Characterization of microsatellite loci from a South African endemic, the cape Dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion pumilum)

The Cape Dwarf Chameleon (Bradypodion pumilum) is an endemic South African species that is currently threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation of its natural habitat through urbanization and agriculture. To conduct studies that will assist in understanding these anthropogenic effects on gene flow, population structure, and genetic diversity, we developed eight microsatellite loci using an enrichment protocol. Number of alleles ranged from 5 to 26 with observed heterozygosities of 0.279- 0.930. Several loci did not meet HW expectations, but this may be a result of extreme demographic fluctuations that have been noted for this species. These loci will prove useful to examine the population genetics of these threatened reptiles and for providing information that will be used for generating and updating conservation assessments.