Lack of population genetic structure among Brazilian populations of Callinectes danae (Brachyura: Portunidae): Implication for management and conservation

Abstract Recognizing genetic stocks can guide efficient management efforts for fisheries. This would guarantee sustainable exploitation of present fisheries, assist the recovery of depleted ones, and ensure the maintenance of different genetic lineages for the target species. The swimming crab Callinectes danae Smith, 1869 is an economically important species for several local western Atlantic coastal populations. This species can be found along all the Brazilian coast occurring in shallow waters. Considering the importance of this species, we investigated the presence of genetic stocks along its distribution aiming to provide information for fishery management. We used two mitochondrial markers (COI and 16S) to characterize individuals from many fishing areas comprising approximately 7000 km of extension. Our results indicate lack of genetic structure among populations of C. danae and signs of high connectivity. This scenario is probably result of great dispersal capability and tolerance for different marine environments. Therefore, C. danae is characterized as a single genetic stock along the Brazilian coast and future management should consider country-level plans.