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Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation

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A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Aquatic Animals".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 23436

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Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Athanasios Exadactylos

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Guest Editor

Hydrobiology-Ichthyology Laboratory, Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment (DIAE), University of Thessaly, Fytokou Str., 38446 Volos, Greece
Interests: population genetics; conservation biology; evolutionary ecology; marine genomics; aquaculture; molecular biology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Conservation marine genomics focuses on individuals and populations that have been affected by habitat loss, altered social behavior, overexploitation, climate change, disturbed life cycle patterns (dispersal, migration), and pollution, thus destabilizing their genetic integrity due mainly to anthropogenic pressure. Information gained from studying such organisms at sea will allow the development of action plans that ensure their survival. Genetics looks at inherited characteristics and the genes that underlie them. This great diversity, in addition to its availability that has long been seen as limitless, have turned marine genetic resources worldwide into one of the main axes for scientific exploitation. However, a more precise analysis of the different natural stocks and their interplay in marine ecosystems is required. In the course of evolution, the oceans as habitats form a continuum that have not undergone as many dramatic changes and generally tend to be more homogeneous. Notwithstanding, when investigating the patterns of dispersal and marine connectivity at multiple spatial and temporal scales, it is crucial to unveil the complexity when integrating the information of all biological and physical processes involved. The subline in integrative conservation and evolutionary genomics of marine resources is based on the conceptual foundations of evolutionary biology that stimulate the long-term economic viability and social value of marine organisms in order to inform the public about their importance for the management and conservation of marine resources.

Prof. Athanasios Exadactylos
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

adaptation footprint
genetic and structural connectivity
speciation
phylogeography
conservation genetics
population genetics
conservation genomics
animal genetic resources
marine systems dynamics
marine connectivity
meta-population structure
ocean biodiversity and community structure
multiple temporal and spatial scales
early life history traits
reproductive isolation
stocks depletion
local sub-populations
migratory routes
species collective memory
marine species richness
diversity redistribution
species dispersal
habitat recolonization
population persistence

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microsatellite Polymorphism and the Population Structure of Dugongs (Dugong dugon) in Thailand

by Anocha Poommouang, Promporn Piboon, Kittisak Buddhachat, Janine L. Brown, Wannapimol Kriangwanich, Siriwadee Chomdej, Jatupol Kampuansai, Supamit Mekchay, Patcharaporn Kaewmong, Kongkiat Kittiwattanawong and Korakot Nganvongpanit

Animals 2022, 12(3), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12030235 - 19 Jan 2022

Viewed by 2379

Abstract

The dugong (Dugong dugon) is an endangered species of marine mammals, so knowledge of genetic diversity of these populations is important for conservation planning within different habitats. In this study, six microsatellite markers were used to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of 77 dugongs from skin samples of stranded animals collected from 1994–2019 (69 from Andaman Sea and 8 from the Gulf of Thailand). Our results found that dugongs in the Andaman Sea had higher genetic variation than those in the Gulf of Thailand. Populations in Trang, Satun, and some areas of Krabi had highest diversity compared to other regions of Thailand. Bayesian genetic clustering analysis revealed that dugongs in Thailand consist of five genetic groups. Moreover, dugongs in the middle and lower Andaman Sea presented the greatest gene flow compared to other regions. However, based on calculation of inbreeding coefficients (Fis value = 0.239), dugong populations in the Sea of Thailand are experiencing some levels of inbreeding, and so may warrant special protections. These results provide important information for understanding the genetic status of dugongs that can lead to improved management and conservation of this endangered species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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12 pages, 4232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Population Density, Size Structure, and Reproductive Cycle of the Comestible Sea Urchin Sphaerechinus granularis (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) in the Pagasitikos Gulf (Aegean Sea)

by Dimitrios Vafidis, Chryssanthi Antoniadou and Vassiliki Ioannidi

Animals 2020, 10(9), 1506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10091506 - 26 Aug 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3273

