Utilizing ISSR and DAMD markers and agro-morphological traits for genetic refinement of some elite lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus Steud)

Abstract

This study explores the genetic diversity and potential breeding strategies in Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus Steud) through morphological and molecular analyses. Analysis was conducted in Research Cum Instructional Farm, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, and PMBB R.H. Richharia lab, College of Agriculture, IGKV Raipur (C.G.). Morphological assessment of six selected accessions, including two promising lines C.G. CF-2 and C.G. CF-4 and four checks, revealed significant variations in treatment for all the traits except oil density depicts enough variation present in the genotype. High GCV and PCV is reported by herbage yield. Strong positive correlations were observed between herbage yield and parameters like leaf blade width, leaf blade length, tiller number, leaf area index, and culm length. Molecular analyses using DAMD and ISSR markers demonstrated polymorphic patterns within Lemongrass species, indicating genetic variability. C.G. CF-4 explains the uniqueness compare to checks which have high in oil content with 73.38% citral, making it potential standard varieties. The integration of morphological and molecular markers it also facilitates precise selection of lines for further breeding programs for developing promising lines accelerated development of high-yielding and high-oil-content varieties.