A mango genotyping project is expected to help the country’s mango industry. The project gathers data on molecular markers, which are associated with good mango traits including red blush, thick peel, and resistance to anthracnose and fruit fly. The data can help in developing hybrid mango varieties that have the mentioned traits.
The project, Identification of Molecular Markers Associated with Red Blush, Thick Peel and Resistance to Anthracnose and Fruit fly in Mango, is funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and is being implemented by the Institute of Plant Breeding of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (IPB-UPLB).
The project utilizes the application of Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS) technology. To date, a total of 188 DNA samples from different mango genotypes, both from carabao and non-carabao mangoes, were extracted. These samples were sent to Diversity Arrays Technology in Australia for GBS and analysis. The DNA barcoding of mango genotypes using chloroplast genes has also been started.
Moreover, 81 primers were selected and synthesized for diversity analysis and hybridity testing of produced potential hybrids.
The technology was featured in the 12th National Biotechnology Week (NBW), which was held at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) from November 21 to 25, 2016.
As part of DOST’s activities during the NBW, PCAARRD held a two-day agriculture and aqua science and technology (S&T) fora on November 22 and 24, respectively. Aside from the fora, the Council, along with other DOST agencies, showcased its biotechnology initiatives through an exhibit at the BSWM grounds.
