Genetic diversity analysis in peas based on morphological, biochemical and molecular markers

This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity of cultivated pea (Pisum sativum) varieties using morphological, biochemical and molecular markers. Qualitative trait analysis revealed that 90.01 % of varieties had cream-yellow cotyledons, 72.72 % exhibited rough seed surfaces and 63.63 % displayed irregular seed shapes. Notably, the Algerian variety Séfrou had a pigmented seed coat, anthocyanin coloration and colored flowers. SDS-PAGE analysis detected 175 protein bands, of which 5 were polymorphic. The variety Latcha exhibited the highest number of bands 18, while Guifilo had the lowest (13 bands). Other varieties (Sirma, Aroubia, Dorian, Utrillo, Guifredo, Onward, Sara, Kelvedon) showed intermediate banding patterns (15–17 bands). Molecular analysis using 12 SSR markers revealed substantial allelic diversity, with 43 alleles across 12 loci (3–5 alleles per locus). Major allele frequency (MAF) ranged from 0.199 to 0.757, expected heterozygosity (He) averaged 0.674 (range: 0.578–0.776) and Shannon’s index averaged 1.186 (range: 0.934–1.546). The mean polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.608 (range: 0.486–0.740), confirming high variability. These findings highlight the genetic diversity among pea cultivars, which can inform breeding programs targeting traits like seed color, protein content and stress resistance. The SSR markers and protein profiles provide valuable tools for future conservation and selection efforts.