An evaluation of rDNA variation inLoliumspecies (ryegrass)

Abstract

Species of the genus Lolium are important fodder and turf grasses for agricultural and amenity use world-wide. Difficulties currently exist regarding the taxonomy of Lolium species and also in the demarcation between Lolium and the genus Festuca, with the debate focusing on the status of Festuca pratensis and its relations. The diversity in ribosomal DNA (rDNA) in Lolium was investigated. Cloned probes for rDNA, derived from the intergenic spacer (IGS-M) and transcribed regions (COD-M) of mustard (Sinapis alba) were used to investigate species relationships. Genomic DNA from seven Lolium taxa, F. pratensis, and xFestulolium braunii, were assessed for variation in rDNA by RFLP. Data support continued recognition of existing Lolium species' demarcations, and provided more taxonomic insight between allogamous Lolium taxa and F. pratensis. The COD-M and IGS-M probes grouped taxa by reproductive mode. The IGS-M probe distinguished all species as unique entities and established that hybrids, xFestulolium braunii and Lolium xboucheanum, had rDNA phenotypes that were composites of their parental species. The evolution of the ribosomal repeat unit is discussed and the potential for further rDNA taxonomic study in Lolium is considered.Key words: Lolium, variation, ribosomal, rDNA, RFLP.