Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Mediterranean Green Sea Turtles ( Chelonia mydas ): Insights From Mitochondrial Short Tandem Repeats

OpenAlex İngilizce

ABSTRACT The analysis of the genetic structure of populations of the Mediterranean green sea turtle ( Chelonia mydas , C. mydas ) is essential for the development of sustainable management strategies and in ensuring the effective conservation of the species. In order to obtain more comprehensive data on the genetic connectivity and migratory behaviour of sea turtles, genetic diversity should be evaluated in detail using advanced molecular markers. Maternal genetic diversity based on mitochondrial short tandem repeats (mtSTRs) in the D‐loop region of 327 samples was assessed to elucidate the genetic connectivity and population structure of C. mydas in the Mediterranean. Among the 42 haplotypes identified, nine novel haplotypes were found in stranded individuals from Türkiye, four from Cyprus and one from Tunisia. The origins of the stranded individuals were also investigated through mixed stock analysis. The results show that the genetic structure of C. mydas populations in the Mediterranean is more complex than previously thought. In particular, the Turkish coasts stand out as an important migration and feeding area where different genetic groups come together. The findings suggest that protecting nesting and feeding areas, expanding genetic monitoring and enhancing international conservation cooperation are essential for the species' sustainability. In summary, this study enhances our understanding of the genetic structure of Mediterranean C. mydas populations and provides essential insights to support evidence‐based conservation strategies aimed at ensuring the long‐term viability of regional management units (RMUs) within the Mediterranean.