Increasing intrinsic heat tolerance of wheat through improved genetics

GRDC is looking to invest AU$5.7M total over four years in strategic and applied research projects that will identify and target key biochemical processes that can be used to develop novel heat tolerant germplasm as well as improve selection accuracy for heat tolerance in breeding programs. Heat stress has a significant impact on wheat yield under Australian field conditions and this is expected to increase with climate change. APSIM crop modelling has indicated that by 2050 the largest impacts of heat stress on yield in Australia are expected to be due to 1) a decrease in crop growth period resulting in a decrease in floret number and biomass; 2) decreased number of grains; and 3) a decrease in grain size. These impacts are estimated to have an average impact across Australia of up to 14% loss pa in yield by 2050.

There are limited options for managing heat stress through cultural practices apart from earlier sowing, which relies on the presence of sufficient soil moisture and increases the frost risk. GRDC has invested in research that enables 1) the improvement of heat tolerance of wheat at specific sensitive developmental stages, such as flowering and grain filling, and 2) development of wheat that avoids heat stress through altering phenology. However, the potential benefits to increasing yields through improved heat tolerance warrants a multi-faceted approach. The optimum temperatures for wheat growth have been reported to be between 20-24°C. Beyond these temperatures biomass accumulation and yield is impacted. Hence there is an opportunity to increase wheat yields in Australia by improving the intrinsic heat tolerance of wheat; to increase the upper temperature limit at which wheat will grow optimally. There has been significant international and Australian pure/basic research into the biochemical, genetic, cellular, and physiological processes involved in heat tolerance. There is now an important opportunity to develop and apply our knowledge of these processes to improve the intrinsic heat tolerance of wheat.

Please note the following:

* GRDC intends to invest in multiple projects as a result of this tender. Applicants must submit proposals for projects that can be delivered within the funding envelope of AU$1.4 – 1.9M over four years. In addition, but not in place of, applicants are invited to describe an optional extended project up to a total value of AU$5.7M over four years. Applicants should describe how this extended project will improve the efficiency and impact of achieving the Project Outcome.

* Collaboration between research organisations and disciplines is encouraged. All collaborations should designate a lead organisation as per the Tender Terms and Conditions.

* Applications including international research organisations are welcome. Applications should have clear demonstration of the impact on heat tolerance under Australian conditions and a clear path to market of outputs for Australian grain growers.

* Applications should address all three outputs and projects should build on existing knowledge and resources where possible.

* Co-investment from research partners is highly valued. Please see the Budget Template for definitions of cash and in-kind contributions.