Deploying inter-specific recombinant inbred lines to map QTLs for yield-related traits in soybean

Abstract

Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and analyses were conducted for yield and six yield-related traits in soybean using 184 inter-specific recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross involving wild type (Glycine soja Sieb. and Zucc.) accession DC2008-1 and cultivated (Glycine max L. Merr.) variety DS9712. A Linkage map of 1639.55 cM length was constructed with 167 SSR markers (65.65% polymorphism) with an average marker interval of 9.82 cM. Using three years phenotypic data 34 QTLs were mapped for 7 traits using Inclusive Composite Interval Mapping approach. The number of QTLs mapped for a trait varied from year to year, however, QTLs for days-to-50% flowering (qDFF5), 100-seed weight (qHSW9-1, qHSW9-2 and qHSW19) and yield (qYLD17) were mapped consistently over the three years of testing. Identified QTLs were validated through single marker analysis in 92 germplasm lines. The study demonstrated the potential of wild type soybean to harness QTLs for yield-related traits. The identified QTLs could be utilized for genetic improvement of soybean through molecular breeding.