This project aims to understand the genetic control of plant developmental processes in Eucalyptus globulus.
Using microsatellite molecular markers and an array based molecular marker system called Diversity Array Technology (DArT) a high-density linkage map will be constructed in an E. globulus F2 progeny. In this cross, vegetative phase change and flowering precocity characters, which are highly significant characters from a physiological, ecological and commercial forestry perspective, will be investigated. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis will to be conducted with candidate genes located near significant QTLs to be investigated. The linkage map will be compared against similar DArT generated E. globulus linkage maps produced at UTAS, and also with linkage maps produced by international collaborators in the closely related species Eucalyptus grandis and E. urophylla. This will represent the first fine scale study of gene order conservation in the Eucalyptus genus.