Evaluating genomic selection, genetic compatibility, and reproductive success in hatchery-origin coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch)

Genetic compatibility arises from the combined effects of assortative (matching) and disassortative (mismatching) alleles in mated pairs and may have undeveloped utility in conservation breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether genetically informed crosses of coho salmon ( Oncorhynchus kisutch ) produced more mature offspring compared to random spawning in a hatchery setting. Genetically informed crosses conducted over three spawning seasons were based on assortative and disassortative allele combinations, and reproductive success was estimated from approximately 11,000 mature salmon that returned to the hatchery using genetic parentage analysis. The results indicated there was no significant difference in estimates of genetic compatibility between the two cross types due to procedural limitations associated with hatchery spawning. Further, no differences in reproductive success were detected in genetically informed and random crosses. However, reproductive success was positively associated with estimates of compatibility irrespective of cross type. If logistical challenges in hatcheries can be overcome, the modest gains associated with genetic compatibility may be useful in managing coho salmon under critical scenarios. Moreover, the results emphasize the combined role of assortative and disassortative allele combinations in genetic compatibility and reproductive success.