RAPD based genetic diversity analysis within the genus Solanum (Solanaceae)

The advances in molecular biology techniques have led to identification of large number of highly informative DNA markers that are useful for the identification of genetic polymorphism. In the present study, Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique was used as a tool for assessing genetic diversity and species relationship among the thirteen accessions of eggplants. Thirteen seed samples of eggplants were collected from different parts of the country. A total of 116 polymorphic amplified products were obtained from seven decamer primers, which discriminated all the accessions. The similarity results indicate presence of high levels of genetic diversity in eggplants and a dendrogram constructed by TFPGA methods shows 86.5% polymorphism. Genetically distinct genotypes identified using RAPD markers could be a potential source of germplasm for eggplant's improvement.