Identification of a new maize inflorescence meristem mutant and association analysis using SLAF-seq method

Maize inflorescence provides a useful model to study the genetic and molecular control of meristems. Many classical maize mutants were described last century, providing important insights into the mechanism of developmental control. The fea*-9LB030 is a new maize spontaneous mutant controlled by a single recessive gene. The ears are fasciated in line at the tip with additional and irregular kernel rows on the cob. The tassels are thicker, with increased spikelet density and abnormally developed branches and florets. A relatively new experimental method, SLAF-seq, is used in association analysis. A total of 5,142 polymorphic SLAFs are analyzed and 148 Diff_markers (Ratio_ab≥2) are procured. Three trait related candidate regions on Chr3 are obtained in association analysis, with 51 candidate genes and a size of 3.947 Mb.