Genetic diversity of the green turtle nesting populations in Yaeyama Archipelago, Japan

Abstract

Patterns of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation were used to analyze the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of green turtle (Chelonia mydas) populations in Yaeyama Archipelago, southwestern Japan. Six mtDNA haplotypes were observed among 42 nesting green turtles. Nucleotide diversities at Yaeyama populations are higher than other sea turtle populations, reflecting all rookeries are comprised of a mixture of divergent haplotypes. Because genetic diversity is believed to represent the ability of populations to adapt or respond to environmental changes, it is important to protect Yaeyama nesting colonies for conserving this endangered species.