Work

Comparative Analysis of Genetic Structure and Diversity in Salvelinus fontinalis, Salvelinus malma, and Their Hybrids Based on Microsatellite Loci

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study compared the genetic diversity and structure of Salvelinus fontinalis (SF), Salvelinus malma (SM), and their hybrids (♂ SM × ♀ SF, FM) using 10 microsatellite loci. Our results showed that the three groups of populations had moderate-to-high diversity, with an average polymorphism information content (PIC) ranging from 0.4534 to 0.5400, and the genetic diversity was the highest in FM. This indicates that FM is a suitable breeding material and has the potential to enhance germplasm resources. Based on STRUCTURE analysis (optimal K = 3), we observed that the hybrid population was between the two parental populations, and UPGMA clustering showed that the hybrid population had a closer relationship with the maternal parent. This study can provide a theoretical basis and strategic reference for the efficient development, conservation and utilization of new hybrid Salvelinus germplasm resources; the hybrid Salvelinus can serve as an excellent breeding material and has important application value in the germplasm genetic improvement and variety selection of S. fontinalis and S. malma.

Source: Biology

DOI: 10.3390/biology15151269