Phytochemical profiling and SCOT marker analysis reveal genetic diversity in Ziziphus mauritiana genotypes

This study evaluated genetic diversity among 15 genotypes Ziziphus mauritiana based on biochemical and molecular markers to identify superior germplasm for breeding and nutritional improvement. Results of biochemical profiling revealed substantial variation as TSS ranged from 9.45 to 14.52 °Brix (‘G14’ and ‘G13’) respectively, total sugars were ranged from 7.25 to 10.53 g/100 g (‘G14’ and ‘G3’) correspondingly, moreover, Vitamin C was ranged from 29.47 to 68.53 mg/100 g (‘G12’ and ‘G2’) individually. Furthermore, highest antioxidant activity was recorded in ‘G13’ (39.65%) and peak of total phenolics was recorded in G5 (252.35 mg GAE/100 g). Principal component analysis (PCA) results revealed that genotypes ‘G3’, ‘G5’, ‘G6’, ‘G10’, and ‘G13’ as superior in sweetness, antioxidants, and secondary metabolites. Molecular markers (SCoT marker) analysis developed 112 bands, 67 polymorphic, with SCoT-2 being most informative (78.26% polymorphism, Ne = 1.37, h = 0.22, I = 0.33), reflecting moderate genetic diversity among the Z. mauritiana genotypes. However, Population structure and PCoA analysis revealed that there are two major genetic clusters constructed, with some genotypes showing admixture, indicating shared ancestry or gene flow and may be due to diverse genetic make and crossability among genotypes. The correlation matrix among phytochemical attributes displayed a positive relation between TSS and sugars with antioxidant, however, titratable acidity showed a negative relation with quality traits. Concludingly, current investigation pointed out nutritionally and genetically superior genotypes, providing a valuable resource for breeding, conservation and functional food development which is a useful information for future breeding programs.