Molecular Diagnostic Techniques in Seed Purity Assessment

Abstract

A high level of genetic purity in crop plants should be maintained for good agronomic performance to encourage the innovations in plant breeding strategies. It ensures the improvements in productivity and subsequently delivered to farmer. Traditionally, morphological comparisons of seeds and grown plants have formed the basis for genetic purity evaluations and certification. Morphology cannot provide information on the purity of specific genetic attributes that relate to grain quality or to pest or herbicide resistance bred into varieties so newer DNA-based biotechnological tools are required for seed purity assessment in crop plants.