Dataset on MatK chloroplast gene sequences of five underutilized nigerian native legume species

This dataset illustrates the genetic diversity and evolutionary linkages of five underutilized Nigerian native legume species: <i>Parkia biglobosa, Albizia lebbeck, Cassia fistula, Leucaena leucocephala</i>, and <i>Senna alata</i>. These species are vital sources of sustenance, nutrition, revenue, and natural fertilizer, significantly contributing to sustainable agriculture. Nevertheless, limited knowledge exists regarding their genomes and their genetic diversity. We examined 22 high-quality chloroplast <i>matK</i> (Maturase K) gene sequences to assess the genetic divergence among the species and their phylogenetic relationships. The analysis of sequence alignment and diversity recorded 888 nucleotide positions, identified 10 segregating sites, 11 mutations, and 3 distinct haplotypes. Gene diversity was 0.654, whereas nucleotide diversity was negligible at 0.028. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that 88.04% (<i>p</i> < 0.001) of genetic variation was shared among populations, whereas 11.96% was detected within populations. Employing the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) algorithm for phylogenetic analysis, the species examined were classified into unique evolutionary lineages along species lines with a minimal exception. This information serves as a valuable genetic resource for enhancing conservation, breeding initiatives, and the sustainable utilization of underutilized native legumes in tropical settings. It impacts food security, agroforestry, and environmental restoration.