Abstract: | DNA polymorphism in Leptosphaeria maculans is described for the first time. Two distinct genetic groups, differing in repetitive DNA sequences, were detected by gel electrophoresis and by probing Southern blots with mitochondrial, ribosomal or random genomic DNA sequences. These two genetic groups correspond with groupings based on ability to accumulate extra-cellular pigments in culture but do not give a perfect correlation with stem canker potential on oilseed rape.It is concluded that there are major genetical differences between the two sub-groups within the population of L. maculans. |