Analysis of genetic relationship between ‘Bakraee’ (Citrus sp.) and some known Citrus genotypes through SSR and PCR-RFLP markers

Phylogenic relationships and genetic diversity in citrus are considered to be important in clarifying their genetic relationships, germplasm characterization and the registration of new varieties. The ‘Bakraee’ (Citrus sp.) is an unknown natural biotype which is being used widely as rootstock as well as edible fruit in some regions of Iran. In the present research work, phylogenic relationships among ‘Bakraee’ and some commercially important citrus varieties were investigated through SSR and PCR-RFLP molecular markers. Two UPGMA dendrograms were generated using SSR and PCR-RFLP data. SSR data showed 0.87 and 0.65 genetic similarities between ‘Bakraee’ and rough lemon (Citrus jambhiri Lush.) and sweet lime (Citrus limettioides Tan.), respectively. PCR-RFLP analysis demonstrated that all of the amplified fragments in ‘Bakraee’ are also present in rough lemon. Our study confirmed a close relationship between ‘Bakraee’ and rough lemon and support the possibility of rough lemon as maternal parent in the hybrid origin of ‘Bakraee’.

► Bakraee (Citrus sp.) is an unknown natural biotype which is being widely used as rootstock as well as edible fruit in some regions of Iran.
► Determination of phylogenic relationships among Bakraee and some important citrus varieties.
► SSR and PCR-RFLP molecular markers were utilized.
► The data confirmed a close relationship between Bakraee and rough lemon.
► The study supports the possibility of rough lemon as maternal parent in the hybrid origin of Bakraee.