Genetic differences between wild and hatchery populations of Korean spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus) inferred from microsatellite markers

The spotted sea bass, Lateolabrax maculatus, is popular in recreational fishing and aquaculture in Korea. Its natural population has declined during the past two decades; thus, beginning in the early 2000s stock-enhancement programs were introduced throughout western and southern coastal areas. In this study, genetic similarities and differences between wild and hatchery populations were assessed using multiplex assays with 12 highly polymorphic microsatellite loci; 96 alleles were identified. Although many unique alleles were lost in the hatchery samples, no significant reductions were found in heterozygosity or allelic diversity in the hatchery compared to the wild population. High genetic diversity (He = 0.724-0.761 and Ho = 0.723-0.743), low inbreeding coefficient (F (IS) = 0.003-0.024) and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were observed in both wild and hatchery populations. However, the genetic heterogeneity between the populations was significant. Therefore, genetic drift likely promoted inter-population differentiation, and rapid loss of genetic diversity remains possible. Regarding conservation, genetic variation should be monitored and inbreeding controlled in a commercial breeding program.