Genetic and genomic approaches to vigour management in macadamia
Abstract
Optimizing vigour in macadamia is critical for sustainable orchard systems and precision breeding. This study integrates physiological, quantitative genetic, and genomic approaches to dissect the mechanisms underlying vigour regulation. A rootstock trial revealed significant variation in growth and stomatal traits, with molecular analysis linking aquaporin gene expression to vigour modulation. Long-term genetic studies demonstrated increasing heritability with age, informing optimal selection strategies, while genomic prediction achieved high accuracy. A genome-wide association study identified loci associated with vigour and precocity, providing targets for marker-assisted selection. These findings offer a pathway to breeding compact, high-efficiency macadamia cultivars and rootstocks.
Pragya Dhakal Poudel
Pragya Dhakal Poudel is a PhD candidate at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), University of Queensland, completing her doctoral research in 2025. Her work focuses on macadamia genetics and physiology, particularly the genetic and physiological factors influencing tree vigor. She has research interests in quantitative genetics, genome-assisted breeding techniques, and advanced breeding strategies to improve breeding outcomes. Passionate about translating research into industry applications, she aims to support breeders and growers in optimizing crop improvement and selection strategies.
Pragya Dhakal Poudel, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Agriculture and Food Innovation E: p.dhakalpoudel@uq.edu.au
For any questions, please contact the QAAFI Science Seminar Committee.
For any questions, please contact the QAAFI Science Seminar Committee.
About Science Seminars
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation hosts science seminars across the disciplines of animal, horticulture, crop, food and nutritional sciences.
With a range of speakers from Australia and abroad, the series explores how high-impact science will significantly improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the tropical and sub-tropical food, fibre and agribusiness sectors.
View Science Seminar pageSign up to receive QAAFI Science Seminar notifications
Email Science Seminar Committee
The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation is a research institute at The University of Queensland supported by the Queensland Government via the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.