Molecular markers in Chinese carps and their interspecific hybrids

Abstract

A sample consisting of 2 Ctenopharyngodon idella (grass carp) females, 2 Aristichthys nobilis (bighead carp) males, and 10 interspecific hybrids was analyzed using a multidisciplinary approach. The 10 hybrids were the only surviving specimens of a crossbreeding experiment. The cytological approach, involving the measurement of the largest axis of the erythrocytes, revealed that the parental species were diploid, whereas, among the hybrids, eight individuals were triploid, and two were diploid. Two of the triploid individuals were analyzed cytogenetically and showed 2n = 3X = 72 chromosomes. Using the biochemical and molecular approaches, it was possible to confirm that one of the C. idella specimens was the true mother of the hybrids. Those data also allowed to rule out both males from parenthood. The molecular analyses also indicated the absence of gynogenetic individuals among the hybrids. We discuss the use of a multidisciplinary approach as an efficient tool in the monitoring of aquaculture programs.