The potential of AFLPs in biosystematics: a first application in Solanum taxonomy (Solanaceae)

Using the AFLP technique highly informative DNA fingerprints were generated from 19 taxa of Solanum sect. Petota (potatoes) and three taxa of Solanum sect. Lycopersicum (tomatoes). Both phenetic and cladistic analyses were conducted from the individual genotypic level to the species level. An AFLP fingerprint, using a combination of suitable AFLP primers, generated 12 to 71 scorable fragments per genotype which was sufficient for taxonomic interpretation. The classifications based on the molecular markers were generally in agreement with current taxonomic opinions. Unexpectedly, S. microdontum was associated with ser. Megistacroloba rather than with ser. Tuberosa, and S. demissum (ser. Demissa) and species of ser. Acaulia appeared closely affiliated. AFLP is an efficient and reliable technique to generate biosystematic data and therefore a promising tool for evolutionary studies.