Investment

GRDC Code: WSU2303-001RTX

Increasing intrinsic heat tolerance of wheat through improved genetics in the source-sink relationship

In wheat, high temperature accelerates leaf senescence and shortens the crop cycle - limiting the opportunity for plant photosynthesis and accumulation of carbohydrates in grains. Understanding the response of wheat to heat stress in the context of source-sink relationship (e.g. chloroplast heat tolerance, leaf structural and biochemical traits, spikelet fertility) is critical for maintaining high yields under heat stress. The objectives of this project are to examine the performance of wheat lines and mapping populations under heat stress in both field and greenhouse conditions and to develop rapid screening methods based on traits for source-sink relationship in wheat. The project team will also evaluate QTLs, haplotypes, and genes to understand the molecular and genetic basis of source-sink relationship in regulating heat tolerance of wheat. This project will benefit Australian growers by allowing Australian breeders and pre-breeders access to the germplasm and selection tools to increase wheat yields through improved intrinsic heat tolerance.

Project start date:

01/03/2023

Project end date:

01/03/2027

Crop type: