Circadian clocks are endogenous timers that enable plants to synchronize central processes, such as growth, development, and reproduction, with daily and seasonal environmental conditions. This article examines the role that alleles of three groups of circadian clock genes have played in domestication and improvement of crop plants. Emerging insights into circadian clock regulation of other fundamental plant processes are also discussed to highlight promising avenues for further crop improvement.
University of California, Berkeley | Plant & Microbial Biology