Exploiting Genetic Variability of Root Morphology as a Lever to Improve Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Oilseed Rape

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is the quantitatively most important nutrient in cropping systems. The use of nitrate as a mineral fertilizer is highly energy-intensive and causes greenhouse gas emission and groundwater pollution. Therefore, the need to reduce N-fertilizer input is pressing. In order to compensate that reduction, new crop genotypes must be sought with improved nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). While research has been mainly conducted on N assimilation and remobilization processes in aerial organs, breeders often consider the root organ as a black box. This chapter envisages an era of modern root biology discoveries to improve NUE.