Comparative mapping of QTLs for H+ secretion of root in maize (Zea mays L.) and cross phosphorus levels on two growth stages

H⁺ is a root secretion that affects P acquisition and P-use efficiency (PUE) under deficient phosphorus in maize. The secretion of H⁺, difference value of H⁺ between deficient and normal phosphorus (DH), and relative H⁺ (RH) as well as the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with these traits were determined for a F_2:3 population derived from the cross of two contrasting maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes, 082 and Ye107. By using composite interval mapping (CIM), a total of 14, 8, and 9 distinct QTLs were identified for H⁺, DH, and RH, respectively. Most loci of QTLs for traits H⁺, DH, and RH had different cross environments. It showed that H⁺ secretion possessed an environment-sensitive and multi-gene nature. The gene × environment interaction was actually reflected by H⁺ secretion. One region for QTL of trait H⁺ was detected at the interval of bnlg2228-bnlg100 (bin 1.08) on chromosome 1. Coincident QTLs in the important genomic region reflected the cross phosphorus levels, different cross growth stages, and two different cross environments. The QTL explained 10% to 14% total phenotypic variance of H⁺. Therefore, the above segment (bnlg2228-bnlg100) (bin 1.08) identified on chromosome 1 may be used in the future for MAS to improve the phosphorus efficiency in maize.