New genomic resources to boost research in reproductive biology to enable cost-effective hybrid seed production

Abstract

The commercial realization of hybrid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major technological challenge to sustainably increase food production for our growing population in a changing climate. Despite recent advances in cytoplasmic- and nuclear-based pollination control systems, the inefficient outcrossing of wheat's autogamous florets remains a barrier to hybrid seed production. There is a pressing need to investigate wheat floral biology and enhance the likelihood of ovaries being fertilized by airborne pollen so breeders can select and utilize male and female parents for resilient, scalable, and cost-effective hybrid seed production. Advances in understanding the wheat genomes and pangenome will aid research into the underlying floral organ development and fertility with the aim to stabilize pollination and fertilization under a changing climate. The purpose of this position paper is to highlight priority areas of research to support hybrid wheat development, including (1) structural aspects of florets that affect stigma presentation, longevity, and receptivity to airborne pollen, (2) pollen release dynamics (e.g., anther extrusion and dehiscence), and (3) the effect of heat, drought, irradiation, and humidity on these reproductive traits. A combined approach of increased understanding built on the genomic resources and advanced trait evaluation will deliver to robust measures for key floral characteristics, such that diverse germplasm can be fully exploited to realize the yield improvements and yield stability offered by hybrids.