Genetic structuring in Atlantic haddock contrasts with current management regimes

The advent of novel genetic methods has made it possible to investigate population structure and connectivity in mobile marine fish species: knowledge of which is essential to ensure a sustainable fishery. Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) is a highly exploited marine teleost distributed along the coast and continental shelf on both sides of the North Atlantic Ocean. However, little is known about its population structure. Here, we present the first study using single nucleotide polymorphism markers to assess the genetic population structure of haddock at multiple geographic scales, from the transatlantic to the local (fjord) level. Genotyping 138 SNP loci in 1329 individuals from 19 locations across the North Atlantic revealed three main genetic clusters, consisting of a Northwest Atlantic-, a Northeast Arctic- and a Northeast Atlantic cluster. We also observed a genetically distinct fjord population and a pattern of isolation-by-distance in the Northeast Atlantic. Our results contrast with the current management regime for this species in the Northeast Atlantic, as we found structure within some management areas. The study adds to the growing recognition of population structuring in marine organisms in general, and fishes in particular, and is of clear relevance for management of haddock in the Northeast Atlantic.

Methods
A SNP set of 138 SNPs for Atlantic haddock.

The SNPs were constructed from a ddRAD library, based on 16 individuals (8 from the waters around Bear Island and 8 from the Møre coast).