What does the genetic diversity of blackchin tilapia reveal about its introduction to Thailand?

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Genetic analysis indicates multiple introduction events and human-mediated spread of blackchin tilapia in Thailand.

Genetic analysis of 466 blackchin tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) samples collected across Thailand reveals that the invasive species was introduced through multiple events, rather than a single release. The study identified high genetic diversity, including 19 distinct haplotypes, and found that human-mediated translocations within the country significantly contributed to its rapid dispersal.
Multiple Origins and High Genetic Diversity

The invasive blackchin tilapia populations in Thailand belong to the Sarotherodon melanotheron melanotheron subspecies. Genetic sequencing uncovered 19 distinct haplotypes, indicating a substantial level of genetic diversity. Furthermore, 13 private haplotypes, unique to specific regional populations, were identified. Several of these unique haplotypes were found at high frequencies in provinces such as Samut Songkhram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Surat Thani, strongly suggesting that these areas were seeded from multiple introduction sources with limited mixing between them.
Tracing Ancestry to West Africa

Through haplotype distribution patterns and network analysis, researchers were able to trace the origins of the blackchin tilapia in Thailand to multiple geographic locations in West Africa. Specifically, Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire were identified as contributing sources, with the possibility of other unsampled native populations in West Africa also being involved in the introductions.
Human Transport Facilitated Widespread Dispersal

The study highlights that blackchin tilapia populations exhibit genetic distinctiveness across different regions of Thailand, with Samut Songkhram being considered the earliest invasion site. Concurrently, fish sharing the most common genetic signature were prevalent across eastern and southern Thailand, including provinces like Chachoengsao, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Chumphon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Songkhla. This pattern strongly suggests that human activities, rather than natural dispersal through connected waterways, were the primary drivers for the spread of these genetically similar individuals throughout these areas.

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What does the genetic diversity of blackchin tilapia reveal about its introduction to Thailand?

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