Genetic Characterization of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. Populations in the Sahelian Zone of Senegal

Abstract

This study evaluated the molecular characterization of different ecotypes of B. aegyptiaca populations in the four sites: Koily alpha, Labgar, Ranérou and Ballou according to the environment with the aim of developing protection strategies. We sampled leaves of B. aegyptiaca in each individual from each site to extract and amplify a fragment of mitochondrial DNA including cytochrome b and then carefully preserved. DNA extraction, polymerase chain amplification and sequencing of MT-CYB were performed in 64 individuals. Genetic diversity and structure of B. aegyptiaca were determined using the MEGA, DNasp and Arlequin software. The results showed a high haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity, indicating a population expansion linked to an important gene flow. Genetic distances between populations were positively correlated with geographic distance. The importance of having highlighted this genetic differentiation of the B. aegyptiaca species between these sites is to be able to understand the degree of genetic heterogeneity of each and correlate it with adaptability because genetic diversity influences the adaptation of the species.