Phylogenetic Analysis of Endemic Fish from the Maros Karst Region, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

The Maros Karst is known for having a unique geomorphological structure with a diversity of endemic flora and fauna. The hydrology of this karst area is generally dominated by underground rivers with various freshwater ecosystems, which are generally dominated by endemic fish typical to Sulawesi. This study aims at identifying endemic fish of Maros Karst rivers using morphological and phylogenetic analysis as the baseline for further endemic fish conservation. Morphological analysis was done by comparing fish samples’ morphological characteristics with those from fish taxonomy references. Phylogenetic analysis was carried out using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis with the target gene Cytochrome C oxidase 1 (CO1). The results showed there are five endemic fish species from four families and three orders from the Maros Karst area with a genetic distance value between 0.0 to 0.275. These species make particular adaptations both morphologically and genetically to the karst ecosystem. However, it is necessary to understand the evolution of these fishes to establish effective conservation measures. Therefore, it is necessary to have a management strategy to ensure the sustainability of endemic fish populations and as well as the sustainability of the karst ecosystem as a whole. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers