Molecular markers for analysis of plant genetic diversity

Abstract

Genetic diversity plays an important role in diversity conservation at multiple levels and supports to monitor and assess genetic variation. In plants, genetic diversity provides the ability to adapt and respond to environmental conditions that helps plants to survive through changing environments. Genetic diversity analyses based on molecular genetic markers are effective tools for conservation and reintroduction of rare and endangered species. In this article, we review methods and point out DNA markers, which are considered as reliable and widely used tools for the detection of genetic variation. In addition, we present the application of DNA marker in analysing genetic diversity of wild, domestic and medicinal plants, as well as some perspectives on the future of DNA marker’s application in the analysis of genetic diversity.