Diversity of Fish Genetic Resources below the Species Level, Characterization and Applications in Resource Management

Intraspecific variation includes the genetic and phenotypic diversity found within and among populations that are often threatened by a reduction in population, local extinctions, climate change, and anthropogenic activities. Documentation of these below-species level variations constitutes the primary step towards conservation. High-resolution genetic markers can potentially be deployed to understand the pattern of genetic diversity at intra and inter-specific levels. The inferences drawn from genetic diversity analysis holds many applications, mainly taxonomy/systematics of species, understanding their genetic connectivity, identifying the breeding populations/ parentage assignment, fisheries management, and conservation measures including ranching programs for the purpose of genetic rescue and stock enhancement of wild relatives. These variations form strong foundation for creating base populations in a selective breeding program. With the adoption of novel high-resolution molecular tools and genome-wide approach, a comprehensive set of applications relevant to fisheries management, aquaculture development, biosecurity, and traceability in the supply chain system, can successfully provide momentum to the sectorial growth. This article highlights the significance and need for intraspecific genetic variabilities; and presents lead research undertaken for registering the genetic stocks and elite germplasm in the country, along with significant breakthroughs globally.