Genetic variability in the Sardinian population of the manila clam, Ruditapes philippinarum

► We analyzed 7 R. philippinarum samples, 6 from NE Sardinia and 1 from N Adriatic. ► We surveyed the genetic variability at six microsatellite loci. ► We found lack of genetic population substructuring within the NE Sardinia. ► Lack of differentiation between the two areas suggests a common gene pool of origin. ► Concerns arise for the conservation in NE Sardinia of the autochthonous R. decussatus.