Use of Single-Primer DNA Amplifications for the Identification of Red Maple (Acer rubrum L.) Cultivars

Abstract

Positive cultivar identification is often difficult or impossible based solely on morphological traits. A technique ensuring reliable, repeatable, and unique cultivar identification is needed. The use of molecular markers offers such a technique, allowing assessment of fine levels of variation directly at the DNA level. In this study, RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) markers were investigated for their utility to identify red maple cultivars. Three out of nineteen primers tested resulted in unique banding patterns for all the maples tested, including 9 red maple clones, 5 silver maple seedlings, and 4 purported interspecific cultivars. The red maple cultivars ‘Red Sunset’ and ‘October Glory’, which are almost indistinguishable morphologically as young trees, were clearly distinguished using RAPD markers. RAPD markers provide a consistently reliable technique for red maple cultivar identification.