Macquarie University
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Stock structure and effective population size of the commercially exploited Gummy shark

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posted on 2022-03-28, 23:48 authored by Emma Petrolo
The Australian Gummy shark (Mustelus antarcticus) is the main target species of a large fishery that functions across its distribution in Southern and Eastern Australian waters. Commercial harvest of the species is currently considered sustainable based on target biomass estimates that show recovery from past overexploitation. However, previous research regarding stock structure have garnered conflicting results on the genetic structure of the species, necessitating further investigation to better inform fisheries management. Here, we evaluate the genetic structure and effective population size (Ne) of the Gummy shark using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We identified two distinct genetic clusters, one on the East coast, and one along the South coast. Moderate genetic differentiation was identified between each cluster, while within-cluster comparisons were largely admixed. Spatial analyses revealed some evidence for natal philopatry but no compelling evidence of isolation by distance. In addition, demographic modelling of each cluster showed a comparatively rapid decline of estimated Ne in the most recent past when compared to more historical projections, although current estimates are still considered high. These findings elucidate the current genetic structure of Gummy sharks and estimate the potential impact on Ne that overfishing can generate for the species.

History

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Introduction -- Chapter 2. Materials and Methods -- Chapter 3. Results -- Chapter 4. Discussion -- Appendices

Notes

Theoretical thesis. Bibliography: pages 33-38

Awarding Institution

Macquarie University

Degree Type

Thesis MRes

Degree

MRes, Macquarie University, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Biological Sciences

Department, Centre or School

Department of Biological Sciences

Year of Award

2019

Principal Supervisor

Adam Stow

Rights

Copyright Emma Petrolo 2019

Language

English

Extent

1 online resource (iv, 50 pages)

Former Identifiers

mq:72158 http://hdl.handle.net/1959.14/1281977