Table of Content

12 February 2026, Volume 52 Issue 2

Previous Issue    Next Issue

REVIEW

Effects of climate change on crop diseases and insect pests

Li Xin-Yi, Chen Xin-Tong, Zhao Chuang, Wang Qian, Cong Jia-Hui, Lin Ruo-Wei, Qiu Yu-Xin, Yang Xiao-Guang

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  331-348.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.53041

Abstract ( 1110 )   HTML ( 42 )   PDF (2352KB) ( 567 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Global climate change is systematically exacerbating the damage caused by crop pests and diseases through increased temperatures, altered precipitation regimes, and elevated atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, posing severe challenges to national food security. This paper reviews the current status and characteristics of crop pest and disease occurrences in China, along with the mechanistic influences of climate change on their dynamics. It reveals the core processes, including accelerated pest development and northward expansion due to rising temperatures, bidirectional regulation of pests and diseases by altered precipitation patterns, and the indirect impact of elevated CO₂ concentrations on pest and disease dynamics by changing the physiology of host plants. Furthermore, interactions among multiple factors (such as combined heat and humidity) are shown to amplify risks substantially. While a preliminary integrated framework has been established—encompassing stress-resistant crop breeding, development of green pesticides, smart monitoring and early warning systems, and adaptive agronomic practices—significant knowledge gaps remain. These include insufficient understanding of molecular response mechanisms, limited quantification of dynamic processes, and fragmented modeling of regional disaster patterns. Moving forward, it is imperative to advance research on the multi-dimensional coupling mechanisms within the “climate-crop-pest” system, integrate multi-modal data and artificial intelligence technologies, and develop a proactive, data-driven prevention and control system for enhanced resilience.

CROP GENETICS & BREEDING·GERMPLASM RESOURCES·MOLECULAR GENETICS

Functional analysis of the Bna-miR1040-EIF3A module in regulating flowering time in rapeseed (Brassica napus)

Ma Yi-Na, Wu Xiao-Ming-Yu, Li Ou-Qi, Wang Yuan, Chen Li, Zhang Ying-Chuan, Zhao Lun, Wen Jing, Fu Ting-Dong, Shen Jin-Xiong

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  349-362.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.55035

Abstract ( 638 )   HTML ( 16 )   PDF (8430KB) ( 217 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Flowering time is a critical developmental trait in crops that significantly influences yield. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small endogenous RNAs processed from MIR gene transcripts, regulate gene expression by mediating transcript cleavage. In this study, we identified a novel miRNA—novel-Bna-miR1040—in rapeseed (Brassica napus), whose biological function had not been previously characterized. Transgenic rapeseed plants overexpressing Bna-miR1040 exhibited delayed flowering compared to wild-type plants. Degradome sequencing identified BnaEIF3A as a potential target of Bna-miR1040. This interaction was validated by 5′RACE and transient expression assays in tobacco leaves, which confirmed that Bna-miR1040 cleaves BnaEIF3A, significantly reducing its transcript levels. Evolutionary analysis showed that BnaEIF3A is highly conserved across diverse plant species. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that the BnaEIF3A protein is exclusively localized in the nucleus. To further investigate its function, we generated BnaEIF3A loss-of-function mutants using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. These mutants also exhibited delayed flowering phenotypes compared to wild-type controls. Together, our findings demonstrate that Bna-miR1040 regulates flowering time in rapeseed by suppressing BnaEIF3A expression, providing novel insights for molecular breeding strategies aimed at optimizing flowering time in rapeseed.

Identification and genome-wide association analysis of seedling-stage Fusarium crown rot resistance in 200 wheat cultivars from Henan province, China

Lu Ya-Ni, Ding Chao-Jie, Zhang Yu, Du Xi-Jun, Qi Xue-Li, Hu Lin, Xu Wei-Gang

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  363-375.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51075

Abstract ( 691 )   HTML ( 24 )   PDF (1786KB) ( 266 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is a globally prevalent soil-borne fungal disease of wheat. In recent years, its incidence has steadily increased in the middle-lower Yangtze River and Huang-Huai wheat-growing regions of China. However, wheat cultivars with strong resistance remain scarce. As a result, the identification of resistant germplasm and the discovery of resistance genes have become key priorities in resistance breeding. In this study, the dominant FCR pathogen Fusarium pseudograminearum strain WZ-8A, isolated from the Huang-Huai wheat region, was used to evaluate seedling-stage resistance in 133 landrace cultivars and 67 modern cultivars from Henan province. Phenotypic data were integrated with wheat 660K SNP genotyping data to perform a genome-wide association study (GWAS). The results revealed that only eight cultivars—Tutoumai (Qixian), Zaoyangmai, Baiquan 41, Kaimai 18, Zhoumai 24, 04 Zhong 36, Yumai 35, and Zhongyu 3—exhibited moderate resistance. GWAS identified 30 significant loci, with two SNPs (AX-111055517 and AX-110584552) consistently detected across multiple models and environments. Functional annotation and expression analysis of candidate regions suggested that TraesCS4B02G048500 may be a key resistance gene. This study identified eight moderately resistant wheat accessions at the seedling stage, and the significant loci and putative genes discovered provide valuable resources, insights, and a theoretical foundation for future FCR resistance breeding and related research.

