Analysis of genetic diversity in Claviceps purpurea by RAPD markers

Twenty-nine field isolates of the broad host range pathogen Claviceps purpurea from various host plants and different geographical origin were compared by RAPD analysis. The RAPD patterns obtained showed considerable diversity; it was even possible to discriminate ail strains tested with single primers, indicating an unusual high degree of genetic diversity within this species. A parsimony analysis using the PAUP software grouped most strains from specific host plants together, indicating some degree of host specificity in this fungus. Those strains derived from rye seem to be genetically less diverse than those from other host plants. However, the geographic origin also seems to be important.