The value of early root development traits in breeding programs for biomass yield in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.).

ABSTRACT:

Key message

Early root traits, particularly total root length, are heritable and show positive genetic correlations with biomass yield in perennial ryegrass; incorporating them into breeding programs can enhance genetic gain. Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is an important forage grass widely used in pastures and lawns, valued for its high nutritive value and environmental benefits. Despite its importance, genetic improvements in biomass yield have been slow, mainly due to its outbreeding nature and the challenges of improving multiple traits simultaneously. This study aims to assess the potential advantages of including early root traits in the perennial ryegrass breeding process. Root traits, including total root length (TRL) and root angle (RA) were phenotyped in a greenh

SUBMITTER: Malinowska M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11750904 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature