Understanding connectivity of pearl oyster populations within Tuamotu atoll semi-closed lagoons: Cumulative insight from genetics and biophysical modelling approaches

Connectivity affects species demography, (meta)population dynamics, evolution, phylogeny and biogeography. Various methodological approaches are applied to measure connectivity. Biophysical modelling can explore systematically the influence of atmospheric, oceanic and ecological forcing, while genetics measures connectivity patterns within the sampling strategy limit. In the Pacific Ocean pearl farming lagoons, the activity relies on spat collecting of the black lipped pearl oyster Pinctada margaritifera occurring after the larval dispersal phase, which follows spawning from wild or farmed populations. Biophysical 3D modelling and genomic studies have both separately brought insights on within-lagoon connectivity and on the origin of spats. Here, we combined previous genetics results with new realistic biophysical modelling scenarios to elucidate connectivity in Ahe Atoll lagoon. When combined, we identified the weather sequence likely explaining the realized connectivity observations. We discuss the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of combining these two approaches considering specific pearl farming demographic connectivity questions.

Automated summary

Connectivity plays a crucial role in various aspects of species dynamics and biogeography. Biophysical modeling and genetics are utilized to measure and analyze connectivity patterns, providing insights into the demographic connectivity questions in pearl farming lagoons. By combining genetics and biophysical modeling, researchers can identify weather sequences that likely explain observed connectivity patterns, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of each approach.