Genetic diversity analysis in snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) through RAPD markers

Abstract

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is an annual ornamental with various attractive flower genotyoes colours. RAPD markers were used to study the genetic structure of 10 different A. majus genotypes with 10 random primers. According to Jaccard’s coefficient from RAPD data, similarity coefficient ranged from 0.43 to 1.00. The results obtained confirm the usefulness and suitability of RAPD markers for identification of snapdragon varieties. Out of 10 primers OPO-01 showed the highest polymorphism (80.77%). Vilmorin and AG-5 were closely related as they showed high value of similarity coefficient (0.735), followed by SA-1 with 0.696 of similarity coefficient. AG-2 showed least similarity (0.475) with other genotypes. The study revealed presence of enough variability at genetic level among studied genotypes suggesting that heterosis breeding may be suitable to harness their potential.