Phenotyping and Validation of Root Morphological Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is an important cereal crop, but its sustainable production significantly hampered due to the presence of various edaphic stresses. Understanding variability in root morphological traits among diverse barley genotypes critical for selecting those with suitable breeding new cultivars better adapted stress environments. Root early growth stage (30 days after transplanting) a panel 189 (mostly advanced lines) were assessed using semi-hydroponic phenotyping platform followed by validation experiment eight contrasting systems two soils. The showed large variation (coefficient values ≥ 0.25) 16 26 measured and shoot traits. A strong correlation most selected was identified. Principal component analysis indicated four principal components (eigenvalues >1) captured 79.5% total variation. traits, including length, length at depths, diameter ratio (top 20 cm vs. lower section), could be considered programs. Consistent ranking based on biomass both system columns different soils confirmed trait performance environments as well reliability method. This study identified phenotypic stage. genotypic represents basis mapping quantitative loci (QTLs) molecular markers, particularly focused lines optimal properties efficient acquisition soil resources adaptation drought other abiotic