Exploring Genetic Diversity in a Temperate Bamboo: A Study Using SSR Markers

Molecular markers have been employed for decades to assess genetic diversity in the Phyllostachys genus. However, a more comprehensive understanding of genetic variation among Phyllostachys species is still needed to carry out accurate germplasm identification, clarify genetic relationships among taxa, and support the conservation and management of bamboo genetic resources. High genetic diversity within bamboo populations enhances their resilience and adaptability to environmental changes. In this study, we evaluated genetic variation across 96 genotypes representing 44 Phyllostachys species using eight simple sequence repeat markers. These markers detected 47 alleles in total, ranging from 3 to 11 per locus. A private allele (201 bp) was identified in Phyllostachys edulis and its associated forms using the PBM019 marker. Cluster analysis grouped the samples into three clusters: 22 genotypes in Cluster I, 54 in Cluster II, and 21 in Cluster III. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) corroborated these clusters, revealing interspecific genetic divergence alongside high intraspecific and intra-form similarity, except in Phyllostachys arcana where two related forms exhibited clear genetic differentiation and clustered separately in both analyses. The PBM021 marker showed the highest polymorphism, amplifying eight alleles in select genotypes (Phyllostachys angusta, P. mannii, P. bissetii, P. heteroclada). Overall, this research provides insights into genetic diversity and relationships among 96 bamboo genotypes.