Characterization of Eugenia uniflora accessions: a native species with great commercial potential in America

Abstract

Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) is a fruit species with the potential for economic exploration. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic variability and cytological stability in 40 accessions of Surinam cherry in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. We used 18 molecular markers of RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) to access the genetic variability. The cytological analysis included meiotic behavior, viability, and in vitro germination of pollen and counting the anthers number. The analysis of genetic variability allowed the separation of the accessions into three groups with an average of 9.5 bands amplified by the primer; 8.39 polymorphic bands; 88.57% of polymorphism and 86% genetic similarity. In the cytological analysis, the average normal meiotic cells were 85.07%; average pollen viability was 90.47%; in vitro germination of 44.33%; and the anther/flower average of 54.53. Therefore, the accessions have high genetic similarity and cytological stability.