Plant Gene and Trait 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 275-284 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 275 Review Article Open Access Genetic Diversity in Sweet Potato: A Review of Global Germplasm Hongyun Zhang1, LinZhao2 1 Zhejiang Wuwangnong Seeds shareholding Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China 2 Hangzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Crop (Ecology) Research, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: zhaolin0227@163.com Plant Gene and Trait, 2024, Vol.15, No.6 doi: 10.5376/pgt.2024.15.0027 Received: 11 Oct., 2024 Accepted: 13 Nov., 2024 Published: 21 Nov., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Zhang and Zhao, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Zhang H.Y., and Zhao L., 2024, Genetic diversity in sweet potato: a review of global germplasm, Plant Gene and Trait, 15(6): 275-284 (doi: 10.5376/pgt.2024.15.0027) Abstract Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam) is a globally significant food crop with extensive genetic diversity. This study synthesizes findings from various studies on the genetic diversity of sweet potato germplasm collected worldwide. Chloroplast SSR markers have revealed low genetic diversity among female parents in the National Agrobiodiversity Center’s collection, indicating a need for broader germplasm collection. Retrotransposon-based insertion polymorphism (RBIP) markers have demonstrated significant intergroup genetic variation, suggesting limited evolutionary diversification despite geographic speciation. Genome-wide assessments using SNPs have identified three major genetic groups, with a core germplasm set developed for future breeding. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular markers have been used to characterize genetic diversity, highlighting promising genotypes for yield and antioxidant content. AFLP analysis has shown low genetic diversity among Tanzanian accessions, with significant within-region variation. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive germplasm characterization and conservation to support sweet potato breeding programs. Keywords Sweet potato; Genetic diversity; Germplasm; Chloroplast SSR markers; Retrotransposon-based insertion polymorphism (RBIP) 1 Introduction Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam) is a vital food crop with significant agricultural and economic contributions worldwide. It ranks as the sixth most important food crop globally, with China leading its production in a market valued at USD 45 trillion (Escobar-Puentes et al., 2022). Sweet potato is not only a staple food in many developing countries but also a crucial source of income and nutrition for poor farming communities (Lamaro et al., 2022). Its rich nutritional profile, including sugars, slow digestible/resistant starch, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, makes it a valuable crop for both food security and health benefits (Mohanraj and Sivasankar, 2014). Additionally, sweet potato's versatility extends to its use in agroindustry and medicinal applications, further enhancing its economic importance. The study of genetic diversity and germplasm conservation in sweet potato is essential for several reasons. Firstly, understanding the genetic diversity within sweet potato cultivars can help in the development of improved varieties with higher yields, disease resistance, and better adaptability to different environmental conditions (Lamaro et al., 2022). For instance, genetic diversity studies using various markers such as SSR, AFLP, and RBIP have revealed significant variability among sweet potato accessions, which is crucial for breeding programs (ELameen et al., 2008; Meng et al., 2021). Secondly, conserving sweet potato germplasm ensures the preservation of unique genetic traits that may be lost due to environmental changes or agricultural practices (Roullier et al., 2013; Winnicki et al., 2021). This is particularly important in regions like New Guinea, where traditional landraces have accumulated impressive genetic diversity due to farmers' management practices (Roullier et al., 2016). Lastly, germplasm conservation supports the reinvigoration of cultural heritage and local markets, as seen with the traditional Hawaiian sweet potato varieties (Winnicki et al., 2021). This study reviews the current status of genetic diversity in global sweet potato germplasm resources, discusses the importance of their conservation, and provides an overview of commonly used diversity assessment markers and methods (such as SSR, AFLP, and RBIP). It analyzes the role of regional germplasm banks (such as the
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