RAPD Markers for Identification of Stable CMS and Restorer Lines of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)

To achieve success in hybrid seed production, it was essential to develop cytoplasmic genetic male sterility system (CMS) that would be acceptable and feasible to both farmers as well as commercial hybrid seed producer. Identification of pigeonpea CMS lines and restorers using Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular markers in the early stage of growth is important and economical in the long duration pigeonpea. The CMS lines derived from the wild (Cajanus canifolius- ICPA-2043, ICPA-2078 and Cajnus scarabaeoides - GT-288A) and the cultivated species of Cajanus cajan. The male sterile (A) and restorer lines could be easily differentiated with certain random primers. A total of 54 RAPD primers screened, 12 were found to be polymorphic. The four primers viz., AB-04, N-04, N-12 and I-10 were exhibited good resolution. However, the primer OPI-23 was successful in differentiating the male sterile and restorer lines. These can be effectively utilized for the development of new CMS-based hybrid pigeonpea technology by identification of RAPD markers linked to male sterile, maintainer and restorer lines at molecular level.