Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping for Common Scab Resistance in a Tetraploid Potato Full-Sib Population

Despite the negative impact of common scab (Streptomyces spp.) on the potato industry, little is known about the genetic architecture of resistance to this bacterial disease in the crop. We evaluated a mapping population (similar to 150 full sibs) derived from a cross between two tetraploid potatoes ('Atlantic' x B1829-5) in three environments (MN11, PA11, ME12) under natural common scab pressure. Three measures to common scab reaction, namely percentage of scabby tubers and disease area and lesion indices, were found to be highly correlated (>0.76). Because of the large environmental effect, heritability values were zero for all three traits in MN11, but moderate to high in PA11 and ME12 (similar to 0.44 to 0.79). We identified a single quantitative trait locus (QTL) for lesion index in PA11, ME12, and joint analyses on linkage group 3, explaining similar to 22 to 30% of the total variation. The identification of QTL haplotypes and candidate genes contributing to disease resistance can support genomics-assisted breeding approaches in the crop.

Automated summary

Genetic architecture of resistance to common scab in potatoes is not well understood. Environmental effects play a significant role, with QTL on linkage group 3 explaining a portion of the variation. Identification of QTL haplotypes and candidate genes supports genomics-assisted breeding approaches.