QTL analysis of ascochyta blight resistance in chickpea

Recent advances in quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis have facilitated studies on Ascochyta blight, caused by Ascochyta rabiei Pass (Lab.), resistance in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from an interspecific cross between C. arietinum and C. reticulatum, the same 2 QTLs conferring resistance to Ascochyta blight were identified at 2 locations by interval mapping. Genotype X environment (G x E) interaction was significant both between years at the same location and between locations. The effect of QTL-1 on linkage group 8 (LG-8) was greater than that of QTL-2 on LG-4 at Pullman while the effect of QTL-2 was higher than that of QTL-1 at Eskişehir. Dissection of QTLs with molecular markers provides a better understanding of resistance to Ascochyta blight in chickpea. Validation of both QTLs in a second environment promises the application of marker-assisted selection (MAS) for this trait. Changes in magnitudes of the QTL's effect in 2 locations indicate possible differences in pathogen populations and environmental interactions.