Genetic Diversity and Structure of Korean Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) for Determining Selective Breeding Groups

This study investigated the genetic diversity and structure of thirteen wild populations of <i>Crassostrea gigas</i> in Korea. The purpose of this investigation was to provide foundational data for selecting reference populations to enhance genetic diversity. Overall, the genetic diversity of Korean <i>C. gigas</i> was relatively low. Analysis using AMOVA, genetic differentiation, and DAPC revealed a genetic structure that was consistent with one group. This study identified reference populations to be used for selective breeding to increase the genetic diversity of Korean <i>C. gigas</i> and provided essential data on genetic diversity and structure for future selective breeding efforts in <i>C. gigas</i>.