Genome-wide association study for cuticular evaporation rate in maize

The cuticle, a hydrophobic layer of cutin and waxes synthesized by plant shoot epidermal cells, limits excess water loss and protects plants against pathogen attack. While cuticular evaporation (CE) accounts for about 5-10% of water loss in well-watered plants during the day, it is the major source of water loss when stomata are closed at night and under water-limited conditions. Elucidating the genetic basis of CE rate is important for understanding the cuticle biosynthesis pathway and improving crop adaptation to drought-prone environments.