This study used RAD-seq-derived SNPs to explore population connectivity, local adaptation, and individual assignment in European sprat (Sprattus sprattus) and inform the alignment of management units with biological processes. F_ST, clustering, and outlier analyses support a genetically cohesive population spanning the Celtic Sea-English Channel-North Sea-Kattegat (NE Atlantic) region. The lack of structure among the NE Atlantic samples indicates connectivity across current management boundaries. However, the assumption of demographic panmixia is cautioned against unless verified by a multidisciplinary approach. The data confirm high genetic divergence of a Baltic population (average F_ST vs. NE Atlantic samples = 0.051) with signatures compatible with local adaptation in the form of outlier loci, some of which are shown to occur within exonic regions. The outliers permit diagnostic assignment of individuals between the NE Atlantic and Baltic populations and thus represent a “reduced panel” of markers for monitoring a potential mixed stock fishery within the western Baltic. Overall, this study provides information that may help refine spatial management boundaries of sprat and resources for genetic-assisted management.

中文翻译：

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欧洲西鲱（Sprattus sprattus）的遗传种群结构和管理工具

这项研究使用RAD-seq衍生的SNP来探索种群在欧洲鲱（Sprattus sprattus）中的连通性，局部适应性和个体分配，并为管理单位与生物过程的整合提供信息。F _ST，聚类和离群分析为横跨凯尔特海-英吉利海峡-北海-卡特加特（NE Atlantic）地区的遗传凝聚种群提供了支持。NE Atlantic样本之间缺乏结构表明跨当前管理边界的连通性。但是，除非经过多学科方法的检验，否则应避免使用人口统计学上的混合性假设。数据证实了波罗的海种群的高度遗传差异（平均F _ST相对于东北大西洋样本= 0.051），其特征与异常适应点形式的局部适应性特征兼容，其中一些特征显示在外显子区域内。离群值允许对东北大西洋和波罗的海种群之间的个体进行诊断分配，因此代表了标记的“精简面板”，用于监测波罗的海西部的潜在混养渔业。总体而言，这项研究提供的信息可能有助于完善小枝和遗传辅助管理资源的空间管理界限。