53% and 47% of the GGE sum of squares, respectively. Based on AMMI1, AMMI2 biplots, and GGE biplots, the genotypes Samba Masuli Sub-1 and Sugandhit Dhan-1 were identified as the high yielding and stable fine and aromatic rice landraces. Other promising genotypes are Damari Dhan, Tilki, Hiupuri, Kalo Basmati, Gouriya, and Brahmamusi Dhan. Specifically, Samba Masuli Sub-1 demonstrated the highest grain yield performance at the NRRP, Hardinath, while Sunaulo Sugandha and Balamsari Dhan excelled in the Tarahara and Khajura environments, respectively. In PCA analysis, four PCs showed significant eigen value >1.0 contributing more than 84% of total variance. Biplot analysis reflected that 1000 grain weight, panicle length, heading and maturity days, and grain yield showed greater variation among the landraces. The results provide a robust basis for the further evaluation and verification of this findings in advance stage trials. The superior and outstanding landraces with higher yields and aroma are potential future varieties that can be either use directly as varieties after selection or utilize in future breeding programs for the development of new aromatic rice varieties.

Comparative Transcriptomic Profiling of Brain and Liver in Phoenix Barbs (Spinibarbus denticulatus denticulatus) with Differential Growth Rates

Phoenix barb (Spinibarbus denticulatus denticulatus) is a notable fish species in South China and is valued for its ecological and economic importance. To elucidate the molecular basis underlying its growth, we collected transcriptome profiles from the brains and livers of individual fish with different growth rates and compared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 3 and 9 months after hatching (MAH). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that the pathways associated with growth were predominantly enriched in fatty acid biosynthesis, AMPK signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, estrogen signaling, and protein metabolism. Notably, a greater number of DEGs from the fast-growing group were associated with these pathways at the early growth stage (3 MAH) than at the later stage (9 MAH). Real-time quantitative PCR results further validated that the genes involved in these pathways exhibited higher expression levels in fast-growing samples. This study enhances our understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying growth rate differences and provides valuable genetic resources for future growth-related molecular breeding programs of phoenix barbs.

Exploring genetic variability in fodder quality of forage sorghum in the North – Eastern regions of India

This study investigated genetic variability, character association, and genetic diversity in ninety-five forage sorghum genotypes, evaluated using a randomized block design for seven fodder quality traits. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits. Genotypes such as G90 (424B), G23 (334B), G87 (CSV21F), G76 (330B), and G45 (373B) exhibit desirable fodder quality traits. Notably, G90 (424B) and G47 (NSS5B) stand out for their superior green forage yield per plant and fodder quality, making them prime candidates for varietal development programs. Crude protein emerged as a crucial selection factor for fodder quality. Green forage yield per plant showed minimal association with the other quality traits. A strong positive correlation was observed among in vitro organic matter digestibility, metabolic energy, crude protein, and ash content. D2 analysis identified five clusters, with genotypes from clusters V and IV recommended for crossing to produce superior transgressive segregants for fodder quality. Acid detergent fibre, crude protein, and ash content significantly contributed to genetic divergence. Considering these selected traits and genotypes, they could be invaluable in future sorghum forage breeding programs aimed at enhancing fodder quality traits. Keywords: Correlation, genetic diversity, Path analysis, Sorghum Fodder quality

Assessment of genetic variability, heritability and correlation in advanced breeding lines of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) under heat stress condition

Abstract An experiment was conducted under normal (with six irrigation during crop period) and stressed condition during Rabi 2019 in All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Wheat, MARS, Dharwad, Karnataka with the view of assessing genetic variability, heritability and expected genetic advance in 104 F4 families of the cross HD2864 × DBW14. The progenies exhibited wide range of variation for all the traits indicating the presence of enough genetic variability in the material under study. Under timely sown condition, the traits like leaf waxyness, NDVI at different stages, SPAD at different stages, number of productive tillers per plant, seeds per spike, grain filling duration, spike length, thousand grains weight and seed set percentage showed high variability. The traits like plant height, canopy temperature at different stages and membrane stability index showed low variability. Under late sown condition, the traits like leaf waxyness, plant height, NDVI at different stages, SPAD at different stages, number of productive tillers per plant, seeds per spike, yield per plant, row bulk yield and seed set percentage showed high variability. The traits like days to maturity, spike length and membrane stability index showed low variability. The findings shows that all traits related to crop yield are positively linked, except for canopy temperature at different growth stages. Promising lines identified through Heat susceptibility index (HSI) and Heat tolerance index (HTI) can be utilized in future breeding programs to enhance crop productivity. Keywords: Variability, Coefficient of variation, Heritability, Genetic advance.

