Complex Spatial Genetic Connectivity of Mussels Mytilus chilensis Along the Southeastern Pacific Coast and Its Importance for Resource Management

摘要: To ensure the maintenance of natural mussel beds along southeastern Pacific coast Chile, it is important to understand their population dynamics. This means evaluating genetic structure and gene flow, degree connectivity among beds. do this, spatial seven Mytilus chilensis within mussels' present distribution range Chilean was evaluated. Genetic differences were established between populations with cytochrome oxidase I (COI) sequences (Fst = 0.099) microsatellites 0.048), showing that locations consistently presented greater differentiation those at extremes geographical distribution. An “isolation by distance” pattern not observed in COI microsatellite data. We suggest because high resolution these markers, may be explained reproductive variance, which determines local changes each cycle species. These would account for Furthermore, differentiated types some locations, demonstrating presence processes cases, perhaps caused flow restrictions resulting from geomorphological oceanographic conditions. The sessile species larval dispersion are strongly determined retention characteristics. For this reason, data generated study can used improve management. also support motivate creation a marine protected area containing sufficient levels diversity.