Assessment by Molecular Markers in Somaclonal Variants of F. Gigantea : Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Somaclonal variants of F. gigantea Vent. using Molecular Markers

Furcraea gigantea vent, which is an ornamental plant offer something new for the floriculture industry due to its striking colour and massive leaves. At molecular level very little information is available in Furcraea gigantea. The significance of somaclonal variation studies and provenance testing in Furcraea gigantea Vent. improvement is very well realized. Somaclonal variation in morphology reflects phenotypic responses to genetic variation, biogeographic history of the species, and evolution among populations. An understanding of geographic distribution and natural variation patterns are imperative for crop improvement. RAPD is a molecular tool gaining importance in the floral crops to study genetic diversity at molecular level. Total 30 variants of Furcraea gigantea vent. were taken for study with RAPD molecular marker.Total three unique bands of approximately 300bp, 350bp, and 400bp size were present in all genotype. RAPD markers can give clear picture of genetic variability, however, are least reproducible than the other marker. Hence, reconfirmation of genetic makeup was done by using DNA markers.