Identification of Almond Species by Using Markers

Taxonomic classifications utilize morphological, biochemical, and molecular differences. Almond species show a particularly large variation in nut and kernel traits. These often quantitative traits are less affected by environmental conditions, making them useful as markers in almond species identification. Nut characteristics for different species have been extensively reviewed, with a general conclusion that the morphological characteristics of the endocarp and kernel are particularly valuable for a more precise classification of wild almonds. Quantitative traits that are important in classification include endocarp shape, patterning, length, width, and thickness. Differences in amygdalin, fatty acids, total proteins, and isozymes have also proven useful in almond classification. Molecular markers such as RAPD, AFLP, SSR, EST-SSR, and SNPs have similarly proven useful for distinguishing among different species.