Identification of cyprinid hybrids by using geometric morphometrics and microsatellites

Traditional morphological studies need to be complemented with modern genetic methods to facilitate the identification of hybrids. By using a combination of landmark-based techniques and microsatellite markers, natural hybridization was investigated between the cyprinids Abramis brama (L.) and Blicca bjoerkna (L.) and their hybrids. Geometric morphometrics revealed significant differences in body shape between A. brama, B. bjoerkna, and hybrids. Hybrids were of intermediate body shape with a tendency of being more like A. brama. Genetic differentiation was found between both parental species and their hybrids. However, hybrids revealed a higher genetical similarity with A. brama. Based on sequencing of the mitochondrial ATP synthase subunit 6 and 8 region a clear split was found between the two sibling species. Seventeen out of 19 hybrid specimens clustered within the A. brama clade. Data indicate that hybridization between A. brama and B. bjoerkna is mainly unidirectional and has not yet resulted in fusion of the two parental gene pools. Genetic integrity is maintained in B. bjoerkna, but F1 hybrid backcrosses might lead to introgression into the genepool of A. brama.