Root architectural traits and yield stability in popular wheat (Triticum aestivum) varieties of India

Abstract

The root system architecture has bearing on realizing the yield potential of genotypes. The 24 popular wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties released during the last 50 years for North Western Plain Zone (NWPZ) of India were used to study root traits and yield contributing traits two years and three locations. Association between the deeper root angles and yield were significant and the number of tillers is also associated with the number and angular distribution of crown roots. There is a relative adjustment in yield attributing and root architectural traits of varieties. The varieties HD3086, PBW502, WH1124, DPW621-50, PBW550 and WH1105 have largely modulated the yield through root traits while, the varieties DBW17, WH1142, HD2967, HD2009 and HD2687 have modulated yield through TGW and tillers along with roots. The other old varieties were modulating yield through aboveground traits only. There were significant genotypic effects for deeper crown root angles, days to heading, and tillers per meter square and thousand-grain weight. WH1080 has the best combination of all the traits. The genotype × environment and environmental effects were significant for other traits. Inclusion of crown root angles, mesocotyl length along with other above-ground traits in selection can help in designing better genotypes for future.

Keywords

• Root architecture
• Spring wheat varieties
• Stability
• Yield