Analysis of genetic diversity and relationships between late-mature peach (<i>Prunus persica</i> L.) varieties assessed with ISSR and SRAP Markers

Molecular characterization of 39 late-mature peach (Prunus persica L.) accessions was carried out using the ISSR (inter simple sequence repeats) and SRAP (sequence-related amplified polymorphism) markers to assess the value and magnitude of genetic divergence. The ISSR primers revealed 70.09% polymorphism and the SRAP marker generated 73.33% polymorphism. Pooled ISSR and SRAP, along with UPGMA clustering based on similarity coefficients, were estimated to assess the efficiency of the marker system in peaches. Similarity coefficients between accessions regarding the ISSR and SRAP markers ranged from 0.65 to 0.89, indicating a broad genetic peach base. A maximum similarity coefficient of 0.89 was observed between C12 'Weiduanmihong' (Fujian Yikangyuan Farm Co., Ltd., 26.58°N, 118.75°E) and C32 'Weiduanmihong' (WeiduanVillage, 26.58°N, 118.75°E), and a minimum of 0.65 was observed in C6 'Huangjinmitao 5' (Gutian Natural Pantaoyuan Family Farm, 26.58°N, 118.75°E) and the rest of the genotypes. The present study found that a high level of polymorphism indicated their applicability in framing more extensive studies to develop superior progeny, conduct molecular breeding, investigate genetic population diversity, make comparative maps, select parents, etc., in various peach crop improvement programs.