Molecular characterization of bacterial leaf blight and galactomannan content using RAPD markers in clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub)

Abstract

Clusterbean is a unique legume on account of its large spherical-shaped endosperm that contains significant amounts of galactomannan which has wide range of food and industrial applications [1, 2]. Although it is traditionally cultivated under poorly endowed situations yet it has high scope for improvement to boost industrial value and export. Among the various yield limiting factors, bacterial leaf blight (Xanthomonas campestris pv. cyamopsidis) is a serious constraint particularly during the years of prolonged and late summer rains [1]. The selection for bacterial leaf blight is influenced by environmental factors as also the stage of growth [3, 4]. Therefore, breeding resistant and susceptible genotypes through conventional and specific authenticated molecular methods can alleviate this problem. Molecular characterization of resistance and susceptible can facilitate effective and precise selection for bacterial leaf blight [5-8].