In East African countries, the O. niloticus species is the second most important fish species in terms of economic significance. However, localized overfishing, habitat degradation, and hybridization have resulted in populations’ decline that poses a threat to this species in this area. This study assessed the genetic diversity, population structure, demographic history, and effective population size of this species along the Malagarasi River. Comparisons were made between the population genetic structure and demographic history of populations of this species from Malagarasi River and other sites in the East Africa (EA) region. The study used COI gene sequences isolated from O. niloticus species collected along the Malagarasi River and COI gene sequences of this species from other sites in the EA region. The populations of O. niloticus from the Moyowosi had the highest haplotype diversity (0.80 ± 0.06) and nucleotide diversity (0.72 ± 0.41 %). At Ilagala, the lowest haplotype diversity (0.44 ± 0.13) and nucleotide diversity (0.16 ± 0.13 %) were found. Fixation index (Fst value) analysis resulted into significant genetic difference among the populations along Malagarasi River (Fst = 0.08419, P < 0.01). The Fst values and minimum spanning haplotype network revealed genetic break between population of O. niloticus from the Malagarasi River and other sites of the EA region. In order to ensure the sustainable exploitation of O. niloticus and other threatened fish species along the Malagarasi River, these findings urge for strengthening the implementation of fisheries laws, particularly in areas where samples exhibit low genetic diversity.
Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter is Ethiopia's most significantly important grain crop; however, its productivity is quite low (1.7 tons per hectare) due to a variety of issues, including the poor yield potential of varieties produced thus far. To achieve future production improvements in tef, comprehensive study of the crop's genetic variability and variety, utilizing both genetic and morphological markers, necessary. The study was designed to assess the genetic diversity of 64 tef genotypes utilizing 10 Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) markers. This investigation took place at the Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center in Holeta, Ethiopia. Field phenotypic diversity evaluation was conducted at two distinct locations: Debre Zeit and Worabe, applied a simple lattice design during 2020/21 season. Molecular analysis of variance demonstrated a substantial proportion of variation among individuals (46 %), followed closely variation among individuals (43 %), with the least variation observed within population (11 %). Concurrently, analysis of morphological data, encompassing twenty phenotypic characteristics, revealed significant variation (P ≤ 0.01) among almost all the tested genotypes for recorded parameters, as indicated by combined analysis of variance across sites. These findings underscore the high diversity among the studied genotypes, suggesting a considerable potential for crop improvement through direct selection and intra-specific hybridization strategies. From the perspectives of both conservation and utilization of tef genetic materials, there is a pressing need for more extensive and systematic molecular level research. Promoting field trials and genotype-by-environment interaction research is crucial. These efforts will enhance our understanding of tef genetic and contribute to its effective conservation and utilization.