Genetic structure and diversity of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)
populations from northern Morocco through genomic SSR analysis
Abstract
Morocco has a long history of domesticating cannabis and refuges a local
Beldia population, which lacks detailed information on genetic
diversity. In this study, the genetic diversity of cannabis grown in
four Moroccan regions was assessed with six genomic SSR markers
involving two cannabis populations: the local Beldia and the introduced
Critical variety. A total of 111 alleles were detected, with an average
of 18.5 alleles /locus. Several genetic diversity indices were measured
for both populations and showed the superiority of Beldia with a high
genetic diversity compared to Critical. The analysis of molecular
variance showed that genetic variability was remarkably observed within
individuals (65%) and, to a less extent, within and among populations
(19% and 16%, respectively). Principle coordinates analysis, unrooted
neighbor-joining tree, and genetic structure profiles confirmed that
Beldia and Critical are genetically distant and belong to two different
gene pools. The gene flow revealed the presence of a genetic exchange
between the two populations, thus highlighting the need to protect the
local genetic heritage of Morocco from potential genetic erosion.