Evaluation of the retrotransposon-based markers in identifying the loci associated with yield and some plant characteristics in Iranian flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genotypes

Since the economic value of a cultivar depends on its different characteristics, thus procedure of selection for several traits to achieve maximum economic value has always been considered by plant breeders. Therefore, accurate knowledge of the behavior and genetic relationship of these traits will help breeders to improve plant genotypes. In this study, 31 retrotransposon-based primers (12 IRAP and 19 REMAP primers) were used to identify molecular markers associated with 21 agronomic, morphological, and physiological traits in 45 different flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genotypes based on a mixed linear model (MLM). Analysis of population structure by Bayesian method revealed two possible subgroups (K=2) in the population studied. Using MLM, a total of 29 loci associated with the 21 traits studied were identified (p < /em><0.01). The maximum number of associated loci was identified for 100-seed weight and seed yield traits. The existence of common markers among some traits studied, such as the significant relationship between LTR1-UBC808-2 marker with plant height and 100-seed weight, and LTR1-UBC807-4 with main stem weight and the number of capsules per the main stem can be due to pleiotropic effects or linkage between genomic regions involved in these traits. However, findings of the present study can be further strengthened with the inclusion of more markers putatively associated with economically important traits.