Molecular genetic diversity and mating system in sacha inchi progenies1

Abstract

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) is a species with nutraceutical benefits traditionally consumed by Amazonic indigenous and urban communities. Studies on the genetic diversity and mating system are required to preserve and make the best use of the genetic resources for this species. This study aimed to estimate the genetic diversity and mating system parameters of sacha inchi progenies using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers. A total of 360 progenies from 30 accessions of sacha inchi were analyzed using three AFLP primers combinations. The percentage variation between and within families and the crossing rate, among other parameters, were estimated. The AFLP markers were efficient in genetically differentiating progenies, revealing 251 (98.82 %) polymorphic fragments. The analysis of molecular variance showed that the strongest variation occurs between progenies (57.16 %). However, the genetic differentiation within progenies was considerable (42.84 %), and could be exploited in breeding programs. The estimated population outcrossing rate was high (0.957), indicating it is a predominantly allogamous species. On the other hand, 33.7 % of the crosses occurred between related individuals. The estimate for biparental crosses revealed that the progenies consisted mainly of half-siblings (66.9 %) and full-siblings (28.8 %). For purposes of breeding and ex situ genetic conservation, sacha inchi seeds should be collected from a large number of parent plants.

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) – An Underutilized Crop With a Great Potential

“…Plantations are typically established from seeds and anthesis occurs approximately 3-5 months after planting, while fruit maturation occurs after approximately 8-9 months [60,65,66]. Pollination is primarily allogamous, although a small amount of autogamy (approximately 4%) may occur [64,67]. As an alternative to the establishment from seeds, P. volubilis can be propagated vegetatively by supplying cuttings with auxin or by grafting to a rootstock.…”

Evaluation of leguminous species as cover crops associated with sacha inchi1

“…Sacha inchi has a high yield potential and has gained importance in the national and international market (Cachique et al 2011, Valente et al 2017 due to the high contents of proteins and unsaturated fatty acids in its seeds, mainly omega 3, 6 and 9 (Guillén et al 2003, Gutiérrez et al 2011. Besides, the extract of its leaves has antioxidant and antiproliferative activity (Nascimento et al 2013).…”

Indirect Selection for Seed Yield in Sacha-Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) in Brazil

“…Producers chiefly use larger seeds to establish their crops, with the aim of increasing yield. However, because the species is allogamous [10] and selection is performed after fruit production, such efforts only apply to female genitors. Thus, the genetic gains are lower than those obtained from controlled crossings.…”