Genetic diversity assessment in Jasminum species using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism

Abstract: Jasmines (Jasminum sp.), a native of tropical and subtropical region, are esteemed for their attractive fragrant flowers and essential oil. However, very meagre information is available on the genetic relatedness among species and cultivars of jasmine. This study analyzed genetic relatedness of 48 genotypes across 26 species using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism markers. Of the ten sets of primers screened, four sets were selected for the present investigation on genetic diversity. A total of 212 bands were scored, of which 90.5% were polymorphic. The relationship among genotypes was analyzed using Unweighted Pair Group method of cluster analysis. Among 48 genotypes J. auriculatum formed a separate node while rest of the 47 genotypes formed two major clusters with two sub clusters in each. Cluster I comprised of 28 genotypes and cluster II had 19 genotypes. It was difficult to classify the genotypes either based on geographical region or based on their cultivation since there was assortment of wild and cultivated species. However the results reflect a high level polymorphism suggesting occurrence of genotypes of diverse genetic background that will be useful in breeding programmes.