Root Trait Diversity in Field Grown Durum Wheat and Comparison with Seedlings

Roots are important for crop adaptation, particularly in dryland environments. We evaluated root development of 37 durum wheat genotypes (modern cultivars and landraces) the field at adult plant stage, through a shovelomics approach. Large genotypic variability was found traits. Differences between landraces modern were main driver this variation, with showing higher vigor roots shoots. Nonetheless, variation within groups also observed, related to different models growth, largely independent total length. These two represented growth oriented either occupy more soil volume, or less volume increased density. The results then compared data previously collected seedlings using filter paper-based method, assess whether early anticipated features. Field plants showed narrower angle than seedlings. In particular, presented cultivars, but only seedling stage. Potentially useful correlations stages length number.