Phenotyping Peanut Ril Populations to Associate Traits with Genetic Markers.

Few molecular markers associated with traits are available for use in peanut. This is due in part to a low number of polymorphic genetic markers. Efforts are ongoing to sequence the peanut genome which should result in the development of additional polymorphic markers. Recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations have also been developed that should exhibit segregation for many of the economically significant traits for peanut. The purpose of this study is to develop procedures and plans for phenotyping these RIL populations that will result in high quality data that can be used to associate traits with genetic markers. Morphological and disease resistance data were generated from field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies. Advantages and disadvantages of using these measurements for extensive phenotyping in peanut will be discussed.