Genetic Analysis of Isozyme Loci in Tetraploid Potatoes ( SOLANUM TUBEROSUM L.)

The genetic control of eight isozyme loci revealed by starch gel electrophoresis was studied through the analysis of three progenies derived from four tetraploid cultivars of Solanum tuberosum (groups Andigena and Tuberosum). Duplicate gene expression was found in seven (Got-A, Got-B, Pgd-C, Pgi-B, Pgm-A, Pgm-B and Pox-C) isozyme loci. In another isozyme gene (Adh-A), the parental genotypes were not adequate to distinguish between a monogenic or a digenic model of genetic control. Tetrasomic inheritance was demonstrated in four (Got-A, Got-B, Pgd-C and Pgi-B) isozyme loci. In the remaining duplicate genes, the parental genotypes precluded discrimination between disomic or tetrasomic models. Tetrasomic segregations of the chromosomal type were generally found; however, the isozyme phenotypes shown by three descendants from selfing cv. Katahdin indicate the occurrence of chromatid segregations, although aneuploidy cannot be ruled out. Either autoploidy or amphidiploidy with lack of chromosome differentiation between the two diploid ancestors can account for the existence of tetrasomic inheritance in the common potato.