الفهرس 
REVIEW OF LITERATUREOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
SUMMARY
The current research was conducted during the period from 2019 to 2022 at Al-Qassassin Farm in Ismailia Governorate, affiliated with the Horticultural Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt. Ain Shams Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
In Egypt, basil is an important plant that has been cultivated and used for thousands of years. This herb was used in traditional Egyptian cuisine for cooking and medicinal purposes. In addition, there are many types of basil grown in Egypt, such as lemon basil (Ocimum citriodorum), Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora), and African basil (Ocimum gratissimum). Each type of basil has its own unique flavour, aroma and medicinal properties that make it valuable to Egyptian cuisine.
Studying basil diversity is a complex and interdisciplinary process of science, such as botany, biochemistry, and genetics. characterization of unique morphological characteristics and molecular markers is an essential aspect of plant breeding, especially basil.
The aim of the study is to evaluate the morphological diversity and genetic diversity of various indigenous basil species collected from various Egyptian governorates to evaluate the level and distribution of genetic diversity among them. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the morphological and genetic diversity of Egyptian basil genotypes that can help identify potential breeding targets and develop conservation strategies.
25 different genotypes of Ocimum sp. have been collected. from 12 geographical locations in Egypt. The selection of basil genotypes in this study was based on their morphological diversity, plant strength, fennel shape, length, and fennel color.
For morphological evaluation, the experimental design followed randomized complete plots with two replicates and three plants per replicate. On March 25 of both cropping seasons, 25 seeds of each basil genotype were planted in a tray, and 35 days after planting, they were transferred to the field. The organic fertilization method was used in agriculture, and chemical nutrients were excluded.
1- Some morphological measurements were taken during the two growing seasons, such as (number of branches, plant height, fresh plant weight, dry plant weight), as the morphological diversity of some genotypes of local basil is of great importance for the progress of taxonomic research and the application of agricultural practices.
2- The percentage of oil within the genotypes of basil was estimated using the Kleinfinger device in order to obtain the best genotypes that give the highest percentage of oil and to use these combinations in breeding programs that aim to improve them further.
3- The genetic diversity and polymorphisms of Egyptian basil genotypes were examined using eleven SCoT primers and ten ISSR primers.
4- 6 genotypes of basil were characterized and identified using molecular markers and DNA barcoding techniques, through which these genotypes belonging to any Ocimum sp. were identified and registered in the Gene Bank.
The results showed a significant difference in morphological characteristics between the different genotypes, indicating the presence of many species within Ocimum sp.
Evaluation of productivity and biochemical markers, which revealed significant differences between the original genotypes.
SCoT analysis using 11 primers and 10 ISSR primers showed a high level of genetic diversity among 25 basil genotypes, with a wide range of polymorphism diversity.
Phylogenetic analysis identified two distinct groups among the genotypes, providing valuable insights into their genetic relationships. The results can be directed to germplasm conservation efforts, breeding programs, and the development of new varieties with desirable traits. Identification of closely related landrace genotypes, such as L6 and 13L from the Fayoum and Port Said regions, respectively, can guide conservation efforts to ensure the preservation of these important genetic resources.
Conservation of genetic resources is crucial to ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems, and steps must be taken to maintain the genetic diversity of basil through appropriate storage and management. In general, exploring the morphological and genetic diversity of local basil strains is of great importance for the advancement of taxonomic research and the application of different agricultural practices.
To further advance the characterization and identification of Egyptian basil genotypes, future studies could explore the use of molecular markers and DNA barcoding techniques. The integration of multiple molecular markers and DNA barcoding techniques could provide a more reliable and accurate means of identifying and characterizing Egyptian basil strains. This in turn can greatly benefit breeding and conservation efforts. Genetic origins.
In terms of breeding programs, identifying accessions with desirable traits for culinary or medical use can be a priority. This could include further evaluation of the genetic diversity and polymorphism of landraces, as well as characterization of their phenotypic traits. This could enhance the quality and productivity of the crop and help meet the growing demand for culinary and medicinal basil products.
On the other hand, preserving and managing basil germplasm resources in Egypt is crucial. Traditional breeds are an important part of cultural heritage, and their loss could cause irreversible damage to genetic and biological diversity. Therefore, active conservation efforts are needed to prevent loss of genetic diversity. This could include collecting, characterizing and preserving Egyptian landraces in gene banks, as well as promoting their use in sustainable agricultural practices.