Population genetics of two species of threatened sharks from the Southwestern Atlantic: preliminary results

Abstract

Sharks are marine animals of great ecological importance and are currently among the most threatened species in marine ecosystems. The broadnose sevegill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus) and the school shark (Galeorhinus galeus) are commonly found in temperate coastal areas around the world and are currently listed on the IUCN Red List as “Vulnerable” and “Critically Endangered”, respectively, however there are still gaps in understanding of their populations connectivity. The aim of this work was to investigate the genetic structure of these two species of sharks in the Southwest Atlantic and their connectivity at a global scale, in order to provide vital information to develop management and conservation strategies.