Genetic characterization of northern snakehead (Channa argus) populations in China using microsatellite markers

► The genetic characterization of northern snakehead populations in China was first investigated using microsatellite markers. ► The northern snakehead populations showed high levels of genetic diversity. ► Significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg were found in the eight populations. ► Many alleles (especially the private alleles) of northern snakehead are facing a risk of becoming extinct. ► These results are useful for the evaluation and conservation of the northern snakehead in China.