The relationship between RAPD markers and quantitative traits of caraway (Carum carvi L.)

Application of molecular markers makes the selection process much more effective. Marker assisted selection is an important tool for plant breeders to increase the efficiency of a breeding process, especially for multigenic traits, highly influenced by the environment. In this paper the relationships between RAPD markers and 22 quantitative traits of caraway (Carum carvi L.) were analyzed. Significant associations of 44 markers with at least one trait in 2004 as well as 48 in 2005 were found on the basis of regression analysis. The proportion of total phenotypic variances of individual trait explained by the marker ranged from 13.8% to 47.6%.

► In this study we analyzed relationship between RAPD markers and traits of caraway. ► We find markers closely linked to genes that determine various traits. ► We conclude that selected markers may be important diagnostic tool in breeding selection.