Taxonomic status of the three morphs (SB, SSB and ISB) of Lateolabrax japonicus was investigated using morphological and molecular methods.
Morphologically distinct two groups (SB + ISB vs SSB) were divided into two lineages based on mtDNA COI, but were not distinguished based on nDNA RAG2.
Structure analysis using six ms loci showed the existence of two genetically differentiated groups (SB + ISB vs SSB).
Our comprehensive studies indicate that SB + ISB is L. japonicus, and SSB is Lateolabrax maculatus.