Genetic relationships and genotype tracing in date palms (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in Oman, based on microsatellite markers

Abstract

Microsatellite markers (SSRs) were used to screen and analyse the genetic diversity among clonal genotypes of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) derived by somatic embryogenesis in Oman. Twenty-one palms, representing 14 Omani, five Bahraini, one Iraqi and one Moroccan genotype, were screened with ten microsatellite markers. All primer pairs produced an amplification product in the expected size range and detected high levels of polymorphism among the analysed samples. Correspondence analysis revealed that the genotypes from Bahrain and Iraq showed a close relationship with accessions already grown in Oman. The genotype from Morocco (Medjool) appeared distinct from the rest of the material. Three independent clonal lines derived from a single Khalas Aldahra genotype were found to give identical genetic fingerprints. The value of this work for date palm production and conservation in Oman is discussed.