Evaluation of genetic variability among common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) populations by RAPD markers

Genetic variability among 80 accessions of common buckwheat was evaluated using random decamer primers in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of bulked DNA samples. Thirteen primers, previously chosen on the basis of the number and intensity of the fragments they produced, were used for amplification and yielded a total of 141 bands, of which 77 were polymorphic. An NTSYS-pc computer program was further employed for data analysis using a simple matching coefficient of similarity as a base for dendrogram construction via the UPGMA method. A moderate level of polymorphism and relatively close relationships among the studied common buckwheat populations were observed. The dendrogram separated accessions into European and Asian groups, with a number of additional clusters and some inconsistant populations from both regions. Clusters corresponded reasonably well to the geographical origins of examined populations, with some unexpected but interesting exceptions. The effectiveness of RAPD analysis of bulked DNA samples for the study of genetic variability in common buckwheat was demonstrated, and this approach seems very useful for identification and phylogenetic studies.