An AFLP and RFLP linkage map and quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of growth traits in Salix

A genetic linkage map of Salix (2n = 38), composed of 325 AFLP and 38 RFLP markers has been constructed. The map was based on a population (n = 87) derived from a cross between the male hybrid clone Bjorn (Salix viminalis x Salix schwerinii) and the female clone 78183 (S. viminalis). Three hundred fifty seven AFLPs corresponding to DNA polymorphisms heterozygous in one parent and null in the other were scored. A total of 87 RFLP probes, most (83) derived from the Populus genome, yielded 39 and 11 polymorphic loci segregating in a 1:1 and 1:2:1 ratio respectively. Two maps, one for each parent, were constructed according to the two-way pseudo-testcross mapping strategy. The S. viminalis x S. schwerinii map (2,404 cM) included 217 markers and formed 26 major linkage groups while S. viminalis (1,844 cM) consisted of 146 markers placed on 18 major groups. In addition, eight and 14 additional minor linkage groups composed of less than four markers (doubles and triplets) were obtained in the S. viminalis x S. schwerinii and the S. viminalis maps, respectively. Both maps provided 70-80% genome coverage with an average density of markers of 14 cM. To investigate possible homologies between the parental maps, 20 AFLPs and 11 RFLPs segregating in 3:1 or 121 ratios were included in the linkage analysis. Eight linkage groups homologous between the two maps were detected. The present genetic map was used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting growth-related traits. Eleven QTLs were identified; seven QTLs for height growth, one QTL for stem diameter, one QTL for the height: diameter ratio, one QTL for the number of vegetative buds during flowering time and one QTL for the number of shoots. The estimated magnitude of the QTL effect ranged from 14 to 22% of the total phenotypic variance. One QTL associated with height growth and one affecting the height: diameter ratio were overlapping in the same marker interval with the QTL affecting stem diameter. QTL stability over years was estimated for traits measured in multiple years. Generally, QTLs were only significant in a single year although two QTLs for height growth were close to reaching the significance level in 2 consecutive years.