LAUSR

Abstract The Chinese lake gudgeon is a small benthopelagic freshwater fish. It is presently threatened by human activities and environmental factors in China. Understanding the genetic diversity and population structure is fundamental for implementation of appropriate conservation measures and a sustainable management program. However, little is reported about the current genetic diversity and population structure. Here, we used ten microsatellite markers to genotype 175 individuals from six populations. Low levels of genetic diversity were found in all six tested populations. The Xiang river population showed the highest level of genetic diversity. Genetic differentiation was very low but significant among the Changyang, Changqidang and Mayang populations, but the Qiandao lake, Gan river, Xiang river populations all showed significant and strong differentiation from the other three populations. Contemporary gene flow was observed in among Changyang, Changqidang and Mayang populations and between Gan and Xiang river populations, respectively. This is the first genetic study to report the genetic diversity and population structure of S. sinensis and the results will be used to develop management and conservation strategies.