Microsatellite multiplex assay for the analysis of Atlantic sturgeon populations

We have developed a multiplex assay covering 16 microsatellite loci, amplified in four polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and loaded on the ABI DNA Analyzer in two separate panels. The assay was tested on 603 individuals originating from wild populations and hatchery stocks of Atlantic sturgeon. The assay was also tested on 12 individuals of European sturgeon and appeared to be almost equally useful. The multiplex assay designed in this study can be successfully applied in studies requiring high genetic resolution, such as relatedness analysis, selective breeding programs, and stock identification of Atlantic sturgeon.