Microsatellite Markers: Cross Species Amplification in Myristicaceae

Western Ghats of India one of the mega-biodiversity hotspot harbours several important and endemic plant taxa and Myristicaceae is one such example. It is also referred as “nutmeg” family one of the ancient families. Five species of Myristicaceae occur in Western Ghats, among them Gymnacranthera canarica and Myristica fatua var. magnifica are exclusively associated with Myristica swamps (India’s most threatened ecosystem). Other three species namely Myristica malabarica M. dactyloides and Knema attenuate are non-swampy but are endemic to Western Ghats. Most of these species are listed in RET data book. In this study, an attempt was made to identify microsatellite markers through cross species amplification in Myristicaceae. Totally, 21 microsatellite (SSR) primers that are developed for Virola sebifera and Myristica malabarica were examined against three different genera. The study indicated possibility of cross species amplification and use of marker for genetic studies in new species. Microsatellite priming sites are more likely to be conserved and thus successful in closely related species (e.g., within subgenera) compared to those that are distantly related (e.g., between genera). Close to 90 percent of species/primer combinations tested within subgenera were successful, a much higher success rate than between genera and geographically distant species.