Development of 55 novel polymorphic microsatellite loci for the critically endangered Zingel asper L. (Actinopterygii: Perciformes: Percidae) and cross-species amplification in five other percids

By combining biotin-enrichment protocol and next generation pyrosequencing, through 454 GS-FLX Titanium technology, 55 polymorphic microsatellites loci with perfect motif were isolated from the Rhone streber (Zingel asper), a critically endangered European fish species. Eight multiplex PCR kits were optimised in order to genotype a total of 58 polymorphic loci, including three previously published loci. The level of genetic diversity was assessed for 68 Z. asper, 30 Sander lucioperca, 33 Perca fluviatilis and four Gymnocephalus schraetzer individuals. Amplification success was also assessed on Romanichthys valsanicola and Zingel streber using single individuals. These markers will be useful to investigate the population structure of the highly fragmented Rhone streber. They represent a powerful tool for conservation issues and evolutionary approaches of this endemic species. Moreover, part of our markers demonstrated applicability to other percid species, allowing for potential applications to fisheries and aquaculture management.