Preliminary population genetic structure of the endangered dusky grouper, epinephelus marginatus, in Malta as revealed by six microsatellite markers

Abstract

The objective of this study is to describe the population structure of the endangered marine fish, Epinephelus marginatus (Teleostei: Serranidae), in the Maltese archipelago for the purpose of localized conservation management planning. Preliminary genetic population structure of the Maltese dusky groupers was determined by six microsatellite markers. Initial results based on F values comparing three spatial groups (Group A, North Malta; Group B, South Malta; and Group C, Hurd Bank) indicate group A and B are one continuous population inhabiting the Maltese archipelago (P > 0.05) whereas group C, an area 23 km east of the main island, is identified as a sub-population to these groups (P = 0; P = 0). Results suggest that management should be designed to reflect the archipelago as a single population.