Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed and characterized to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure in Lilaeopsis schaffneriana subsp. recurva, an endangered species endemic to wetlands dispersed throughout southeastern Arizona, USA, and northern Sonora, Mexico.
Methods and results: Eight loci (one of which was monomorphic) were developed and characterized in 48 individuals from two populations. The total number of alleles was 35, ranging from one to 10 per locus. Many of the primers amplified in L. carolinensis, L. chinensis, L. masonii, L. occidentalis, L. schaffneriana subsp. schaffneriana, Oxypolis fendleri, and Eryngium lemmonii.
Conclusions: Development of these novel microsatellite loci will facilitate a deeper understanding of genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure not only in L. schaffneriana subsp. recurva, but also in apiaceous relatives.