A set of microsatellite markers for use in Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) developed from Picea glauca ESTs

Few microsatellite markers have been specifically developed for Picea sitchensis. In January 2004 the appearance of over 10 000 sequences of expressed regions of DNA from P. glauca in GenBank presented an opportunity for the development of additional microsatellite markers in Sitka spruce. Mono- and dinucleotide repeat sequences were located in these sequences and primers were designed around these regions. Amplification was attempted in Sitka material from a broad geographical range and the level of polymorphism was assessed. Primers were also tested in progeny of a controlled cross. Nine polymorphic loci that demonstrated Mendelian inheritance in Sitka were discovered in this study.