Étude de la dynamique du développement d’un plant de maïs, au Moulon

Studying the development dynamics of a maize plant at an experimental farm in Le Moulon, in the Paris region. Scientists use felt pen to mark the third leaf on a maize plant. Plants continue to develop almost throughout their lives. In maize, leaves sprout and die until the plant flowers. To count the total number of leaves on a plant, they must be marked as and when they sprout. This is the third leaf to be marked. Scientists at the Quantitative Genetics and Evolution unit in Le Moulon are studying the genetic, epigenetic and molecular control of qualitative and quantitative characteristics and their importance in the adaptation and evolutionary history of plant species. They optimise selection processes based on target characteristics (such as growth, development and adaptation), taking advantage of breakthroughs in genomics and genetic resources, and allowing for changes in environmental conditions and farming methods.