Identification of QTL for grain quality traits in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum var. durum L.) mapping population derived from kunduru x Cham1

Very little information exists in the literature concerning the genetic control of quality traits in durum wheat. Most of studies conducted in durum wheat concern with the yield and agronomic traits. Therefore to genetically dissect the quantitative trait loci (QTL) for quality traits in durum wheat is very important to understand their mode of inheritance. A genetic linkage map was constructed based on recombinant inbred lines (RIL) derived from cross between Kunduru X Cham1 population. The map consisted of 396 loci on all chromosomes, which were composed of 213 microsatellite markers, 37 seed storage proteins markers, and 146 AFLPs markers. This map consisted of 14 linkage groups, spanning to a total of 5033.6 cM. Eight SSR primers which were unknown of their chromosomal locations were mapped in different chromosomes in the Kunduru / Cham1 population. Quality traits and QTL analysis were performed for parameters associated with different quality traits of durum wheat using eight different environments/locations. The QTL analysis led to the detection of 93 QTLs. Further quality traits were controlled by at least five or more QTLs, except for ash content, only two QTLs were observed. Also several important and novel genomic regions for durum quality were detected. In addition, some of the QTLs showed pleiotropic effects for different quality traits.The QTL analysis of the different quality traits provided an integrated picture of the genetic basis of durum wheat quality and generated valuable information for durum wheat breeding programs. Important QTLs were identified for marker-assisted selection and are suggested to be used in the durum wheat breeding programs in the Mediterranean region; this is particularly true for the gluten strength and yellow pigment.