Identification of the edible fig 'Bianco del Cilento' by random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis is currently used to estim ate genetic relationships in plants. We have used RAPD analysis to distingu ish six different cultivars of Ficus carica, and several of their clones, t hat are widespread in the Campania Region of Southern Italy. Among these cu ltivars, 'Bianco del Cilento' has unique characteristics, and is particular ity useful for drying and for the manufacture of syrups. The protection of this cultivar is important to the Campania Region. We have utilized molecul ar markers to allow accurate identification of this cultivar, making it pos sible to control the quality of products and prevent fraudulent commerce. D NA was extracted from leaves and amplified by PCR using random oligonucleot ide primers. The amplification patterns obtained with five decamer primers were useful for distinguishing all six cultivars analyzed. 'Bianco del Cile nto' was identified by two primers. The banding patterns were scored and us ed in similarity value calculations to estimate genetic relationships.