Genomic analysis of the bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix): Population genetic structure in South America, global relationships, and assessment of species complexity

• Grant number: 25/11215-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Alexandre Wagner Silva Hilsdorf
• Grantee: Gabriela Carvalho da Silva
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria Acadêmica. Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes (UMC). Campus da Sede Mogi das Cruzes. Mogi das Cruzes , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/11305-9 - 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, AP.R

Abstract

Pomatomus saltatrix, commonly known as bluefish, is a marine species with a global distribution in tropical and subtropical waters, exhibiting long seasonal migratory movements throughout its life cycle. The species plays a significant role in both commercial and recreational fisheries in various countries and has been classified as vulnerable by the IUCN, with a declining population trend. This research proposal aims to assess the genetic population structure of P. saltatrix across its distribution in South America, with a specific focus on the Brazilian coast, and to investigate the relationship between the Brazilian population and others globally through genomic analyses. Additionally, the study will examine whether P. saltatrix populations consist of a single species or a species complex. To achieve these objectives, the following molecular approaches will be employed: (i) the assembly and annotation of a reference genome for P. saltatrix from a globally representative specimen; (ii) a phylogenomic approach based on resequencing of the nuclear genome and mitogenomic analysis of samples spanning the species' global range to test the hypothesis of a single taxon; and (iii) the development of a panel of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers using Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS) to infer the distribution of genetic variability within and between sampled regions. This multidisciplinary project, involving various institutions, aims to generate scientific knowledge to better understand the genetics of P. saltatrix, contributing to the conservation of its populations and ensuring its sustainable use for future generations. (AU)