Use of RFLP markers for genetic linkage analysis of oil percentage in sunflower seed

Increased seed oil percentage is an important objective when breeding for high of yield in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Although some researchers have investigated the genetics and heritability of sunflower oil percentage, most analyses were conducted on the oil percentage in the whole seed through conventional breeding and biometric procedures. The primary objective of this research was to identify restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) linked to quantitative trait loci affecting seed oil percentage, kernel oil percentage, and kernel percentage. An F 2 population consisting of 289 individuals was produced by crossing two inbred lines that differ for the traits. The RFLP and trait data were obtained directly from self-pollinated F 2 plants. The RFLP markers (identifying 201 codomnant loci) located six regions representing 57% of the genetic variation of seed oil percentage. Two of these regions were associated with kernel oil percentage, two with kernel percentage, and two with both components. Additive gene action was predominant for seed oil percentage and its components