Genetic diversity analysis in the traditional and improved ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) clones cultivated in North-East India

Identification of clonal or genotypic variations is a prerequisite for ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) improvement programmes. Genetic diversity analysis was carried out in a set of forty-nine ginger clones cultivated in North-East India using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The set included clones of released varieties and clones collected from various parts of North East India. Jaccard's genetic similarity, cluster analysis and principal component analysis identified five clusters. Cluster V included four clones traditionally cultivated in the Indian state of Meghalaya known for production of high-quality ginger indicating that the clones were a good candidate for ginger improvement. Specific bands for these clones were also identified. Principal component analysis of the molecular data supported grouping of the clones into six hypothetical populations based on their source or location of collection.

Research highlights
► Genetic diversity analysis of NE Indian ginger clones using RAPD markers was done.
► Genetic similarity, cluster analysis and PCA identified five clusters.
► Cluster V included four clones restricted to a small pocket in Meghalaya state.
► Six location-based populations could be identified from molecular data.
► Study indicated that the RAPD primers are suitable for use in ginger.