Response to selection for root dimension in a Mediterranean natural population of Lolium rigidum Gaud

In the Mediterranean environment, root systems are very important for water utilization. For this reason, the effects of selection for increased root dimensions upon root and shoot characteristics of a natural population of Lolium rigidum Gaud, were analysed. Two cycles of phenotypic recurrent selection were carried out on a population collected in Nurra (north-western Sardinia, Italy). Plants derived after two cycles of selection, together with unselected plants, were grown hydroponically in a greenhouse. Data on root volume, longest root length, number of stems and leaves, leaf length, shoot and root dry weight were collected from the selected material and also from unselected material for use as a control. An analysis of variance was performed and correlation coefficients were calculated. The increased size of the root system did not have a negative effect on the above-ground biomass and there was genetic variation for root traits in the ‘Nurra’ population. The improved population will be utilized for further breeding work to obtain L. rigidum varieties capable of withstanding dry periods during the vegetative phase.