Application of RAPD markers for Cuscuta species identification and biodiversity

<i>Cuscuta</i> species (dodders) are parasitic plants that harm both native and cultivated flora, presenting significant ecological and economic challenges. This study employs random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers to evaluate genetic variation among 70 specimens collected from various localities across Bulgaria. The findings reveal notable differences in RAPD profiles between species, indicating that RAPD markers are effective for species identification, particularly when reproductive organs are absent. While <i>C. campestris</i> exhibited a relatively uniform genetic profile across different populations, native species showed greater genetic heterogeneity, likely due to their development in diverse habitats. Geographical patterns were also observed in the genetic clustering of <i>C. campestris</i>, although seed dispersal mechanisms appeared to play a larger role in shaping genetic diversity than geographic distribution alone. This research highlights the potential of RAPD markers for improving species identification and for understanding the genetic dynamics of <i>Cuscuta</i> populations, which is crucial for managing their spread and minimizing their agricultural impact.