A simple genetic identification method for Northeast Atlantic smoothhound sharks (Mustelus spp.)
Farrell, E.D.; Clarke, M.W.; Mariani, S. (2009). A simple genetic identification method for Northeast Atlantic smoothhound sharks (Mustelus spp.). ICES J. Mar. Sci./J. Cons. int. Explor. Mer 66(3): 561-565. https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsn218
In: ICES Journal of Marine Science. Academic Press: London. ISSN 1054-3139; e-ISSN 1095-9289, more
Considerable ambiguity exists in the identification of the commercially valuable smoothhound sharks (Mustelus spp.) in the Northeast (NE) Atlantic. The lack of a clear and accurate method of identification prevents the collation of reliable species-specific landings and survey data for these fish and hinders the accurate delineation of the distribution ranges of species and stock boundaries, making it impossible to apply sound species-specific conservation and management strategies. This paper reports on the development of a multiplex PCR reaction that utilizes a set of mtDNA primers for the identification of Mustelus asterias, Mustelus mustelus, and Galeorhinus galeus. The high throughput method allows for the rapid and cost-effective identification of large numbers of samples; its application to 431 fish collected between 2006 and 2008 also raises important questions regarding the biogeography of the genus Mustelus in the NE Atlantic.
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