ISSN : 2663-2187

Contribution of morphological and SSR markers in durum wheat (triticum turgidum l.) Genetic diversity

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HAMADA Youcef, DJEKOUN Abdelhamid, HAMIDECHI Mohamed Abdelhafid
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.15.2024.10596-10625

Abstract

This study aims to explore the genetic and phenotypic diversity of durum wheat varieties to improve their resilience and yield. Thirty-six durum wheat genotypes were studied in two sites with distinct agro-climatic conditions in Algeria: Constantine and Khenchela. The analysis of phenotypic traits focused on several parameters, such as leaf area, plant height, ear (spike) length, number of tillers per plant, number of grains per ear, a thousand grains weight and grain yield. The genotypes showed significant variations in grain yield, ranging from 2.5 to 5.8 tons per hectare. The plants height varied from 70 cm to 110 cm, while the thousand grains weight oscillated between 35 g and 50 g. Significant interactions between genotypes and environment were observed, highlighting the importance of local adaptation of varieties. At the same time, SSR molecular markers have been used to study the associations between phenotypic traits and genetic diversity. Fifteen SSR markers were applied for the amplification of genomic DNA of the studied genotypes. The results revealed correlations between some SSR markers and key phenotypic traits, which could facilitate marker-assisted selection in breeding programs. The Xgwm190 marker was found to be significantly associated with thousand grains weight and plant height. This study provides valuable information on the genetic diversity and adaptation of durum wheat varieties to varied environments. The results obtained support breeding efforts to improve tolerance to water stress and increase productivity of durum wheat, thus contributing to food security.

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