Genetic population structure of the wild Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus) in Korea and Japan based on microsatellite DNA markers

► Genetic population structure of abalone in Korea and Japan was first investigated. ► Genetic structure of 14 wild abalone populations was separated into three groups. ► Genetic differences were observed between H. discus hannai and H. discus discus. ► Genetic differences were observed within H. discus hannai.