Identification and validation of number of pod ‐ and seed ‐ related traits QTLs in soybean

Abstract Traits related to the number of pods and seeds are important yield factors on soybean. The relationships between phenotype and quantitative trait loci ( QTL s) of these traits may reveal the mechanisms underlying productivity. Our study objectives were to analyse phenotypic correlations, detect stable QTL s and identify candidate genes useful for marker‐assisted selection. Phenotypic analyses revealed that NT h SP (number of three‐seeded pods) was positively correlated with NPPP (number of pods per plant) and SNPP (number of seeds per plant). Seventy‐five QTL s were identified based on the mean phenotypic data for at least 2 years. We detected two to 15 and one to three significant QTL s identified at the same location, respectively. Six consensus QTL s associated with at least two NPS ‐related (number of pods and seeds related) traits were identified. Two of these were verified in another population. The QTL s for NPPP , SNPP and NT h SP formed a consensus QTL cluster on GM 02. Another 27 QTL s also formed clusters in five regions. Fifteen candidate genes were mined and discussed. The results will provide more information to soybean breeding.