Genotyping of Albania olive (Olea europaea) germplasm by SSR molecular marker

The increasing interest in olive varieties with high productivity and quality is the basis of modern olive growing. The molecular characterization of olive varieties is essential to maximize the genetic diversity in the in situ and ex situ collections of the olive germplasm. The importance of studies aimed at identification and selection of genotypes that meet the requirements for plant nursery certification, for oils traceability and to preserve genotypes that are not widespread from risks of extinction, is evident. In this context, DNA fingerprinting represents a valid tool because the productivity and quality of olive oil are intrinsic characteristics of the original varieties. To date, the Albanian olive-growing heritage has been little studied and the number of varieties has not yet been well defined. As a consequence, it doesn't a precise characterization of the Albanian genetic entities. The aim of this work was to contribute in clarifying the identity of the Albanian olive cultivars, using the SSR molecular markers. We have genotyped olive trees at the level of nine nuclear microsatellite loci or SSR, pre-selected among those present in the literature and we have identified 38 unique genotypes. It has not been possible to establish a clear correlation between clustering of plants, depending on molecular profiles, and the geographical distribution of origin or maturation period or the intended use of drupes. However, our results show a high genetic diversity and a high discrimination capacity of the tested SSR markers.