Genetic structure and diversity of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) populations from northern Morocco through genomic SSR analysis

Morocco has a long history of domesticating cannabis and refuges a local Beldia population, which lacks detailed information on genetic diversity. In this study, the genetic diversity of cannabis grown in four Moroccan regions was assessed with six genomic SSR markers involving two cannabis populations: the local Beldia and the introduced Critical variety. A total of 111 alleles were detected, with an average of 18.5 alleles /locus. Several genetic diversity indices were measured for both populations and showed the superiority of Beldia with a high genetic diversity compared to Critical. The analysis of molecular variance showed that genetic variability was remarkably observed within individuals (65%) and, to a less extent, within and among populations (19% and 16%, respectively). Principle coordinates analysis, unrooted neighbor-joining tree, and genetic structure profiles confirmed that Beldia and Critical are genetically distant and belong to two different gene pools. The gene flow revealed the presence of a genetic exchange between the two populations, thus highlighting the need to protect the local genetic heritage of Morocco from potential genetic erosion.