Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Potato Germplasm in RDA-Genebank: Utilization for Breeding and Conservation

Potato is an important staple food and economic crop in many countries. It is of critical importance to understand the genetic diversity and population structure for effective collection, conservation, and utilization of potato germplasm. Thus, the objective of the present study was to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of potato germplasm conserved in the National Agrobiodiversity Center (NAC) of South Korea to provide basic data for future preservation and breeding of potato genetic resources. Results of this study provide useful information for potato improvement and conservation programs, although further studies are needed for a more accurate evaluation of genetic diversity and phenotypic traits of potatoes.