A suite of molecular markers for identifying species, detecting introgression and describing population structure in spadefoot toads (Spea spp.).

ABSTRACT: Two congeneric species of spadefoot toad, Spea multiplicata and Spea bombifrons, have been the focus of hybridization studies since the 1970s. Because complex hybrids are not readily distinguished phenotypically, genetic markers are needed to identify introgressed individuals. We therefore developed a set of molecular markers (amplified fragment length polymorphism, polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism and single nucleotide polymorphism) for identifying pure-species, F1 hybrids and more complex introgressed types. To do so, we tested a series of markers across both species and known hybrids using populations in both allopatry and sympatry. We retained those markers that differentiated the two pure-species and also consistently identified known species hybrids.

SUBMITTER: Pfennig KS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4762589 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature