Use of RAPD markers for cultivar identification in Rhus succedanea L. J.

There are many cultivars of Rhus succedanea L. in Japan. It is very difficult to distinguish them precisely on the basis of morphological traits, as these traits are influenced by environmental factors. In order to distinguish these cultivars more accurately from each other, RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) markers were used in this study. Out of 140 primers screened, 9 primers gave 14 markers for cultivar identification. Seven cultivars having 19 plants were investigated for their genotypic identity by using these markers. RAPD patterns were unique for each cultivar. On the other hand, RAPD patterns of all ramets from individual ortets were identical. It is apparent from these studies, that RAPD markers can be used to identify Rhus succedanea L. cultivars. The cluster analysis based on genetic distances were also carried out to investigate the genetic relationship among cultivars. It was found that the cultivars originating in the close proximity to each other are more closely related at DNA level than the rest.