USE OF MOLECULAR MARKERS TO IMPROVE CUT FLOWERS LONGEVITY IN CARNATION

Postharvest longevity is one of the first and most important traits considered in carnation breeding. In this work, RAPD analysis was used for the identification of molecular markers that could be associated with flower vase life. Two cultivars (Roland and Milady) with different flower longevity and their F1 and backcross offspring were analysed. Our previous studies on the segregation of the character indicated that flower vase life is probably a complex quantitative trait in carnation, involving more than a single gene or mechanism, and that this character is controlled by genes showing predominantly additive effects. Sixty random primers were initially tested on a few genotypes. DNAs from 70 F1 and 36 backcross offspring were then analysed with 10 selected primers. For each RAPD band tested, the progenies were divided into two groups according to the similarity of the band pattern with Roland or Milady. The statistical significance of the differences in vase life between the two groups was evaluated. The analysis revealed several bands that allow to discriminate significantly the individuals with extended longevity. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation between the score of each progeny (number of RAPD bands similar to Roland) and flower longevity.

Download Adobe Acrobat Reader (free software to read PDF files)