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Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the genetic structure of Dicentrarchus labrax populations sampled in the NorthEast Mediterranean. These are the main areas where the hatcheries collect their broodstock candidates from the wild in Turkey, which is the biggest European sea bass producer in Europe. Five samples collected from the Turkish Levantine and Aegean Sea coasts were analysed in addition to the Atlantic and Ionian samples (total 305 individuals) for 12 microsatellite loci. The present results revealed that the Aegean populations from Homa and Doğanbey, where the sea bass culture is mostly conducted in Turkish Aegean Sea, were closely related (FST 0.00347, P>0.01). Another close relation was found between Yumurtalık and Doğanbey (FST 0.01148, P>0.01), which might be the result of massive fry transfers from Yumurtalık (East Levantine coast) to Doğanbey till 2000 in Turkey. Obtained results also show gene flow from Greek to Turkish Aegean population which most probably was the consequence of frequent juvenile transfers from Greek hatcheries to Turkish fish farms between 2000 and 2010.