Comparison of structure and genetic diversity of Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) using cytochrome B mitochondrial gene in northern and southern regions of the country

The Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) is one of the most abundant and widely distributed species in the world, among ducks. The aim of this study was to investigate the structure and genetic diversity of Aythya ferina in Iran using cytochrome b gene.

For this study, samples were taken from 10 pieces of Aythya ferina that were taken from the north and south of the country. Haplotypic and nucleotide analyzes were performed using MEGA, Papart, DNAsp and Network software.

In general, 7 different haplotypes were identified by examining 8 fragments of 929 pairs of cytochrome b gene of Aythya ferina. Haplotype diversity was calculated 0.818, nucleotide diversity was calculated 0.00149. The value of Nm or the amount of gene flow between the sampling logic was 1.383, which indicates a high gene flow and in other words, a very small gene distance between the populations of this species and its European and Asian populations. Rogers-Harping index, Tajima index and Fu Fs were calculated 0.112, -0.028 and -1.288, respectively. The mismatch distribution diagram is also plotted as a single view, all of which show an indeterminate population history similar to the model of sudden expansion.

According to the results obtained from the haplotype network and the cognitive tree, as well as a slight genetic difference between the studied populations, there is a possibility of migration of this bird from both Europe and East Asia to Iran. Considering the results of the present study, Iranian wetlands should be recognized as important and key areas and the necessary management and protection measures should be taken in these areas.