A preliminary analysis of the population genetic parameters indicates critically low genetic variation in a threatened killifish (Anatolichthys transgrediens)

• Published in: Journal of applied ichthyology Vol. 38; no. 1; pp. 28 - 33
• Main Authors: Yoğurtçuoğlu, Baran, Yılmaz, Murat, Ekmekçi, Fitnat Güler, Özsoy, Ergi Deniz
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.01.2022
• Subjects: Adaptability; Allozymes; Aphanius transgrediens; Breeding; Conservation; conservation genetics; Endangered & extinct species; Endangered species; Freshwater fishes; Genetic analysis; Genetic diversity; genetic variation; Geographical distribution; Inbreeding; Inbreeding depression; Population; Population decline; Population genetics; Population number; Population structure; Rare species; Threatened species; Wildlife conservation
• ISSN: 0175-8659; 1439-0426
• DOI: 10.1111/jai.14289

Levels of genetic variation can steer the future adaptability and correlate to reduced inbreeding of species. Therefore, for any conservation measure, determining the levels of genetic variations and its implications in endangered species is a priority. Here, we investigate allozyme genetic variation of a critically endangered killifish species, Anatolichthys transgrediens, one of the most threatened species in the world with extremely small distribution range. Our results clearly point out perilously low levels of genetic variation, with only three out of 15 loci examined were polymorphic, likely reflecting their small population size and genetically deteriorated population structure. Fixation indices estimated also indicate high levels of inbreeding within A. transgrediens which may result in inbreeding depression and further population declines. We discuss the possible drivers for this situation and call the urgency of an integrated action for conservation of this endangered killifish species.