Saturated Linkage Map Construction in Hongro X Alps Otome Pseudo Test Cross Population Using Genomics

Like most other woody tree species, it is an unpopular candidate for genetic studies because it's large plant size, cultivation area and long juvenile period, lasting up to 6 years progress is slow and results of fruits can only be obtained with great patience.

Genetic linkage maps allow studies of the genome structure, permit the identification of quantitative trait loci, the localisation of genes of interest and by providing the framework to understand the biological basis of complex traits.

91 individuals developed from a ‘Hongro’ × ‘Alps otome’ pseudo test cross population, with single-seed descents are genotyped. It is aimed to detect SNPs by using Genotyping-by-Sequencing (GBS) technology and map them using JoinMap4.0 software to construct genetic linkage map of apple.

The 1,540 markers across 1373.1cM provided an average marker density of 1 marker per 0.89cM. Linkage group sizes were ranging from 120.7cM to 50.1cM with a mean length of 80.7cM and 90.5 markers per linkage group.