Decoding Local Adaptation in the Exploited Native Marine Mussel <i>Mytilus chilensis</i>: Genomic Evidence from a Reciprocal Transplant Experiment.

ABSTRACT: Local adaptations are important in evolution as they drive population divergence and preserve standing genetic diversity essential for resilience under climate change and human impacts. Protecting locally adapted populations is essential for aquaculture species. However, high larval connectivity and frequent translocations challenge this in Chilean blue mussel (Mytilus chilensis) aquaculture, a world-class industry in Chiloé Island. This study examined local adaptations in two ecologically distinct natural beds, Cochamó (northernmost inner sea of Chiloé) and Yaldad (southernmost tip), through a 91-day reciprocal transplant experiment and genomic evidence. Cochamó mussels grew faster in their native environment (0.015 g/day) than Yaldad (0.004 g/day), though growth declined upon tran

SUBMITTER: Yevenes M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11817969 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature