Molecular ecology and population genetics of two multipurpose tropical trees, Moringa Oleifera Lam. and M. Stennopetala (Bak. F) Cuf

Abstract

M. oleifera Lam. and M. stenopetala (Bak. f) Cuf. are multipurpose tropical tree species native to India and East African lowlands respectively. In tropical developing countries, both species provide a variety of useful products such as coagulants for water clarification, edible oil, vegetable, fodder, traditional medicine and use in agroforestry systems. M. oleifera was introduced to Kenya about 100 years ago, but until recently, the species was considered of marginal value and details on these introductions, the genetic diversity and relationships within and among the introduced populations have not been documented. In addition, information on genetics structure in M. stenopetala and its relationship with M. oleifera and their potential for improvement is currently lacking.