Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

Laboratory Protocol for Genetic Gut Content Analyses of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates Using Group-specific rDNA Primers
Published on: October 5, 2017
Permanent genetic resources added to Molecular Ecology Resources Database 1 August 2011-30 September 2011
1, S W A'Hara, P Amouroux
1Forest Research, Northern Research Station, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland EH25 9SY, UK.
This study adds 299 microsatellite loci and nine SNP EPIC primer pairs to the Molecular Ecology Resources Database, expanding genetic resources for diverse species. These new markers enhance population genetics and conservation research for numerous taxa.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Ecology
- Genetics
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- Genetic markers are crucial for understanding population structure and evolutionary processes.
- The Molecular Ecology Resources (MER) Database serves as a vital repository for such genetic resources.
- Previous databases lacked comprehensive markers for several key species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the development and addition of novel genetic markers to the MER Database.
- To provide researchers with new tools for population genetics, conservation, and evolutionary studies.
- To expand the genomic resources available for a wide array of plant and animal species.
Main Methods:
- Development of 299 microsatellite marker loci.
- Design and validation of nine single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) EPIC primer pairs.
- Cross-testing of developed loci on related and ecologically similar species.
Main Results:
- Successfully added 299 microsatellite loci for 21 species.
- Successfully added nine EPIC primer pairs for four species.
- Demonstrated cross-amplification potential of markers across multiple species, increasing their utility.
Conclusions:
- The newly added markers significantly enhance the genetic toolkit available for ecological and evolutionary research.
- These resources will facilitate more in-depth studies on population diversity, connectivity, and conservation.
- The expansion of the MER Database supports broader biodiversity research initiatives worldwide.
Related Concept Videos
Gene Flow
Multi-species Conserved Sequences
Although the genome of each species varies greatly from each other, a few sequences are highly conserved. Such conserved DNA...
Conservation of Declining Populations
Genetics of Speciation
Overview of Transposition and Recombination
Applications of Molecular Taxonomy