Evaluation of salt tolerance at the seedling stage and related gene mining in mung bean germplasm resources

Li Shi-Qing, Wang Qian, Wang Su-Hua, Zhang Yao-Wen, Wang Li-Xia

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  376-388.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54061

Abstract ( 541 )   HTML ( 15 )   PDF (5704KB) ( 232 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Soil salinization poses a serious threat to agricultural production. Exploring salt-tolerant germplasm in mung bean is crucial for the effective utilization of saline-alkali soils in China and for promoting the sustainable development of the mung bean industry. In this study, 200 mung bean germplasm accessions were evaluated for salt tolerance (150 mmol L^-1 NaCl) at the seedling stage based on 13 phenotypic traits, including plant height, above-ground fresh weight, and root fresh weight. The results showed that the salt tolerance coefficient for root length per unit volume was the highest (0.806), while that for root branching was the lowest (0.591). Significant differences were observed among germplasms in their responses to salt stress, particularly in root dry weight, root length per unit volume, and root fresh weight. Based on salt damage symptoms, 16 highly salt-tolerant and 12 highly salt-sensitive germplasms were identified, with the highest proportion of salt-tolerant accessions found in the North China region. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) based on resequencing data identified 67 SNP loci significantly associated with salt tolerance, corresponding to 348 candidate genes, of which 99 had annotated functions. Among these, Vradi04g09980, Vradi01g06290, and Vradi08g02890 were validated through haplotype analysis as potentially associated with salt tolerance at the seedling stage. These findings provide a valuable foundation for the genetic improvement of salt tolerance in mung bean and for further elucidating the underlying regulatory mechanisms.

Salt tolerance identification, screening and salt tolerance index evaluation of wheat-Thinopyrum intermedium radiation mutagenesis germplasm at germination and seedling stage

Qi Qing-Song, Niu Xiang-Yu, Liu Bing-Ke, Kang Lu, Wang Chen, Feng De-Shun

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  389-404.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51071

Abstract ( 474 )   HTML ( 11 )   PDF (1820KB) ( 106 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Saline-alkali land is widespread in China and poses a significant limitation to crop growth. Screening for salt-tolerant crop varieties is a key strategy to enhance the utilization of saline-alkali soils. In this study, 40 radiation-induced wheat-Thinopyrum intermedium lines, three conventional wheat varieties, and the wheat-Th. intermedium disomic addition line SN6306 were used as experimental materials. Chinese Spring (CS) was used as a salt-sensitive control, and Shanrong 3 (SR3) served as a salt-tolerant control. Phenotypic traits were comprehensively analyzed under hydroponic conditions, and the optimal salt treatment concentrations for both germination and seedling stages were determined. Using multivariate statistical analysis, salt tolerance of the 44 experimental materials was evaluated at the seedling and germination stages. Based on the results, the materials were classified into four salt tolerance levels: five highly salt-tolerant lines (e.g., A275, A051), thirty-one moderately salt-tolerant lines (e.g., A079, A262), seven salt-sensitive lines (e.g., A140, A284), with CS identified as highly sensitive. A stepwise regression model was established using the salt tolerance scores and the relative salt tolerance coefficients of physiological and biomass indices: D-value = 0.033-0.050×K⁺-S+0.002×Na⁺-R+0.237×K⁺-R+0.176×GP+0.139×GR-0.005×PC+0.197×SFW+0.088×WCS-0.110×RDW+0.242×SL+0.019×MRL (R²= 0.999). Significant indicators for identifying salt-tolerant wheat included potassium ion content in shoots and roots, sodium ion content in roots, germination potential and rate, proline content, seedling fresh weight, water content, root dry weight, seedling height, and maximum root length. This study established a reliable regression model for evaluating wheat salt tolerance and identified both salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive lines, providing valuable genetic resources for further research on the molecular mechanisms of salt tolerance and for breeding salt-tolerant wheat varieties.

Genome-wide identification of class III POD gene family in potato and its expression profile analysis

Yang Biao, Du Shuai-Kang, Zhang Ji-Wang, Shi Ying, Zhang Li-Li

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  405-420.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54094

Abstract ( 473 )   HTML ( 17 )   PDF (23630KB) ( 146 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Class III peroxidases (EC 1.11.1.7) are plant-specific oxidoreductases widely distributed across plant species. They catalyze redox reactions between hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), serving as an electron acceptor, and various electron donors, playing a critical role in plant responses to diverse environmental stresses. Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), a herbaceous annual of the Solanum genus in the Solanaceae family, has seen limited functional research on its peroxidase (POD) gene family (StPODs). In this study, we conducted a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of the StPODs gene family to explore their expression patterns under various abiotic stresses. A total of 148 StPODs genes were identified in the potato genome and named StPOD1-StPOD148 based on their chromosomal positions. These StPODs proteins ranged from 76 to 914 amino acids in length, and molecular weights ranging from 83.64 to 101.32 kD. Functional analyses based on conserved motifs and structural domains revealed that all StPODs contained five highly conserved motifs (Motifs 1-5) and two conserved domains: secretory_peroxidase and PLN03030 superfamily. Microarray data were used to analyze their expression profiles under stress conditions. Many StPODs showed significantly increased expression in response to salt, drought, and high temperature stresses, with the highest number of differentially expressed genes (64) observed under salt stress. Additionally, several StPODs were induced by plant hormone treatments, including abscisic acid (ABA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA₃), and benzylaminopurine (BAP), with 85 StPODs genes showing differential expression following ABA induction. Furthermore, by comparing expression profiles between the drought-tolerant potato line “A90” and the drought-sensitive line “A163”, 14 StPODs were identified as candidate drought-tolerance genes, showing opposite expression trends between the two lines. Six genes with the most pronounced differential expression were heterologously expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and functional analysis confirmed that StPOD23 and StPOD53 are involved in osmoregulatory responses in yeast cells. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for future functional studies of StPODs genes.

