Microsatellite loci for the North American tortoises (genus Gopherus) and their applicability to other turtle species

Abstract

We describe the development of nine microsatellite loci from the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus). Screening 270 individuals, we found these loci to be highly variable (from two to 15 alleles per locus) and thus likely to be applicable in parentage and population-level analyses for G. polyphemus. All nine loci amplified readily in the other three species of Gopherus as well. This observation, together with successful cross amplification of several loci in two additional families (Cheloniidae, Kinosternidae), underscores their potential utility among turtles in general.