The current knowledge status of the genetic population structure of the European sardine (Sardina pilchardus): uncertainties to be solved for an appropriate fishery management

To achieve sustainable fisheries implies that resources’ management is carried out in accordance with biologically and ecologically relevant processes. In this context, to infer the boundaries of genetic stocks along their distribution crucial avoid depletion diversity induced by fishing pressure. Despite its remarkable ecological role commercial interest, there are still many uncertainties about population structure local adaptation processes European sardine (Sardina pilchardus) distributional range. Our analysis revealed addition uneven study effort throughout distribution, discrepancies when it comes delimiting populations, especially waters surrounding Iberian Peninsula. Also, powers markers applied studies were examined, showing allozymes detected a larger number significant pairwise values differentiation, while mtDNA-RFLP greater degree differentiation among stocks. Moreover, large all locations identified regardless marker type. Thereby, we provide discussion updated knowledge, contributing shape long-term genetically harvest strategies for pelagic fish, since our findings indicate mismatch between managed currently defined.