Population structure based on whole-genome resequencing and adaptive evolutionary mechanisms of circadian entrainment in the endangered fish Percocypris pingi

Low genetic diversity and a simple population structure of P. pingi were determined. The Wuoluo River and Litang River can be recognized as new refuges for wild P. pingi and that the JP and YA hatchery populations are needed for the sustainable conservation and utilization of resources in the Yalong River and Jinsha River. The circadian entrainment may be an important adaptive evolutionary mechanism of P. pingi. The above results can help formulate science-based breeding protocols and provide necessary genetic data for managing both captive propagation and wild population reinforcement.