Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed for the critically endangered species Dayaoshania cotinifolia (Gesneriaceae) to evaluate population genetic diversity and detect population history. •
Methods and results: In our study, 15 primer sets were developed using an enriched genomic library. These are the first microsatellite loci developed for this genus. Genetic diversity was measured using 40 individuals. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to six, and the incidence of observed heterozygosities was 0.365 and 0.410 in two populations. •
Conclusions: The described markers will be useful in future population genetics studies of this critically endangered species.