Phenotypic variability and SNP markers for root and shoot traits in lentil

Two hundred recombinant inbred lines of lentil derived from a cross IPL 98/193 (long root) × EC208362 (short root) was phenotyped in PVC tubes for root traits over two years. The observations were recorded after 60 days of sowing. Significant phenotypic variability for root and shoot traits under controlled conditions and for agronomic traits under normal sown conditions was observed in the present investigation among the RILs. The genotype and environment interactions were significant for all studied traits in the present investigation. No or poor association of root traits was observed with agronomic conditions in the present investigation. Bulk segregant analysis with SNP markers showed association of 15 SNP markers with root traits. Thus phenotypic variability present in the present RIL population can be used for identifying the QTLs for root traits and their use in breeding programs for the development of drought tolerant cultivars.