Abstract

In this study, we performed the phenotypic characterization of a segregating population of sweet cherry for fruit quality characters, in order to further identify QTLs and candidate genes related to these parameters in the segregating populations 'Bing X Lapins'. Towards this end, the following phenotypic traits were analyzed: fruit equatorial width (cm), fruit weight (g), fruit firmness (durometer units), skin color, Flowering date and Maturity date (Calendar day “CD”). Then distribution was analyzed in order to determine the segregation of these parameters in the 'BXL' population. Progeny from a cross between the sweet cherry varieties ‘Bing’ and ‘Lapins’ has been established and phenotypic analysis results reveal that there is segregation for fruit size, fruit firmness, skin color, Flowering date, and Maturity date. Further analyses of the segregating parameters in this population, should provide insight into the genetic regulation of important fruit quality parameters as well as molecular markers and associated candidate genes that may be incorporated into sweet cherry breeding programs. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This work was funded by the project Fondecyt No 1171016, Fondecyt No 1161377, the Conicyt Scholarship Grant ID: 21190238, CORFO PMG-cerezo 09PMG-7243 y 16PTEC- 66646-P01.