Application of simple sequence repeat markers for demarcation of Citrus reticulata nucellar and hybrid seedlings

Abstract

The Polyembryony trait is a characteristic feature of the genus Citrus. This trait is regarded as a nuisance in hybridization but could be effectively utilized for Citrus propagation. The occurrence of nucellar embryony could be regarded as a replacement of costly tissue culture technique and identification of nucellar seedlings of Citrus reticulata may lead to proper management of the elite germplasms in mass scale propagation. Conventional techniques of ‘Off type’ rouging and other morphological identification techniques are not always correct. Molecular marker may be used for detection of nucellar seedlings. Simple sequence Repeat (SSR) markers were used for detection of nucellar seedlings. They are reliable markers and remain consistent under different environmental conditions. Four microsatellite primers with AG repeat CCSM13, CCSM17, CCSM18 and CCSM147 were able to demarcate the nucellar seedlings from the sexual ones. Three primers from TTA series TTA15, TTA27 and TTA33 were not able to discriminate seedlings. The four primers were able to discriminate the nucellar and zygotic seedlings developed from a local selection of an open pollinated population of Citrus reticulata of Darjeeling region of West Bengal. This experiment identified a few reliable markers useful for Citrus orchard management programme and could be applied for screening of asexual seedlings from an open population and also for controlled crossing.