Genome‐wide SNP genotyping reveals hidden population structure of an acroporid species at a subtropical coral island: Implications for coral restoration

It is essential to consider genetic composition for both conventional coral restoration management and initiating new interventions counter the significant global decline in living corals. Population structure at a fine spatial scale should be carefully evaluated before implementing strategies achieve self-sustaining ecosystems via restoration. This study investigated population of two acroporid species Kume Island, Okinawa, Japan. There were 140 colonies Acropora digitifera collected from seven sites, 81 tenuis six sites. In total, 384 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci A. 470 SNPs obtained using comparatively economical technique, Multiplexed ISSR Genotyping by sequencing. Observed heterozygosity was significantly lower than expected all SNP sites species, suggesting deficient diversity possibly caused past massive bleaching. Even though are broadcast spawners, different species. No detectable evident digitifera, but distinct clades found tenuis. The homogeneity Island suggests that this could used as focal active terms differentiation island. By contrast, unexpectedly included with little or no admixture within small area, representing reproductively isolated cryptic Thus, when tenuis, it would prudent avoid disturbing wild populations until question answered.