Genetic mapping of yield traits using RIL population derived from Fuchuan Dahuasheng and ICG6375 of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

The genetic architecture determinants of yield traits in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) are poorly understood. In the present study, an effort was made to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for yield traits using recombinant inbred lines (RIL). A genetic linkage map was constructed containing 609 loci, covering a total of 1557.48 cM with an average distance of 2.56 cM between adjacent markers. The present map exhibited good collinearity with the physical map of diploid species of Arachis. Ninety-two repeatable QTLs were identified for 11 traits including height of main stem, total branching number, and nine pod- and seed-related traits. Of the 92 QTLs, 15 QTLs were expressed across three environments and 65 QTLs were newly identified. Twelve QTLs for the height of main stem and the pod- and seed-related traits explaining more than 10 % of phenotypic variation showed a great potential for marker-assisted selection in improving these traits. The trait-by-trait meta-analysis revealed 33 consensus QTLs. The consensus QTLs and other QTLs were further integrated into 29 pleiotropic unique QTLs with the confidence interval of 1.86 cM on average. The significant co-localization of QTLs was consistent with the significant phenotypic correlations among these traits. The complexity of the genetic architecture of yield traits was demonstrated. The present QTLs for pod- and seed-related traits could be the most fundamental genetic factors contributing to the yield traits in peanut. The results provide a good foundation for fine mapping, cloning and designing molecular breeding of favorable genes in peanut.