Mgendi, Mariam G.; Manoko, Mkabwa L. K.; Nyomora, Agnes M. S.
Description:
Knowledge of population genetic diversity is one of the prerequisites for development of plant species
conservation strategies. In the case of wild species that represent genetic resources for cultivated plants, an
understanding of their genetic diversity is essential as they are the source of genetic material that are used to
improve elite varieties. A total of 12 RAPD primers were used to investigate the genetic diversity between and
within cultivated and non-cultivated provenances of Moringa oleifera Lam. from costal regions of Tanzania.
Cluster analysis using NTSYS-pc and UPGMA program produced five clusters with similarity ranging from
54% to 96%. Clustering pattern revealed a trend of genetic separation between cultivated and non-cultivated
individuals which could be attributed to genetic changes taking place in escapees’ individuals as they adapt to
the natural environment. Based on the results, selection of elite germplasm and conservation of M. oleifera
genetic resources could be achieved by considering individuals both from wild and cultivated plants.