ANALYSIS OF GENETIC-VARIATION IN WILD MUSTARD (SINAPIS-ARVENSIS) USING MOLECULAR MARKERS

Genetic variation was assessed in a range of populations of wild musta rd (Sinapis arvensis L.) using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. Sixty markers were used to assess the extent of genetic var iation in wild mustard populations sampled throughout 12 different loc ations in the United Kingdom, including herbicide treated and untreate d sites. In addition, selected sites were sampled over two consecutive seasons. Individual plane analysis was required, since a high degree of intra-population genetic variation was observed. The apparent exten t of genetic variation in a population at one site increased when the results from two consecutive seasons were assessed. The range of genet ic variation was as high in the herbicide-treated populations as in th ose which were untreated. Genetic diversity was maintained in populati ons of wild mustard where rotational cropping and herbicide use was pr acticed. These results confirm the utility of RAPD for the determinati on of genetic variation in outcrossing species where no prior genotypi c knowledge is available.