Abstract

Sphaerechinus granularis is a common grazer that lives in various sublittoral habitats, displaying typical covering behavior; i.e., putts shell-fragments, pebbles, and algae on its test. It is an edible species of increasing commercial importance due to the depletion of the common urchin’s, Paracentrotus lividus, stocks. Its biology, however, is not adequately studied over its distributional range. The present study examines population density, size structure, and reproductive biology of S. granularis in the Aegean Sea. Samplings were made with SCUBA-diving (8–10 m) and included: (i) visual census along transects to estimate density, and (ii) random collection of specimens at monthly intervals to assess biometry and gametogenesis. Population density had moderate values that almost doubled when inputted to Distance software. S. granularis had larger dimensions in the sheltered site; size-structures were unimodal (65–70 mm and 70–75 mm, in exposed and sheltered site, respectively). An annual reproductive cycle was evident, according to GSI and gonads’ histology, with a clear spawning peak in early spring. This pattern conforms to previous reports from the Atlantic, but precedes those from the Mediterranean (reproduction in summer). The provided baseline knowledge on the biology of S. granularis is important for the viable management of its developing fishery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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16 pages, 2163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Composition and Microstructural Morphology of Spines and Tests of Three Common Sea Urchins Species of the Sublittoral Zone of the Mediterranean Sea

by Anastasios Varkoulis, Konstantinos Voulgaris, Stefanos Zaoutsos, Antonios Stratakis and Dimitrios Vafidis

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1351; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081351 - 4 Aug 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3383

Abstract

In the Mediterranean Sea, the species Arbacia lixula, Paracentrotus lividus and Sphaerechinus granularis often coexist, occupying different subareas of the same habitat. The mechanical and chemical properties of their calcitic skeletons are affected both by their microstructural morphology and chemical composition. The present study describes the main morphologic features and the possible temporal differences in elemental composition of the test and spines of the three species, while also determining the molar ratio of each element of their crystalline phase. Scanning electron microscopy showed major differences in the ultrastructure of the spines, while minor differences in the test were also noticed. More specifically, the spines of all three sea urchins possess wedges, however A. lixula exhibits bridges connecting each wedge, while barbs are observed in the wedges of S. granularis. The spines of P. lividus are devoid of both microstructures. Secondary tubercles are absent in the test of A. lixula, while the tests and spines of all three species are characterized by different superficial stereom. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy detected that Ca, Mg, S, Na and Cl were present in all specimen. Mg and Mg/Ca showed significant differences between species both in test and spines with S. granularis having the highest concentration. The spines of P. lividus exhibited lowest values between all species. Differences between spines and test were observed in all elements for P. lividus except S. A. lixula exhibited different concentrations between test and spines for Ca, Mg and Mg/Ca, whereas S. granularis for Mg, Cl and Mg/Ca. Finally, temporal differences for Ca were observed in the test of P. lividus and the spines of S. granularis, for Mg in test of S. granularis, for S in the spines of A. lixula and the test and spine of S. granularis, for Na in the test of P. lividus and A. lixula and for Cl and Mg/Ca in the test P. lividus. Powder X-ray diffractometry determined that, out of all three species, the spines of P. lividus contained the least Mg, while the test of the same species exhibited higher Mg concentration compared to A. lixula and S. granularis. The current study, although not labeling the specimens attempts to estimate potential time-related elemental differences among other results. These may occur due to changes in abiotic factors, probably water temperature, salinity and/or pH. Divergence in food preference and food availability may also play a key role in possible temporal differences the skeletons of these species Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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11 pages, 2752 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Methods for the Histological Evaluation of Odontocete Spiral Ganglion Cells

by Tania Ramírez, Simona Sacchini, Yania Paz, Rubén S. Rosales, Nakita Câmara, Marisa Andrada, Manuel Arbelo and Antonio Fernández

Animals 2020, 10(4), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10040683 - 14 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2991

Abstract

Cetaceans greatly depend on their hearing system to perform many vital activities. The spiral ganglion is an essential component of the auditory pathway and can even be associated with injuries caused by anthropogenic noise. However, its anatomical location, characterized by surrounding bony structures, makes the anatomical and anatomopathological study of the spiral ganglion a difficult task. In order to obtain high-quality tissue samples, a perfect balance between decalcification and the preservation of neural components must be achieved. In this study, different methodologies for spiral ganglion sample preparation and preservation were evaluated. Hydrochloric acid had the shortest decalcification time but damaged the tissue extensively. Both formic acid and EDTA decalcification solutions had a longer decalcification time but exhibited better preservation of the neurons. However, improved cell morphology and staining were observed on ears pretreated with EDTA solution. Therefore, we suggest that decalcifying methodologies based on EDTA solutions should be used to obtain the highest quality samples for studying cell morphology and antigenicity in cetacean spiral ganglion neurons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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15 pages, 3383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Model-Based Distribution and Abundance of Three Delphinidae in the Mediterranean

by Grigorios Karamitros, Georgios A. Gkafas, Ioannis A. Giantsis, Petros Martsikalis, Menelaos Kavouras and Athanasios Exadactylos

