Genetic diversity, molecular markers and marker assisted breeding in Jatropha

Abstract

The genetic potential of Jatropha curcas has not been realized due to several technological and economic reasons. The major limitation with genetic improvement of the crop is its exploitation in semi-wild (undomesticated) condition. Information on the extent of genetic diversity available in the crop for utilization in the breeding programmes is virtually lacking. During the past decade significant advances in crop improvement programmes have been made in several crops through the use of molecular markers. However in case of J. curcas, most of the studies with molecular markers are confined to assessment of genetic diversity in local populations and few studies were extended to global germplasm. In this chapter, the currently available information on the need for genetic improvement of Jatropha, use of different marker systems for exploitation of existing genetic diversity, and the role of genomics and marker assisted breeding in improvement of this economically important crop of the Euphorbiaceae is reviewed.