Inheritance of muscat berry volatiles in grape interspecific cross population

The interspecific cross is an important breeding method in grape breeding program. We analyzed the composition and content of volatiles arising from a cross between 'Beifeng' and '3-34' grape varieties over 3 years. Samples comprised ripe berries harvested from parental plants and their offspring. Qualitative analysis of volatile compounds present was by use of a modified GC-MS method. Volatile compounds were identified by their mass spectra and quantified. Phenotypic ratios were derived for compounds segregating in the progeny. Frequency range, median and distribution densities in the sample were determined, and broad sense inheritability values were estimated. Twenty-eight volatile compounds were detected in the maternal 'Beifeng', while 36 compounds were detected in the paternal '3-34'. The C6 compounds were the dominant volatile compounds in 'Beifeng', while monoterpenes were predominant in '3-34'. Segregation of limetal, (Z)-rose oxide and nerol was consistent with Mendelian laws of inheritance, while the distribution of values of total monoterpenes content of the offspring was skewed towards the low content area. Positive correlations were observed between all of the monoterpenes. Evidence of transgressive inheritance was noted, indicated by the exceptionally high monoterpene contents observed amongst some of the progeny. Other volatile groups were distributed in the progeny in a normal, continuous manner despite a wide range of variation, indicating that their presence and concentration is a quantitative trait, controlled by polygenes. The results will be helpful for selection of good muscat cultivars in grape breeding in the future