Conclusions
The microsatellite markers developed in this study will be useful in gaining an understanding of A. ramiflorus' genetic diversity, level of inbreeding, and population structure and for guiding future restoration and management efforts.
Results
We used next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to detect polymorphic microsatellites, in silico, reducing both the time and cost of marker development. A panel of 15 microsatellites, 12 of which were polymorphic, were subsequently characterized in 64 adult trees representing the entire species range. Mean observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity were 0.471 and 0.425, respectively. The polymorphism information content across loci ranged from 0.152 to 0.875. Conclusions: The microsatellite markers developed in this study will be useful in gaining an understanding of A. ramiflorus' genetic diversity, level of inbreeding, and population structure and for guiding future restoration and management efforts.