Development of intronic markers for the distinction of southern and northern pikes (Esox flaviae and E. lucius) and for the detection of their interspecific hybrids

Multi-locus Intron Polymorphisms (MIPs) characterization has been recently applied to investigate genetic diversity at different levels, from species and hybrids identification to population genetics. Here we tested the effectiveness of a panel of intronic loci applied to the case study of pike in Europe. High resolving power in distinguishing Southern pike (Esox flaviae), the native esocid species of Italian basins, from Northern pike (Esox lucius) and in the detection of their interspecific hybrids have been demonstrated, validating data obtained with microsatellites. Potentially diagnostic loci have been identified with the aim of future development of a multi-locus panel for quick allocation of individuals and hybrid detection. However, due to relatively lower variability at intron loci compared to highly polymorphic microsatellites, the latter still show a better resolution in detecting differentiation at population level.