Conservation Genetics of Threatened Hippocampus guttulatus in Vulnerable Habitats in NW Spain: Temporal and Spatial Stability of Wild Populations with Flexible Polygamous Mating System in Captivity

摘要: This study was focused on conservation genetics of threatened Hippocampus guttulatus the Atlantic coast NW Iberian Peninsula. Information about spatial structure and temporal stability wild populations obtained based microsatellite markers, used for monitoring a captive breeding program firstly initiated in this zone at facilities Institute Marine Research (Vigo, Spain). No significant major genetic observed regarding biogeographical barrier Cape Finisterre. However, two management units under continuous gene flow are proposed allelic differentiation between South-Atlantic Cantabrian subpopulations, with small to moderate contemporary effective size single-sample methods. Temporal population samples H. six-year period studied, suggesting large enough buffer effects drift within time frame three generations. Genetic analysis breeders offspring captivity since 2009 allowed us monitor founded 2006 Spain species. Similar diversity renewed founder broodstock, origin, supports suitable renewal rearing processes maintain variation captivity. parentage proved single-brood monogamy captivity, but flexible short- long-term mating system conditions, from strict polygamy and/or among seasons. Family showed high reproductive success assisted by molecular relatedness estimates avoid inbreeding. provides information an uncovered geographical range data deficient species, be taken into account purposes.