25th Annual Student Research Conference
A Statistical Analysis of the Effects of Waterway Impoundment on Population Genetic Structure of the Stream Fish Semotilus atromaculatus
Erin L. Farmer
Dr. Stephen Hudman, Faculty Mentor
The presence of impoundments such as dams and lakes can lead to habitat fragmentation for aquatic organisms. Due to fragmentation, locations suitable for habitation become separated by sub-optimal habitat. Fragmentation can cause a decrease in dispersal of individuals between the isolated fragments, which can lead to decreased genetic connectivity and subsequent population fragmentation. This study aimed to examine effects of habitat fragmentation in an aquatic system by analyzing genetic data from 51 Creek Chub, Semotilus atromaculatus, capture sites distributed over three impounded waterways and a 280 km stretch of the Kansas River. Microsatellite markers from 11 different loci were used to determine allelic richness, gene diversity, level of heterozygosity, and the extent of inbreeding. Principal components analysis and genetic clustering were used to see the effect of habitat fragmentation on genetic structure. Knowledge about the impact of habitat fragmentation on the Creek Chub populations will aid in future conservation efforts.
Keywords: Ecology, Genetics, Creek Chub, Habitat Fragmentation
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 314-1
Location: MG 1098
Time: 1:00