An investigation was carried out to distinguish genotypes and to assess the genetic relatedness among 30 selected chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) genotypes using ISSR and SSR markers. Ten ISSR primers were used to generate polymorphism which resulted in 175 amplicons with 100% polymorphism showing significant differences among the 30 chrysanthemum genotypes. Molecular analysis of 50 loci using 17 SSR primer pairs resulted in 80.4% mean polymorphism. Using dendrogram, three distinct groups were found based on SSR and ISSR indicating significant differences among the genotypes. The results showed that, there was a large genetic diversity exists among the chrysanthemum genotypes which helps in the selection of suitable genotypes for breeding. The results suggested that both ISSR and SSR were found to be effective for characterization studies in chrysanthemum.

Characterization and establishment of distinctiveness among 30 chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) genotypes was carried out using morphological descriptors adopted from the DUS guidelines developed by PPV and FR authority on chrysanthemum. The genotypes were characterized for 41 essential characters among which six characters were monomorphic, five dimorphic and 30 were polymorphic indicating their potential for varietal characterization and distinctiveness. Out of 30 chrysanthemum genotypes studied, eight were found to be distinctive on the basis of 10 essential characters. The rest of the 22 genotypes remained in groups of two or three without being differentiated for similar traits and therefore, it is suggested to use other biological markers/DNA fingerprinting. This study will be useful for breeders/researchers/farmers to identify distinctiveness in chrysanthemum genotypes and to seek protection under Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Act.

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