A recent study has unveiled significant genetic diversity among black-lipped pearl oysters (*Pinctada margaritifera*) across French Polynesia. This discovery is crucial for the region's pearl farming industry, the second-largest economic resource after tourism.
Researchers analyzed over 26,000 genetic markers from hundreds of oysters across 24 islands. They found distinct genetic populations in four of the five archipelagos, excluding the Austral Archipelago, highlighting unique genetic signatures.
The findings emphasize the need to integrate population genomics with larval dispersal modeling for effective conservation. This approach is vital for sustainable pearl oyster management and future breeding programs focused on specific pearl color traits.