Combined genetic, genomic and physiological approaches to characterize flowering in Fragaria [W324]

Flowering is a key event for production of seeds or fruits. To date, studies of this process were mainly focused on the molecular mechanisms involved in the control of flowering until now. In perennial plants, few studies have taken into account the large variability in flowering patterns along plant development. Fragaria stands as an interesting model for studying flowering and perpetual flowering and its relationships with vegetative plant reproduction in perennial plants. In this talk, we will show how complementary approaches in genetics, genomics and plant physiology can be integrated to provide a better understanding of flowering in Fragaria. Besides giving a better insights into these poorly known processes, our results will provide new tools for controlling that trait in strawberry and, consequently, fruit production.