Morphological differentiation among native trout populations in North-Western Greece

• Published in: Journal of biological research (Thessalonikē, Greece) Vol. 17; pp. 33 - 43
• Main Authors: Liasko, Roman, Anastasiadou, Chryssa, Ntakis, Alexandros, Gkenas, Christos, Leonardos, Ioannis D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London BioMed Central 01.01.2012
• Subjects: Freshwater; Salmo trutta; Greece, Aitolia Kai Akarnania, Akheloos R; Greece, Ipeiros, Arachthos R; Greece, Ipeiros, Louros R; Greece, Ioannina, Aoos R
• ISSN: 1790-045X; 2241-5793

Morphology of native brown trout (Salmo spp.) from four major rivers of Western Greece was analyzed using 36 morphometric and 7 meristic characters in order to clarify its taxonomic status and provide insights about the life models followed by these populations. Significant between- population differences were observed in both types of characters. Discriminant analysis allowed correct classification of 92.9% of all specimens. Differences in morphometric traits were related to body shape as well as to fin positioning and length. Cluster analysis carried out separately on mean morphometric and modal meristic values of populations indicated (in both cases) distinct position of the trout population from Louros River. Morphometrics of S. lourosensis suggest a spatially restricted resident model of life, in which case conservation measures should be focused on restoration and protection of the uppermost part of the stream where the species is abundant.