Microsatellite DNA marker aided diversity analysis in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]

Eighty three cowpea genotypes were analyzed with 15 micro satellite markers to test the genetic variation. Among the total 15 SSR primers used, 12 primers were polymorphic and 3 primers were monomorphic. A total of 15 markers Viere obtained, among which 80% were polymorphic and 20% were monomorphic. Genotype specific markers were identified for some genotypes. The clusters constructed based on SSR marker data revealed significant genetic variation among the genotypes. The marker detected significant polymorphism among the local landraces as compared to the cultivated varieties. Genotypes with resistance to rust disease and nutritionally superior ones grouped together in separate clusters. The results using SSR markers indicated that micro satellites successfully unraveled the genetic variation existing in selected cowpea genotypes.