Multiplex genome editing and trait improvement for complex multicrop systems

Abstract

Breeding for diverse crop rotations involves selecting objectives that often overlap with current breeding programs. However, in the context of diverse crop rotations, a new target population of environments emerges, necessitating selection strategies to maximize genetic gain. The primary breeding goal remains productivity, but additional factors specific to diverse crop rotations, such as yield stability, postharvest quality, and traits associated with disease and insect pests, need to be considered. Occasionally, crops are bred for unexplored regions or novel crops are developed, such as perennial grain crops like intermediate wheatgrass, winter oilseeds like pennycress, and cover crops like hairy vetch. In these cases, breeding efforts may focus on crucial domestication traits such as seed shattering and harvestability.