Development and characterization of genomic SSR markers for Tamarix chinensis (Tamaricaceae)

PREMISE OF THE STUDY: We developed a set of microsatellite markers to study the population genetic structure, mating system, and interspecific hybridization of Tamarix chinensis (Tamaricaceae), an alkali‐ and salt‐tolerant shrub endemic to China, Korea, and Japan. METHODS AND RESULTS: Using Illumina sequencing, we developed 10 polymorphic and 11 monomorphic microsatellite primers. High levels of polymorphism were detected in four T. chinensis populations. Allele numbers ranged from two to 11, and the levels of observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.182 to 0.846 and from 0.165 to 0.794, respectively. The polymorphism information content values ranged from 0.201 to 0.803. Cross‐species amplification showed two to 15 alleles per locus in 24 individuals from one natural population of the congener T. ramosissima, and the levels of observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.042 to 0.864 and from 0.041 to 0.892, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These markers should be useful for exploring the population genetic structure, mating system, and gene flow of T. chinensis.