Molecular diversity in Ligurian local races of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Abstract

Eight varieties of Ligurian common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were analysed using molecular approaches. Results were compared with two commercial cultivars (‘Cannellino’ and ‘Borlotto’). Data suggest that all Ligurian bean varieties have a low genetic variability and are very close to the commercial varieties. In particular, the three ‘Bianco’ varieties showed a molecular affinity, probably due to their common genomic origin.

Key words:

• DNA fingerprinting
• genetic variability
• Phaseolus vulgaris L.
• RAPD

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by FIRB-RNBE01SF project, MIUR, Italy. We thank Roberto Brontini and Fabrizio Celia for technical support and molecular analyses.