Isolation of microsatellite loci from a rainforest tree, Elaeocarpus grandis (Elaeocarpaceae), and amplification across closely related taxa

Elaeocarpus grandis (Blue Quandong) is a common rainforest tree with a widespread distribution across northeastern Australia, while the related species E. sp. Rocky Creek and E. williamsianus are more restricted in their distribution. Highly polymorphic markers are required to provide genetic information on these species, which will aid in developing effective conservation and management strategies. Eight microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in E. grandis, and tested in the rare species and other species of the Elaeocarpaceae. Cross-species transferability was most successful within Elaeocarpus, with six and eight loci transferring to E. sp. Rocky Creek and E. williamsianus, respectively.