Stable and Novel Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Confer Narrow Root Cone Angle in an Aerobic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Production System

Abstract Background Aerobic rice production (AP) may be a solution to the looming water crisis by utilising less water compared to traditional flooded culture. As such, development of genotypes with narrow root cone angle (RCA) is considered a key AP adaptation trait as it could lead to deeper rooting and ensure water uptake at depth. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) and genes associated with rooting angle have been identified in rice, but usually in conventional transplanted systems or in upland and drought conditions. This study aimed to identify QTL associated with RCA in AP systems using a recombinant inbred line population derived from IRAT109. Results Four experiments conducted in glasshouse and aerobic field conditions revealed significant genotypic variation existed for RCA in the population. Single and multiple QTL models identified the presence of eight QTL distributed in chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 11. Combined, these QTL explained 36.7–51.2% of the genotypic variance in RCA present in the population. Two QTL, qRCA1.1 and qRCA1.3, were novel and may be new targets for improvement of RCA. Genotypes with higher number of favourable QTL alleles tended to have narrower RCA. qRCA4 was shown to be a major and stable QTL explaining up to 24.3% of the genotypic variation, and the presence of the target allele resulted in as much as 8.6° narrower RCA. Several genes related to abiotic stress stimulus response were found in the qRCA4 region. Conclusion Stable and novel genomic regions associated with RCA have been identified. Genotypes which had combinations of these QTL, resulted in a narrower RCA phenotype. Allele mining, gene cloning, and physiological dissection should aid in understanding the molecular function and mechanisms underlying RCA and these QTL. Ultimately, our work provides an opportunity for breeding programs to develop genotypes with narrow RCA and deep roots for improved adaptation in an AP system for sustainable rice production.