Genomic prediction of threshability in naked barley

Threshability, defined here as the propensity of grains to lose their hull after harvest, is a key trait in naked barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). While threshability is a defining characteristic of naked grains and has been found to be associated with grain size and shape, its genetic architecture is poorly described. The goals of this study were to identify quantitative trait loci associated with threshability and evaluate their utility as covariates in genomic prediction models. A genome-wide association study identified two loci on chromosomes 2H and 3H associated with threshability. The locus on chromosome 2H accounted for 9.9% of the phenotypic variance explained (PVE). The locus on chromosomes 3H accounted for 7.8% of the PVE. With effects on threshability of 0.18 and 0.29 for each marker, respectively, these markers could have a limited impact when implemented in marker-assisted selection. Predictive ability for threshability was 0.842 using a structured genomic best linear unbiased prediction model. Incorporation of the markers with significant associations as covariates in the model did not improve predictive ability. Predictive ability was improved by the use of a multi-trait model including grain test weight. The high predictive ability for threshability overall indicate that genomic selection would be useful in selection for threshability in naked barley.

Automated summary

This study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci associated with threshability and evaluate their utility in genomic prediction models. Two loci on chromosomes 2H and 3H were found to be associated with threshability, but their impact on marker-assisted selection may be limited. The incorporation of these loci as covariates in the model did not improve predictive ability, while a multi-trait model including grain test weight showed improved predictive ability. Overall, genomic selection has a high predictive ability for threshability in naked barley.