Results
Title

Genetic population structure and tools for the management of European sprat (Sprattus sprattus).

Authors

McKeown, Niall J; Carpi, Piera; Silva, Joana F; Healey, Amy J E; Shaw, Paul W; van der Kooij, Jeroen

Abstract

This study used RAD-seq-derived SNPs to explore population connectivity, local adaptation, and individual assignment in European sprat (Sprattus sprattus) and inform the alignment of management units with biological processes. F ST, clustering, and outlier analyses support a genetically cohesive population spanning the Celtic Sea-English Channel-North Sea-Kattegat (NE Atlantic) region. The lack of structure among the NE Atlantic samples indicates connectivity across current management boundaries. However, the assumption of demographic panmixia is cautioned against unless verified by a multidisciplinary approach. The data confirm high genetic divergence of a Baltic population (average F ST vs. NE Atlantic samples = 0.051) with signatures compatible with local adaptation in the form of outlier loci, some of which are shown to occur within exonic regions. The outliers permit diagnostic assignment of individuals between the NE Atlantic and Baltic populations and thus represent a "reduced panel" of markers for monitoring a potential mixed stock fishery within the western Baltic. Overall, this study provides information that may help refine spatial management boundaries of sprat and resources for genetic-assisted management.

Subjects

RESOURCE management

Publication

ICES Journal of Marine Science / Journal du Conseil, 2020, Vol 77, Issue 6, p2134

ISSN

1054-3139

Publication type

Academic Journal

DOI

10.1093/icesjms/fsaa113