Analysis of molecular diversity in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) genotypes using RAPD markers

Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] genotypes were sown during kharif 2011-12 at Horticultural Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, India, developed and maintained for using conventional agronomically practices to keep the crop in good condition. Study of morphological and molecular diversity in landrace collections was carried out during 2011-12. Germplasm collections of all the 20 diverse genotypes of okra were screened with 20 RAPD primers in order to determine genetic identities, genetic diversity and genetic relationships. On the basis of molecular characterization, the number of amplified alleles observed ranged from minimum 2 alleles to maximum 9 alleles. Similarity value for all the 20 genotypes of okra ranged from 0.486 to 0.669. The lowest similarity was displayed by Azad bhindi1 (AB 1) and VRO5 with the similarity coefficient value 0.486. Out of these samples analyzed, genotypes Azad Bhindi 2 and FB 10 displayed the greatest genetic similarity, with a similarity coefficient value of 0.669. All genotypes were distributed into four main distinct clusters. Cluster analysis clearly showed the genetic diversity among the genotypes under study.