Development of SSR Markers for Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) by Selectively Amplified Microsatellite (SAM) and Its Applications

Abstract

Coconut is an important tropical fruit and oil crop. Its long generation time, low multiplication rate and recalcitrant seeds make coconut more difficult for breeding and selection. New technologies and extensive resources to evaluate coconut breeding strategies are the demand of today. Molecular markers had the potential to dramatically increase the efficiency and efficacy in the areas of germplasm management, genotype identification and marker-assisted selection of economically important traits of coconut. However, the lack of relevant molecular techniques impedes the development of a new strategy for the genetic improvement of the coconut. In this study, we have successfully developed 84 SSR markers by Selectively Amplified Microsatellite from coconut genome and more than 90% of these SSR showed good transferability to the palm family. The study will enrich the genomic-SSR pool for coconut and also for the other palm tree. Besides, it will provide the scientists with more options for coconut germplasm evaluation, constructing a coconut genetic linkage map and designing the breeding programs for producing superior cultivars of coconut.