Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis for the verification of hybridity in interspecific crosses of Alstroemeria

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to verify intersp ecific hybridization in Alstroemeria. Five putative interspecific hybrids a nd their parents were analysed by means of four preselected RAPD primers. T he putative parentage was confirmed in four hybrids and was excluded in one that showed completely different RAPD patterns from its putative parents a nd a different phenotype. Our results demonstrated that this molecular tech nique is a powerful tool for verifying hybridity rapidly if the putative pa rents are given. This tool will allow screening of small immature seedlings for verification of hybridity and should improve the efficiency of breedin g programmes.