Optimisation of apricot breeding by a joint conventional and molecular approach applied to the main agronomics traits

Abstract

Preliminary results of the European ABRIGEN (FAIR6 CT98-4345) are presented. The general objective is the optimization of the apricot selection methodology in order to improve breeding strategies. It is based on a multidisciplinary research dedicated to the genetic determinism of the main agronomic traits, the quality of the fruit and the resistance to major diseases. It is mainly focus on: (i) the inheritance of the major agronomic traits, fruit quality and resistance to sharka and bacteriosis; (ii) the analysis of possible linkages or associations between traits; (iii) the identification of associated molecular markers. The work is based on the analysis of a 9x9 diallel cross, with 61 families and more than 3700 offspring. Teams including geneticists, development biologists, plant pathologists, physiologists and molecular biologists have been joined to reach the objective