Identification of false smut – resistant donors in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and analysis of their morpho-molecular diversity for resistance breeding

False smut disease of rice caused by the pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens is a growing threat to the rice farmers as it affects both quality and quantity. Development of resistant variety becomes difficult, since very few resistant donors were available for false smut resistant breeding programme. Therefore, to identify potential donors for resistance breeding a total of 60 genotypes were screened at hotspot location (Gudalur) during kharif 2023 which led to identification of 12 highly resistant genotypes and the notable ones are Koolavalai, Periya chandikar, Kapikar selection and Earapalli. Genetic variability studies indicated the presence of additive gene action for all the agronomic and disease related traits. Principal component analysis revealed the first 5 principal components collectively contributing 78.79 % of the total variance with disease-related traits contributing significantly to divergence. Ten clusters were delineated using Mahalanobis D2 statistics with clusters IX and V showing higher inter cluster distance (3453.64). Forty-one polymorphic markers were used to analyse the genotypes and The Unweighted Pair Group method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) clustering by Jaccard distance formed 6 clusters. The Bayesian clustering classified the entire population into 2 subpopulations. False smut linked marker RM336 and RM218 were found to be the most informative marker with high Polymorphism Information Content (0.71, 0.69) and Heterozygosity Index (0.76, 0.73). The resistant genotypes such as IG71, Thulasi vasanai sambha, Arupatham vellai, Kaltikar and Chinna aduku nel can be used in the future breeding programmes to develop the resistant cultivar and to identify the candidate genes governing resistance.

StEPF2 and StEPFL9 Play Opposing Roles in Regulating Stomatal Development and Drought Tolerance in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Stomata are essential for photosynthesis and water-use efficiency in plants. When expressed in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plants, the potato (Solanum tuberosum) proteins EPIDERMAL PATTERNING FACTOR 2 (StEPF2) and StEPF-LIKE9 (StEPFL9) play antagonistic roles in regulating stomatal density. Little is known, however, about how these proteins regulate stomatal development, growth, and response to water deficit in potato. Transgenic potato plants overexpressing StEPF2 (E2 plants) or StEPFL9 (ST plants) were generated, and RT-PCR and Western blot analyses were used to select two lines overexpressing each gene. E2 plants showed reduced stomatal density, whereas ST plants produced excessive stomata. Under well-watered conditions, ST plants displayed vigorous growth with improved leaf gas exchange and also showed increased biomass/yields compared with non-transgenic and E2 plants. E2 plants maintained lower H2O2 content and higher levels of stomatal conductance and photosynthetic capacity than non-transgenic and ST plants, which resulted in higher water-use efficiency and biomass/yields during water restriction. These results suggest that StEPF2 and StEPFL9 functioned in pathways regulating stomatal development. These genes are thus promising candidates for use in future breeding programs aimed at increasing potato water-use efficiency and yield under climate change scenarios.

Exploring genetic variation and genetic components under salinity stress among Basmati and Non-Basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an essential cereal crop which feeds more than half of the world’s population. Rice is cultivated on one-tenth of the world's arable land (approximately 150 million hectares (ha)). Its production is critically affected by salinity stress, which harms photosynthesis and growth, causing biomass loss and partial sterility. The extent of salinization of cultivable soil is increasing by 10% annually. It is predicted that more than 50% of the world's land will be damaged by salinization by 2050. In Pakistan, approximately 6.30 Mha of land is severely affected by salt stress. To cope with this problem, this study was conducted to identify saline-tolerant rice cultivars, 14 rice cultivars (PK1121 aromatic, Nonabokra, Kalomonok, PK10683, PK8892 Tol-19, Shaheen Tol-19, Chenab Tol-19, Punjab Basmati, Super Basmati 2019, Basmati 2000, Basmati 370, Basmati 385, Super Basmati, and Basmati 515 Tol-19) were grown in a 5.5 electrical conductivity (EC) salinity block to investigate their tolerance to salinity stress. Seven rice cultivars (Nonabokra, Basmati 2000, Kalomonok, Basmati 370, Basmati 385, Super Basmati, and Basmati 515 Tol-19) exhibited tolerance to salinity. Basmati 370 was tolerant to a high salinity level of 5.5 EC and showed high yield than other cultivars, however, Nonabokra outperformed other cultivars in terms of all yield attributes investigated in this study. These results were also verified via molecular screening of these genotypes by using already reported DNA markers. Polymorphic SSR marker (RM7075) associated with the SaltTOl QTL to evaluate the tolerance of rice varieties to salinity. This study showed that Nonabokra, Basmati 2000, Kalomonok, Basmati 370, Basmati 385, Super Basmati, and Basmati 515 Tol-19 performed better against salt stress and may be used as salinity-tolerant lines for future rice breeding programs.

