Multi-allelic gene editing in an apomictic, tetraploid turf and forage grass ( Flüggé) using CRISPR/Cas9.

Polyploidy is common among grasses () and poses challenges for conventional breeding. Genome editing technology circumvents crossing and selfing, enabling targeted modifications to multiple gene copies in a single generation while maintaining the heterozygous context of many polyploid genomes. Bahiagrass ( Flüggé; 2=4=40) is an apomictic, tetraploid C4 species that is widely grown in the southeastern United States as forage in beef cattle production and utility turf.