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Genetic Diversity Analysis

Nutritional quality evaluation and genetic diversity analysis of walnut nuts


Walnut (Juglans regia L.) trees have been seed-propagated for over a thousand years in Tibet, thriving under variable climatic conditions at altitudes exceeding 3,000 m. This study conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the nutritional quality of 175 walnuts, identifying the highest-performing accessions. Additionally, 20 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were employed to assess the extent of genetic diversity and the genetic relationships among the walnuts. The walnut JC174, JC170, and JC126 were ranked among the top three based on a comprehensive evaluation using principal component analysis.

A total of 319 alleles were identified, and seven highly polymorphic loci, including SSR6, were selected for further study. The genetic diversity analysis indicated that the majority of genetic variation in Jiacha walnuts was observed among individuals, leading to the division of the population into two distinct groups. This study provides valuable theoretical insights and practical foundations for the advancement of the walnut industry in the Tibetan region.

The coefficient of variation among walnut monocultures in Jiacha County was found to be significant. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of the nutritional quality of Jiacha walnuts, the top three walnut trees were identified as JC174, JC170, and JC126, respectively. Jiacha walnuts can be broadly categorized into three types: nutritious fruits, fresh fruits, and balanced fruits. Furthermore, seven highly polymorphic loci were identified, and Jiacha walnuts were divided into two distinct taxa. This analysis clarified that the genetic variation in Jiacha walnuts primarily exists among individuals, with the YJN group exhibiting the highest degree of genetic differentiation. These findings provide the genetic foundation for the selection of breeding materials in future breeding programs.

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