Understanding of the alteration of root morphology and root system architecture during domestication and improvement of maize will pave the way to target root traits in crop breeding programs. This project aims to identify the genetic components and adaptive behavior of root formation by systemically investigating global maize germplasm resources of teosinte, landraces and inbred lines. Population-based genetics and the analysis of the molecular basis of the origin and diversification of maize root formation is ongoing.

DFG funding and in collaboration with CAAS, China