Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Iranian Fennels Using ISSR Markers

Abstract

Fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) is an important medicinal plant with used for various purposes in different industries. In this study 25 different ecotypes of fennel from all over Iran were collected and their genetic diversity studied by seven ISSR primers. Seven ISSR primers generated 52 amplified fragments, of which 49 were polymorphic. The highest similarity coefficient among the ecotypes was between Chahestan and Haji abad whereas the minimum similarity coefficient observed between Fozveh and Moqan. In most cases, classifications were consistent with their geographical distribution for some ecotypes (like Givi and Khalkhal in close distance) and although with similarity in climate (like Damavand and Alamot with same climate). This study revealed that ISSR marker could properly separate these ecotypes based on geographical distribution and similarity in climates and showed the wide genetic diversity among Iranian fennels. In term of conservation program, it is highly recommended at least one conservation program for several accessions with near genetical distance should be conducted.