Development of a SCAR (sequence characterised amplified region) marker for molecular tagging of the dwarf BREIZH (Bzh) gene in Brassica napus L.

 A SCAR (sequence characterised amplified region) has been developed for optimal tagging of the dwarf Bzh gene in Brassica napus. A RAPD marker named OPMO7-730 was previously found closely linked to the dwarf locus at 0.8±0.7 cM. The DNA band corresponding to this marker was cloned and sequenced, and specific PCR primers were designed. The PCR test allowed us to amplify the locus corresponding to OPM07-730. With a restriction endonuclease digest and optimal electrophoresis conditions, three allelic forms of this marker have been recovered on the 40 B. napus accessions tested. The usefullness of this marker in breeding dwarf rapeseed lines is discussed. Received: 20 April 1998 / Accepted: 29 April 1998