Microsatellite markers and transferability in Amburana cearensis (Allemão) A.C.Sm (Leguminosae), an endangered species of Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests

Microsatellite markers (SSR) are still largely used to assess the reproductive system and genetic diversity in plant populations. Although the timber tree Amburana cearensis (Fabaceae) is endangered, according to the IUCN classification, there are no effective management and conservation plans being implemented for the species. It occurs exclusively in South America, predominantly in Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests, such as Caatinga and Chaco, but also in savanna areas of the Cerrado. The negative effect of large human populations on the biodiversity of these regions is likely to be more pronounced for endangered species such as A. cearensis. We developed SSR markers, tested their transferability to Amburana-related genera, and described the genetic diversity of A. cearensis in Brazilian dry forests. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 11. Eight loci showed significant deviation from HWE. The genetic differentiation was low to moderate (F ST = 0.0972, p < 0.001), suggesting some gene flow among populations. Two loci were widely transferable to related genera. The developed SSR markers can be useful to study the reproductive biology and genetic diversity, and may therefore support more effective conservation strategies for A. cearensis by the inclusion of genetic information.