Identification of QTL associated with flower and runner production in octoploid strawberry (Fragaria×ananassa)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Understanding the genetics of flowering in the strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) will aid in the development of breeding strategies. OBJECTIVE: To search for quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with remontancy and weeks of flowering in the strawberry. METHODS: Previously collected phenotypic data from two non-remontant ‘Honeoye’ × remontant ‘Tribute’ strawberry populations and simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers were used to search for QTL associated with repeat flowering, weeks of flowering and runner production, as well as the ability to produce flowers and runners at 17, 20 and 23 ◦ C. RESULTS: As was discovered in other studies, we found a major QTL that regulated remontancy and weeks of flowering on homeologous linkage group IV of ‘Tribute’. This QTL also had a negative effect on runner production and a positive influence on flower production under high temperatures. A number of additional QTL were discovered that significantly (LOD >3.0) influenced flower and runner production. CONCLUSIONS: Remontancy/non-remontancy is controlled by a major gene/locus and several minor modifying ones.