Cloning and expression analysis of the HvLRR-RLK-510 gene encoding a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase in barley

Yu Kai-Hang, Zhou Hong-Bin, Luo Liang-Zha, Wang Mei-Li, Jiang Rui-Mei, Dong-Chen Wen-Hua, Li Shi-Jin, Mao Xiao-Qiang, Chen Sheng-Wei

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  421-432.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51068

Abstract ( 442 )   HTML ( 7 )   PDF (6188KB) ( 123 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Elucidating the function and regulatory mechanisms of LRR-RLK (leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase) genes is essential for understanding the developmental processes and stress responses in barley. In this study, eight barley varieties or lines, including Beiqing 7, the Ynbs mutant, and Morex, were used as experimental materials. A 2904 bp coding sequence (CDS) of the HvLRR-RLK-510 gene was successfully cloned. The CDS and corresponding amino acid sequences of HvLRR-RLK-510 all showed over 99.00% similarity, across the eight genotypes. The encoded protein contains key conserved domains typical of LRR-RLKs, including leucine-rich repeat domains, transmembrane regions, and a kinase domain. Phylogenetic analysis grouped this protein into a subclass shared with LRR-RLKs from wheat, rice, and Arabidopsis. RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR analyses revealed that HvLRR-RLK-510 was differentially expressed in young spikes, leaf sheaths, leaves, roots, and stems of the above-mentioned eight materials at the jointing stage, exhibiting both organ specificity and genotype dependence. Notably, expression in young spikes was consistently higher and less affected by genotype. Subcellular localization experiments showed that the protein is localized to the plasma membrane and vacuolar membrane in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf cells. This study provides a valuable gene resource and theoretical foundation for further investigation into the functional roles and molecular mechanisms of HvLRR-RLK-510 in barley.

Molecular cytogenetic and disease resistance characterization of the wheat- Psathyrostachys huashanica disomic substitution line 16DH25-7

Wang Yue-Sheng, Ge Dong-Dong, Cheng Lan-Fei, Chen Chun-Huan, Wang Chang-You, Liu Xin-Lun, Li Ting-Dong, Deng Ping-Chuan, Ji Wan-Quan, Zhao Ji-Xin

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  433-445.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51060

Abstract ( 413 )   HTML ( 5 )   PDF (9987KB) ( 88 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Psathyrostachys huashanica Keng (2n = 2x = 14, NsNs), a valuable germplasm resource in the tertiary gene pool of wheat, exhibits remarkable resistance to biotic stresses such as powdery mildew and stripe rust, making it highly valuable for wheat genetic improvement. In this study, a derivative line, 16DH25-7, exhibiting resistance to both powdery mildew and stripe rust, was selected from the progeny of the wheat-P. huashanica heptaploid H8911 and durum wheat D4286. To elucidate the genetic background of this material, cytogenetic analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), liquid-phase chip technology, and molecular marker analysis were used to characterize its chromosomal composition. Cytogenetic analysis revealed that 16DH25-7 had a chromosome number of 2n = 42. FISH analysis showed that it carried two P. huashanica Ns chromosomes and simultaneously lacked both wheat 5D chromosomes. Combined analysis using molecular markers and SNP chip data confirmed that the missing 5D chromosomes were replaced by P. huashanica 5Ns chromosomes, indicating that 16DH25-7 is a wheat-P. huashanica 5Ns (5D) disomic substitution line. Agronomic evaluation demonstrated that 16DH25-7 possesses desirable traits such as reduced plant height and increased tiller number. Disease resistance assessments confirmed its high resistance to both stripe rust and powdery mildew. In conclusion, 16DH25-7 represents an elite disease-resistant germplasm that holds great potential for wheat resistance breeding and genetic improvement.

Functional study of NtWRKY6 in response to ABA expression and regulation of polyphenol synthesis

Zhan Ge-Rui, Yu Wen, Li Feng, Wu Ming-Zhu, Xu Xin, Luo Zhao-Peng, Wu Sheng-Xin, Yang Jun, Zhang Zhi-Qiang, Wang Zhong

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  446-458.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54056

Abstract ( 572 )   HTML ( 14 )   PDF (10569KB) ( 144 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

The transcription factor WRKY6 is known to regulate seed germination and seedling growth in plants. However, its role in polyphenol biosynthesis has not yet been reported. To investigate the biological function of tobacco WRKY6, the NtWRKY6 gene was identified from the Nicotiana tabacum genome. Sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis revealed that NtWRKY6 contains a typical WRKY domain and belongs to the Group II subfamily. NtWRKY6 was highly expressed in tobacco flowers and capsules, and its transcription was significantly induced by several plant hormones, including ABA, BL, and JA. Overexpression of NtWRKY6 significantly enhanced the resistance of tobacco seedlings to ABA treatment. In three independent NtWRKY6-overexpressing (OE) lines, polyphenol content in leaves and roots increased by 18.54%-77.15% and 39.72%-64.07%, respectively, compared to wild-type (WT) plants. In contrast, ntwrky6 mutants were more sensitive to ABA treatment, and polyphenol content in their leaves and roots decreased by 25.05%-30.67% and 19.85%-29.06%, respectively, relative to WT plants. Furthermore, the expression levels of multiple genes involved in polyphenol synthesis were significantly upregulated in NtWRKY6-OE seedlings, while they were significantly downregulated in ntwrky6 mutants. These results indicate that NtWRKY6 plays a role in regulating ABA signal transduction and polyphenol biosynthesis, providing a potential target gene for improving tobacco quality.

Evaluation of salinity tolerance and germplasm screening of buckwheat during germination under salt stress

Huang Li-Xia, Zhang Wei-Wei, Zhen Yi-Yue, Wang Qiu-Bao, Tian Hong-Ling, Li Guo-Dong, Liu Long-Long, Zhang Li-Jun

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  459-479.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51066

