Advisor: Brian Sloss
Genetic diversity and population structure of Wisconsin walleye
Genetic
diversity and the management of natural resources have a
well-established role in Wisconsin’s aquatic resource management
program. From 1994 -1997, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
(WDNR) established the Walleye Planning Committee and charged it with
the task of developing a plan to “Enhance, maintain, and improve
fishable walleye populations where appropriate, within balanced aquatic
communities; ensuring the protection of Wisconsin’s aquatic natural
resources.” One of the seven primary management goals focuses on the
protection and maintenance of the genetic diversity in walleye
populations. Maintaining genetic diversity of naturally recruiting populations is important for the future well-being of walleye. Genetic diversity is one of three levels of biological diversity recognized by the World Conservation Organization. The conservation of genetically distinct, locally-adapted populations of any species (i.e., spatial diversity) is important to maximize the adaptability and evolutionary potential for that species. By developing a genetic stock-model for Wisconsin that identifies these distinct genetic populations, proper management can be conducted for these populations ensuring their sustainability in the future.
This project will examine the genetic composition of spatially distributed naturally recruiting walleye (Sander vitreus) populations of Wisconsin. Overall genetic diversity levels of naturally recruiting walleye populations will be made clear and delineation of stocks will be accessed based on genetic stock identification. This study will address several of the explicit management goals and issues of the Wisconsin Management Team. In particular, this study provides crucial data and research describing the genetic resources of walleye in Wisconsin and the spatial variation crucial to understanding factors that can impact walleye genetic integrity. The findings of this study will permit more effective and efficient management for walleye populations of Wisconsin.