Genetic and phenotypic characterization of Ethiopian durum wheat: A comprehensive review of trait diversity and breeding potential

Abstract

Ethiopian durum wheat ( Triticum turgidum ssp. durum ) is a globally significant crop recognized for its rich genetic diversity, stress adaptation, and high grain quality. This review consolidates over 20 years of research on the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Ethiopian durum wheat landraces, focusing on trait discovery, genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), quantitative trait loci (QTLs) mapping, and implications for breeding and conservation. Studies are categorized into phenotypic diversity, genetic variation, GWAS and QTL‐based trait identification, grain quality, and participatory breeding. Ethiopian landraces display extensive variation in morphological, agronomic, and molecular traits shaped by ecological gradients and farmer selection. While modern cultivars are selected for high yield potential under favorable conditions, specific landraces demonstrate superior yield stability under environmental stress, targeted resilience to abiotic and biotic factors (such as terminal drought, soil acidity, and disease pressure), and desirable nutritional and industrial grain qualities (including high protein content and novel glutenin alleles). Advances in genomics have pinpointed key loci associated with drought and heat tolerance, disease resistance, root architecture, and grain pigmentation. Furthermore, participatory breeding strategies that incorporate traditional farmer preferences alongside genomic tools highlight valuable multi‐trait combinations often missed by standard metric screening. Utilizing these landrace resources via targeted breeding and pre‐breeding strategies can effectively bridge the gap between stress resilience and high yield potential in changing climates.