Molecular Mapping and Identification of QTLs and Genes for Economically Important Traits in the Capsicum Genome

Abstract

Pepper exhibits large phenotypic variation for economically important traits that are mostly quantitatively inherited. In this chapter, we review the quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping studies focused on plant growth and fruit yield and quality traits. We further review recent developments of genomic resources and genotyping techniques and their utilization for construction of ultra-high-density maps of pepper including newly developed maps established for the less explored Capsicum species Capsicum baccatum. These studies allowed a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis for regulation of these traits in pepper and the development of molecular markers linked to favorable genes and their introgression to elite backgrounds.