Microsatellite analysis to rationalize grape germplasm in India and development of a molecular database

Three hundred and seventeen grape accessions from the National Active Grape Germplasm Site in India were analysed with 25 microsatellite markers. A total of 411 alleles were detected, of which 42% were rare alleles. Unique alleles for 56 genotypes were also identified. The analysis of microsatellite data identified 63 duplicate accessions and only 254 accessions were unique genotypes. Several cases of misnomers, synonymy and homonymy were identified. Parental genotype for a few clonal selections was ascertained. Population structure analysis grouped 254 unique genotypes into four major clusters. The analysis also revealed the presence of admixtures with only 79% of pure ancestry. A core collection comprising 80 genotypes was identified, which represented all the alleles and genetic diversity. A user-friendly and interactive computer application software was developed for storage and the retrieval of molecular data. A molecular database for the 254 genotypes was created. This analysis will help in the rationalization and better management of germplasm. Information on genetic diversity and population structure will form the basis for varietal improvement programmes.