Prediction based on estimated breeding values using genealogy for tuber yield and late blight resistance in auto-tetraploid potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Abstract

Estimated breeding values using best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) through pedigree relationship can enhance selection efficiency and save time as well as resources in autotetraploid potato breeding program. Here, we used historical preliminary yield evaluation trials data of 469-619 breeding lines for tuber yield and late blight resistance to estimate heritability and BLUP based breeding values modelling auto-tetraploid inheritance in mixed model analysis. The pedigree file had a depth of 3-4 generations with total 370 individuals including 111 founders. Heritability estimates varied from 0.15 for marketable tuber yield to 0.47 for late blight resistance computed using A matrix. The prediction accuracy for total tuber yield, marketable tuber yield and late blight resistance (AUDPC) was 0.53 ± 0.02, 0.44 ± 0.02 and 0.81 ± 0.01, respectively. The prediction accuracy was highest for late blight resistance and moderate for total and marketable tuber yield. The prediction bias measured as regression of observed phenotype values on predicted values for late blight resistance was almost nil in comparison to total and marketable tuber yield. Moderate to high prediction accuracies for tuber yields and late blight resistance suggest the selection of genotypes based on EBVs in Indian potato breeding programme for higher genetic gain.

Keywords: Agronomy; BLUP; Biocomputational method; Bioinformatics; EBV; Genetics; Heritability; Horticulture; Pedigree; Phenology; Plant biology; Plant genetics; Relationship matrix.