Novel microsatellite development and characterization for Phacelia formosula (Hydrophyllaceae)1

PREMISE OF THE STUDY Microsatellite primers were developed to characterize genetic diversity and structuring in the genus Phacelia (Hydrophyllaceae) and to further conservation efforts for P. formosula. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifteen novel microsatellite primers were developed for P. formosula. These were characterized for genetic variation in three separate P. formosula populations. Two to nine alleles were found per locus. Overall observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 0.800 and 0.000 to 0.840, respectively. Additionally, these loci were successfully amplified and showed polymorphism in P. gina-glenneae and a potential new Phacelia species. CONCLUSIONS These microsatellite markers will be useful in assessing genetic diversity, structuring, and gene flow within and among populations of the rare P. formosula, in addition to related Phacelia species. These markers will provide important genetic data needed for appropriate conservation and management of these rare plants.