A Molecular Marker for early maturity (Ku) and Marker-assisted breeding of Lupinus Angustifolius

AFLPs are being used in L. angustifolius to construct a molecular linkage map and find molecular markers linked to traits of interest. To date, over 700 polymorphic loci have been identified in an F2 mapping population. Linkage analysis, using MAPMAKER/EXP V3.0, has generated 21 linkage groups, including 2 AFLP markers linked to Ku (early maturity). A specific PCR test has been developed for this marker that can distinguish homozygous early and late maturing plants, as well as heterozygotes. Studies are continuing to find other markers, and to expand the linkage map.