Project
Assessment of genetic diversity and structure of rehabilitated lean lake trout populations in Lake Superior
This project aims to understand the genetic diversity of lean lake trout in Lake Superior now that the species has been declared fully recovered. Although trout numbers have rebounded, managers do not know whether today’s populations are genetically diverse enough to remain healthy over the long term. They also do not know how much past hatchery stocking contributed to current wild fish. The research team will sample trout from 20–30 spawning locations across Lake Superior between 2025 and 2027. Using modern genetic tools, they will identify how many distinct spawning groups exist, how genetically diverse each group is, and how these groups are connected across the lake. A key outcome will be the development of a cost‑effective genetic test (a GT‑seq panel) that agencies can use in the future to quickly identify which spawning group a fish came from. This supports long‑term monitoring and informed management decisions.\\r\\n