Evaluation of genetic relationships in Plantago species using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers

Studies were undertaken to assess genetic relationships in seven species of Plantago and to evaluate the genetic variance within populations of P. ovata (Forsk.), P. indica (L.), P. arenaria (Waldst.), P. psyllium (Linn.), P. lanceolata (Linn.), P. serraria (Linn.) and P. coronopus (Linn.) by using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. A total of 629 distinct DNA fragments ranging from 0.25 to >3.0 kbp were amplified using 75 selected random decamer primers. The cluster analysis indicated that the seven species of Plantago formed three major clusters: the first one consisted of three species and the second and third one represented by two species only. A maximum similarity of 85% was observed in P. arenaria and P. psyllium. Plantago indica shared up to 5% similarity with P. ovata. The wide genetic distance was observed within populations of different Plantago species. Thus, these RAPD markers have the potential for conservation of identified clones and evaluation of genetic relatedness among the species. This is also helpful in breeding programme and provides a major input into conservation biology.