GENETIC ANALYSES ON THE DEEP-SEA SHRIMP ACANTHEPHYRA PELAGICA IN THE NORTH-WEST ATLANTIC.

Abstract

This study examine the population structure, and mating system in Acanthephyra pelagica. Samples were obtained in different areas of the Northwest Atlantic with emphasis in the Sable Gully. Ten microsatellite loci were developed and used for this research. I evaluated generational, temporal and spatial differences. Cohorts were determined using length measurements. Cohort information provided information to infer the reproductive cycle of the species. The existence of multiple paternity was also investigated. Four cohorts were found in each year of sampling showing a four years life span and seasonal spawning. The population was found to be panmictic among locations spatial at scales of less than 1500 km. Significant genetic structure and isolation by distance was found at a higher spatial scale. Multiple paternity was found to be prevalent in the population with 2-4 fathers in each brood. The lack of genetic structure in the population suggests high dispersal and connectivity.