AFLP is based on the selective amplification of a restricted number of genomic fragments. Through this technology , cultivars can be indentified and relationships between closely related plant accessions specified. The genetic relationships among 16 cultivars of wheat were scored for the presence or absevce in a binary matrix and relationships among cultivars assessed, using simple matching coefficients . the result have assisted in the development of a dendrogram suggesting genetic relationships among genotypes. Cluster analysis by UPGMA showed that 16 cultivars can be placed in two main groups with a similarity ranging from 0.456 to 0.776 variability observed had a narrow genentic base and it is necessary to expand the diversity of the wheat genetic base. With optimizing AFLP in this study, identification of diverse germplasms, selection of parents and estimating heterosis at molecular level will be possible . Also, results indicated that through AFLP techmology one can generate molecular markers that can be used reliably for DNA fingerprinting of important cultivars.
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