Genetic studies of seed longevity in hexaploid wheat using segregation and association mapping approaches

Genebanks are entrusted with the storage, preservation and distribution of crop germplasm. Seed longevity is an important character in this context, but little is known regarding its genetic basis, largely because it is so strongly influenced by non-genetic factors. Here we present the outcome of a genetic dissection of seed longevity in bread wheat. We applied both a standard quantitative trait locus analysis based on segregation from a biparental cross, and an association analysis using a germplasm panel to detect marker trait associations. The latter revealed more loci than the former. Some of the genomic regions identified are known to contain genes determining spike architecture or aspects of biotic and abiotic stress responses. The results open perspectives for identification of favourable longevity alleles and the more accurate prediction of seed longevity in cereal germplasm collections.