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Advances in the aquatic sciences
RESEARCH ARTICLE

Population genetic structure of estuary perch (Percalates colonorum Gunther) in south-eastern Australia

Daniel J. Stoessel https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2140-7390 A G , Anthony R. van Rooyen B , Luciano B. Beheregaray C , Scott M. C. Raymond A , Bryan van Wyk D , James Haddy E , Jason Lieschke A and Andrew R. Weeks B F
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, Vic. 3084, Australia.

B cesar Pty Ltd, 293 Royal Parade, Parkville, Vic. 3052, Australia.

C Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia.

D Austral Fisheries, 4/53 Dutton Street, Portsmith, Qld 4870, Australia.

E Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tas. 7250, Australia.

F School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville, Vic. 3052, Australia.

G Corresponding author. Email: daniel.j.stoessel@delwp.vic.gov.au

Marine and Freshwater Research 72(2) 263-274 https://doi.org/10.1071/MF20024
Submitted: 23 January 2020  Accepted: 17 June 2020   Published: 20 July 2020

Abstract

Estuary perch (Percalates colonorum Gunther) is an estuary dependent fish native to south-eastern Australia that is in decline. There is an increasing emphasis on stocking the species. Understanding the genetic structure across its range is important for guiding optimal stocking strategies. A prior study found some evidence of population genetic structure; however, few genetic markers were used in that assessment. Here, we develop 21 novel polymorphic microsatellite markers to reassess population genetics. Analyses indicate three broad genetic clusters, with populations on mainland Australia exhibiting an isolation by distance pattern. The only known population from Tasmania is genetically and geographically isolated from mainland populations and has very low levels of genetic diversity. We provide recommendations for sourcing broodstock from mainland populations, including describing three broad areas for procuring and releasing broodstock and offspring. The markers and results reported here will prove invaluable for guiding and monitoring the outcomes of stocking and conservation activities.

Additional keywords: conservation, fishery, genetic diversity, stocking, supplementation.


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