Characterization of eighteen novel microsatellite markers and multiplex PCR protocol for Fagus sylvatica

Eighteen novel microsatellite markers for European Beech, Fagus sylvatica, were developed using next-generation sequencing technique. Subsequently, four multiplex PCRs were established for the fast and cost-effective use of the primers. In 60 individuals, we found 3-12 alleles per locus, an expected and observed heterozygosity of 0.445-0.821 and 0.250-0.867, respectively. Fixation index was significant in three loci. Yet, if these measures were jointly estimated with the probability of null alleles, these loci and an additional two indicated low occurrence of null alleles while the overall fixation index was non-significant. The loci were not in linkage disequilibrium. Overall, these markers will be useful for population genetic research to support management decisions for the preservation of this species in changing environmental conditions.