GENETIC CONTROL AND IMPACT OF PHOSPHORUS DEFICIENCY ON MORPHOPHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF POPCORN

Phosphorus (P) deficiency harms the growth and development of agricultural crops. Furthermore, mineral fertilizers are derived from phosphate rocks, therefore, it is a finite, non-renewable resource, and its depletion threatens global food production. Thus, the use of genotypes that are more efficient in the use of P may be a solution to the problem. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of phosphorus deficiency on the morphophysiological characteristics of popcorn genotypes and investigate the underlying genetic control. To this end, four S7 lines were used, contrasting for the use of P, and their 12 hybrids derived from a complete diallel crossing. The plants were grown under high and low P conditions. Analysis revealed that, under P deficiency, the genotypes developed a smaller aerial part directing more resources to root growth. Non-additive genetic effects control most morphological characteristics and phosphorus use efficiency, highlighting the recommendation for the use of hybrids. Furthermore, the choice of female parent is crucial to optimize gas exchange under low-P conditions. Therefore, exploring non-additives and selecting more photosynthetically efficient female parents can optimize popcorn cultivation in phosphorus-deficient environments.