Fine-Scale Population Genetic Structure of Yellow Perch: A Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Lake Erie Stocks

Little is known about the genetic relationships among yellow perch (Perca flavescens), whose dynamics likely influence stock structure. We analyze the genetic “portfolio” of fine-scale yellow perch stock structure across Lake Erie to evaluate its organization over spatial (spawning sites) and temporal scales (annual data). Genetic stock structure is tested using 15 nuclear DNA microsatellite loci from 945 spawning individuals, to discern patterns among: (1) 13 primary Lake Erie spawning sites, (2) years 2001-2009, (3) the sexes, (4) age cohorts, (5) lake basins, and (6) Management Units (MUs). Analyses incorporate pairwise comparisons, Mantel regression, BARRIER, Bayesian STRUCTURE, GENECLASS assignment, hierarchical AMOVA partitioning, and CONTRIB tests. Results indicate significant genetic divergence among (1) the 13 Lake Erie spawning groups, with (2) some variation among years, but relatively consistent spatial patterning. AMOVA partitioning analyses indicate no difference (3) between sexes or (4) among age cohorts, and lack of significant partitioning by (5) lake basins or (6) MUs. CONTRIB analyses reveal differences in relative contributions of given spawning groups to genetic diversity and distinctiveness. These findings may aid managers in evaluating the relative importance of spawning groups to genetic diversity and maintenance of stock structure, as well as assessing changes at given sites.