Understanding the genetic diversity and population structure of yam (Dioscorea alata L.) using microsatellite markers.

ABSTRACT: Yams (Dioscorea sp.) are staple food crops for millions of people in tropical and subtropical regions. Dioscorea alata, also known as greater yam, is one of the major cultivated species and most widely distributed throughout the tropics. Despite its economic and cultural importance, very little is known about its origin, diversity and genetics. As a consequence, breeding efforts for resistance to its main disease, anthracnose, have been fairly limited. The objective of this study was to contribute to the understanding of D. alata genetic diversity by genotyping 384 accessions from different geographical regions (South Pacific, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean), using 24 microsatellite markers. Diversity structuration was assessed via Principal Coordinate Analysis, UPGMA analysis and the Baye

SUBMITTER: Arnau G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5371318 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature