QTL Analysis of Soybean Seed Weight Using RAPD and SSR Markers

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.) seed weight is a important trait in cultivar development. Objective of this study was to identify and confirm quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for seed weight variation in the F2 and F2:3 generations. QTLs for seed weight were identified in F2 and F2:3 generations using interval mapping (MapMaker/QTL) and single factor analysis of variance (ANOVA). In the F2 plant generation (i.e., F3 seed), three markers, OPL9a, OPM7a, and OPAC12 were significantly (P<0.01) associated with seed weight QTLs. In the F2:3 plant row generation (i.e., F4 seed), five markers, OPA9a, OPG19, OPL9b, OPP11, and Sat_085 were significantly (P<0.01) associated with seed weight QTLs. Two markers, OPL9a and OPL9b were significantly (P<0.05) associated with seed weight QTLs in both generations. Two QTLs on USDA soybean linkage group C1 and R were identified in both F2 and F2:3 generations using interval mapping. The linkage group C1 QTL explained 16% of the variation in seed weight in both generations, and the linkage group R QTL explained 39% and 41% of the variation for F2 and F2:3 generation, respectively. The linkage group C2 QTL identified in F2:3 generation explained 14.9% of variation. Linkage groups C1, C2 and R had previously been identified as harbouring seed size QTLs. The consistency of QTLs across generations and populations indicates that marker-assisted selection is possible in a soybean breeding program.