Abstract

An F1 population (n = 144) derived from a cross between seedless table grape cultivars (Vitis vinifera L., n=19) was used to generate a mid-resolution microsatellitebased map. The consensus map contained 154 markers (105 simple sequence repeats, SSRs) in 19 linkage groups covering 1340 cM. The maternal map ('Ruby Seedless') contained 90 markers (60 SSRs) in 18 linkage groups covering 906 cM. The paternal map ('Sultanina') contained 108 markers (81 SSRs) in 19 linkage groups covering 1000 cM. Traits considered for QTL analysis were sub-traits of seedlessness (total fresh and dry weight of seeds and seed number), berry size and weight, veraison period, ripening date and berry enlargement in response to gibberellic acid. A major QTL (LG 18) with large effect (R2 up to 60%) was found for seedlessness sub-traits in both paternal maps. QTLs for berry size or weight and ripening date were found in the same location, suggesting a pleiotropic effect of seedlessness over gibberellin production, affecting berry development and senescence of fruit. Other QTLs for color, fertility, and berry size were also found. Association of SSRs with QTLs generated a list of useful markers for MAS.