Population genomic analysis of the commercially important shrimp Pleoticus muelleri (Crustacea: Decapoda: Solenoceridae) reveals the existence of two, northern and southern, lineages with adaptive genetic differences

Abstract

Identifying the population genetic structure and adaptive diversity of fishery resources is essential for their resilience and sustainability. Pleoticus muelleri is one of the most important fishing resources in Argentina. It inhabits the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean from 20° to 50° S. We genotyped 1740 SNPs in 42 individuals using Restriction Site-Associated DNA Sequencing and discovered two genetic lineages, one in the south (Golfo San Jorge and off Rawson), and the other in the north of its distribution (Macaé). Individuals found in intermediate locations (Punta del Diablo and Rio Grande do Sul) suggested the existence of admixture between these two groups. In addition, we found loci correlated with some environmental variables suggesting the existence of divergent selection between both populations. The STRUCTURE analysis including only putatively neutral loci gave similar results to the one with all loci, indicating either differentiation originated because of a physical barrier to dispersion, or that the lack of gene flow because of selection has already affected neutral loci. This knowledge can contribute to its sustainable management and conservation.