Chuchu Liu¹ , Ruo Du²

1 Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, China
2 Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, China
Author    Correspondence author
Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 2   
Received: 13 Jan., 2024    Accepted: 15 Feb., 2024    Published: 20 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), as a powerful genetic tool, can reveal the correlation between genotype and phenotype and have been widely applied in the field of plant genetics, especially in the trait studies of crops and trees. To explore the application of GWAS in the genetic basis research of aesthetic and adaptive traits of ornamental trees, this study comprehensively analyzed the aesthetic traits (such as tree shape, flower color, leaf type, etc.) and adaptive traits (such as drought tolerance, cold resistance, and disease and pest resistance). It was found that GWAS helps identify key genetic factors controlling these traits, providing valuable genetic information to facilitate the improvement and breeding of ornamental tree varieties. However, challenges such as limited sample size, environmental interaction effects, and the genetic control of complex traits remain in practical applications. This study underscores the importance of understanding the genetic diversity and mechanisms of ornamental trees, which is crucial for their sustainable management and utilization, enhancing the aesthetic and practical value of urban greening, and promoting eco-friendly urban development. With continuous progress in genetic research and biotechnology, GWAS is expected to offer more scientific and systematic guidance for the selection, improvement, and conservation of ornamental trees.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS); Ornamental trees; Aesthetic traits; Adaptive traits; Genetic basis research