Mapping of fruit shape and color development traits in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) based on RAPD and AFLP markers

We have constructed a linkage map of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) using an F-2 population derived from a cross between a breeding line, EPL-1 and an introduced line, WCGR112-8, from India. The two parental lines showed contrasting responses to several pathogens and differences in several morphological traits. Parental lines were screened with 1,232 random primers for RAPD and 64 primer combinations for AFLP. The linkage map consisted of 181 Loci, comprising 88 RAPD and 93 AFLP markers. These markers identified 21 linkage groups spanning 779.2 cM with an average distance of 4.9 cM. The linkage groups ranged from 1.9 to 95.6 cM in length and included 2 to 32 markers, respectively. The fruit shape and color development trait were scored and the linkage to the markers was investigated. The fruit shape showed a significant association with markers on linkage group 2. Color development in fruit, stem and calyx showed a significant association with markers on linkage group 7. These markers mag provide valuable information for eggplant breeding.