Predominance of genetic monogamy by females in a hammerhead shark, Sphyrna tiburo: implications for shark conservation

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2004.02178.x
• Publication Date: 2004-12-27T20:22:42Z
• Authors: Demian D. Chapman; Paulo A. Prodöhl; James Gelsleichter; Charles A. Manire; Mahmood S. Shivji
• Keywords: Chondrichthyes; Genetic divergence

Abstract There is growing interest in the mating systems of sharks and their relatives (Class Chondrichthyes) because these ancient fishes occupy a key position vertebrate phylogeny are increasingly need conservation due to widespread overexploitation. Based on precious few genetic field observational studies, current speculation that polyandrous strategies multiple paternity may be common as they most other vertebrates. Here, we test this hypothesis by examining system bonnethead shark, Sphyrna tiburo , using microsatellite DNA profiling 22 litters (22 mothers, 188 embryos genotyped at four polymorphic loci) obtained from locations along west coast Florida. Contrary expectations based ability female S. store sperm, social nature species 100% observed two coastal shark species, over 81% sampled females produced sired single male (i.e. monogamy). When occurred there was an indication increased incidence larger mothers with bigger litters. Our data suggest exhibit complex high degree interspecific variability, result some more susceptible loss variation face escalating fishing pressure. findings, knowledge elasmobranch should important component management programmes for heavily exploited species.