Species identification and pollination biology of an economically important true halophyte, Salicornia brachiata Roxb.

Members of the genus Salicornia have gained a global attraction due to their ability to thrive under high saline conditions and as potential candidates in saline agriculture. However, it has been a taxonomically challenging genus for decades since the members show plastic responses to extreme environmental conditions and due to incongruences between morphological and molecular identification methods. While only a handful of commercially grown Salicornia species are fully described, most of the species including S. brachiata, a native species in the Indian sub-continent, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka are poorly described. With the potentials in adapting S. brachiata in saline agriculture, the aim of this study was to establish a morphology and DNA barcode-based species delineation system and to study pollination biology for future crop improvement projects. Tentatively identified S. brachiata plant samples were collected from two populations in Sri Lanka and completely described. GenBank lacked authenticated barcode data for S. brachiata except for one chloroplast genome to which the matK sequence obtained in the present study matched with 100% identity. For the first time, well defined sequences of three barcode regions, ITS, ETS and matK, of S. brachiata were made available for accurate species identification. Reproductive dynamics in different parts of the inflorescence was studied. A facultative xenogamous mating system was recorded for the first time in the genus and while the lower florets in the cladode showed a preference towards outcrossing, the upper florets displayed adaptations for selfing. Data could be effectively utilized in future Salicornia breeding programs.

Machine Learning-Aided Ultra-Low-Density Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Panel Helps to Identify the Tharparkar Cattle Breed: Lessons for Digital Transformation in Livestock Genomics.

Cattle breed identification is crucial for livestock research and sustainable food systems, and advances in genomics and artificial intelligence present new opportunities to address these challenges. This study investigates the identification of the Tharparkar cattle breed using genomics tools combined with machine learning (ML) techniques. By leveraging data from the Bovine SNP 50K chip, we developed a breed-specific panel of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for Tharparkar cattle and integrated data from seven other Indian cattle populations to enhance panel robustness. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and principal component analysis were employed to identify 500 SNPs, which were then refined using ML models-AdaBoost, bagging tree, gradient boosting machines, and random forest-to determine the minimal number of SNPs needed for accurate breed identification. Panels of 23 and 48 SNPs achieved accuracy rates of 95.2-98.4%. Importantly, the identified SNPs were associated with key productive and adaptive traits, thus attesting to the value and potentials of digital transformation in livestock genomics. The ML-aided ultra-low-density SNP panel approach reported here not only facilitates breed identification but also contributes to preserving genetic diversity and guiding future breeding programs.

Assessment of genetic diversity among Ixora genotypes through morphological and RAPD molecular marker analysis

Ixora a genus in the Rubiaceae family commonly known as jungle geranium, was the focus of the study. However, classifying Ixora species has been challenging due to environmental influences on phenotypic traits. This study explores the genetic diversity and morphological traits of 11 Ixora genotypes from various regions in India using 15 RAPD markers and morphological assessments. A total of 210 bands were generated, Unweighted Pair Group Method for Arithmetic Average (UPGMA) Cluster analysis revealed significant genetic relationships among the genotypes. Notably, Genotypes 9, 10 and 11 shared similar banding patterns with marker OPF 02, while Genotypes 4 and 7, despite differing growth habits, showed close genetic ties and shared RAPD markers OPA03 and OPE04. A unique marker (OPA03 - 340 bp) was identified exclusively in Genotype 4. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated that 2 principal components explained 77.074 % of the total variance, highlighting plant height and leaf number as significant traits. Heat map clustering further illustrated phenotypic variability, grouping genotypes based on morphological similarities. This study demonstrates the utility of RAPD markers in distinguishing Ixora genotypes and provides valuable insights into morphological traits, guiding future breeding programs and genetic research.

