Supplementary file 1_Spatiotemporal stability of DUS characteristics in maize and evaluation of spatial replication testing models.docx

An optimized evaluation system using seven core characteristics, including plant height and grain type, was established to simplify the DUS testing process. (3) Validation showed that the spatial repetition model achieved a cluster retrieval (CR) rate of 92.31%, with accuracies of 94.36% for distinctness and 96.23% for uniformity. These values significantly exceeded those of the traditional temporal model, effectively reducing the impact of environmental noise and annual climatic variation.

This study established an efficient spatial repetition testing paradigm based on characteristic stability and demonstrated the scientific feasibility of reasonably shortening testing cycles, thereby providing a rigorous scientific foundation for optimizing Chinese maize DUS testing standards and enhancing the efficiency of substantive examinations.</p>