Molecular characterization and genetic diversity determination of Hibiscus species using RAPD molecular markers

The objective of this study was to find out the genetic relationship within the 9 varieties of Hibiscus rosasinensis through random amplified polymorphic (RAPD) markers. Genetic analysis was made by using 2 arbitrary decamer primers OPA9 and OPD10. The genetic similarity was evaluated on the basis of presence or absence of bands. High degree of polymorphism was observed among the samples, suggesting the degree of genetic variability. The genetic distance was very close within the varieties. RAPD analysis in combination with morphological characters can be used in the identification and determination of the genetic variation between the different varieties and species of Hibiscus. RAPD technique can be said to be reliable and promising for the characterisation of the Hibiscus germplasm and therefore Sequence Characterised Amplified Regions (SCAR) primers can be easily designed for many of these Hibiscus varieties and species. Thus, these RAPD markers have the potential for identification and characterization of genetic variation within the varieties in a species. This may also helpful in Hibiscus breeding programs and provides a major input into conservation biology.

Author(s): Prasad MP

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