A high-density soybean genetic map based on AFLP markers

Genetic marker systems have improved dramatically in the past 10 yr. Each new system needs to be evaluated for its distribution of markers on genetic linkage maps to validate its use for genetic analysis. The resulting maps an also useful for establishing the genetic positions of genes affecting important phenotypes. We have constructed a high density map in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] using a 300 RIL (recombinant inbred line) population from BSR101 x PI437.654 by first constructing an RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) 'scaffold' map based on the entire population. The RFLP anchored map was then further populated with AFLP (amplified fragment length polymorphism) markers based on only a 42 RIL subset. We report here an 840 marker map consisting of 165 RFLP, 25 RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA), and 650 AFLP markers spread over 29 linkage groups representing 3441 cM distance. Although clustering of AFLP markers occurred, markers were mapped to every linkage group and were well distributed relative to other marker systems. The AFLP marker system appears to be a useful approach for generating high density genetic maps in soybean.
GENETIC MAPPING has been greatly enhanced in the last decade with the introduction of novel genetic marker systems. These systems have resulted in increased capabilities for detecting DNA polymorphism and [...]