Plant Phenomics: The Force Behind Tomorrow’s Crop Phenotyping Tools

Abstract

Acquisition of large-scale phenotyping data are the major bottleneck in associating phenotypic and genotypic data for accurate breeding decisions. High-throughput phenotyping platforms have been developed globally to hasten the next-generation breeding and more sustainable crop production. Phenomics involves collecting non-destructive, extensive, reliable, robust and multi-dimensional data on an organism's phenotype on a large-scale. The success of phenomics is driven by different imaging cameras and techniques like visible light imaging, infrared sensing, fluorescence imaging, 3D imaging, multi and hyperspectral imaging, etc. By utilizing advanced phenotyping platforms and technologies, it is possible to collect vast amounts of data on various aspects of plant growth and development, along with the response to environmental stresses. The phenomics approaches are more efficient based on maximising a plant’s phenotypic expression and differentiation. Throughout the globe, different HTP tools and platforms have been developed to help realize the true potential of breeding programs by bridging the gap between genotype and phenotype, and enhancing the efficiency of selection for maximizing the genetic gain. This review article discusses various platforms and their use in precision phenotyping to accelerate genetic improvement and provides insights into the optimal selection and utilization of HTPs.