Identification of Four Molokhia (Corchorus olitorius L.) Genotypes by Molecular Markers

Abstract

Assessment of genetic diversity in a collection of genetic resources is a vital characterization for preserving this collection and planning future breeding programs. Genetic variability among four Egyptian molokhia (Corchorus olitorius L.) genotypes was observed using random amplified polymorphic (RAPD) DNA. RAPD patterns with polymorphism percentages were detected among the DNA samples from seven-day-old seedlings, representing each of the studied genotypes. Genetic diversity and relationships were evaluated using five randomly amplified polymorphic DNA markers that revealed 288 scorable bands. Amplification products were ranged in size from 110 bp to 5.5 kb, while in number, they ranged from 2 to 17 bands. Indicated significant genetic diversity among the molokhia genotypes were 66.67% for Wild type x Balady, 65.28% for Wild type x Saidy, 63.39% for Wild type x Falahy. The closest proximity, incidentally the highest genetic similarity, was observed between Balady and Falahy (80.56%), while the lowest was observed between Balady and Saidy (56.94%). The total positive unique bands scored 11 bands, while the negative unique bands scored 8 within the tested genotype and the five primers. Studied five primers generated unique bands in three molokhia landraces, which could identify these genotypes at the molecular level. The results suggest considerable potential RAPD approach for proper genetic identification of individual genotypes and an efficient way of varietal authenticity for fraud prevention. Genetic variability within molokhia genotypes ascertained using these primers. Results recommended the usefulness of RAPD primers in conservation and exploitation of molokhia germplasm in wide variety of breeding programs.