Segregation of Seven Traits in Pepper

Abstract

Abstract In pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), independent assortment was found between the genes within the following three pairs: male sterility (ms) and erect fruit position (up), ms and anthocyaninless (al), and up and al. The genetic system controlling pointed vs. inverted apex was hypothesized to segregate independently of al, ms, and up. The genes controlling premature fruit pigmentation segregate independently of al and up. Close linkage exists between round leaf (rl) and al+. Partial linkage is suggested between Ms1 and pointed (pt) and the genes controlling premature cream color, but independent segregation was found with the genes controlling deep green color. The expected brown phenotype was not realized in homozygous cl (brown fruit color) in the presence of cream and similar pigment genes; their fruit contained an insufficient amount of chlorophyll. Morphological and physiological traits may serve as marker traits in improving the production of hybrid seeds, particularly when recessive traits are bred into seed parent lines.