An international research team led by the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, with partners including Murdoch University’s Centre for Crop and Food Innovation and ICRISAT, has developed a comprehensive graph-based pan-genome for cultivated peanut. The team analyzed 2,320 peanut accessions from 87 countries and regions, providing a broader view of the crop’s genetic diversity.

The study identified key genes linked to plant architecture and height, helping researchers overcome long-standing limitations caused by peanut’s narrow genetic diversity. Using this genomic resource, the researchers crossed a naturally dwarf peanut with a high-yielding Chinese variety to develop LuAi-1, a compact peanut line that was about half the height of its parent while producing around 20% higher yields under dense planting conditions in field trials.

The research also provides important insights into previously hidden regions of the peanut genome, including genetic changes that may influence plant development and productivity. These discoveries can help breeders more efficiently select desirable traits and expand the genetic potential available for future peanut improvement.

The findings provide valuable genetic resources and new opportunities for developing higher-yielding, space-efficient peanut varieties.

Source: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/news/articles/global-peanut-pan-genome-unlocks-hidden-variation-and-delivers-new-high-yielding-dwarf-line