ABSTRACT
The ability to generate complete genetic maps includes the capacity to evaluate the entire genome (hence the term “genomic genetics”), to dissect complex genetic traits into their individual mendelian entities, and to channel all this information into breeding programs. This is what renders marker-based methodologies so powerful. The progress to date in plant genetics will be reviewed and the limitations outlined. Thus genomic markers, besides serving as specific “tags” to monitor for the presence of economic importancein breeding programs, can also serve as reference points toward the cloning of genes of interest. Genetic improvement is area in which new technologies are often slowly assimilated. The latest newcomer in breeder’s armamentarium is recombinant DNA technology, which provides greatly increased genetic resolution. Indeed, it is now possible to uncover large numbers of genetic polymorphisms, to locate them accurately on the genetic map, and to use them as markers for the evaluation and utilization of the genetic basis for observed phenotypic variability.
