Microsatellite markers-based genotyping, population structure analysis and field screening of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes against Fusarium wilt

As an important source of protein, vitamins and minerals, chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) are the most significant self-pollinated pulse crop. The main cause of its low production is Fusarium wilt, which is brought on by the fungal disease Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris. Thus, the present investigation aimed to conduct field-level screening of 71 chickpea genotypes against Fusarium wilt disease as well as microsatellite markers-based analysis in the laboratory. In the field investigation, one genotype was found to be resistant, 13 genotypes were moderately resistant, 34 genotypes moderately susceptible, 14 genotypes susceptible, while 9 genotypes were highly susceptible at the reproductive stage under wilt sick plot. Out of 22 markers, 13 markers were found to be polymorphic and the highest PIC value was shown by the marker TA200 followed by H3A12, TA110, GA137, GA20, TR2, TS79, TA37, TR19 and H1B06. Based on the dendrogram, all 71 genotypes were grouped into 6 clusters. In this investigation, a structured population in tested chickpea genotypes was demonstrated. All genotypes were stratified into 2 populations (P1, P2), representing 50.70% and 49.29% of genotypes used in structure analysis respectively. Based on both sick plot and molecular screening result analysis, it can be concluded that the genotypes viz., JG315, RVSSG84, JAKI 9218, ICC 4958, SAGL-152339, RVSSG 52 and RVSSG 74 are resistant against Fusarium wilt and therefore, may be effectively used by the breeders in Fusarium resistant chickpea breeding development programmes.