Determination of genetic diversity among clover populations (Medicago sativa L) collected from different parts of Turkey using SSR markörs

Medicago sativa is a perennial forage plant with high nutritional value belonging to the Legumes (Fabaceae) family. Alfalfa is one of the most preferred species among leguminous plants due to its longevity and resistance to different environmental conditions.In this study, it was aimed to determine the genetic diversity of alfalfa populations collected from different regions of Turkey, which has a large share in alfalfa cultivation, by using SSR markörs.Thus, it is aimed to contribute to breeding programs for developing alfalfa varieties suitable for the region, which are economically important for our country.In our thesis study, 72 alfalfa populations collected from different regions of Turkey were used and genetic distance between populations was determined by using simple sequence repeats (SSR).Seeds taken from different regions were planted in MS medium, DNA isolation was made from young leaf samples taken from seedlings according to the CTAB method, and genetic diversity analyzes of populations were performed in the bands formed as a result of PCR processes with selected SSR primers. The results obtained from the analyzes showed that the local alfalfa populations grown in Turkey are divided into 2 main groups as local cultivars and commercial ones. The results obtained were confirmed by STRUCTURE, PCA and phylogenetic analysis. As a result of diversity analysis, a heterozygosity rate of 0.28 was obtained in these populations. In addition, it was concluded that the SSR markörs used in this study were informative for the relevant genotypes. As a result of the study, the genetic diversity of alfalfa populations belonging to different parts of Turkey was revealed by SSR markörs.