Mapping and QTL analysis of the barley population Mundah x Keel

The barley mapping population Mundah x Keel was devised to characterise and map chromosome regions associated with improved growth and grain yield on sandy soils of low fertility. A low level of polymorphism between the parents proved problematic for the construction of a detailed linkage map of this population. Despite this, significant quantitative trait loci ( QTLs) for specific traits were detected, providing an insight into the probable chromosome regions associated with sand adaptation. In addition, this population is being employed to identify loci associated with the expression of traits for moisture stress and frost tolerance, and resistance to spot form of net blotch and leaf scald.