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Understanding the genetic structure and evolutionary history of endangered species is crucial for
effective conservation planning. The Spanish toothcarp, Aphanius iberus (Valenciennes, 1846),
an endemic and euryhaline fish of the Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula, is currently
threatened by habitat destruction, climate change, and anthropogenic translocations. Here, we
employed both a single genetic marker (cytochrome b) and genome-wide SNP data from mediumcoverage
whole genomes to investigate the population structure, genetic diversity, and demographic
history of A. iberus, especially focussing on its northern distribution, which has remained poorly
studied. Our analyses revealed a well-structured genetic pattern across the species’ range, with four
main genetic lineages: Northern Catalonia, Southern Catalonia, Levantine, and Murcian. Genomic
indicators, including heterozygosity, ROHs, and migration analyses, suggest higher inbreeding and
genetic erosion in the northernmost populations, likely due to long-term isolation, whereas southern
populations maintain higher genetic diversity. We also identified several admixed and potentially
translocated populations. These findings underscore the importance of accurately determining the
origin of populations before any translocation or reintroduction, as misguided management may
compromise the genetic integrity of native lineages. This work provides essential genomic insights to
guide conservation strategies and emphasizes the need for lineage-aware management of endemic
species like A. iberus.
Citació
Scientific Reports, núm. 16 (2026), 2150