Identification of the quantitative trait loci for grain rate in maize

Abstract

Grain rate (GR) is a very important trait in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding program related to yield. To realize its genetic basis, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population and different nitrogen (N) regimes were used to map the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for GR in maize. As a result, two QTLs were identified under high N regime and could explain a total of 14.84% of phenotypic variance. Due to additive effect, the QTL on chromosome 6 could decrease 0.029 of GR, while the QTL on chromosome 9 could increase 0.0203 of GR. Under low N regime, one QTL was mapped on chromosome 6 and could account for 9.52% of phenotypic variance, and owning to additive effect, the  QTL could make GR decrease by 0.0234. The result in comparison with previous studies showed that the three QTLs in this present study were new quantitative loci associated with GR in maize. These results were beneficial for  understanding the genetic basis of GR in maize.

Key words: Maize (Zea mays L.), grain rate, quantitative trait locus, recombinant inbred line, nitrogen.