Construction of a linkage map of the Rennell Island Tall coconut type (Cocos nucifera L.) and QTL analysis for yield characters

AFLP and SSR DNA markers were used to construct a linkage map in the coconut (Cocos nucifera L.; 2n = 32) type Rennell Island Tall (RIT). A total of 227 markers were arranged into 16 linkage groups. The total genome length corresponded to 1971 cM for the RIT map, with 5-23 markers per linkage group. QTL analysis for yield characters in two consecutive sampling periods identified nine loci. Three and two QTLs were detected for number of bunches and one and three QTLs for number of nuts. The correlation of trait values between characters and evaluation periods is partially reflected in identical QTLs. The QTLs represent characters that are important in coconut breeding. The cosegregation of markers with these QTLs provides an opportunity for marker-assisted selection in coconut breeding programmes.