Assessment of genetic divergence in multi-whorled Tuscan jasmine (Jasminum sambac) using microsatellite markers

The genus Jasminum comprises nearly 200 species native to Southeast Asia. Among them, Jasminum sambac, known for its intensely fragrant flowers hold significant value in perfumery, traditional medicine and cultural practices. Due to its wide morphological diversity and adaptability, molecular characterisation is essential to understand its genetic structure, precise identification and management of germplasm. A total of 24 alleles were detected with two alleles per locus indicating moderate allelic polymorphism. The Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) values ranged from 0.30 to 0.40 averaging 0.40 which reflects a moderate level of marker effectiveness and ability to distinguish accessions. Primers JS035, JS042, JS055 and JS079 were recognised as the most effective markers because of their strong polymorphic potential. The effective number of alleles (Ne = 1.808) suggested that alleles were distributed with relatively even frequencies which further indicated that no single allele had dominated. Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) revealed that 96 % of the total genetic variation was within populations while only 4 % occurred among populations. A PhiPT of 0.035 showed that J. sambac populations were nearly genetically indistinguishable indicating very little differentiation among them. SSR markers have proven highly effective in revealing this genetic unity emphasising their importance in identifying distinct varieties. The revealed genetic diversity provides a strong basis for effective germplasm conservation, management and targeted breeding of superior J. sambac cultivars supporting advancements in horticulture, perfumery and pharmaceutical industries.