Caracterización molecular y fenotípica de recursos fitogenéticos de pimiento ("Capsicum spp.") y búsqueda de genes asociados a caracteres fenotípicos de interés

Abstract

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) is one of the most important crops in human food. Due to domestication processes and selection of specific varieties for cultivation, genetic diversity was greatly reduced and plant genetic resources became essential to preserve it. This PhD thesis broadens the knowledge about three collections of pepper plant genetic resources. Firstly, genetic variability and structure was analyzed using twentyeight microsatellite markers. A clear distinction C. annuum-non C. annuum was unveiled as well as minor groupings based on species and geographical origin. Possible biases and limitations in work of this type were discussed for the first time. Furthermore, the genetic profile of disease resistance and pungency was determined in order to identify the best candidate accessions for inclusion in breeding programs. Secondly, 48,109 SNV markers were de novo developed using high-throughput sequencing. SNV analysis revealed that relationships between pepper accessions are given by the species to which they belong, their place of origin and morphological features. Finally, plants were examined phenotypically and a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was carried out. Eight SNP markers were found to be associated with agronomic traits of interest.