Genetic diversity of conserved West African plantain (<i>Musa</i> spp.) using simple sequence repeat markers

Abstract

Assessment of the genetic diversity of germplasm is essential for sound germplasm management and its successful utilization in breeding programs. This study aimed to estimate genetic diversity among plantain accessions and establish relationships among the genotypes using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. SSR markers amplified 21 alleles, 3.50 alleles per locus, and major allele frequency (mean ± SD, 0.80 ± 0.34) across the 20 plantain accessions. The polymorphic information content (PIC) and Shannon's diversity index ranged from 0.054 to 0.919 and 0.000 to 1.864, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that 88% genetic variation occurred among genotypes within populations, with minimal variation observed between populations. This resulted in Nei genetic distance and FST values being negligible when distinguishing the populations. The gene flow rate unequivocally demonstrated the efficacy of employing co-dominant markers, as evidenced by both the Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) and the dendrogram. This study revealed a clear-cut genetic variation among the 20 plantain accessions across plantain populations and established new cluster groups, providing valuable insights for future use in breeding programs.