Genetic variability in four fish species (Pimelodus maculatus, Prochilodus lineatus, Salminus brasiliensis and Steindachneridion scripta) from Uruguay River Basin

Abstract

The genetic variability of four fish species (Pimelodus maculatus, Prochilodus lineatus, Salminus brasiliensis and Steindachneridion scripta) collected in the upper Uruguay River basin was analyzed using the RAPD technique. A total of 118 amplified fragments was obtained, 11 for P. maculatus, 29 for P. lineatus, 45 for S. brasiliensis and 33 for S. scripta. Amplified fragments with monomorphic profile were not found in the studied species, except for S. brasiliensis, which presented seven monomorphic bands for Saltinho population. All species showed high levels of genetic variability among individuals.