Chloroplast microsatellite markers for the Neotropical orchid genus Epidendrum, and cross-amplification in other Laeliinae species (Orchidaceae)

One of the most significant challenges confronting orchid researchers is the lack of specific molecular markers, mainly for species in the Neotropics. Here we report the first set of specific chloroplast microsatellite primers (cpSSR) developed for Neotropical orchids. In total, nine polymorphic cpSSR loci were isolated and characterized in four species occurring in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest: Epidendrum cinnabarinum, E. denticulatum, E. fulgens and E. puniceoluteum. Levels of intraspecific polymorphism were characterized using two populations for each species, with 13-20 individuals each. Allele numbers varied from two to three per locus, while the number of haplotypes ranged from three to six per species. Extensive differentiation among the taxa was detected. All markers were successfully cross-amplified in eight other different genera. These cpSSRs markers will enable novel insights into the evolution of this important Neotropical genus.

Prance Fellowship in Neotropical Botany under the Kew Latin American Research

Prance Fellowship in Neotropical Botany under the Kew Latin American Research

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico[CNPq-471929/2006-9]

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo[FAPESP-06/54189-3]