Genetic structure and diversity of a collection of Brassica rapa subsp rapa L. revealed by simple sequence repeat markers

Brassica rapa subsp. rapa L. includes three different crops: turnips (roots), turnip greens (leaves) and turnip tops (inflorescences). A collection of B. rapa subsp. rapa from north-western Spain is currently kept at 'Mision Biologica de Galicia' (a research centre of the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC), Spain). This collection has been characterized based on morphological and agronomical traits. A better understanding of the genetic diversity present in the collection is necessary in order to optimize its use and maintenance. The objectives of the present work were to assess the genetic diversity present in the B. rapa subsp. rapa collection, to establish genetic relationships among populations and to study the genetic structure of the collection. Eighty populations were analysed based on 18 simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Populations showed a broad range of genetic diversity, thus offering good potential for further genetic improvement. Most of the variability was found within the population level, probably due to high rates of allogamy, to migration and/or interchange of seed among local growers. Populations showed a low level of differentiation, grouping in just one cluster, and therefore they can be considered as samples of a highly variable metapopulation that can be used for B. rapa breeding programmes.