Work

Unravelling the Genetic Architecture of Flowering in Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) Through Multi-Season QTL Mapping

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Flowering time is a key adaptive trait in common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), influencing crop adaptation, yield potential, and forage quality. Despite its importance, the genetic basis of flowering in this species remains poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed the genetic architecture of flowering-related traits in an F2:3 population under field conditions over two consecutive growing seasons. Four traits were evaluated using thermal time expressed as growing degree days (GDDs), and quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was conducted using a high-density genetic map derived from DArTSeq markers. The linkage map comprised 419 unique positions across six linkage groups, spanning 1728.5 cM. Ten QTLs associated with flowering traits were identified on chromosomes 2, 3, 4, and 6. Five QTLs were consistent across seasons, defining three major genomic regions controlling flowering. Additional season-specific QTLs suggested environmental effects on flowering responses. In silico analysis identified three candidate genes (VsFTc, VsFTa, and VsLFY) within flanking markers for stable QTL. This is the first report of QTLs for flowering in common vetch and provides targets for marker-assisted breeding to improve adaptation and resilience.

Source: Biology

DOI: 10.3390/biology15141209

Authors: Eva M. Córdoba, Clara I. González-Verdejo, Sergio G. Atienza, Salvador Nadal, Carmen M. Ávila

Institutions: Andalusian Institute of Agricultural and Fisheries Research and Training, Instituto de Agricultura Sostenible

Language: English

Topic: Genetic Mapping and Diversity in Plants and Animals

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258