Evaluation of Genetic Diversity Using SSR Markers and Link with Drought Response of Azerbaijani Durum Wheat ( Triticum Durum Desf.) Genotypes

Genetic diversity of 45 genotypes were shown in the list of genotypes Azerbaijani durum wheat ( Triticum durum Desf.) genotypes were screened using simple sequence repeats (SSRs). These accessions were collected from various bioclimatic regions of Azerbaijan. Out of the used 22 primers, 13 primers showed polymorphism and were selected for the analyses. Among the genotypes under study, 31 alleles were detected. The highest number of alleles was detected in locus gwm 335 (on chromosome 5B) and on locus gwm 445 (on chromosome 2A) with 5 and 4 alleles, respectively. The lowest number of alleles was found in locus gwm 617 with only 1 allele. For A, B, and D genomes, the total number of alleles detected was 14, 15, and 2, respectively. PIC value between studied SSR markers was 0.912 and this result shows high genetic diversity between Azerbaijani durum wheat genotypes. Therefore, these primers can be recommended for studying the genetic diversity of Azerbaijani durum wheat accessions. The genetic structure of the genotypes was analyzed and the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) dendrogram revealed five major clusters using Nei genetic distance index. The results revealed that SSR markers can efficiently evaluate genetic variation in the wheat samples. Based on the previous characterization of the drought response of these genotypes, links could be established between the SSR markers and drought tolerance. If some of the SSR markers are confirmed for their association with drought tolerance, then, they can be used as markers for the identification of drought-tolerant cultivars needed to enhance wheat productivity for farmers dealing with harsh conditions.