Cross- Species amplification of coconut microsatellite markers in rattans.

Cross-species amplification of microsatellite loci is considered to be a time-saving as well as a cost effective approach for developing locus specific markers for new species. In an attempt to identify molecular markers to determine gene flow events and genetic differentiation of populations in rattans, microsatellite primer pairs developed for Cocos nucifera (Arecaceae) were examined for cross-species amplification in rattans. Of the six microsatellite primer pairs screened, two (CNZ34 and CN2A5) yielded good cross-species amplification across different rattan genera and species from South and Southeast Asia. Based on microsatellite-specific PCR amplification products, cluster analysis was performed. The dendrogram indicated a clear grouping of rattans based on their genera and species. The coconut locus specific primer pairs could be successfully used to construct molecular differentiation of rattan genera across different geographical locations.