文摘
Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping lays the foundation for marker-assisted selection (MAS) for lint yield and fiber quality in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Boll-related traits affect yield and fiber quality, but few studies have focused on boll-related traits. Here, we detected QTLs related to cotton boll, yield and fiber quality traits using intraspecific F2 and F2:3 populations from the cross AQ?×?08-10604. A total of 91 QTLs for 17 traits related to boll, yield and fiber quality in the F2 and F2:3 populations were mapped, including 37 significant QTLs. Six pairs of common QTLs were detected, including two pairs for boll coat weight (BCW) in the same or similar positions on Chr. A10 and D1, two pairs for boll length (BL) in similar positions on Chr. A10 and A13, with a higher percentage of phenotype variation and two pairs for boll diameter (BD) in similar positions on Chr. A10 and D1. These results suggest that the traits BCW, BL and BD have high levels of stability. Five QTL clusters for the same or different traits were also identified on Chr. A10 (2), A13, D1 and D5. We also detected 64 epistatic QTLs for boll- and yield-related traits that play important roles in genetic variation. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations between seed yield and boll number per plant and between boll weight and BCW, BL and BD. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the genetic basis of boll-related traits and will enable further MAS of upland cotton.