Molecular Plant Breeding 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 24-34 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/mpb 24 Research Insight Open Access Gene Mapping of Mechanization-Friendly Traits in Maize Based on SNP Markers and Breeding for Mechanical Adaptation Yimiao Zhao, Yan Bao , Lan Zhou, Baihe Zhang, Xiangjun Wang College of Agriculture, Jilin Agricultural Science and Technology University, Jilin, 132101, Jilin, China Corresponding email: baoyan0302@126.com Molecular Plant Breeding, 2024, Vol.16, No.1 doi: 10.5376/mpb.2025.16.0003 Received: 15 Dec., 2024 Accepted: 20 Jan., 2025 Published: 29 Jan., 2025 Copyright © 2025 Zhao et al., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Zhao Y.M., Bao Y., Zhou L., Zhang B.H., and Wang W.J., 2025, Gene mapping of mechanization-friendly traits in maize based on snp markers and breeding for mechanical adaptation, Molecular Plant Breeding, 16(1): 24-34 (doi: 10.5376/mpb.2025.16.0003) Abstract This study focused on the use of SNP markers for gene mapping of maize mechanization-friendly traits to enhance its mechanized adaptability in agricultural practices, as well as identifying and characterizing quantitative trait loci (QTLS), such as plant height, ear position, and stem strength lamps, that are associated with improving maize compatibility with mechanized agriculture. The findings reveal important QTLS associated with these traits, providing a basis for marker-assisted selection, and also highlight the potential for integrating these markers into breeding programs to improve yield and efficiency in mechanized environments. Keywords Mechanization-friendly traits; Maize breeding; SNP markers; Gene mapping; Marker-assisted selection 1 Introduction Mechanization in maize cultivation has become increasingly important as it offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency, reduced labor costs, and improved crop management. The adoption of mechanized farming practices is essential to meet the growing demand for maize, driven by its significance as a staple food and industrial crop. Mechanization encompasses various aspects such as planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting, all of which contribute to higher productivity and sustainability in maize farming (Su et al., 2017; Tomkowiak et al., 2021). Mechanization-friendly traits in maize are crucial for optimizing the efficiency of mechanized farming operations. Traits such as uniform plant height, sturdy stalks, and synchronized flowering times are essential for the effective use of machinery in planting and harvesting. These traits not only facilitate the use of mechanical equipment but also enhance the overall yield and quality of the maize crop. The identification and incorporation of such traits through advanced breeding techniques, including the use of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, can significantly improve the adaptability of maize to mechanized farming systems (Zhang et al., 2020; Chen et al., 2021; Shikha et al., 2021). In this study, SNP markers were used to locate genes associated with mechanization-friendly traits, and high-throughput genotyping techniques such as DArTseq and genotyping sequencing (GBS) were used to identify key genetic loci affecting traits conducive to mechanical adaptation. This study focuses on traits such as plant structure, grain size and root structure that are critical to efficient mechanized farming. This study aims to provide valuable insights into developing marker-assisted selection and breeding programs for corn varieties suitable for mechanized cultivation, improving mechanized compatibility of corn through precise gene mapping and breeding strategies, and ultimately helping to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. 2 Mechanization-Friendly Traits in Maize 2.1 Definition and significance of mechanization-friendly traits Mechanization-friendly traits in maize refer to specific plant characteristics that facilitate the use of mechanical equipment for planting, cultivation, and harvesting. These traits are crucial for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of agricultural practices, reducing labor costs, and increasing overall productivity.
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