Recent Advances in Crop Variety Identification Using DNA Technology

This book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the principles, methods, and applications of DNA-based crop variety identification, serving as a crucial resource for geneticists, plant breeders, seed technologists, and researchers in agricultural biotechnology. Beginning with the foundations of DNA technology and molecular markers, the book walks readers through the entire process of crop variety identification-from PCR-based markers, SNP genotyping, and DNA barcoding, to cutting-edge methods such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and CRISPR-based diagnostics. Special chapters focus on DNA barcoding of phytopathogens, multi-locus profiling, and genetic diversity estimation, offering insights into molecular diagnostics and varietal characterization. The book presents case studies in major crops such as rice, wheat, maize, pulses, rapeseed-mustard, and horticultural crops, highlighting national and global efforts in DNA fingerprinting and varietal authentication. It further discusses the role of bioinformatics tools, statistical genetics, and quality assurance in seed purity testing, integrating classical and modern approaches for accurate varietal discrimination. Emphasis is laid on challenges in DNA-based identification, including issues of cost, infrastructure, and technical expertise, while proposing integrative solutions that combine DNA tools with conventional field-based methods. The final chapters outline the future prospects of molecular marker technologies in ensuring varietal integrity, enhancing crop improvement programs, and supporting legal and intellectual property frameworks. This book is an invaluable reference for students, researchers, and policymakers working towards genomic-assisted agriculture and seed system transparency.