Assessing temporal changes in genetic diversity of maize hybrids using RAPD markers

Abstract

Information on genetic diversity of maize hybrids is very important for germplasm enhancement, hybrid breeding and in preventing environmental damage which may occur due to genetic uniformity of hybrids grown on large areas. The main goal of our study was to assess temporal changes in genetic diversity over the past four decades among ZP maize hybrids within the largest planting area in Serbia. The objectives were to: (i) characterize maize hybrids from different periods by RAPD markers; (ii) analyze temporal changes in genetic diversity among maize hybrids. Twenty-four maize hybrids were chosen from breeding programs in Maize Research Institute “Zemun Polje” on the basis of their superior yield and predominant seed production throughout four Periods. Patterns of RAPD markers were unique for each studied genotype. The average GD between hybrids continuously increased from Period B to Period E. Changes in genetic background during the last 40 years have a major impact on genetic diversity among ZP maize hybrids. There was no significant change in genetic variability of hybrids through the Periods.