Seed and floret size parameters of sunflower are determined by partially overlapping sets of quantitative trait loci with epistatic interactions

Floret and seed traits are moderately correlated phenotypically in modern sunflower cultivars, but the underlying genetics are mostly independent. Seed traits in particular are governed in part by epistatic effects among quantitative trait loci. Seed size is an important quality component in marketing commercial sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), particularly for the in-shell confectionery market, where long and broad seed types are preferred as...