Population genetics of Pelagia noctiluca in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea

What is it about?

For the first time in Scyphozoa, a library of nine microsatellite markers has been used to investigate the spatial and temporal pattern of genetic variability in the holoplanktonic jellyfish Pelagia noctiluca in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea. In spite of its high dispersal potential, P.noctiluca appears to have intra-bloom localized recruitment and/or individual cohesiveness. Our results provide first evidence of family structures and consequent genetic patchiness.

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Why is it important?

Pelagia noctiluca populations in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea are seemingly characterised by a spatio-temporal chaotic genetic patchiness and random genetic drift may represent a leading micro-evolutionary force shaping the genetic structure of this species. This study provides the first evidence of family structures and consequent genetic patchiness in a highly dispersive holopelagic jellyfish species.