QTL mapping for foxtail millet plant height in multi-environment using an ultra-high density bin map

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics and breeding
• C4 crop improvement
• Quantitative trait analysis

Background:

• Plant height is a critical trait influencing yield potential in foxtail millet (Setaria italica).
• Understanding the genetic basis of plant height is essential for developing ideal crop architecture.
• Foxtail millet is a valuable C4 model plant for agricultural research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify novel quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and candidate genes associated with plant height in foxtail millet.
• To construct a high-density genetic map for foxtail millet.
• To aid marker-assisted selection for improved plant architecture and yield.

Main Methods:

• Generation of a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population from a cross between Ai 88 and Liaogu 1.
• Evaluation of plant height across 13 environments over 4 years.
• Construction of a high-density bin map using deep re-sequencing data and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping.

Main Results:

• A high-density bin map with 3744 marker bins was constructed.
• 26 QTLs associated with plant height were identified, with 13 detected in multiple environments.
• Six novel QTLs and seven candidate genes, including Seita.1G242300 (gibberellin 2-oxidase-8), were identified.

Conclusions:

• The identified QTLs and candidate genes provide insights into the genetic control of foxtail millet plant height.
• Linked markers can facilitate marker-assisted selection for desirable plant architecture and yield.
• This research contributes to improving foxtail millet productivity through targeted breeding strategies.