Nuclear microsatellite DNA markers for New Zealand kiwi (Apteryx spp.)

Abstract

Kiwi (Apterygidae) is an endemic New Zealand avian family comprising five species whose conservation is actively managed. We present five polymorphic microsatellite DNA loci isolated from North Island brown kiwi (Apteryx mantelli). In addition, we demonstrate cross-amplification, and in some cases, polymorphism, of these microsatellite DNA loci in four other kiwi species. Therefore, these markers may be broadly applicable to conservation genetic studies within this family. © 2006 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.