Population genetic structure of stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas, 1771) in the South Caspian Sea using microsatellite markers

Abstract

In this study, 197 samples of adult stellate sturgeon from four fishery regions were collected. DNA was extracted using 15 pairs of microsatellite primers, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was conducted. DNA bands were analyzed using Biocapt and GenAlex software package. Out of 15 microsatellite primers, 11 loci were produced, in which 10 of them were polymorphic and 1 monomorph. Analyses revealed that average of 13 alleles per locus (range 8 to 18 alleles per locus). Average observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.650 and 0.855 and significant genetic differences between 4 regions were observed (p≤0.01). Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were in most cases. Maximum genetic difference were observed between regions 2 and 4 (FST = 0.063, Nm = 3.728). These results indicate that at least, 3 populations of stellate sturgeon exist in the South Caspian Sea. Population of stellate sturgeon in region 2 where Sefidrud drainage is located was consider as independent population, therefore management of this unique stocks for restocking and conservation of gene pools is highly recommended.