High-performance varieties of narrow-leaved lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) by unlocking the genetic potential of root traits and rhizosphere interactions (LupiRhiz)

Healthy and efficient root systems of cultivated crops are indispensable prerequisites for reliable and high yields. The project aims to significantly improve the yield and yield stability of narrow-leaved lupins (Lupinus angustifolius) by selecting for root characteristics. In addition to recording the root architecture and root growth rate in rhizotrons, the root chemotype (root exudates and rhizodeposits) and its influence on the rhizosphere, nodule formation and phosphate mobilisation will be analysed using GC/MS. The genetic basis will be analysed by means of differential expression profiles using RNA-Seq comparisons and quantitative PCR with mRNA. The data will be used for breeding purposes to transfer the root-related traits from bitter forms to low-alkaloid forms of narrow-leaved lupin and combine them with important domestication and quality traits. The domestication traits (e.g. pod shattering resistance, soft-seeds) are to be tracked and selected using molecular markers. The quality characteristics protein and alkaloid content are recorded via GC/MS and single grain NIRS and included in the selection. In addition, agronomic traits such as vigour, stability and late maturity will be taken into account, which may have a positive impact on future forms of cultivation such as mixed cropping. The project aims to provide novel varieties of narrow-leaved lupin that can open up new cultivation areas and deliver significantly improved grain yields and yield stability thanks to powerful root systems with novel characteristics. The genetic resources available to the applicant consortium from previous projects and the traits found therein, e.g. for soil pH tolerance, plant architecture and pod set, are ideally suited for this purpose.