The long-term genetic consequences of supportive breeding programs are not well understood. Nevertheless, stocking populations with hatchery-produced fish to compensate for losses of natural production are common practice, for example after constructions of hydroelectric power dams. Hatcheries typically fertilize eggs using ‘mixed-milt fertilizations’, without consideration to natural reproductive behaviours, and hence, natural selective regimes would be altered.Here, a series of experiments with focus on Mhc and mate choice in a population of brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) with a history of long-term stocking are presented. The major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) constitutes of genes coding for antigen presentation in the vertebrate immune system. In addition to the immunological function, Mhc genes might also influence reproductive behaviours such as mate choice. For example, in some species individuals are able to recognize Mhc genotypes of potential mates and to some extent base their mate choice on this information. Here, I address these questions on brown trout. Can the phenomena be observed in brown trout? Could such mechanisms help individuals to avoid inbreeding, or are other mechanisms important? How does the artificial rearing of fish for enhancement of natural populations relate to these issues?…
Contents
Introduction
Background
Sexual Selection and Mate Choice
The Major Histocompatibility Complex
Mhc and Mate Choice
Objectives
Materials and Methods
Study Organisms
Experiments
Molecular Methods
Statistical Analyses
Results and Discussion
Mhc and Female Choice in Brown Trout
Mhc and Male-male Competition in Brown Trout
Outbreeding Depression
Sperm Competition in Atlantic Salmon
The Results in a Context
Conclusions
Acknowledgements
References
Author: Forsberg, Lars
Source: Uppsala University Library
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