Application of RAPD markers in the characterisation of Chrysanthemum varieties and the assessment of somaclonal variation

Characterisation of fifteen commercial varieties of Chrysanthemum was carried out through RAPD analysis. Varieties could be distinguished from each other and the level of similarity between varieties seemed to be not very high. In vitro cultures were establish from four varieties and were subjected to different proliferation conditions. Five individuals from each variety and treatment were analysed using RAPD at the beginning of the treatment and after a month of culture. Variation was detected at both stages of the culture period. The rate of variation found showed differences between varieties, but no significant difference was found between culture conditions. This revised version was published online in August 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.