Abstract ( 442 )   HTML ( 12 )   PDF (1377KB) ( 155 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Soil salinization is a major abiotic stress factor threatening the sustainable development of global agriculture and severely limiting the production potential of buckwheat and other salt-sensitive crops. To screen salt-tolerant buckwheat germplasm and establish a reliable evaluation model, 160 buckwheat accessions were subjected to a germination test using the double-layer filter paper method. Two types of salt stress—neutral salts (NaCl, Na₂SO₄) and alkaline salts (NaHCO₃, Na₂CO₃)—were applied at five concentration gradients. Five germination parameters, including germination potential (GP), and four seedling growth traits, including root length (RL), were measured to calculate the salt tolerance index (STI) for each trait. Multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to comprehensively evaluate salt tolerance and identify key indicators. Results showed that the salt tolerance coefficients of the nine measured traits varied across salt types and concentrations, with significant correlations observed among some traits. The germination inhibition threshold for alkaline salts (0.10%) was significantly lower than that for neutral salts (0.25%), and the inhibition strength followed the order: Na₂CO₃ > NaHCO₃ > Na₂SO₄ ≈ NaCl (at high concentrations). Principal component analysis (PCA) extracted two principal components from the nine STI traits for each salt type, explaining 80.12%-84.07% of the total variance. PC1 (germination vigor factor, contribution 54.60%-58.13%) included vigor index (VI), germination index (GI), and germination rate (GR), while PC2 (biomass factor, contribution 25.21%-27.96%) included fresh weight (FW), dry weight (DW), and shoot length (SL). A comprehensive salt tolerance score (D value) was calculated for each accession using membership function analysis. Cluster analysis grouped the 160 accessions into five categories: highly tolerant (HT), tolerant (RT), moderately tolerant (MT), sensitive (SS), and highly sensitive (HS). Fourteen accessions with high tolerance were identified across all four salt types. Stepwise regression analysis was used to construct optimal linear prediction models. Under NaCl, Na₂SO₄, and NaHCO₃ stress, VI, GI, FW, SL, and GR were significantly correlated with the D value (R² = 0.994-0.999, P < 0.01), while under Na₂CO₃ stress, GI, FW, SL, and RL were significantly correlated (R² = 0.998, P < 0.01), suggesting these traits can serve as reliable salt tolerance indicators. Among them, VI demonstrated greater discriminatory power than the traditional GR, making it a promising comprehensive physiological index. These findings provide a phenotypic foundation for identifying salt-tolerant buckwheat germplasm and support future genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to uncover quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes involved in salt tolerance.

Cloning and functional analysis of the soybean GmARA6a gene in response to salt stress

Zhang Qing, Yang Yu, Guo Qian, Yue Pei-Yao, Yin Cong-Cong, Niu Jing-Ping, Zhao Jin-Zhong, Du Wei-Jun, Yue Ai-Qin

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  480-493.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.55038

Abstract ( 440 )   HTML ( 14 )   PDF (18288KB) ( 181 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Vesicle trafficking plays a crucial role in plant responses to salt stress. ARA6 (RabF1) positively regulates salt tolerance by mediating vesicle transport between endosomes and the plasma membrane. In this study, GmARA6a was cloned from soybean and analyzed using bioinformatics approaches. Subcellular localization was examined through BFA and WM treatments, as well as colocalization with AtARA6. The expression pattern of GmARA6a was assessed across various tissues and under salt stress conditions. To evaluate its functional role in salt tolerance, we used Arabidopsis ara6 mutants, complemented lines (Com-1, Com-2), and overexpression lines (OE-1, OE-2). The GmARA6a gene, with a full-length coding sequence of 603 bp encoding a 200-amino-acid protein, was successfully cloned. The protein contains four conserved ARA6-family domains, an effector-binding region, and a unique N-terminal “MGCXSS” motif. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that GmARA6a localizes to the plasma membrane and multivesicular bodies (MVBs). Its expression was induced by salt stress, particularly in soybean roots. Under salt stress conditions, Arabidopsis ara6 mutants exhibited a salt-sensitive phenotype compared to wild-type plants, while GmARA6a overexpression lines showed improved growth, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, reduced membrane damage and lipid peroxidation, and lower levels of H₂O₂ and O₂^?accumulation. Expression analysis of related genes suggested that GmARA6a may contribute to salt tolerance by modulating the SOS signaling pathway and vesicle trafficking. These findings provide new insights into the functional role of GmARA6a in plant salt stress responses.

Identification of candidate genes related to glycoside aroma precursor content in tea plant using WGCNA

Zhang Li-Lan, Yang Jun, Wang Rang-Jian

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  494-513.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54082

Abstract ( 580 )   HTML ( 11 )   PDF (7270KB) ( 129 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

By analyzing transcriptome data from tender shoots of different tea cultivars in autumn, key genes involved in the regulation of glycoside aroma precursor (GAP) biosynthesis were identified. This study provides a theoretical foundation for elucidating the biosynthetic mechanisms of GAPs and for guiding the breeding of tea cultivars with high GAP content. Tender shoots from 14 tea cultivars were used to quantify eight types of GAPs. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to integrate transcriptomic data with GAP content, enabling the identification of co-expression modules and candidate genes related to GAP biosynthesis and accumulation. The distribution of the eight GAP types in tender shoots was uneven, with phenylpropanoid-type GAPs showing significantly higher accumulation than terpene-type GAPs. A total of 4277 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by comparing high-GAP and low-GAP cultivars. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) validation of selected DEGs showed results consistent with transcriptomic data, confirming the reliability of the analysis. WGCNA identified 26 co-expression modules, among which four modules—MEorange, MEyellow, MEdarkturquoise, and MElightcyan—were significantly correlated with the main GAP types (P < 0.01). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed on genes within these key modules. Based on gene connectivity and functional annotation, 16 key genes were identified, including 13 structural genes (four GSTs, three GTs, three TPSs, one CYP450, one CHI, and one DFR) and three transcription factor genes (two NACs and one WRKY). The seasonal variation in terpene- and phenylpropanoid-type GAP accumulation in autumn was notable, and the identified genes are likely to play central roles in regulating GAP biosynthesis and accumulation in tender tea shoots.

