The population genetic structure of Paiute sculpin ( Cottus beldingi) in the Marys River basin: A step towards ecosystem management.

摘要

In this study, I determined the genetic population structure for Paiute sculpin (Cottus beldingi) in the Marys River Basin (MRB) to provide information on their genetic diversity, and its spatial distribution. This study also involves the comparison of genetic structures between two different fish species within the same basin. The population genetic structure of Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi, LCT), has already been described in the MRB. To facilitate comparison between the species, I sampled the same sixteen sites as those in the LCT study. Paiute sculpin were collected by electro-fishing and fin clips were taken for DNA extraction. Five genetically distinct subpopulations were identified using nuclear microsatellite markers and the programs STRUCTURE and FSTAT. Paiute sculpin and LCT were determined to have essentially the same genetic structures, leading to the conclusion that habitat shape and connectivity is important in shaping the population genetic structure of both species.