Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis of Maize Husk Characteristics Associated with Gibberella Ear Rot Resistance

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a vital crop susceptible to Gibberella ear rot (GER), a disease caused by Fusarium graminearum, resulting in significant yield losses and mycotoxin production. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between ear characteristics and GER resistance in 74 maize inbred lines (42 with non-stiff stalks and 32 stiff stalks) adapted to the northern Italian environment. Mycotoxin analysis was performed to assess the presence of deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEA). The results showed a positive correlation between the husk traits, like the husk number and husk cover, and GER resistance in both heterotic groups. A positive correlation was also found between the DON and ZEA concentrations. In addition, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) which identified novel quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with the husk number, husk cover, ear attitude, and infection score. These QTLs can be utilized in marker-assisted selection for breeding new GER-resistant maize varieties. Our study provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of ear traits and their relationship with GER resistance, which can contribute to an improvement in the environmental and economical sustainability of the corn growing system.