Distinction between cultivated and wild chicory gene pools using AFLP markers

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics
• Agronomy
• Ecology

Background:

• Industrial chicory (Cichorium intybus L. cv Sativum) cultivation overlaps with wild C. intybus, raising concerns about gene flow.
• Understanding genetic diversity is crucial for managing wild and cultivated chicory populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the genetic diversity within and between cultivated chicory and its wild relative.
• To determine the phylogenetic relationship and gene flow patterns between these two types.

Main Methods:

• AFLP (Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism) genotyping was employed.
• Samples included 233 individuals from 12 wild populations and 10 commercial chicory varieties in Belgium.

Main Results:

• 254 AFLP markers were identified, revealing similar genetic diversity levels in wild and cultivated chicory.
• Phylogenetic analysis indicated a monophyletic origin for cultivated varieties, forming a separate gene pool from local wild populations.
• Individuals from ruderal sites showed characteristics of the cultivated gene pool, suggesting feral or weedy populations.

Conclusions:

• Cultivated and wild chicory represent distinct gene pools, mitigating immediate concerns of genetic contamination.
• Low differentiation among wild populations suggests significant gene flow within wild Cichorium intybus.
• The presence of weedy types derived from cultivated chicory warrants further monitoring.