Population genetic structure of the gold-spotted pond frog (Pelophylax chosenicus) and its phylogenetic context within the genus Pelophylax.

ABSTRACT: Amphibian populations are rapidly declining worldwide due to habitat degradation and climate change, with species occupying narrow ecological niches facing particularly high extinction risks. Effective conservation requires a clear understanding of species-specific genetic diversity and population structure. In this study, we performed a population-level genetic analysis of the gold-spotted pond frog, Pelophylax chosenicus, a vulnerable amphibian species native to Korea and northeastern China. Microsatellite-based analyses revealed pronounced genetic structuring across populations, with fluvial systems playing a key role in delineating population boundaries. The degree of genetic differentiation was significantly related to the geographic distance between populations. Marginal populations

SUBMITTER: Jeong D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12864850 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature