Development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in Phellodendron amurense (Rutaceae)1

UNLABELLED PREMISE OF THE STUDY Microsatellite markers were developed for the rare species Phellodendron amurense to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of this plant. • METHODS AND RESULTS In total, 27 microsatellite markers were developed for P. amurense by using an enriched genomic library and hybridization; all of these primers successfully amplified DNA fragments in P. amurense. These markers were screened in 74 individuals from four populations in China; 15 loci were found to be polymorphic, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from one to nine. • CONCLUSIONS The microsatellite markers developed here represent a useful tool for studying the population genetic structure of P. amurense and to inform toward the development of effective conservation programs for this species.