Abstract
Context Establishment of true heterotic pattern in maize germplasm can increase the efficiency of hybrid breeding. Heterosis is dependent on the genetic diversity of parents and the extent of dominance at different loci. Estimation of genetic diversity through use of molecular markers is routine practice in maize breeding. Aims The present study was designed to test whether simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to yield-contributing traits are more reliable for heterotic grouping than random SSRs. Methods Diallel crosses developed among 19 inbred lines were evaluated at multi-locations. The genotypes were also grouped using polymorphic random (50) and linked (47) SSRs. Key results The crosses generated with lines belonging to different heterotic groups of linked SSR markers did not reveal any superiority over the crosses of the diallel set. By contrast, mean performance of inter-heterotic group crosses generated on the basis of random markers was superior to that of intra-heterotic crosses. Specific combining ability effects did not reveal any significant association with genetic distance of random or linked markers. Conclusions The lack of improved efficiency of linked markers over random markers can be attributed to factors including the quantitative nature of the trait, genotype × environment interactions, genetic background of germplasm in which the markers are expressed, and multiple alleles. Implications Markers linked to yield-contributing traits are no more reliable for heterotic grouping than random markers.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.