Integrating 3D phenotyping and functional-structural plant models for crop ideotype breeding

Crop ideotype breeding aims to design plant architectures that enhance yield and resource use efficiency. Accelerating this process demands a framework for assembling accurate three-dimensional (3D) architecture. This Perspective synthesizes advances in technologies and methodologies in 3D architectural phenotyping. Rapid progress has enabled translating these advances into tangible gains in breeding efficiency. To this end, we propose integrating functional-structural plant models as an overarching framework that optimizes plant architecture combinations, shifting breeding from experience-driven to predictive ideotype design. Convergence of 3D phenotyping, plant modeling and artificial intelligence holds transformative potential to accelerate breeding cycles, enhancing productivity, sustainability, and food security. Crop ideotype breeding is a plant breeding strategy that focuses on designing plant architecture suited to a specific environment and farming system. Here, the authors discuss the integration of 3D phenotyping, plant modeling and AI to promote crop ideotype breeding.