Project: An intensive genetic study of Atlantic salmon populations of the R. Foyle system, including assessment of population contribution to mixed stock fisheries

Part of: Freshwater ecosystems management

Project: An intensive genetic study of Atlantic salmon populations of the River Foyle system, including assessment of population contribution to mixed stock fisheries

Project Leader:

Dr Walter Crozier

Project Objectives

This project will provide an intensive study of the population genetics of wild Atlantic salmon in the River Foyle system, using the latest DNA techniques to examine both broad and fine scale genetic diversity and population structure in this complex system of rivers and tributaries. The main objective is to determine population structure and apply this information to management of the resource, to help support sustainability of production, upon which the commercial and recreational fisheries critically depend.

Journal Articles

  • Ensing, D. , Crozier, W.W. , Boylan, P. , O’Maoil'eidigh, N. , McGinnity, P. (2013). An analysis of genetic stock identification on a small geographical scale using microsatellite markers, and its application in the management of a mixed-stock fishery for Atlantic salmon Salmo salar in Ireland. Journal of Fish Biology, 82:2080-2094
  • Ensing, D. , Prodöhl, P.A. , McGinnity, P. , Boylan, P. , O’Maoileidigh, N. , Crozier, W.W. (2012). Complex pattern of genetic structuring in the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) of the River Foyle system in northwest Ireland: disentangling the evolutionary signal from population stochasticity. Ecology and Evolution, 1(3):359-372