Microsatellite-based assessment of the genetic structure of snapper, Chrysophrys auratus, in Australasia

The patterns of variation at 12 microsatellite loci are used to determine whether Snapper, Chrysophrys auratus, is genetically homogeneous across its range in Western Australian waters and elucidate the extent which genetic composition this exploited sparid varies among regions Australasia. auratus was collected from seven locations Australia (WA), southwards Carnarvon (25°05–15′S, 113°25–35′E) on mid-west coast eastwards Esperance (34°30′S, 122°10′E) south coast. levels differentiation samples extending 1350 km Albany (35°20′S, 117°50′E) coast, but not ∼ 410 further east, were low non-significant (e.g. DEST = 0.003; P 0.167). This implies that C. along majority extensive WA. It proposed reflects wide-spread dispersal early life stages (ELS), facilitated by southward-flowing Leeuwin current northward-flowing, wind-driven inshore currents, supplemented movements juveniles adults. sample Gulf St Vincent (central) (34°50′S, 138°10′E) similar those (west) typically distinct (east), west east coasts Australia. structure presumably related how eastwards-flowing and/or westwards-flowing Flinders currents disperse ELS. Microsatellite data imply Port Phillip Bay Sydney Hauraki New Zealand each represent stocks. particularly distinct, indicating population relatively isolated thus potentially more susceptible exploitation. results present other studies indicate, however, gene flow sufficient maintain homogeneity over 100s kilometres, as occurs Thus, spawned one area can act a source recruits for areas thereby ameliorate impacts fishing.