Evaluation of functional kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers for selection of drought-tolerant wheat () genotypes.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum ) is a major crop around the globe and different techniques are being used for its productivity enhancement. Germplasm evaluation to improve crop productivity mainly depends on accurate phenotyping and selection of genotypes with a high frequency of superior alleles related to the trait of interest. Therefore, applying functional kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers for drought-related genes is essential to characterise the genotypes for developing future climate-resilient wheat crop.

Role of Wheat Genes in Phosphorus Acquisition and Root Architecture.

The wheat plant requires elevated phosphorus levels for its normal growth and yield, but continuously depleting non-renewable phosphorus reserves in the soil is one of the biggest challenges in agricultural production worldwide. The () gene has been reported to play a key role in efficient P uptake, deeper rooting, and high yield in rice. However, the function of the gene in wheat is still unclear.