Genomic assessment of the genetic connectivity, population boundaries, and taxonomic units of the blue fish Pomatomus saltatrix: subsidies for the sustainable management of this important fishery resource

• Grant number: 23/11305-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Fishery Resources and Fishery Engineering - Marine Fishing Resources
• Principal Investigator: Alexandre Wagner Silva Hilsdorf
• Grantee: Alexandre Wagner Silva Hilsdorf
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria Acadêmica. Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes (UMC). Campus da Sede Mogi das Cruzes. Mogi das Cruzes , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Acácio Ribeiro Gomes Tomás ; Bruno Lopes da Silva Ferrette ; Eric Hallerman ; Fabiano Bezerra Menegidio ; João Pedro da Silva Ramos Barreiros ; Rodrigo Augusto Torres ; Rodrigo Rodrigues Domingues

Abstract

Pomatomus saltatrix, or bluefish, is a globally distributed marine fish species with large seasonal migratory movements during its life cycle. It is prominent in commercial and recreational fisheries in several countries, having the species being classified as vulnerable by the IUCN with a declining population trend. This research proposal will evaluate the genetic-population distribution of P. saltatrix along its distribution in South America and, more specifically, along the Brazilian coast and verify the Brazilian population's relationship with others worldwide using genomic analysis. The work will also evaluate whether P. saltatrix populations comprise one single species or a species complex. To achieve these objectives, the following molecular approaches will be conducted: (i) a draft reference genome will be assembled for P. saltratix to assist in the SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) selection steps for building a DNA chip (IFC - nanofluidic Integrated Fluidic Circuit), (ii) to perform a mitogenomics approach of samples from sample regions to test the hypothesis that the species comprise of a single taxon, (iii) development of a panel of SNP markers by the GBS (Genotyping by Sequence) technique and finally a panel of microsatellite markers will be developed so that along with the SNP panel, contemporary evaluations of the distribution of genetic variability can be performed. The proposal involves a multidisciplinary group from different institutions to generate scientifically based information that contributes to a better genetic knowledge of P. saltatrix to conserve their populations, ensuring their sustainability and existence for future generations. (AU)