Development, characterisation, and across-taxa utility of oil palm (Elaeisguineensis Jacq.) microsatellite markers

The results of the development of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) micros atellite markers are given step by step, from the screening of libraries en riched in (GA)(n), (GT)(n), and (CCG)(n) simple-sequence repeats (SSRs) to the final characterisation of 21 SSR loci. Also published are primer sequen ces, estimates of allele size range, and expected heterozygosity in E. guin eensis and in the closely related species E. oleifera, in which an optimal utility of the SSR markers was observed. Multivariate data analyses showed the ability of SSR markers to efficiently reveal the genetic-diversity stru cture of the genus Elaeis in accordance with known geographical origins and with measured genetic relationships based on previous molecular studies. H igh levels of allelic variability indicated that E. guineensis SSRs will be a powerful tool for genetic studies of the genus Elaeis, including variety identification and intra- or inter-specific genetic mapping. PCR amplifica tion tests on a subset of 16 other palm species and allele-sequence data sh owed that E. guineensis SSRs are putative transferable markers across palm taxa. In addition, phenetic information based on SSR flanking region sequen ces makes E. guineensis SSR markers a potentially useful molecular resource for any researcher studying the phylogeny of palm taxa.