Fifteen microsatellite loci were isolated for population genetic studies of mulloway (Argyrosomus japonicus), a commercial/recreational fish species in Southern Australia. A genomic library was screened randomly for di- tri- and tetranucleotide repeats. Fifteen microsatellite marker loci were developed that were highly polymorphic (allele number ranged from four to 18). Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.17 to 1 and from 0.27 to 0.91, respectively. These markers have proven useful for estimating genetic variation and for evaluating population structure across the species' natural distribution. They also provide powerful tools for optimizing hatchery practices to conserve genetic diversity.
© 2009 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.