Delineating drought-induced antioxidative traits as potential mechanisms for climate resilience in Argania spinosa

Drought stress ranks among the most critical environmental challenges facing agriculture today, causing significant impairments to plant growth and development. In Morocco, these negative impacts are projected to intensify further under the combined pressures of climate change and the worsening water shortage crisis. The imperative need for sustainable arganiculture (cultivation of Argane trees) in dry lands necessitates the expeditious identification of drought-tolerant elite Argania spinosa trees. In this context, we investigated the drought tolerance of 2-year-old A. spinosa seedlings from two contrasting provenances Lakhssas (LKS) and Aoulouz (ALZ) under severe stress by evaluating their antioxidative defense mechanisms. A total of 24 parameters related to reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative damage, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense were measured and compared between both provenances. The results showed that the drought-stressed conditions significantly increased the activity of enzymatic antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, and ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes, as well as the content of non-enzymatic antioxidants, including reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (AsA), α-Tocopherols (α-toc), polyphenols, anthocyanins, and group thiols. The ability of A. spinosa trees to greatly enhance their antioxidant system to limit cellular damage caused by ROS production might be an important attribute linked to drought tolerance. Regarding the inter-provenance variation under drought stress conditions, LKS provenance exhibited superior antioxidative capacity through enhanced AsA-GSH cycle activity and elevated levels of AsA-GSH, α-toc, and polyphenols. However, ALZ demonstrated elevated anthocyanin levels and reduced peroxidative stress markers (hydrogen peroxide and malonyldialdehyde). Significant and positive correlations were recorded between studied ROS and antioxidants. Investigating the multifaceted antioxidative defense system underpinning drought tolerance in A. spinosa can facilitate the identification of drought-tolerant argane trees for the development of a future breeding program allowing sustainable arganiculture in dry lands.

Genotypic and environmental influences on colour and curcuminoids of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) genotypes across contrasting production environments

Abstract Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is rich in curcuminoids, which are polyphenolic pigments make it one of the most valuable spice and medicinal plant. The rising need for natural colours and the numerous health advantages of curcuminoids are driving up the demand of turmeric. In this study, the effects of genotype and genotype × environment on the colour characteristics of 21 turmeric genotypes were examined in three different production environments namely vertical farming, greenhouse, and field conditions. The pooled analysis of variance revealed highly significant (P < 0.05) differences among genotypes (G), environments (E), and G × E interaction for three colour parameters [L* (lightness index), A* (redness index), B* (yellowness index)]. Among the genotypes, the values ranged from 41.80 to 54.76, 13.92 to 24.83 and 31.72 to 47.67 for L*, A*, B*, respectively. Erode Local (22.34), IISR Pragati (24.56) and IISR Prathiba (26.55) recorded maximum A* value under vertical farming, greenhouse, and field conditions, respectively. Correlation analysis between colour values and curcuminoids revealed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.608–0.735, P < 0.001) between A* value and curcuminoids. Furthermore, stability analysis for A* value revealed 78.87% genotype × environment interaction (GEI) from the first two principal components of GGE biplot. IISR Pragati and Waigon Turmeric are best was most stable for A* value across environments. Our study revealed that colour traits among genotypes vary widely and are strongly impacted by genetic and environmental factors. These findings are crucial for future breeding programs to enhance turmeric's colour, ensuring high-quality, stable products for producers and consumers.

Unraveling Promising Genetic Variability Associated with Strong Culm and Yield Parameters in Inter Sub-Specific Cross Derived Recombinant Inbred Lines in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Strengthening the rice culm through genetic improvement has been an important target in breeding to abate the lodging problem in rice. The present investigation was attempted to study the variability, genetic parameters and trait association in recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from inter sub-specific cross of elite indica mega variety ‘Swarna’ and Tropical japonica strong culm accession ‘IRGC 39111’. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) displayed significant variation in RILs for all the traits studied. The investigation revealed high estimates of GCV and PCV along with high heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM) for all culm strength (CS) traits revealing the role of additive gene effect and selection of these traits shall be effective in rice improvement. Correlation studies revealed that the internode breaking weight (IBW) and bending moment at breaking(M) had a high significant positive correlation with all the CS traits, panicle weight and grain yield. Thus, the direct selection of positively associated traits can improve the lodging resistance in rice. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that, seven principal components (PCs) out of 23 traits attributed approximately 92.9% of the total cumulative variability. The traits culm thickness (CT), Internode breaking weight (IBW), section modulus (SM), bending stress (BS), Bending moment at breaking (M) contributed maximum to the total diversity and the lines with higher trait values for the aforementioned traits could be utilized as donors to improve the culm strength and its attributing traits in future breeding programs. From this study, it is evident that tropical japonica lines can be a great source of genetic diversification for rice improvement.