Genetic diversity of two Philippine native freshwater goby species (Perciformes: Gobiidae): implications for conservation

Abstract

Appropriate decision‐making in conservation programmes requires an understanding of the population genetic structure of various indigenous species. However, in lake and river ecosystems rated as biodiversity conservation priority areas in the Philippines, the diversity of many species remains uncharacterized.To address the existing gap, genetic diversity of two native freshwater fishes, Glossogobius celebius (Valenciennes, 1837) and Glossogobius giuris (Hamilton, 1822) was measured. Genetic structure and estimates of genetic variation for each species was determined using isozyme analysis.A higher level of genetic variation was observed within G. celebius populations compared with G. giuris. Genetic structure indicated that the observed genetic variation in G. giuris is due to the variation among the populations. The results suggest the presence of geographical barriers even in adjacent aquatic ecosystems that could restrict gene flow among G. giuris populations.This study supports the need for immediate conservation interventions for both species as they show a low level of genetic diversity in addition to being threatened in their own environment. Possible measures include translocation and establishment of a refuge population of the species studied to be complemented with location‐specific strategies that would enhance their habitat conditions. In addition, education and enhancing the awareness of the local community regarding habitat protection are strongly recommended. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Genetic diversity and population history ofTanichthys albonubes(Teleostei: Cyprinidae): Implications for conservation

“…Moreover, captive breeding and reintroduction as conservation tools require many considerations (IUCN, ), and the genetic status of the stocks used in a reintroduction project would need to be evaluated and monitored (Aguirre‐pabón, Barandica, & García, ). Thus, the establishment of refuge populations (Ardestani, Rogelio, Reyes, & Laude, ; Etheridge, Bean, Maitland, & Adams, ) is recommended for the conservation of this freshwater species, and in order to maintain local‐level adaptive potential, the refuge populations, as conservation‐significant units, should be selected carefully (Ardestani et al, ; Hayes, Krahl, Werneke, & Armbruster, ).…”

“…Thus, the establishment of refuge populations (Ardestani, Rogelio, Reyes, & Laude, 2014;Etheridge, Bean, Maitland, & Adams, 2010) is recommended for the conservation of this freshwater species, and in order to maintain local-level adaptive potential, the refuge populations, as conservation-significant units, should be selected carefully (Ardestani et al, 2014;Hayes, Krahl, Werneke, & Armbruster, 2016).…”

Aquatic conservation: reflections on the first 25 years

“…Since then, the numbers have been growing, with genetic studies published on a range of taxonomic groups, many emphasizing the importance of conservation management for genetically distinct populations (e.g. fish – Ardestani et al , ; molluscs – Froufe et al , ; Morningstar et al , ; birds – Corrêa et al , ; mammals – Gaspari et al, ; Hayes et al , ; sponges – Pérez‐Portela et al, ; corals – Cannas et al , ; Loizaga de Castro et al, ). The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) is an innovative technique providing a rather different example of the application of genetics to aquatic conservation, and a field that is growing rapidly.…”

Low genetic diversity in Clarias macrocephalus Günther, 1864 (Siluriformes: Clariidae) populations in the Philippines and its implications for conservation and management

“…Genetic diversity studies of C. macrocephalus have been done in Thailand (Na-Nakorn et al 2004b) andMalaysia (Nazia et al 2010), but not the Philippines. Its declining numbers and limited distribution in the Philippines makes its genetic diversity an important area to study, since genetic diversity is a major factor in the adaptability of species (Ardestani et al 2014). This study aimed to determine the genetic diversity of C. macrocephalus in the Philippines and to check if genetic bottlenecks may have occurred.…”