Analysis of genetic divergence and heterogeneity in vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty) using SCoT and ISSR molecular markers

The present study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity among vetiver accessions obtained from diverse geographic locations worldwide using two molecular markers, namely Inter-Simple Sequences Repeat (ISSR) and Start Codon Targeted Polymorphism (SCoT). The objective of this analysis was to enhance the taxonomic accuracy and to ascertain the evolutionary relationships among the studied accessions. The study population comprised three groups, i.e., North Indian, South Indian, and Abroad Population. The effective multiplex ratio (EMR), marker index (MI), resolving power (Rp), and polymorphic information content (PIC) were determined. The SCoT system exhibited higher values for all parameters examined except for resolving power (Rp), which was lower than ISSR. The Mantel test showed a weak correlation between ISSR and SCoT, indicating that these marker systems have limited genetic background similarities in vetiver. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) shows a significant differentiation among the investigated populations, with the majority of the variation observed within the populations. The South Indian accessions were the most heterogenic to others. The fixation index and population analysis indicate a close relatedness among the accessions. This study used SCoT-based molecular markers as a novel approach to evaluate the genetic diversity and relationships among different vetiver accessions. These studies will assist in the molecular ecology, genetic mapping, and identification of elite varieties and the efficiency of the breeding methodology in fulfilling worldwide industrial demand.