Genetic Diversity Analysis of Indigenous Flora Using Molecular Markers

Abstract

The adaptability, survival and sustainable use of indigenous plants depend upon its genetic richness. This research focused on the diverse need for the assessment of genetic diversity of local flora of Sindh through the aid of molecular technique. The genetic structure and conservation of various indigenous plant species from different ecological zones were studied. This study explores genetic diversity patterns inferred from molecular marker techniques to illuminate population differentiation and ecological adaptation. It also draws attention to the need for incorporating novel genetic tools for biodiversity assessment in less developed areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the genetic diversity of indigenous plant populations from various ecological zones of Sindh using RAPD and SSR markers. The samples of leaves were taken from different ecozones coastal, desert and irrigated zone of Sindh. Genomic DNA was extracted using the CTAB-modified method and PCR amplification was carried out using RAPD and SSR primers. Agarose gel electrophoresis was performed on amplified products and binary-coded genetic data were scored for statistical analysis with the use of POPGENE, NTSYS, and PAST software. High polymorphism (78.17% RAPD; 81.25% SSR) indicated large genetic diversity among populations of the two species, as shown from the results. The highest genetic diversity was noted in desert regions such as Tharparkar, and comparatively lower was observed in irrigated regions. Cluster and PCoA analyses further indicated that populations clustered according to ecological affinities. The authors conclude that the genetic diversity within species of the native flora of Sindh is considerable but not evenly distributed. It suggests the prioritization of genetically rich populations for in-situ conservation and advises embedding molecular data on genetic diversity into national biodiversity management programs for effective conservation planning.