QTL Mapping and Epistasis Analysis for Yield Traits in an RIL Population of Rice （Oryza sativa L.）

A genetic linkage map consisting of 168 DNA markers was constructed based on a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a cross between a high yielding indica variety, Zhong156, and a low yielding indica variety, Gumei2. The markers on the linkage map were distributed on all 12 chromosomes and covered 1 447.9 cM of the genome. The parents and 304 RILs were grown in China National Rice Research Institute (CNRRI), Hangzhou, China, in 2001, over two seasons in a randomized block design. The statistic software of QTL Mapper 1.01 was applied to detect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and additive by environment (AE) interactions for yield traits, including panicle length, number of panicles per plant, number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, fertility and kilo-grain weight. A total of 30QTLs with significant additive effects located on all chromosomes, except chromosomes 5 and 9, and two QTLs with significant AE interactions, were detected. Thirty-one interactions of QTLs showing significant additive by additive epistatic effects for yield traits were also detected. Genetic contributions were generally lower for QTLs showing epistatic effects compared with QTLs showing additive effects. No significant interactions between epistasis and environment were detected.