Research Outputs
Genetic population structure of lane snapper Lutjanus synagris (Linnaeus, 1758) in Western Atlantic: Implications for conservation
Genetic structure and connectivity information can be used to identify biological corridors and prioritize the conservation of areas that help maintain ecosystem integrity. Some marine fish, especially those of commercial interest, have been proposed as suitable indicators to identify potential marine biological corridors due to their high mobility among habitats and socioeconomic importance. In this study, we assessed the genetic structure of lane snapper populations in the Honduran Caribbean to evaluate connectivity and identify potential environmental barriers. Furthermore, we evaluated the genetic characteristics of the lane snapper on a larger spatial scale, including populations across the rest of its distribution range in the western Atlantic, using mtDNA and nuDNA markers. Our results demonstrate a significant genetic diversity of lane snappers in the Honduran Caribbean. Furthermore, despite their high dispersal potential, we observed genetic structuring in lane snapper populations on a larger spatial scale, resulting in the formation of two distinct groups throughout their distribution range: group 1 from Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, Honduras, and Colombia and group 2 from Puerto Rico and Brazil. This genetic differentiation can be attributed to oceanographic barriers such as river plumes and marine currents. These findings have the potential to significantly impact marine conservation and management efforts in the region, both at local and regional scales. It is anticipated that they will not only inform but also elicit a response, driving further action towards effective conservation measures. At a local scale, we recommend that conservation efforts focus on protecting critical habitats. At a regional scale, lane snappers should be included in the management plans of existing marine protected areas necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the species and the marine ecosystems in which it resides.
Ecomorphological analyses reveal impact of land-based stressors on stock structure of two commercially important fish species (Lutjanus synagris and Haemulon plumierii) in the Caribbean
Many Caribbean nations lack information on the ecology and biology of marine species, which are essential for food security and livelihoods in the region. This study aimed to advance the knowledge of two commercially important fish species, lane snapper (Lutjanus synagris) and white grunt (Haemulon plumierii), using cost-efficient techniques. Specifically, geometric morphometrics was used to assess the presence of ecomorphological groups (characterized by body shape variation associated with local environmental variables) in the Honduran Caribbean continental platform. Photographs of 104 lane snapper and 99 white grunt adult individuals were taken and digitalized with 12 landmarks. Subsequently body shape patterns were related to environmental variables using Distance-based linear models and Partial Least Squares. Results enabled the identification of ecomorphological groups or fish stocks in the study region associated with the environmental conditions of each site. Distance to river mouth and Chlorophyll a, both indicators of land-based stressors, appeared as the primary driving force of body shape differentiation in the species. These results are key for the development of informed reef fisheries management policies in the Caribbean region.