A Molecular Genetic Evaluation of the Taxonomy of Eels of the Genus Anguilla (Pisces: Anguilliformes)

This study was designed to evaluate the taxonomy of the eel genus Anguilla based on both molecular genetic and morphological characters. We applied Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism of the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene and morphological analysis to examine a total of 312 specimens collected worldwide. In conjunction with genetic clustering and four previously described morphological groups identified by color markings, maxillary bands, and position of the dorsal fin origin, 14 different taxa were distinguished among the analyzed specimens. In addition, one of the 14 taxa was further divided into two taxa based on the apparent difference in the range of vertebral counts. Thus, in total, 15 taxa were confirmed in the genus Anguilla. Molecular genetic characters are useful in understanding the taxonomy of the genus Anguilla.