RAPD analysis of genetic diversity in Indian tetraploid and diploid cotton (Gossypium spp)^†

Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was used to evaluate genetic diversity among commercial Indian cotton varieties. Fifteen varieties belonging to Gossypium hirsutum L and seven to G. arboreum L were analyzed with 50 random decamer primers using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Twenty six of the primers detected polymorphism in all 22 cotton varieties. A total of 371 bands were amplified, 87% of which were polymorphic. Cluster analysis by the unweighted pair group method of arithmetic means (UPGMA) showed that diploids and tetraploids can be divided in two groups at a similarity of 30%. Diploid variety C402W showed the least similarity to all the others in the group. Among tetraploids, closely related varieties Pusa 8–6, 4515 and RS 875 were distinctly different from the rest. The analysis revealed that the intervarietal genetic relationships of several varieties is related to their pedigree. The results also revealed that tetraploids show a much narrower genetic base (similarity range of 65–95%) than the diploids (similarity range 54–88%). The results obtained can be used for the selection of parents to generate a mapping population and begin a breeding programme.