Understanding the genetic structure and diversity of the Weedy Seadragon population along Australia’s east coast
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The Weedy Seadragon is a camouflaged fish found in the southern temperate waters of Australia from the central NSW coast around the south coast of Australia to south-western WA.1
Researchers from the University of Technology–Sydney, have used nuclear DNA to examine genetic similarities and differences between Weedy Seadragon populations across New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania, uncovering valuable information about the structure of these populations. While they are not listed as endangered, there is concern that populations are in decline and if numbers continue to fall, this may lead to further loss of genetic diversity which could have an impact on future generations of Weedy Seadragons.
The genetic data will be important for environmental researchers and ecologists to consider in the future management of east coast seadragon populations.
