Multiplex PCR panel of microsatellite markers for the tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum, developed as a tool for use in conservation and broodstock management.

The tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum, native to Brazil, is widely used in aquaculture systems. We developed a multiplex PCR panel for this species, comprising 12 microsatellite loci. This panel was used to genotype 73 specimens collected from Juruti, a city in the Brazilian Amazon. The mean number of alleles per locus was 8.8, the mean observed heterozygosity was 0.76, and the combined power of discrimination and the combined power of exclusion were 0.99999999999999993 and 0.999991762, respectively. We observed no significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in this population. All amplified alleles were clearly typed, and easily interpretable results were obtained. This method will be useful for paternity analysis, population genetics and conservation studies, as well as for selective breeding programs for C. macropomum.