Review on the application of molecular approaches for the genetic analysis of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) populations

Abstract

Teak (<i>Tectona grandis</i> L.f.), a prominent tropical hardwood tree species, yields one of the finest timbers in the world. Because of its capability to provide high quality timbers, the demand of teak wood has been on the rise for centuries. However, the natural populations of teak have been declined drastically because mainly of over- exploitation and deforestation. Geographically, Bangladesh is a very potential region for the growth of teak plants. Although variations in ecologically and economically important morphological traits of teak have been investigated worldwide for many decades, molecular data regarding genetic variation between and among populations have received relatively less attention. Among all the available molecular markers, some notable markers are- Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD), Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP), Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) and Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs), although each of them has their own merits and demerits. Different parameters and components of genetic diversity study have been estimated by using different techniques and analytical tools. These components of genetic diversity help us to give a precise picture on the proper utilization of plant genetic resources and also help in initiating the effective timber plant management techniques.