Mitochondrial DNA Analysis of Chesapeake Bay White Perch, Morone americana

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Abstract
Variation in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was examined via restriction endonuclease digestions in 254 white perch, Morone americana, from eight tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay. Twelve endonucleases revealed a total of 53 restriction sites along the mtDNA molecule. Seven of the enzymes examined produced a single restriction profile for all individuals surveyed. Five enzymes Eco RV, Pvu II, Sma II, Sst I and Xba I revealed restriction site variation among 10 matriarchal clones. A single genotype, C-1, was found in 206 individuals from seven of the eight tributaries. Three genotypes, C-2, C-3 and C-4 were found in the Patuxent River and differed from the common type by at least one mutation event. Two other genotypes were confined to the York (C-5) or York and James rivers (C-6). The Potomac River population contained individuals of four different lineages, D-1, D-2, E-1, and E-2. Interpopulation variation accounted for more than 50% of the total variation. Clustering of genetic distances among rivers and heterogeneity chi square tests indicated the existence of three white perch stocks in Chesapeake Bay. The results suggest that significant mixing occurs among populations residing in tributaries of the eastern and upper shores of the Bay. Divergence was greater among lower Bay populations and may result from restricted migration due to the salinity preferences of M. americana. Salinity barriers to genetic exchange may break down during episodic weather events.

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