Mitochondrial DNA markers to identify commercial spiny lobster species (Panulirus spp.) from the Pacific coast of Mexico: an application on phyllosoma larvae

Molecular markers based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are extensively used to study genetic relationships. mtDNA has been used in phylogenetic studies to understand the evolutionary history of species because it is maternally inherited and is not subject to genetic recombination (Gyllensten et al., 1991). The high mutation rate of mtDNA makes it a useful tool for differentiating between closely related species (Brown et al., 1979)—a tool that is especially important when significant variations occur between species, but not within species (Hill et al., 2001; Blair et al., 2006; Chow et al., 2006a).

Characterization of genetic biodiversity of Nile perch, Lates niloticus, Tilapiines, Haplochromine flock and Ningu (Labeo victorianus) in the Victoria Lake Basin: an overview

Genetic biodiversity is the vaflatlOn among individuals within and between units of interbreeding individuals (populations) of a species. It includes inheritable and transmittable differences that occur between individuals andlor popuhitions of a given species through reproductive interaction. There exists enormous variability among individuals andlor populations of a species for most living organisms, and most of this variation is inheritable. differences among individuals arise through mutation and via recombination of genes during meiosis. These ifferences are then transmitted to successive generations through sexual reproduction and maintained in the populations through processes such as natural selection and genetic drift. Unfortunately much of this variation is normally threatened and often in danger of extinction because most focus in conservation of natural resources is put at saving species or habitats than varieties or strains of a species