Advances in Genetic Mapping of Cotton for Yield, Fiber Quality, and Stress Resistance

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a major global cash crop providing natural fibre and supporting textile and agriculture industries. However, its productivity is negatively impacted by pests, diseases, and abiotic stresses, which are inadequately addressed by conventional breeding. Recent advances in genome sequencing and molecular breeding offer new opportunities to improve fibre quality and stress resistance. This review highlights the role of genetic mapping, quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) in uncovering genes linked to key traits. High-throughput sequencing and genome-editing approaches, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, enable precise improvement of cotton genomic characteristics. Integration of high-density molecular markers with genomic selection accelerates breeding program by enabling early trait identification. Studies demonstrate that combining traditional breeding with genomics reduces the limitations of polyploidy and genetic bottlenecks, while enhancing yield stability under stress. Future directions include wider adaptability of genome-assisted breeding, functional genomics, and high-throughput phenotyping to strengthen cotton resilience against climate variability and biotic challenges. This review concludes that genomics-integrated breeding can deliver long-term improvements in fibre quality, productivity, and stress tolerance, thereby supporting sustainable cotton production.