Association Mapping of Agronomic Traits of Dry Beans Using Breeding Populations

Genome wide association mapping (GWAS) is an effective method to fine-map QTL because of its higher mapping resolution. In order to evaluate the possibility of using breeding populations for GWAS, analysis were conducted using AYTs (Advanced Yield Trials) and PYTs (Preliminary Yield Trials) from the NDSU dry bean breeding program, grown in 2012 at four locations in North Dakota using a 6k SNP chip. Genomic regions were evaluated separately for AYT, PYT, AYT+PYT, and races Mesoamerica and Durango. Overall, 13, 11, 9, and 9 significant markers were found for seed yield, maturity, 100-seed weight, and plant height respectively. Two candidate genes for seed yield and four candidate genes for days to maturity were identified. These markers are highly diagnostic within and among NDSU bean breeding populations and therefore, they could be directly used in Marker assisted selection to develop improved bean varieties while maintaining commercially desired phenotypic characteristics of beans