TILLAGE & CULTIVATION·PHYSIOLOGY & BIOCHEMISTRY

Effect of green manure returning pattern on water utilization of spring wheat under reduced irrigation in arid irrigation areas

Xie Wei-Xin, Mao Shou-Fa, Wei Jin-Gui, Hou Si-Yu, Fan Zhi-Long, Yin Wen, Hu Fa-Long, Nan Yun-You, Chai Qiang

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  514-526.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51070

Abstract ( 350 )   HTML ( 10 )   PDF (2433KB) ( 140 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

To address the challenges of high water consumption and low water use efficiency (WUE) in spring wheat cultivation in arid irrigated regions, this study investigated the regulatory effects of green manure on water utilization characteristics of spring wheat under reduced irrigation quotas, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for efficient water-saving cropping systems. A field experiment was conducted from 2021 to 2023 in the Hexi Oasis irrigation zone using a split-plot design. The main plot included three irrigation quotas: 420 mm (local conventional, I3), 370 mm (reduced by 50 mm, I2), and 320 mm (reduced by 100 mm, I1). The subplot comprised three green manure treatments: full biomass return after wheat harvest (WG), root and stubble return only (WR), and fallow (W). Results showed that reduced irrigation significantly decreased grain yield; However, green manure effectively offset yield losses. Full green manure return (WG) compensated for the yield loss under a 100 mm irrigation reduction, while WR compensated for a 50 mm reduction. Compared with I3, grain yield under I1 and I2 decreased by 11.6% and 3.2%, respectively. WG and WR treatments increased yield by 11.2% and 5.0% compared to W. Notably, WGI2 increased yield by 7.7% relative to WI3, and both WGI1 and WRI2 showed no significant difference from WI3. Both reduced irrigation and green manure return decreased seasonal water consumption, with WG more effective than WR. Compared to I3, water consumption under I1 and I2 decreased by 24.7% and 10.5%, respectively; WG and WR decreased consumption by 7.8% and 5.3% relative to W. This was mainly due to: (1) lower inter-row evaporation under I1 and I2 (36.8% and 21.0% less than I3) and under WG and WR (24.5% and 17.8% less than W); (2) reduced E/ET under I1 and I2 (by 16.5% and 12.0%) and under WG and WR (by 18.5% and 13.6%). Although the wheat-green manure intercropping system increased total water consumption by 25.1% compared to monoculture wheat, reduced irrigation effectively constrained this increase. Both strategies improved WUE and irrigation water use efficiency (WUE_i), with the greatest gains observed under the lowest irrigation quota combined with full green manure return. Compared with I3, WUE and WUE_i increased by 17.4% and 34.9% under I1, and by 7.9% and 16.9% under I2. Compared with W, WUE and WUE_i increased by 21.0% and 11.5% under WG, and by 11.4% and 5.0% under WR. The WGI1 treatment yielded a 37.4% increase in WUE and 51.2% in WUE_i compared to WI3, indicating that combining full green manure return with reduced irrigation is particularly effective for improving irrigation efficiency. Therefore, in arid oasis irrigation areas, returning full green manure to the field after wheat, under a 320 mm irrigation quota, can maintain stable wheat yields while significantly enhancing water use and irrigation water use efficiencies. This approach offers a viable strategy for achieving both yield stability and improved water productivity in spring wheat systems.

Effects of continuous cropping on the structure and function of soil nematode communities in potato

Xu Qiang, Xie Kui-Zhong, Hu Xin-Yuan, Yue Yun, Dong Bo, Luo Ai-Hua

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  527-538.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54086

Abstract ( 455 )   HTML ( 9 )   PDF (872KB) ( 92 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Potato is a vital crop for global food security. However, long-term continuous cropping leads to soil degradation and intensifies soil-borne diseases, posing a significant threat to sustainable production. Soil nematodes are important bioindicators of soil health and food web dynamics. In this study, we investigated nematode community succession and its underlying drivers in a 15-year potato monoculture experiment in Dingxi, Gansu, China. Four continuous cropping durations—1, 5, 10, and 15 years (T1, T5, T10, T15)—were evaluated using high-throughput sequencing and soil physicochemical analysis. Results showed that prolonged continuous cropping significantly reduced soil pH from 8.28 (T1) to 8.14 (T15) (P < 0.05) and decreased soil organic matter content, particularly between T5 and T15. In contrast, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium increased and peaked at T15 (P < 0.05), resulting in a disrupted C:N:P stoichiometric balance. Beta-diversity analysis (PCoA) indicated that years 5-10 represent a critical transition period in nematode community structure, explaining 57.06% of the variation. The relative abundance of bacterivorous nematodes increased from 15% (T1) to 24% (T15), with Monhysterida rising from 9% to 15% (P < 0.05), suggesting a shift in the soil food web from a fungal- to a bacterial-dominated energy pathway. Plant-parasitic nematodes followed a nonlinear “rise-then-fall” pattern, peaking at T5 and declining significantly at T10 and T15 (P < 0.05). After fifteen years of continuous cropping, potato economic yield declined by 39.55%, the rot rate by weight increased 15.8-fold, and the proportion of marketable potatoes declined sharply. Redundancy analysis (RDA) and Mantel tests identified soil organic matter and pH as key drivers of nematode community succession. Based on these findings, we propose a two-stage succession model for nematode communities under continuous cropping. We further suggest that applying high-carbon organic amendments to restore fungal-dominated energy channels is a promising strategy to alleviate continuous cropping obstacles and support the ecological restoration of degraded farmland.

Effects of sowing date on the utilization efficiency of light and temperature resources and yield in Brassica napus in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River

Lou Hong-Xiang, Xing Ren-Peng, Wang Bo, Wang Jing, Xu Zheng-Hua, Zhao Jie, Kuai Jie, Zhou Guang-Sheng

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  539-551.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.55052

Abstract ( 563 )   HTML ( 42 )   PDF (2743KB) ( 175 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Delaying the sowing date of winter rapeseed can help alleviate the cropping conflict between rice and rapeseed in the Middle Yangtze River region; However, late sowing significantly reduce yield. To investigate the mechanisms underlying yield reduction associated with early and late sowing and to explore strategies for improving yield, a three-year field experiment was conducted from 2018 to 2021 with three sowing dates: early sowing (S1, September 20), optimal sowing (S2, October 1), and late sowing (S3, October 10). This study systematically analyzed yield performance, light and temperature resource use efficiency, and physiological responses related to carbon metabolism. The results showed that: (1) S2 improved the utilization efficiency of light and temperature resources, leading to higher yield and oil production. (2) Compared with S1, S2 exhibited a shorter growth period and a gradual reduction in effective accumulated temperature, yet significantly enhanced the efficiency of light and temperature resource use. Compared with both S1 and S3, S2 also showed higher activities of key carbon metabolism enzymes in leaves (Rubisco, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, and sucrose synthase), which promoted soluble sugar accumulation. (3) At the flowering stage, S2 had a higher canopy light interception rate and single-leaf photosynthetic capacity than S1 and S3, along with significantly increased soluble sugar and amino acid contents in bleeding sap, facilitating the efficient transport of photosynthates to siliques. In conclusion, sowing rapeseed at an optimal date enables more efficient use of light and temperature resources, improves accumulated temperature productivity and light energy utilization, and synergistically enhances both yield and seed quality. Insufficient utilization of light and temperature resources is a major limiting factor for yield in late-sown rapeseed, and these findings provide theoretical and practical guidance for variety selection and cultivation strategies under late sowing conditions.

