Development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers for Macrotermes carbonarius (Blattodea:...

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Molecular Ecology
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Macrotermes carbonarius is an ecologically significant fungus-growing termite in Southeast Asia.
• Understanding its colony structure and connectivity is vital for pest management in Malaysia.
• Existing microsatellite markers may not be informative for M. carbonarius.

Purpose of the Study:

• Develop and validate genome-derived microsatellite markers for Macrotermes carbonarius.
• Assess the genetic diversity and population structure of M. carbonarius in Penang, Malaysia.
• Provide molecular tools for future ecological and genetic studies of this species.

Main Methods:

• Genome sequencing using Illumina next-generation sequencing to identify microsatellite loci.
• Validation of seven polymorphic microsatellite markers across 60 individuals from six locations.
• Population genetic analyses including heterozygosity, polymorphic information content (PIC), FST, and FIS.

Main Results:

• Seven highly polymorphic and informative microsatellite loci were successfully developed and validated.
• High genetic diversity was observed, with 9-13 alleles per locus and high expected heterozygosity (0.751-0.888).
• Significant population differentiation (FST = 0.282-0.424) and limited gene flow were detected, indicating substantial genetic structuring.

Conclusions:

• The developed microsatellite markers are suitable for genetic studies of Macrotermes carbonarius.
• The findings highlight significant genetic structuring and limited gene flow among M. carbonarius colonies.
• These markers will aid in future research on genetic diversity, colony organization, and population connectivity.