Genetic diversity of Passiflora foetida L. species in the Mekong Delta based on morphology, agronomy and SNP marker

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic traits of nine passion flower varieties with samples based on morphological survey results: on stem height, root length, leaves, flowers and fruits. The genetic relationship among such individuals was elucidated by a phylogenetic tree based on the plastid gene rbcL. On the basis of agronomic characteristics, the data revealed that nine varieties of Lac Tien yellow fruit through agronomic characteristics show differences, except for leaf width and flower diameter. Based on the pedigree chart, nine varieties of passion fruit can be classified into 3 groups: group I includes samples of An Giang (LA1), Ca Mau (LA2) and Can Tho (LA3) that are genetically close to each other and are highly similar; group II includes 2 varieties of Vinh Long (LA8) and Dong Thap (LA6); Group III includes 4 varieties in Kien Giang (LA7), Hau Giang (LA4), Soc Trang (LA5) and Tien Giang (LA9). In terms of molecular biology analysis, nine varieties of Lac Tien in the study were identified, all belonging to the species Passiflora foetida with a high similarity coefficient, over 98% and 100% coverage despite of the variation of the geographical location. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate some other specific gene sequences related to morphological and biochemical characteristics such as the content of bioactive substances in leaves and fruits in order to have more accurate conclusions about this species.