Molecular diversity in Phyllanthus amarus assessed through RAPD analysis

TLDR: The study indicates the random hybridization across the populations falling within the range of possible cross-pollination in terms of physical distance and also overlaps in the phylogenetic clustering.

Abstract: A collection of Phyllanthus amarus was made from various parts of India to determine the extent of genetic variability using analysis at DNA level. RAPD profiling of 33 collections from different locations, covering states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Assam, West Bengal, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana was generated. Analysis through UPGMA revealed up to 65% variation among these accessions. However, intra-population variation was found to be much larger in the accession from the southern part of the country. Nevertheless, inter-population variation also overlaps in the phylogenetic clustering, which is understandable from the natural dissemination of this plant species as a weed that has spread across the geographical boundaries. The study indicates the random hybridization across the populations falling within the range of possible cross-pollination in terms of physical distance. A study of these accessions at a single location, allowing free mating, would throw light on the extent of cross-pollination and genetic flow.