Microsatellite-based Parentage Assignment in Tiger Trout (Salmo trutta × Salvelinus fontinalis)

Abstract

Hybridization plays a crucial role in fish species, often resulting in unique traits and enhanced performance. The present study focuses on the genetic analysis of tiger trout, a sterile hybrid species resulting from the cross between brown trout, Black Sea strain (Salmo trutta), and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), to gain insights into parentage identification, species differentiation, genetic diversity, and population structure. Parentage assessment analyses were performed by employing two software programs, COLONY and CERVUS. Results indicatest, varying levels of accuracy, with COLONY exhibiting better performance for hybrid specimens, and CERVUS performing well with intraspecific offspring. The results highlight challenges in differentiating hybrids from parental species based on the selected microsatellites. Our analysis revealed the presence of allele deletion in hybrids, affecting their genetic structure and clustering patterns. In conclusion, the present work contributes significantly to the field by emphasizing the critical need for the development of a more precise and comprehensive array of genetic markers; in particular İn species in which hybrids and parental species may potentally co-occur. The findings of this study offer promise for enhancing breeding programs and managing aquatic ecosystems, providing insights into the genetic complexities of hybrid species.