Microsatellite DNA Marker Analysis of Genetic Variation in Wild and Hatchery Populations of Caspian Kutum (Rutilus kutum)

Rutilus kutum, is a commercially important species inhabiting the Caspian Sea. As the wild stocks of Caspian kutum have decreased in recent years, restocking the wild populations is implemented through releasing the hatchery produced individuals into the nature. Here, 10 microsatellite loci were applied to investigate the genetic diversity of hatchery and wild populations of R. kutum in the southeastern parts of the Caspian Sea. Totally 105 alleles were detected, with some of them being unique to each population. The number of alleles ranged from 4 to 16. The mean values of the observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.772 and 0.797, respectively. No significant differences (P>0.05) in genetic diversity were observed between the wild and hatchery populations. In most cases, significant genetic disequilibrium was detected after Bonferroni correction, mainly due to the heterozygote deficiency. Low genetic differentiation and close genetic relationship were detected among the studied populations. Our results are anticipated to provide essential data in establishing more efficient strategies for appropriate management and conservation of Caspian kutum populations during restocking programs.