Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) in Korea based on complete mitochondrial genomes
This study investigates the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of the invasive bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus, in Korea based on complete mitochondrial genomes. Fourteen mitochondrial genome sequences were analyzed, including newly obtained sequences and those retrieved from public databases. Each mitochondrial genome is 16,488 bp in length and contains the typical set of 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes. Haplotype analyses of the protein-coding genes revealed low genetic divergence among Korean populations, with some haplotypes shared between individuals from Korea, Japan, and China, while individuals from the USA showed higher divergence. Phylogenetic analysis using concatenated protein-coding genes indicated that all Korean-collected individuals belong to a single species and exhibit closely related genetic structures. Principal coordinates analysis and TCS network analysis further support low genetic differentiation among Asian populations and higher divergence in North American populations. These data provide comprehensive insights into the genetic variation, population structure, and evolutionary relationships of L. macrochirus in Korea, and serve as a valuable resource for future studies on invasive species dynamics and conservation management.