Microsatellite genetic variation data for endangered Florida torreya (Torreya taxifolia Arn.)

This data publication includes allele calls for microsatellite markers for Torreya taxifolia Arn. (Florida torreya) a critically endangered (IUCN 3.1) conifer with a very limited native range in the USA, occurring in two counties in Florida and one in Georgia where it persists in ravines along the Apalachicola River. The objectives of this work are to develop genetic markers to uniquely identify individuals, examine the structure of the in situ population, and use an ex situ germplasm resource to determine if reproduction without fertilization (apomixis) occurs. We developed a panel of microsatellite markers, sampled individuals in 2008-2010 from three natural in situ populations in the Florida Gulf Coast and found population structure at all levels tested. The markers were next applied to ex situ mothers, potential fathers, and progeny to investigate the occurrence of apomixis. Data include both in situ and ex situ amplicon lengths for the 12 microsatellite loci (base pair).The objectives of this work are to develop genetic markers to uniquely identify individuals, examine the structure of the in situ population, and use an ex situ germplasm resource to determine if reproduction without fertilization (apomixis) occurs.For more information about these data and this study, see Dreaden et al. (2024).