Species-diagnostic SNP markers for the black basses (Micropterus spp.): a new tool for black bass conservation and management

Black basses (genus Micropterus) are apex predators in North American streams, rivers, and lakes and important game fishes. Translocation and introductions for angling, accompanied by intrinsically weak genetic barriers, have led to widespread introgressive hybridization and genetic swamping. Species-diagnostic (fixed allele) SNP markers have been utilized successfully in salmonids to monitor hybridization and genetic integrity. Here, we developed similar resources for black basses through initial genotyping-by-sequencing, followed by validation in additional samples using two panels of 64 SNPs. Results from > 1300 genotyped bass indicated that the developed panels robustly and clearly delineate fifteen species and their hybrids among black basses. The panels represent a flexible, rapid turnaround (~ 1 day), and cost-effective tool that should augment ongoing efforts toward black bass conservation and management.