Genetic Diversity Clusters in Germplasm of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L., Taub), an Important Food and an Industrial Legume Crop

Genetic diversity in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.; Fabaceae) genotypes was studied using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) to derive conclusions about diversity analysis in groups of accessions of a germplasm. The two methods, individually as well as cumulatively revealed the range of diversity in profiles among 104 genotypes collected from different geographical regions of India. A simulated clustering of the collected plant genotypes was divided into defined affinity groups using Structure program and the cluster analysis of molecular markers data revealed six broad sub-clusters. These results were validated with a Principal Coordinate analysis. The combined data was more informative than either of the individual method data. The diversity range was found to be wide and the presence of six broad clusters suggests the existence of many genetic lineages that can constitute useful starting points for the use of germplasm diversity in the selection and improvement of the cluster bean crop.