Morphological and molecular characterization of sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) populations in Chihuahua, Mexico

Sideoats grama [Bouteloua curtipendula (Michx.) Torr.] is an important native species for cattle production. However, inappropriate grazing practices have reduced its genetic diversity. The morphological and genetic diversity of 51 populations of sideoats grama in Chihuahua State was explored and analyzed. Transplanting was performed under natural conditions; two years later, morphological characterization was performed. To assess genetic variability AFLP molecular markers were used. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the first three components (PC) explained 73.83 % of variation. PC1 showed a significant correlation (P<0.0001) in dry matter yield (88 %), stem density (85 %), tiller diameter (83 %), height of foliage (82 %), plant height (79 %), and leaf length (65 %). An AFLP analysis with four pairs of primers detected 186 bands; 80.67 % (150 bands) had polymorphism. The highest percentage of polymorphism (93.75 %) and polymorphic bands (48) was obtained with the primer combination of EcoRI-ACT + MseI-CTG. Sideoats grama population presented a high morphological and molecular variability. Based on high forage potential, ecotypes (444, 359 y 557) were selected to be included in grassland restoration programs.