Genetic variability of the fish Lutjanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) using microsatellites in Costa Rica

Introduction: The spotted snapper is a high-consumption and commercially important marine fish in Costa Rica, subjected to heavy fishing pressures, which can affect genetic diversity and generate problems due to inbreeding depression. Objective: To evaluate the genetic status of the population of Lutjanus guttatus using microsatellites. Methods: Samples were collected between 2018 and 2019, and 44 individuals from each of the localities of the Gulf of Nicoya and the Gulf of Dulce were studied. DNA extraction and amplification of ten loci with microsatellites using PCR were performed, followed by genotyping, analysis of genetic diversity, and population structure. Results: Diversity parameters indicate a high polymorphism associated with a high number of alleles obtained per locus, but with low levels of observed heterozygosity compared to expected (Ho= 0.774 and 0.800, and He= 0.948 and 0.954 for the Gulf of Nicoya and Gulf of Dulce, respectively). There is not enough evidence to say that the two populations are distinct (FST= 0.00264, P > 0.05). Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was recorded, indicating possible mixing of organisms of different origin from the wild environment. Conclusions: L. guttatus presents high levels of genetic diversity, without evidence of differentiation in genetic subpopulations. For fisheries management purposes, they would be considered a single panmictic population. The possible mixing with wild individuals suggests the presence of organisms derived from a restocking or commercial cultivation program carried out in the region. The use of genetic markers is recommended to maintain monitoring, follow up on restocking programs and evaluate their effect.

Automated summary

In this study, the genetic status of the commercially important marine fish Lutjanus guttatus in Costa Rica was evaluated using microsatellites. The results showed that the fish species has high levels of genetic diversity, but with low observed heterozygosity. There was no significant differentiation in genetic subpopulations between the two study sites. It is suggested that there may be mixing of fish from different origins in the wild environment. The use of genetic markers is recommended for monitoring and evaluating restocking programs.