Genetic Investigation of Four Beluga Sturgeon (Huso huso, L.) Broodstocks for its Reintroduction in the Po River Basin

The reintroduction of the extinct beluga sturgeon (Huso huso L.), an anadromous species with economic and traditional relevance, is a priority in next conservation strategies Northern Italy. EU-LIFE NATURA project aims to reintroduce Po River basin through captive breeding program. Critical requirements for success program are river connectivity knowledge genetic diversity selected broodstocks ensure self-sustainability reintroduced populations. Here, four used have been genetically screened, genotyping 13 loci sequencing mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene entire control region (D-Loop). showed medium-high level nuclear variability presence two sub-populations, evidencing total inbreeding coefficients able sustain good potential as future breeders. Mitochondrial analyses comparable wild populations, further strengthening positive investigated broodstock. Therefore, this study, how degree found within H. could be suitable program, avoiding depression associated founder effect breeding.