Genetic Mapping: Charting the Course for Superior Crop Varieties
Kavya Thottempudi
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, ANGRAU, Bapatla, India.
Pooja Purushotham *
Department of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, India.
Ayesha Siddiqua
Department of Fruit Sciences, Sri Krishnadevaraya College of Horticultural Sciences, Ananthapuramu, Andhra Pradesh, Affiliated to Dr. YSR Horticultural University, West Godavari, VR Gudem (A.P.), India.
Arshad Khayum
Department of Postharvest Management, College of Horticulture, Mudigere-577132 KSNUAHS, Shivamogga-577412, India.
Vaishnavi Gajananrao Wuike
Department of Biochemistry, Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal, India.
Priyansh Rahangdale
Department of Agriculture Science SAM global University, Raisen M. P., India.
Dhanalakhsmi T N
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticiltural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This article explores the principles of genetic mapping, its applications in marker-assisted selection, Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis, genomic selection, and gene discovery. Genetic mapping has become an indispensable tool in modern crop improvement, offering precise insights into the genetic architecture of traits critical for agricultural productivity, resilience, and sustainability. By identifying genes and markers associated with traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional enhancement, genetic mapping accelerates the development of superior crop varieties. Real-world case studies from rice, wheat, maize, chickpea, tomato, and pearl millet illustrate its transformative impact. The article explores and discusses enabling technologies like next-generation sequencing, CRISPR, and phenotyping platforms, while addressing the challenges associated with polygenic trait mapping, data management, and translational bottlenecks. Looking ahead, integrating genetic mapping with digital tools and participatory breeding approaches offers promising pathways for developing climate-smart, farmer-preferred, and nutritionally rich crops for a food-secure future.
Keywords: Genetic mapping, crop improvement, marker-assisted selection (MAS), quantitative trait loci (QTL), genomic selection, plant breeding