Genetic diversity and population structure of miiuy croaker populations in East China Sea revealed by the mitochondrial DNA control region sequence

► Genetic diversity of 6 miiuy croaker samples in East China Sea was assessed. ► Miiuy croakers in East China Sea have undergone a population expansion. ► Unique haplotypes detected could be used as indicators of stock identification. ► This study is the first investigation of the population genetics of miiuy croaker.