Microsatellite markers for Grosmannia alacris (Ophiostomataceae, Ascomycota) and other species in the G. serpens complex

Abstract

PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the pine infecting fungus, Grosmannia alacris. METHODS AND RESULTS: Sixteen microsatellite markers were developed by using ISSRPCRs and 454 sequencing methods. Seven of these markers showed polymorphisms for a South African population of G. alacris and thirteen markers showed polymorphism when European isolates were included. Most of the primer pairs also amplified four closely related species, G. serpens, Leptographium gibbsii, L. castellanum, and L. yamaokae. CONCLUSION: These new markers will be useful for population studies of G. alacris and other species in the G. serpens complex.