SRAP Markers and Morphological Traits Could Be Used in Test of Distinctiveness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) Varieties

Abstract

The test of distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) is a necessary step for variety identification and new variety application. The objective of this study is to provide molecular marker-assisted approach combined with morphological trait-based testing for more convenient and fast DUS test and identification of varieties. Eighteen pairs of SRAP markers and 40 morphological traits for DUS test were applied for genetic diversity analysis of 50 lettuce ( Lactuca sativa) varieties. Average polymorphism information content (PIC) of the SRAP markers was 0.80, ranging from 0.39 to 0.97. Cluster analysis using UPGMA of the band patterns amplified by SRAP marker and morphological trait-based clustering separated the varieties into three groups. The correlation coefficient of SRAP marker and morphological traits was 0.5455 reflecting that the two clustering results shared some similarity and consistence. It revealed that the combination of both SRAP marker and morphological trait analysis is more conducive to proper identification and classification of plant varieties, which will undoubtedly bring an alternative choice to DUS testing of plant new varieties and conservation of plant germplasm.