Polymorphic microsatellite loci for studies of the Ozark hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis bishopi)

• DOI: 10.1007/s10592-009-9818-z
• Publication Date: 2009-02-04T18:09:26Z
• Authors: Jarrett R. Johnson; Kaitlyn M. Faries; Jessica J. Rabenold; Rachel S. Crowhurst; Jeffrey T. Briggler; Jeffrey B. Koppelman; Lori S. Eggert
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 15. Life on land; 01 natural sciences

The hellbender is the only North American member of the aquatic salamander family Cryptobranchidae and is a species of conservation concern across its range. We developed eight polymorphic microsatellite loci for hellbenders using a magnetic bead enrichment protocol and a PCR-based detection technique. Allelic diversity averaged 4.0 (±1.8 SD) per locus and heterozygosity averaged 0.56 (±0.30 SD). The hellbender is rare and difficult to study due to its cryptic life history. These loci will provide a valuable resource for population studies, which could inform future conservation and management decisions.