AFLP analysis of genetic diversity within and between populations of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)

Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis has been used to mea sure genetic diversity in perennial ryegrass ( Lolium perenne L.) and to re late intra- and interpopulation variation to breeding history. Cluster anal ysis of AFLP data from contrasting populations showed features consistent w ith the origins of these varieties. Significant differences in intrapopulat ion diversity were detected and partial separation of different cultivars w as observed. Restricted base cultivars, derived from small numbers of found ation clones, were suitable for this type of study, allowing near complete discrimination of closely related cultivars. Analysis of bulked samples was based on the pooling of genomic DNA from 20 individuals from 6 selected po pulations. Cluster analysis of AFLP data from bulked samples produced a phe nogram showing relationships consistent with the results of individual anal ysis. AFLP profiling provides an important tool for the detection and quant ification of genetic variation in perennial ryegrass.