J. Sustar-vozlic et B. Javornik, Genetic relationships in cultivars of hop, Humulus lupulus L., determined by RAPD analysis, PLANT BREED, 118(2), 1999, pp. 175-181
Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to evaluate the genetic va
riability and relationship of 65 hop cultivars from all the major hoy-growi
ng regions in the world. Twenty-eight selected random primers used in the R
APD reaction generated an average of 38.6% polymorphic fragments, which was
sufficient to produce 47 different RAPD profiles among the cultivars exami
ned. The level of genetic variability was much higher than previously repor
ted. Genetic similarity was estimated and UPGMA cluster analysis was perfor
med using the RAPD data. Cluster analysis separated the cultivars into gene
tically related RAPD groups which were compared with pedigree data and grou
ping of the hop cultivars by essential oil type. The RAPD groups, strongly
supported by pedigree data, gave more precise information on the level and
distribution of generic variability within hop cultivars than characterizat
ion by essential oils. Cultivars were divided into American and European gr
oups, supporting the distinction between two geographically distinct hop ge
rmplasms. Five genetically distinct groups revealed differences within the
European germplasm, reflecting past hop breeding practices which have been
adopted in different regions. The use of RAPD markers for hop germplasm cha
racterization and genetic diversity study is discussed.