Abstract
Litchi represents an economically important crop in South Africa – however, the local industry is based on only five cultivars. In order to expand the gene pool and to extend the harvest season, new cultivars have been imported. Currently, cultivars are identified based on morphological characteristics, but these are not always reliable. Molecular markers provide a tool to supplement morphological characterisation, particularly in cases in which confusion exists. The present study reports on the application of sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers in litchi for assessment of genetic relationships and molecular characterisation. The results provide evidence for separation of cultivars based on maturation period and fruit characteristics. The SRAP markers provide a tool for molecular characterisation that can be readily used by researchers with limited budgets, which is common in many developing countries.
 Significance:
 
 We report on the application of SRAP markers as a tool for litchi breeders in resource constrained countries.
 The tested molecular markers allowed for genotyping (molecular characterisation) of litchi cultivars and selections.
 The markers also revealed relationships between genetic and morphological (phenotypic) characteristics.
Highlights
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is a commercially important fruit tree in tropical and subtropical regions
The aim of the present study was to investigate the suitability of sequencerelated amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers for molecular characterisation and investigation of the genetic relationships between litchi cultivars maintained at the ARC-TSC
The present study reports on the use of SRAP markers to characterise litchi germplasm at the ARC-TSC, as well as newly imported cultivars that have not previously been investigated and promising selections arising from the local breeding programme
Summary
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is a commercially important fruit tree in tropical and subtropical regions. It is indigenous to southern China, northern Vietnam and the Malay peninsula but is cultivated in other countries including India, Taiwan, Thailand, Madagascar and South Africa.[1,2] There is a long history of litchi cultivation globally, and a large number of selections have been developed over time. Litchi was introduced into South Africa in 1876 and cultivation currently occurs in subtropical, frost-free regions in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal Provinces.[3] During the 2017/2018 season, 5545 tons of litchi were produced in South Africa, of which 65% was exported, 24% sold to the local market and 11% processed into products.[3] litchi cultivation makes an important contribution to the gross domestic product of the country and contributes towards job creation in the agricultural and processing sectors
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