LeasyScan-an efficient phenotyping platform for identification of pre-breeding genetic stocks in maize

Abstract

The huge genetic resources among all the crop species is still underutilized in meeting the worldwide challenges of agriculture production systems. In maize only 5% of world’s maize germplasm has been used. The utilization of the maize genetic resources, which hold the answers to most of the threats and challenges, would be enhanced by their precise characterization and evaluation. Also, the data needs to be generated at a faster rate to meet the onset challenges. In this study, we discussed and demonstrated the use of an imaging phenotyping platformLeasyScan, coupled with lysimeters, to measure precise plant height and canopy traits viz., leaf area and leaf area index (LAI) affecting water use in six experimental and two released maize hybrids viz., 14746185, 8315622, 22525674, 18270413, 4695575, 783527, 900MG and 30V92. Of these, experimental hybrids 2 & 5 i.e 8315622 4695575 showed promising 3D-leaf area and LAI. We conclude that LeasyScan –phenotyping platform can be effectively used in the identification of genotypes/germplasm lines with high vigour (Plant height), efficient 3D-leaf area and LAI at early stage of around one month old seedlings. Identification of such genetic stocks/ germplasm lines can be an important step towards effective utilization of the genetic resources in pre-breeding programme.