Estimation of Genetic Distance Using RAPD Markers for Five Varieties of Citrullus lanatus L.

Abstract

This experiment was conducted at the department of Horticulture and Landscape department, Tikrit University. The aim was to analyze genetic variation in five varieties of Citrullus lanatus L. by using Random Amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. DNA was isolated from plant leaves and 15 random primers were used. Variations between amplified pieces for each variety was detected by migrating samples on an agarose gel. The results showed a difference in the number of DNA replicated bundles and their molecular weights. The total number of bundles was 101, of which 83 were differentiated. The primer OP H-08 had the highest number of bands, while the lowest number was 1 bands for the primer OP D-18. There was also differences in the primers efficiencies. The primer OP H-08 showed the highest efficiency (12.871), and the primer OP D-18 showed the lowest (0.990). The primers OP F-05 and OP H-08 displayed the highest discriminating power(14.457), while the primers OP B-14, OP D-18 and OP E-03 recorded the lowest (0). The genetic distance had values ranged between 0.235 - 0.562. The largest genetic distance was between the varieties Charleston Gray and King Charleston. However, the varieties Charleston Gray and Crimson Sweet had the least distance.