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Genomic Variation Lab
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Dr. Amy Welsh |
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Current Position: Assistant Professor, State University of New York, Oswego
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Education
Ph.D., Ecology, 2006
Dissertation title: "Lake sturgeon conservation in the Great Lakes: scaling it up from genetics to policy"
Lake sturgeon research project:
Primer development for disomic microsatellite loci:
Libraries were created for four different microsatellite repeat motifs, resulting in the design of 254 primer pairs. These primer pairs were screened on both lake sturgeon individuals as well as green sturgeon (A. medirostris) individuals.
Microsatellite standardization among labs
Standardization of microsatellite markers and allelic designations is currently being done. Samples of both known and unknown genotypes are being sent to participating laboratories to facilitate standardization. If you are currently working on lake sturgeon genetics using microsatellites or are planning to begin research, please contact me at abwelsh@ucdavis.edu for a standardization kit.
Population genetics of lake sturgeon populations
Using microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA, I am examining the population genetic structure of 23 lake sturgeon spawning populations throughout the Great Lakes basin. I am also researching the genetics of river residency in lake sturgeon of the Lake of the Woods/Rainy River system, using AFLPs.
Final report submitted to the Great Lakes Fishery Trust detailing microsatellite results
Development of a genetics-based management plan for the Great Lakes Basin
Genetic data obtained from our laboratory, as well as other laboratories participating in standardization, is being compiled to provide an overview of lake sturgeon population structure. I am using this compiled data to create stocking guidelines. The guidelines use a decision-tree approach to determine if sturgeon should be stocked in a proposed location, which populations would be appropriate donors, and methods for implementing a breeding program.
Understanding the policy framework within which lake sturgeon management exists
My interest in the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the protection it can provide led to a case study of the factors that contribute to effective management of interjurisdictional species in the absence of ESA protection.
Selected Publications
