Assessment of SSR Markers for Verification of Poplar (Populus deltoides) Clones

Abstract

Poplar (Populus spp.) is an economically important forest tree widely cultivated in temperate regions, where genetically improved clones of Populus deltoides are extensively used for high-yield plantations. However, accurate clonal identification and assessment of genetic variation remain challenging using conventional methods, necessitating the application of reliable molecular tools such as SSR markers for verification. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers for the molecular verification of Populus deltoides clones. The study was undertaken in the Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, Dr. Y.S. P. U. H. F., Nauni- Solan 173230 (H.P.). In this study, fifteen Poplar clones were collected from various research institutes across India. Molecular markers play an important role in breeding programs because they help in identifying and evaluating genetic differences within plant populations and germplasm collections. The modern trend in forest genetics focuses on developing reliable molecular marker systems that can help study genetic diversity, differentiation, and gene flow, especially in fragmented forest populations. Such genetic information is valuable for designing effective conservation and management plans. In this work, Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers, also known as microsatellite markers, were used for genotyping through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The molecular results confirmed the identity of most clones as originally recorded. However, some minor genetic differences were observed within certain clones. Considering the ecological and commercial importance of Populus species in the Northern Hemisphere, the SSR marker set optimized in this study will be highly useful for breeding and selection programs, ecological landscape studies, and for ensuring the long-term conservation and sustainable management of Populus genetic resources.