Genetic diversity assessment towards core collection construction of Moroccan apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) germplasm using genomic SSR markers

Abstract

Strengthening the study of genetic diversity and population structure is crucial for the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Moroccan apricot germplasm based on the geographical origins of 92 accessions and their agroecosystem conditions using 21 microsatellite markers. The analysis revealed high genetic diversity within each geographical origin (94%) and lower diversity between the 10 studied regions (6%). A total of 120 alleles were identified, averaging 5.71 alleles per locus, with BPPCT038 and BPPCT001 being, respectively, the most informative (11 alleles) and the least informative (2 alleles) primers. The genetic structure analysis divided the germplasm into two main populations: a predominant group linked to the Delpatriarca variety and a smaller and less diverse group associated with the Canino variety. Low genetic differentiation and significant gene flow between these populations, influenced by pollen dispersal, overlapping geographical origins, and human intervention, contributed to the observed structure of two gene pools. These findings simplify the management of Moroccan apricot genetic resources and highlight a population structure that could serve as a core collection summarising the diversity of Moroccan apricot germplasm.