Genetic diversity analysis of apricots from Dagestan using SSR markers

Background. This publication presents the results of a study into the genetic structure of apricot genotypes from Dagestan using the SSR genotyping technique. The importance of the study is seen in the still underexplored gene pool of Dagestani apricot at the genetic level. With this in view, an assessment of the Dagestani apricot genetic diversity, followed by an analysis of its genetic structure, is of theoretical and practical interest.

Materials and methods. The study included 27 apricot genotypes of Dagestani origin: 9 advanced contemporary cultivars and hybrids, 15 seed selections and landraces, and 3 wild forms. Eight SSR markers were used for the genetic diversity analysis: H1-3, A1-91, H2-79, H1-26-2, H2-16, A1-17, RPPG1-032, and RPPG3-026.

Results. The UPGMA and NJ dendrogram construction techniques revealed the genetic similarity among the Dagestani apricots, confirmed by a low level of cluster significance. The tendency towards setting apart the genotypes of hybrid origin (obtained from free pollination of introduced cultivars) from the locally selected cultivars was observed by comparing the results of Bayesian analysis and the K-means approach using the Structure and Statistica software. Such isolation is partial, being obviously affected by constant integration of new apricot genotypes into the local gene pool and its enrichment with new alleles at the genetic level.

Conclusion. The contemporary assortment of apricots in Dagestan was formed on the basis of both the local autochthonous gene pool and Central Asian and European cultivars introduced into this area. The obtained data will enrich the knowledge about the genetic diversity of apricots in Dagestan and serve as the platform for further studies into the florigenetic links of the North Caucasus with other regions.