Population structure and connectivity of Octopus mimus: A complementary approach to enhance management of a benthic fishery in Peru

Sustainable fisheries require key information about species populations for sound management. The Peruvian octopus (Octopus mimus) is a species of economic importance to coastal communities, but few studies have investigated its genetic population structure and diversity along their distribution range in Peru. We examined the genetic population structure of O. mimus by assessing the genetic variability in COI and COIII genes in eight fishing locations distributed across three distinct biogeographic provinces. We found significant genetic population structure across the Peruvian coast and offshore islands, with two distinct clusters: one grouping individuals from locations within the Panamic and Transition Zone provinces and another including individuals from locations within the Peruvian province. This pattern was supported by both genetic markers. The observed genetic structure among O. mimus within Peruvian waters suggest the need to revise current management regulations. The observed differences may reflect the impact and variability of oceanographic conditions at different temporal scales and life history characteristics. Further studies should expand sampling to include additional localities along the distribution range of O. mimus to improve our understanding of this species’ connectivity, define stock boundaries and inform effective fisheries management strategies.