DNA Analysis of mtDNA COI Gene in the Sharp-toothed Eel (Muraenesox cinereus Forskal) from Yeosu, Jinhae, Jeju, Goseoung, Jangheung and Haenam Populations in Korea Using PCR-aided RFLP

The production of the sharp-toothed eel by commercial catch off waters of Korea is annually declined after 1978. This study was carried out to obtain the stock management of the sharp-toothed eel using the PCR-aided RFLP method. The mtDNA COI gene was amplified using species-specific primers and PCR product was observed to 700 bp. Amplified DNA fragments were treated with six kinds of restriction enzymes (BaeHI, EcoRI, PstI, Ksp22, HinfI and HaeIII). The treatment of HaeIII showed a distinct PCR product between Yeosu/Jinhae/Jeju/Goseoung and Jangheung/Haenam populations that were observed from 300 to 400 bp in reference to 100 bp molecular marker. However, DNA fragment within populations had an identical pattern. The phylogenetic homology is 82% between two populations inferred from RFLP PCR product pattern using NTsysPC ver. 2.1. The use of HaeIII plays an important role in discriminating populations. It is thought that adults after over-wintering in the southern part of Jeju migrate to the Yeosu, Jinhae and Goseoung regions to spawn instead of to southwestern waters. Individuals within populations showed a relatively active genetic mixing and migration regardless of geography. However, the genetic ancestor of Jangheung and Haenam populations is appeared to be more adjacent to China or Japan than Jeju.