Regions of the genome statistically associated with variation in continuous traits.
QTL mapping associates genetic markers with variation in a trait across crosses or populations. It identifies regions of the genome, not necessarily genes. Many QTL have small effects, and resolution is improved by fine mapping.
QTL are used in crop and livestock breeding for yield and disease resistance.
Regions of the genome statistically associated with variation in continuous traits.
Quantitative Trait Loci is one of the 54 topics in Genetics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Polygenic Inheritance, Genome-Wide Association Studies, Heritability.
QTL for flowering time in maize.
Work through the Beginner topics in Genetics first, such as Heredity, Gene, Allele, then return to Quantitative Trait Loci. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
The closest topics to Quantitative Trait Loci are Polygenic Inheritance, Genome-Wide Association Studies, Heritability, Genetic Drift. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Quantitative Trait Loci. To practise the whole of Genetics, use the Genetics quiz.
Quantitative Trait Loci: Regions of the genome statistically associated with variation in continuous traits. Polygenic Inheritance: A trait controlled by many genes producing continuous variation, such as height and skin colour. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Polygenic Inheritance and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Genetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
A trait controlled by many genes producing continuous variation, such as height and skin colour.
🧬 GeneticsScan many genomes for variants statistically linked to a trait or disease.
🧬 GeneticsThe proportion of phenotypic variation in a population attributable to genetic differences.
🧬 GeneticsRandom changes in allele frequency that have strong effects in small populations, including the founder effect and bottleneck.
🧬 Genetics