Building a Teleost Fish Traceability Program Based on Genetic Data from Pacific Panama Fish Markets

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Molecular Ecology
• Fisheries Science

Background:

• Pacific coast of Panama fisheries are vital but require genetic stock assessment.
• Understanding fish population structure and connectivity is crucial for sustainable management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To molecularly identify fish species and assess genetic diversity and connectivity along Panama's Pacific coast.
• To develop environmental DNA (eDNA) tools for traceability of commercially important species.

Main Methods:

• DNA barcoding using cytochrome oxidase I gene sequences for species identification.
• Analysis of genetic diversity (H, Hd, π) and connectivity (Fst) parameters.
• Development of quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays for eDNA detection.

Main Results:

• 34 fish species from 14 families were identified; species diversity was higher in the Gulf of Panama.
• Pelagic-migratory species generally exhibited higher genetic diversity than coastal species.
• High connectivity was found between the Gulf of Chiriquí and Gulf of Montijo for key commercial species, suggesting single stocks.
• Population expansion was inferred for two snapper species (L. peru, L. argentiventris).
• Novel qPCR primers and probes were developed for five abundant species, enabling eDNA detection and traceability.

Conclusions:

• Genetic diversity and connectivity patterns vary among species with different ecological niches.
• The findings support the management of specific species as single stocks in certain regions.
• Developed eDNA tools offer a promising approach for monitoring and tracing commercially important fish in Panama's fisheries.