High Throughput Phenotyping for Complex Traits : Case Study for Nitrogen Response in Wheat Based on the PhénoBlé Project

Crop response to abiotic stress is a complex trait, muddled by genotype by environment interactions, and multiple underlying traits. This is typically the case for response to nitrogen in wheat. High throughput phenotyping provides access to intermediate level traits that can help in understanding, screening, and ultimately ameliorating nitrogen response. We provide results on the use of proximal remote sensing technologies used to investigate the response of an elite panel of French bread wheats to nitrogen, obtained via a project entitled PhénoBlé. These results have allowed us to identify certain remote sensing proxies for radiation interception and radiation use efficiency as promising traits for screening germplasm response to nitrogen. Based on these results, as well as multilocal trials screening the same panel for nitrogen response, we propose avenues for implementing these technologies, with a focus on plant breeding. We also present technological evolutions from the initial prototype system to facilitate wide adoption. Finally, we conclude by drawing parallels with the requirements for investigating complex crop-phytobiome interactions for improved tolerance to stresses.