The development of multiplex PCR assays for the rapid identification of multiple Saccostrea species, and their practical applications in restoration and aquaculture.

Background: The ecology and biology of oysters (Ostreidae) across the tropics is poorly understood. Morphological plasticity and shared characteristics among oysters have resulted in the misidentification of species, creating challenges for understanding basic species-specific biological information that is required for restoration and aquaculture. Genetic barcoding has proven essential for accurate species identification and understanding species geographic ranges.