Characterization of genetic diversity of unicorn leatherjacket filefish, Aluterus monoceros (Linnaeus, 1758) along the Indian Coast using mitochondrial DNA markers

Aluterus monoceros, commonly known as the Unicorn leatherjacket filefish, has a circumglobal distribution and was infrequently recorded in Indian trawl landings prior to 2008. In recent years, substantial catches have been reported from major fish landing centres along the Indian coast, establishing it as a targeted fishery. Despite its growing commercial importance, the population structure of this species remains largely unexplored. This study assesses the genetic diversity of A. monoceros along the Indian coastline using mitochondrial DNA markers. The analysis revealed high haplotype diversity, indicating considerable genetic variation within the species. Results from the Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) showed minimal genetic differentiation among populations. Low Φ_ST values suggested extensive gene flow among populations across the Indian coast. Neutrality tests further indicated signals of recent population expansions or selective sweeps. This study provides baseline information on the genetic diversity and population structure of A. monoceros, supporting the existence of a predominantly panmictic population with minor regional variation. The findings highlight the feasibility of managing populations along the Indian coast as a single genetic management unit.