Yield advantage of the silage maize ‖ lablab intercropping system in response to spatial configuration

Zhang Yi-Yin, Wang Bin, Wang Teng-Fei, Xiao Ai-Ping, Hu Hai-Ying, Lan Jian

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  552-564.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.53035

Abstract ( 437 )   HTML ( 10 )   PDF (4374KB) ( 112 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

A well-designed soybean-corn intercropping system can provide significant yield advantages. However, the underlying mechanisms by which compensation and selection effects contribute to these advantages across ecologically distinct environments remain insufficiently understood. This study, conducted from 2021 to 2022, examined silage maize and lablab. Sole-cropped silage maize (SM) and sole-cropped lablab (SL) served as controls. Four intercropping treatments were established: silage maize interplanted with one (ML₁), two (ML₂), three (ML₃), or four (ML₄) lablab seeds per hole. To clarify the roles of the complementarity effect (CE) and selection effect (SE) in intercropping yield advantages, forage productivity, land equivalent ratio (LER), yield increase rate, relative interspecific competitiveness (RC), and net effect (NE) were analyzed across treatments. Results showed that intercropping silage maize with lablab significantly enhanced forage yield, with all intercropping systems outperforming monocultures. Among them, ML₂ yielded the highest total dry matter (35.19 t hm^-2) and crude protein (3.24 t hm^-2), representing increases of 28.48% and 64.64%, respectively, compared to SM. All intercropping treatments exhibited LER values greater than one. LER was significantly and positively correlated with the compensation effect, but negatively correlated with the selection effect. Similarly, yield increases in silage maize were positively associated with the compensation effect (P < 0.001) and negatively associated with the selection effect. The productivity gains in ML₁ and ML₂ were primarily driven by the compensation effect, while those in ML₃ and ML₄ were mainly attributed to the selection effect. These findings suggest that as the proportion of lablab increases, the dominant mechanism driving yield advantages in the intercropping system gradually shifts from compensation to selection.

Effects of salt stress on root growth and nutrient absorption efficiency of different salt-tolerant summer maize varieties

Liu Ji-Chang, Li Si-Ye, Li Xue-Ting, Wang Hong-Zhang, Liu Peng, Zhang Ji-Wang, Zhao Bin, Ren Bai-Zhao, Ren Hao

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  565-577.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.53054

Abstract ( 841 )   HTML ( 23 )   PDF (2449KB) ( 256 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Coastal saline-alkali land, as one of the most promising types of medium- and low-yield fields in China, plays a critical role in tapping the potential of grain production. Salinity significantly affects the distribution and function of maize roots, thereby influencing water and nutrient uptake. Understanding the effects of salt stress on root growth and nutrient absorption in maize varieties with differing salt tolerance provides a theoretical and technical foundation for high-yield, stress-resilient maize cultivation in saline-alkali soils. In this study, both pool culture and soil column experiments were conducted using two maize varieties—Wansheng 69 (WS69, salt-tolerant) and Denghai 605 (DH605, salt-sensitive). Three salinity treatments were applied: control (CK, no salt), medium salinity stress (MS, 1.5‰), and high salinity stress (HS, 3.0‰). The effects of salt stress on root growth, nutrient uptake, plant nutrient accumulation, and yield were comprehensively evaluated. Results showed that, compared with CK, salt stress disrupted the antioxidant enzyme metabolism in maize roots, reduced root activity, inhibited root growth, and impaired nutrient uptake and utilization, ultimately leading to reduced nutrient accumulation, shoot dry matter, and yield. Yield reduction in the salt-tolerant variety (6.90%-9.12%) was significantly lower than that in the salt-sensitive variety (16.12%-27.42%). Under high salinity, WS69 exhibited significantly higher antioxidant enzyme (SOD, POD, CAT) activities, lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content, lower root respiration rate, and greater root length, surface area, and volume compared to DH605. These traits helped maintain nutrient absorption, promoted dry matter accumulation, and conferred stronger adaptability. In conclusion, salt stress inhibits root growth and yield formation. Salt-tolerant maize varieties can maintain antioxidant enzyme activity and root vitality under salt stress—especially under high salinity—thereby supporting root growth and yield stability, with relatively lower yield losses.

Effects of selenium fertilization on fresh-cut browning in sweet potatoes and its mechanism analysis

Yang Xuan, Li Jian-Kang, He Wan-Jie, Li You-Jun, Cheng Xiang-Han, Hou Wen-Bang

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  578-589.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54090

Abstract ( 407 )   HTML ( 3 )   PDF (2976KB) ( 81 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

Browning is a major factor affecting the quality of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. As an essential component of glutathione peroxidase, selenium (Se) plays a crucial role in enhancing plant stress resistance and has shown potential in the postharvest preservation of horticultural products. To explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of Se fertilizer on postharvest browning in sweet potatoes, foliar Se was applied during the tuber expansion stage. Four treatments were established: a control group without Se application (CK) and three Se treatments at 30 (Se1), 60 (Se2), and 120 (Se3) g hm^-2. Se application significantly delayed browning in fresh-cut sweet potatoes, with the inhibitory effect increasing alongside Se concentration. During storage, Se treatment effectively suppressed enzymatic browning by modulating key physiological and molecular pathways. Specifically, Se application reduced the activities of browning-related enzymes, including polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), while also lowering the accumulation of phenolic compounds. In addition, Se mitigated cutting-induced oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and membrane lipid peroxidation, thereby maintaining membrane integrity. The antioxidant defense system was enhanced, as evidenced by increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), which improved free radical scavenging capacity and preserved cellular redox homeostasis. At the molecular level, Se fertilizer downregulated the expression of genes involved in phenolic compound biosynthesis (IbPAL, Ib4CL, and IbC4H), phenolase enzymes (IbPPO and IbPOD), and lipoxygenase (IbLOX). This study provides a safe and effective strategy for controlling browning in fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, while also offering theoretical insights into the mechanisms by which Se modulates postharvest browning in sweet potatoes.

