Abstract
A genetic linkage map was constructed for an F1 genotype of auto-tetraploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) using two backcross populations of 101 individuals each and 82 single-dose restriction fragments segregating in each population. The percentages of marker loci deviating from Mendelian ratios were considerably less than reported for inbred diploid mapping populations (4–9% compared to 18–54%), probably due to the greater buffering capacity of autotetraploids against the effects of deleterious recessive alleles. Four homologous coupling-phase cosegregation groups were detected for seven of the eight linkage groups of diploid alfalfa and aligned using probes in common. No cosegregation groups were found for linkage group 7 due to the lack of polymorphisms in this cross. A composite map was generated by integrating the four homologous cosegregation groups and consisted of 88 loci on seven linkage groups covering 443 cM. The locus map-orders and distances were in general agreement with those found in diploid alfalfa. The mapping population segregates for winterhardiness, fall dormancy, and freezing tolerance; and the map will be used to locate genomic regions affecting these traits.
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Received: 9 December 1998 / Accepted: 22 June 1999
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Brouwer, D., Osborn, T. A molecular marker linkage map of tetraploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Theor Appl Genet 99, 1194–1200 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s001220051324
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001220051324