Physics

Genetic variation

Evolutionary biology

Biology

History

Gene

Geography

Variation (astronomy)

Astrophysics

Genealogy

Genetics

Acta Horticulturae

Three populations of wild cardoon were collected from disused fields in Tarquinia (Viterbo province), in Sasso (Rome province) and from the surrounding area of Siena. The former two areas are located relatively close to each other while Siena is more distant. The collection area of the first two populations was around the Tolfa mountains, which is an area of great natural diversity. The wild cardoon accessions were evaluated using ISSR and AFLP molecular markers to assess the degree of variability between and within populations. A comparison of genetic distance between the wild cardoon populations and artichoke within the sampled area is also assessed and discussed. The results underline a high degree of variability existing within populations and the importance of this germplasm for future conservation strategies and breeding work.

ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC VARIATION IN THREE POPULATIONS OF ITALIAN WILD CARDOON