Biodiversity Research Seminar Series (BRS)
BRS: Shawn Narum "Local adaptation in steelhead across aquatic landscapes of the Columbia River"
November 20, 2019, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
host: Rick Taylor, cookies provided by Natalie W. and Armando G.
abstract: Anadromous species such as steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) undergo long-distance migrations across geographical regions that consist of highly heterogeneous habitats. This may lead to local adaptation and signatures of adaptive variation associated with phenotypic traits that may be distinct across broad aquatic landscapes. Extensive genomics research in steelhead has revealed strong signals of local adaptation in steelhead throughout the Columbia River and genes of major effect for phenotypic traits. Development of GTseq panels with both neutral and candidate markers has enabled monitoring of phenotypic and genetic variation in natural populations and hatchery-reared stocks. This is a promising approach to maintain a broad portfolio of phenotypic diversity in steelhead that can buffer against exploitation and increase species persistence in disturbed ecosystems.