QTL mapping of seedling root traits in Synthetic W7984 × Opata M85 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) mapping population

Root system architecture, as a complex trait, has gained attention due to climate change and abiotic stress pressure on crops. The incorporation of root traits in breeding objectives may enable new advances in climate-resilient crops. Here, the genetics of the seedling root system architecture in the Synthetic W7984 × Opata M85 Doubled Haploid mapping population was investigated. Three traits at the seedling stage and mature stage root and shoot biomass traits were mapped for quantitative trait loci (QTL) identification. A total of five different loci on chromosomes 1B, 5A, and 7D with major effects were identified for total root length, primary root length, and seminal root growth angle.