Validated multiplex PCR of microsatellites for breeding purposes, clonal fidelity and controlled crosses in teak

Abstract Teak (Tectona grandis L.f), a valuable hardwood species, is widely cultivated for its superior wood properties. Effective breeding and clonal propagation programs require robust genetic verification methods such as clonal fidelity and parentage verification when these programs include controlled cross-pollination and propagation of elite clones. This study validates the use of ten optimized microsatellite markers in a multiplex PCR system for clonal identification and parentage testing. The system showed high discrimination power, with probabilities of identity (PI) and exclusion (PE), confirming its efficacy. The ten markers accurately identified clonal fidelity and ensured genetic fidelity of progenies. Overall, the study confirms effectiveness of microsatellites for genetic analysis and highlights a cost effective and precise approach for breeding and clonal propagation of teak.