Genetic diversity and similarity revealed via molecular analysis among and within an in situ population and ex situ accessions of chiltepín (Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum)

Eric J. Votava, Gary P. Nabhan, Paul W. Bosland

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

45 Scopus citations

Abstract

Molecular analysis of genetic diversity among and within phenotypically similar wild Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum (chile) populations revealed genetic differences among accessions spread over a broad geographic range. These chiles are regionally known as chiltepíns and are a 50 metric ton per year wild harvest for the spice industry, as well as a genetic resource for crop improvement. Understanding genetic variability in this species provides information related to conservation efforts. The objective of this research was to survey genetic diversity among and within an in situ population and ex situ accessions of chiltepíns. Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular markers were used to study the genetic structure of an in situ population found at the nothernmost range of this species and ex situ accessions collected from Mexico and Guatemala. Novel genetic variation was found in both the in situ northern disjunct population, as well as some ex situ accessions, thus supporting conservation of this species via both in situ and ex situ strategies The evidence presented here supports efforts to conserve outlier populations via in situ management practices.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)123-129
Number of pages7
JournalConservation Genetics
Volume3
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

Keywords

  • Capsicum
  • Chile
  • Genetic diversity
  • Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
  • Genetics

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