High genetic variation of Portunus pelagicus from Makassar Straits revealed by RAPD markers and mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequences

Abstract

The blue swimmer crab, Portunus pelagicus, is presently managed as a single stock. In this study, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers and 16S rRNA sequences were used to understand the genetic diversity and parentage of P. pelagicus from Makassar Strait. A total of 150 samples were collected from the sea, grouped by gender and morphological features. DNA genome was performed at approximately 23130 base pairs (bp) and mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequences in the 500 to 600 bp. The percentage of polymorphic band using OPA-5, OPA-11, and OPA-17 primers was high (44.4 to 100%). Genetic identity ranged between 0.7266 and 0.9050 and genetic distance between 0.1008 and 0.3214. Alignment of 16S rRNA sequences shows 96 to 99% homology with P. pelagicus available in GenBank. Both RAPD markers and 16S rRNA sequences indicate that there was a high genetic variation observed among population, which formed two clusters. Specific unique bands found at 450 and 600 bp in OPA-11 gives an indication of hybridization among the population. The variation of white spot pattern on the carapace can be used as indicators of differentiation in population and parentage of P. pelagicus. Therefore, farmers or hatchery operators can continue to use the population as sources of natural broodstock.

Keywords: Portunus pelagicus, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), 16S rRNA, genetic, aquaculture