CAnMove

In nature, there are many genetic and environmental factors that affect the expression of traits.To help us disentangle the importance of these factors, we use different qualitative genetic models. In this project, we are using such a model to calculate heritability of different morphological and fitness related traits in a wild study population of great reed warblers (Acrocephalus arundinaceus) in central Sweden.
 
Apart from blood samples for DNA analysis we have collected both morphological measurements (e.g. wing length, tarsus length, scull length and bill measurements) and data on life-history and fitness related traits (e.g. arrival day, egg measurements, breeding success). The population was mapped on a number of genetic markers resulting in a genetic linkage map that shows the relative order of the markers in the genome.
 
We are now working on refining the resolution of the genetic linkage map by adding more markers. We have used the genetic map together with pedigree information and individual genotypes and phenotypes to map qualitative trait loci (QTL). Wing length is a trait that is important both for fitness and migratory strategies in our great reed warblers. On chromosome 2, we have found a region that has major effect on wing length.
 
QTL mapping in wild populations can provide information on the genetic structure of ecologically interesting traits (e.g. how many genes are involved and their effect) and give an insight to how genetic variation is maintained in traits that are under selection.