Genetic architecture underlying HPPD-inhibitor resistance in a Nebraska Amaranthus tuberculatus population

BACKGROUND: Amaranthus tuberculatus is a problematic weed species in Midwest USA agricultural systems. Inhibitors of 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) are an important chemistry for weed management in numerous cropping systems. Here, we characterize the genetic architecture underlying the HPPD-inhibitor resistance trait in an A. tuberculatus population (NEB). RESULTS: Dose–response studies of an F₁ generation identified HPPD-inhibitor resistance as a dominant trait with a resistance factor of 15.0–21.1 based on dose required for 50% growth reduction. Segregation analysis in a pseudo-F₂ generation determined the trait is moderately heritable (H² = 0.556) and complex. Bulk segregant analysis and validation with molecular markers identified two quantitative trait loci (QTL), one on each of Scaffold 4 and 12. CONCLUSIONS: Resistance to HPPD inhibitors is a complex, largely dominant trait within the NEB population. Two large-effect QTL were identified controlling HPPD-inhibitor resistance in A. tuberculatus. This is the first QTL mapping study to characterize herbicide resistance in a weedy species.