Modeling the effects of climate change on cotton phenology and potential yield in Xinjiang based on the DSSAT model

Zhou Qi-Xiang, Zhu Yan, Wang Chu-Bo, Zhu Bo-Lin, Li Jun-Bo, Song Li-Bing

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  590-602.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.54092

Abstract ( 596 )   HTML ( 7 )   PDF (3055KB) ( 146 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

As China’s most important cotton production base, Xinjiang plays a crucial role in safeguarding national agricultural and economic security. To quantitatively assess the impact of climate change on cotton growth in this region, daily meteorological data (1990-2020) from 14 agro-meteorological observation stations and 65 meteorological stations, along with cotton growth observation records, were used to calibrate and validate the DSSAT crop model. The validated model was then employed to analyze the spatiotemporal variations in cotton phenology and potential yield across Xinjiang. Additionally, the contributions of key climatic factors were examined using the Mann-Kendall trend test and detrending analysis. The results showed that: (1) For calibration (and validation), the absolute relative errors between simulated and observed values for sowing-flowering date, sowing-maturity date, and yield were 1.80% (1.51%), 0.85% (1.18%), and 5.38% (5.44%), respectively, with normalized root mean square errors of 9.56% (14.06%), 9.71% (11.50%), and 11.30% (11.34%), indicating good model performance. (2) Under fixed sowing dates and cultivar conditions, the durations of sowing-flowering and sowing-maturity significantly decreased (P < 0.05) at rates of 1.26 d 10a^-1 and 2.54 d 10a^-1, respectively, from 1990 to 2020, while potential yield significantly increased at a rate of 159.61 kg hm^-2 10a^-1. (3) Spatial analysis revealed that changes in cotton phenology and yield were significant at most stations (P < 0.05), with the proportions of stations showing significant or highly significant trends being 33.8% (55.4%) for sowing-flowering, 24.76% (64.6%) for sowing-maturity, and 29.2% (50.8%) for potential yield. The relative contributions of climatic factors to potential yield were ranked as follows: daily solar radiation > maximum temperature > precipitation > minimum temperature. Overall, the DSSAT model effectively simulated cotton growth, development, and yield in Xinjiang, and climate change was found to have a significant impact on cotton phenology and potential yield. These findings provide valuable data support and a theoretical basis for crop model applications, yield forecasting, and climate impact assessments in Xinjiang and similar agro-ecological regions.

Effects of nitrogen and phosphorus reduction on grain yield, quality, and soil biological properties in strong-gluten wheat varieties

Xu Bei-Ming, Hao Zi-Rui, Feng Jian-Chao, Ma Geng, Wang Li-Fang, Xie Ying-Xin, Wang Chen-Yang, Ma Dong-Yun

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  603-619.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.51049

Abstract ( 568 )   HTML ( 11 )   PDF (1261KB) ( 209 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

To evaluate the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) reduction on grain yield, quality, and soil biological properties in strong-gluten wheat varieties, a three-year field experiment (winter wheat seasons from 2021 to 2024) was conducted in Henan province using three cultivars: Kexing 3302, Yuzhou 118, and Xinmai 26. The experimental design included four treatments: (1) conventional fertilization (CF: N/P₂O₅/K₂O = 240/135/135 kg hm^-2), (2) nitrogen reduction (RN: no N application in 2021-2022, and 30% N reduction relative to CF in 2022-2024, with P and K maintained at CF levels), and (3) phosphorus reduction (RP: no P application in 2021-2022, and 30% P reduction in 2022-2024, with N and K maintained at CF levels). Results indicated that N and P reductions had no significant effects on soil total N (TN), total P (TP), or organic matter content in the first year. However, under RN treatment, TN and TP at maturity were significantly lower than those under CF during the 2022-2023 growing season. Both N and P reductions decreased soil nitrate-N and ammonium-N concentrations. Soil enzyme activities (urease, invertase, and phosphatase) showed declining trends under nutrient reduction, with RN causing significantly greater reductions than CF. P reduction had no significant effect on yield across all three varieties, while N reduction had no impact in the first year but led to significant yield losses in the second and third years. These losses were primarily due to reduced spike numbers, with RN having a more pronounced negative effect than RP, which intensified over time. Grain processing quality under RP generally met the standards for strong- or medium-strong gluten wheat, whereas RN significantly reduced protein content (by 0.85%) and sedimentation value (by 4.49 mL) compared to CF. The negative impact of RN on quality parameters was greater than that of RP. Under current agroecological and soil fertility conditions, omitting N fertilizer in the first year and applying a 30% N reduction in the second year maintained grain yield and quality while increasing N partial factor productivity by an average of 26.24%. Similarly, omitting P in the first year and applying a 30% P reduction in the second and third years stabilized yield and quality while improving P partial factor productivity by an average of 34.45%. These findings offer empirical support for optimizing fertilizer strategies in strong-gluten wheat production systems.

