Microsatellite marker based genetic linkage maps of Oreochromis aureus andO-niloticus (Cichlidae): extensive linkage group segment homologies revealed

Partial genetic linkage maps, based on microsatellite markers, were constru cted for two tilapia species, Oreochromis aureus and Oreochromis niloticus using an interspecific backcross population. The linkage map for O. aureus comprised 28 markers on 10 linkage groups and covered 212.8 cm. Nine marker s were mapped to four linkage groups on an O. niloticus female linkage map covering 40.6 cm. Results revealed a high degree of conservation of synteny between the linkage groups defined in O. aureus and the previously publish ed genetic linkage map of O. niloticus.