Interspecific genetic divergence in sciaenids from Japan and its adjacent waters

Abstract

Genetic divergence and phylogenetic relationships among @iNibea mitsukurii, N. albiflora, Pennahia argentata, Argyrosomus japonicus, Atrobucca nibe@@ and @iLarimichthys crocea@@ were investigated by examining the electrophoretic patterns of 14 enzymes. The allele frequencies of 21 loci were estimated to calculate the genetic distances (D). The average D value among the sciaenid species increased in proportion to the level of taxonomic category. Relationships estimated by genetic markers well accorded with those estimated by morphological characters. The 6 sciaenid species were clearly divided into two distinct groups at a D value of 1.41