Integrating genomics in to an applied mango breeding program (MG12015)

What was it all about?

This project, which ran from 2013 to 2018, provided technical research and development support to the Australian Mango Breeding Program, to improve the efficiency of breeding and enable the targeting of specific traits for improvement.

Researchers aimed to identify genes and gene markers for disease resistance or their controlling mechanisms, particularly for anthracnose disease. They also identified markers associated with trunk cross sectional area and other traits including branch habit, bloom, ground skin colour, blush intensity, beak shape and pulp colour.

The team also began developing a genetic map of the Kensington Pride variety.

The project advanced the understanding of disease tolerance in mangoes – information available to carry through into future projects that aim to breed varieties with disease resistance.