Phenology of the genetic model Setaria viridis (Poaceae) according to the BBCH-scale of development

Abstract

Abstract Setaria viridis, a genetic model for C4 monocots, has potential to provide information of relevance for plant biotechnology, contributing to an understanding of how genetic engineering can affect phenotype and agricultural production. The BBCH growth scale for the A10.1 accession of S. viridis consists of a detailed phenotypic analysis process, based on defined growth stages. Measurements of morphological attributes complementing the scale were also made, supporting the identification of growth and development stages. Phenotypic stages were grouped into three major stages of development: vegetative (BBCH 0 to 4), reproductive (BBCH 5 to 8) and senescence (BBCH 9). Observation and interpretation of the growth and development data of accessions A10.1 and Ast-1 showed that the former presents phenotypic homogeneity, which makes it suitable for the construction of the BBCH-scale and improves our understanding of the phenology of this model plant. This methodological framework facilitates the comparison of genotypes and phenotypes among natural accessions and future mutants and the study of the evolution of tolerance to abiotic stress.