Recent Advancements in Breeding and Genomics of Wheatgrasses

Grasslands and pastures are vital ecosystems offering multifaceted ecological and economic benefits. Intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium), a significant perennial crop, has garnered attention for its diverse applications in forage, grain, and biofuel production. This chapter explores the ecological roles of grasslands, their vegetation dynamics, and the distribution and traits of intermediate wheatgrass. It details breeding advancements targeting enhanced forage quality, seed yield, and abiotic and biotic stress resilience. Modern breeding tools, including genomic selection, QTL mapping, and genome editing, have accelerated trait improvement and domestication processes. The dual-purpose utility of intermediate wheatgrass as a sustainable grain and biomass crop underscores its potential in addressing global challenges such as food security, environmental degradation, and climate change. This chapter emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary approaches to optimize its productivity and ecological contributions, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices and innovative breeding strategies.