Abstract

S. N. Jena and A. B. Das

Inter-population genetic diversity in Suaeda nudiflora, a mangrove, was investigated through RAPD and chromosome analysis among five Indian populations. Somatic chromosome numbers 2n=36 reported for the first time in population (Pop) I and Pop-II whereas in Pop-III, 2n=36 and 40 chromosomes. Pop-IV showed 2n=54 numbers from high saline environment while Pop -V showed 2n=40 chromosomes. 102 RAPD bands were polymorphic out of a total 182 amplicons with an average of 3.64 bands per population per primer suggests genetic divergence in inter-population level. The dendogram based on the RAPD analysis showed two broad groups suggesting ecotypic adaptability in different saline habitat. The maximum overall relatedness of the pop-II with rest of four populations was 57% indicated by mean similarity while pop-IV revealed minimum mean similarity of 49% suggesting new cytotypes formation. The probable mechanism of overcoming high salinity stress by maintaining polyploidy (2n=54) is discussed.