Animals 2020, 10(2), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10020260 - 6 Feb 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3451

Abstract

Monitoring of Delphinidae species population patterns in the Mediterranean Sea was carried out in a sequence of surveys employing different approaches. Data from seven-year surveys with small catamaran sailing boats were analyzed under model-based approaches. Density Surface Models were used to produce spatial distribution prediction of three Delphinidae species (Stenella coeruleoalba, Tursiops truncatus, and Delphinus delphis) in an extended study area covering much of the Mediterranean Sea. A classical distance sampling protocol was applied in order to calculate the detection probability of clusters. Static (depth, slope, distance from the coast, and distance from isobaths of 200 m) and nonstatic (sea surface temperature and chlorophyll) variables were used to predict the species distribution/abundance in a generalized additive model context. Stenella coeruleoalba was found to be the dominant species, with an extended distribution in the study area; its abundance was significantly affected by both depth and distance. Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis illustrated a significant abundance correlation with depth and chlorophyll, respectively, while both species showed a robust longitude correlation. Our model pinpoints the significance of nondesigned transect line surveys, suggesting the importance of specific habitat areas for future monitoring and conservation aspects of marine mammals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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Review

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10 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Protective Role of Melatonin in Sperm Cryopreservation of Farm Animals and Human: Lessons for Male Fish Cryopreservation

by Alexandra I. Alevra, Athanasios Exadactylos, Eleni Mente and Serafeim Papadopoulos

Animals 2022, 12(6), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12060791 - 21 Mar 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3549

Abstract

Cryopreservation is a technique that offers various advantages, especially in fish, among others, that makes the reproduction of species easier through a constant supply of sperm, synchronization of the gamete availability of both sexes, storage of semen for genetic improvement programs, reduction in the cost by eliminating the need to maintain male broodstock, and conserving the gametes of endangered species. However, freezing and warming procedures for cryopreservation lead to a reduction in the quality and viability of cryopreserved sperm because of oxidative stress. For this reason, the enrichment of extender media with antioxidants is a common method of cryopreservation of the semen of several fish species. Recently, many studies have been published for the protective role of antioxidants and especially of melatonin on male fertility preservation both in farm animals and humans, demonstrating the beneficial effects of melatonin as a sperm cryoprotectant. On the other hand, very few studies were conducted using melatonin as an antioxidant in different male fish species for semen cryopreservation. We conclude that the use of moderate concentrations of melatonin are beneficial to semen preservation, and the mechanisms through which melatonin acts positively on spermatozoa need to be further investigated to establish improvement protocols for cryopreservation in fish species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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24 pages, 3246 KiB

Open AccessReview

Some Examples of the Use of Molecular Markers for Needs of Basic Biology and Modern Society

by Yuri Phedorovich Kartavtsev

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051473 - 20 May 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2802

Abstract

Application of molecular genetic markers appeared to be very fruitful in achieving many goals, including (i) proving the theoretic basements of general biology and (ii) assessment of worldwide biodiversity. Both are provided in the present meta-analysis and a review as the main signal. One of the basic current challenges in modern biology in the face of new demands in the 21st century is the validation of its paradigms such as the synthetic theory of evolution (STE) and biological species concept (BSC). Another of most valuable goals is the biodiversity assessment for a variety of social needs including free web-based information resources about any living being, renovation of museum collections, nature conservation that recognized as a global project, iBOL, as well as resolving global trading problems such as false labeling of species specimens used as food, drug components, entertainment, etc. The main issues of the review are focused on animals and combine four items. (1) A combination of nDNA and mtDNA markers best suits the identification of hybrids and estimation of genetic introgression. (2) The available facts on nDNA and mtDNA diversity seemingly make introgression among many taxa obvious, although it is evident, that introgression may be quite restricted or asymmetric, thus, leaving at least the “source” taxon (taxa) intact. (3) If we consider sexually reproducing species in marine and terrestrial realms introgressed, as it is still evident in many cases, then we should recognize that the BSC, in view of the complete lack of gene flow among species, is inadequate because many zoological species are not biological ones yet. However, vast modern molecular data have proven that sooner or later they definitely become biological species. (4) An investigation into the fish taxa divergence using the BOLD database shows that most gene trees are basically monophyletic and interspecies reticulations are quite rare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Animal Population Genetics and Conservation)

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