A practical phenotyping framework for root system architecture reveals enhanced root vigor in an Aegilops tauschii -derived wheat line

Wild-relative introgression broadens wheat diversity, as exemplified by the Multiple Synthetic Derivatives (MSD) population, a unique hexaploid wheat resource capturing extensive genetic diversity from Aegilops tauschii. However, root system architecture (RSA), a key determinant of resource acquisition and stress adaptation, remains poorly characterized in this population. Here, we established a practical two-dimensional root phenotyping framework that enables continuous imaging to track RSA traits and their responses to heat stress. Using this framework we evaluated MSD417 as a representative genotype against its recurrent parent, Norin 61 (N61). Under control conditions, MSD417 displayed greater total root length, root system width, and convex hull area than N61 (p < 0.001), indicating enhanced early root vigor. MSD417 also exhibited larger second pair seminal root angle (p < 0.001) and length (p < 0.01) across both conditions, suggesting enhanced horizontal root exploration while maintaining similar rooting depth to N61 (p = 0.981). Heat stress reduced overall root growth and narrowed genotypic differences, limiting RSA expression. Microscopic observations revealed a lower coleorhiza height-to-width ratio in MSD417. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the two-dimensional platform for early-stage RSA phenotyping and highlight Aegilops tauschii-derived germplasm as a source of favorable root traits in wheat breeding.