RESEARCH NOTES

Comparative study on the characteristics of rapeseed yield under the rapeseed- oil dual-purpose mode in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River

Li Rui, Yu Yi-Wen, Wang Dun-Liang, Tian Ting, Sun Ling-Xiang, Tao Yue-Yue, Sun Hua

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  620-630.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.55059

Abstract ( 467 )   HTML ( 6 )   PDF (915KB) ( 64 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

To evaluate the production potential and regional applicability of the rapeseed-oil dual-purpose mode in the winter rapeseed-producing areas of the middle and lower Yangtze River Basin, a field experiment was conducted in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, from 2024 to 2025. Using the conventional single-purpose oil production mode as a control, this study systematically compared differences in yield components and agronomic traits between the two modes. Additionally, by integrating and analyzing 265 sets of yield data from 27 published studies (2001-2025) in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), the effects of stalk removal on rapeseed yield across different regions were assessed through variance and correlation analyze. Field experiment results showed that, compared with the conventional mode, the dual-purpose mode increased the number of total branches by 26.95% and prolonged the growth period by 3.5 days, while significantly reducing plant height, branch height, 1000-seed weight, and flowering duration by 6.35%, 54.56%, 4.70%, and 12.19%, respectively (P < 0.05). No significant overall difference in rapeseed yield was observed between the two modes (P > 0.05). However, under the stalk removal mode without nitrogen topdressing, yield decreased significantly by 36.26% (P < 0.05), accompanied by notable reductions in the number of primary branches, siliques per plant, branch height, and 1000-seed weight (P < 0.05). Regional comparisons revealed that the yield remained stable after stalk removal in mid-Yangtze regions such as Hubei and Jiangxi, while more pronounced yield sensitivity was observed in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui. Therefore, the rapeseed-oil dual-purpose mode should be adapted to local conditions, incorporating supportive practices such as optimized variety selection and fertilization strategies. Refining nitrogen management and stalk removal criteria can enhance branch compensation and extend the flowering period, thereby improving overall cultivation efficiency and stabilizing rapeseed yield.

Development of ultra-high-yield technology for a wheat-maize double cropping system achieving a 2-ton annual grain yield per mu in the coastal plain of Northern Shandong peninsula, China

Lin Zi-Qing, Zhong Xing-Yu, Liu Fan, Ren Zi-Ao, Ma Rui, Deng Xiu-Feng, Wang Dong-Wei, Liu Shao-Peng, Chen Kang, Zhang Ming-Cai, Li Zhao-Hu, Zhou Yu-Yi, Duan Liu-Sheng

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  631-643.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.41094

Abstract ( 629 )   HTML ( 5 )   PDF (4159KB) ( 257 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

The development of ultra-high-yield technology for a wheat-maize double cropping system targeting an annual grain yield of 2 tons per mu in the coastal plain of northern Shandong Peninsula represents a significant agricultural initiative led by the Crop Chemical Control Center of China Agricultural University and Laizhou Jinhai Seed Industry in Laizhou, Shandong province. Through the careful selection of superior varieties, optimized planting densities, and integrated water and fertilizer management, high grain yields and efficient cultivation of both wheat and maize have been achieved. In the 2023 growing season, the combined yield of wheat and maize reached 31,323.90 kg hm^-2 (2,088.26 kg mu^-1). Notably, the winter wheat crop—evaluated by experts organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs—set a new regional yield record for the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain, with an actual yield of 13,213.35 kg hm^-2 (880.89 kg mu^-1). The variety Yannong 1212 exhibited a spike density of 692.0 spikes m^-2, an average of 40.1 grains per spike, a thousand-grain weight of 52.55 g, single-plant yield of 4.74 g, harvest index of 0.56, and water use efficiency (WUE) of 3.24 kg m^-3. For summer maize, the variety Zhongjinyu 2513 achieved a spike density of 9.1 spikes m^-2, an average of 584.7 grains per spike, a thousand-grain weight of 379.31 g, single-plant yield of 206.25 g, harvest index of 0.58, and WUE of 2.86 kg m^-3, with an actual yield of 18,110.55 kg hm^-2 (1,207.37 kg mu^-1). In a 2024 repeated trial, the total yield remained high at 30,997.00 kg hm^-2 (2065.13 kg mu^-1). This study summarizes the key management practices and main agronomic indicators contributing to high-yield wheat-maize double cropping in northern Shandong, offering a valuable reference for similar production systems in the region.

Screening and QTL mapping for mechanical shelling damage related traits in peanut

Zhang Sheng-Zhong, Li Guo-Wei, Ge Li-Jiang, Wang Fei-Fei, Hu Xiao-Hui, Miao Hua-Rong, Li Yan, Zhong Wen, Chen Jing

Acta Agronomica Sinica. 2026, 52(2):  644-652.  doi:10.3724/SP.J.1006.2026.55045

Abstract ( 504 )   HTML ( 7 )   PDF (1741KB) ( 94 )   Save

Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

To further identify agronomic traits influencing mechanical shelling quality in peanut and explore their genetic basis, this study evaluated 63 advanced-generation lines and focused on three pod- or kernel-related traits: shelling percentage, pod crushing force, and kernel crushing force. Correlation analysis revealed that only kernel crushing force was significantly associated with the damaged kernel rate. Two lines (D9 and E10) with low damaged kernel rates (< 2.50%) were identified. Additionally, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of 181 individuals derived from a cross between cultivars Huayu 36 and 6-13 was used for QTL mapping of the kernel crushing force trait. Phenotypic data were collected from 2020 to 2023 across four locations: Yantai, Weihai, Dongying, and Qingdao. The trait exhibited continuous variation and transgressive segregation in the RIL population, with a broad-sense heritability of 0.88. Using a previously published high-density genetic map, eight additive QTLs associated with kernel crushing force were identified, explaining 6.04% to 28.30% of the phenotypic variation. Among them, two major QTLs, qKCF7 and qKCF16.1, were stably expressed across multiple environments, with favorable alleles derived from Huayu 36. In addition, 12 pairs of epistatic QTLs involving 24 SNP intervals were detected, explaining 1.55% to 4.01% of the phenotypic variation. These findings provide valuable genetic targets and germplasm resources for the future genetic improvement of traits related to mechanical shelling quality in peanut.