Using ISSR markers in determination of genetic relationship between 2<i>n </i>= 54 and 2<i>n </i>= 60 cytotypes of <i>Nannospalax xanthodon</i> (Nordmann, 1840) (Mammalia, Rodentia) from Central Anatolia
A total of 36 samples of 2 n = 54 and 2 n = 60 cytotypes of Nannospalax xanthodon , distributed in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, were analyzed for the first time by using inter-simple sequence repeat-polymerase chain reaction (ISSR-PCR) technique. The analysis revealed 112 ISSR bands, 101 of which were polymorphic. Seven ISSR primers ((AG)8 T, (GGAGA)5, (GACA)4, (TG)8 A, (CAG)5 GC, (CAG)4 AC and (GA)8 AC)) were optimized from total 20 primers. (AG)8 T and (GA)8 AC primers were most informative to distinguish cytotypes by producing specific bands for 2 n = 54 and 2 n = 60. The cytotypes in genetically close relationships were separated into three different groups by UPGMA cluster analysis, in which, the highest genetic diversity was measured for 2 n = 60. Our results showed that ISSR markers can be used as a simple and reliable molecular tool, for the estimation of genetic diversity in cytotypes of Nannospalax at low range genetic distances.