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Disentangling the Heterosis in Biomass Production and Radiation Use Efficiency in Maize: A Phytomer-Based 3D
Xiang Liu1,2, Shenghao Gu2,3, Weiliang Wen2,3
1State Key Laboratory of North China Crop Improvement and Regulation, Key Laboratory of Crop Growth Regulation of Hebei Province, College of Agronomy, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 29, 2023
Summary
Maize heterosis enhances yield and photosynthetic efficiency by optimizing canopy structure and leaf photosynthesis. This study quantifies how these traits contribute to biomass and radiation use efficiency, aiding breeding strategies.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Physiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Maize (Zea mays L.) exhibits heterosis, improving yield and photosynthesis.
- The distinct contributions of canopy structure and leaf photosynthetic capacity to heterosis in biomass and radiation use efficiency (RUE) remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess the independent roles of canopy structure and photosynthetic capacity in maize heterosis.
- To identify key traits influencing biomass production and RUE for improved crop breeding.
Main Methods:
- Development of a phytomer-based 3D canopy photosynthesis model.
- Simulation of light capture and canopy photosynthesis under different heterosis scenarios (canopy structure vs. leaf photosynthesis).
Main Results:
- Simulations showed increased above-ground biomass (39% and 31%) and photosynthetically active radiation capture (23% and 14%) in maize hybrid Jingnongke728 compared to parents.
- Radiation use efficiency (RUE) increased by 13% and 17%, primarily driven by leaf photosynthetic improvements post-silking.
- The dominant factor for heterosis in yield formation differed between male and female parents.
Conclusions:
- Leaf photosynthetic capacity is a key driver of post-silking RUE enhancement in maize heterosis.
- The quantitative framework can identify traits crucial for yield and RUE, guiding breeders in selecting for enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and higher yields.
