Chrysanthemum ( Chrysanthemum * morifolium Ramat.) is a very important commodity flower, and is also widely used in the landscape. But the classification of chrysanthemum cultivars has been controversial. Chrysanthemum classification research has continued from the traditional morphological classification to application of using molecular markers, as auxiliary tool. The results of molecular marker clustering analysis of wild and cultivated chrysanthemum and relatives were not fully congruent with the morphological classification. In terms of origin, the study of RAPD showed that Chrysanthemum vestitum was the most important species in the origin process of cultivated chrysanthemum. Research into the genetic relationships of chrysanthemum taxa using molecular marker methods such as AFLP, SSR, ISSR, and RAPD and the application of these to the classification and breeding of chrysanthemum were discussed. Among these methods, ISSR was seen as the best, and it was combined with the high polymorphism of AFLP, SSR and the commonality of RAPD. Sometimes, the same molecular marker method yielded different results in the different studies. The differences and similarities between classification methods in China and elsewhere were discussed in terms of molecular marker technology and morphology. With the combination of molecular marker technology and traditional morphological approaches, breeding success will be improved. It will clarify the cross-compatibility among chrysanthemum cultivars and expand the range of breeding resources for genetic improvement. The breeding period will be shortened with the directional transfer of favorable genes and the accumulation of target genes. At the same time, this research will provide an accurate reference library for the protection of chrysanthemum germplasm resources and the innovation of taxonomy. CT VI International Symposium on the Taxonomy of Cultivated Plants, Beijing, China.
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