Date palm is a popular fruit among Sri Lankans with less number of significance scientific studies. In Sri Lanka, both Date palm and Ceylon date palm are naturally raised in Northern and Eastern provinces. These two species have few morphological variances; therefore a molecular level study is needed to determine any genetic diversity between these two species. This study, evaluates the genetic diversity among the date palm and Ceylon date palm cultivars in Sri Lanka through molecular level studies. The mapping of the geographical distribution and sampling of date palm and Ceylon date palm in Northern and Eastern provinces will be helpful in the biodiversity, conservation, and utilization of these crops.
This is a collaborative research project with South Eastern University of Sri Lanka and funded by the University itself.