Mapping loci associated with milling yield in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

A partial genetic linkage map constructed using 150 single seed descent (SSD) lines generated from a cross between the hexaploid wheat varieties 'Schomburgk' and 'Yarralinka' was used to identify loci controlling milling yield. Milling yield data were obtained using seed collected from field trials conducted at different sites over two seasons. The estimated broad-sense heritability of milling yield in this population was calculated as 0.48. In the preliminary analysis, two regions were identified on chromosomes 3A and 7D, which were significantly associated with milling yield and accounted for 22% and 19% of the genetic variation, respectively. Bulked segregant analysis in combination with AFLP identified other markers linked to these loci, as well as an additional region on chromosome 5A, which accounted for 19% of the genetic variation. The applicability of these markers as selection tools for breeding purposes is discussed.