To examine the role of selection, plasticity, and hybridization in the species applying bioinformatics to examine the role of selection, plasticity, and hybridization in the species relationships of…

To examine the role of selection, plasticity, and hybridization in the species applying bioinformatics to examine the role of selection, plasticity, and hybridization in the species relationships of great lakes coregoninesaward purposethe purpose of this award is to establish a cooperative agreement between the united states geological survey great lakes science center and the university of michigan school for environment and sustainability that will advance understanding of species relationships of great lakes prey fish (coregonines) and support the conservation and restoration of native fish populations. Specifically, this project will help build bioinformatics capacity, establish a collaborative network, and determine baselines of historical and contemporary diversity across the great lakes.activities to be performedfirst, this project will evaluate spatial and temporal diversity in wild stocks of coregonines. Restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (radseq) data from wild populations supporting hatchery stocks will be evaluated for spatial and temporal variation in genomic diversity. These data will directly support on-going restoration actions in saginaw BAY, lake huron, and are essential to ensuring that conservation and restoration practices maintain or enhance genetic diversity, a cornerstone of ecosystem health.second, genomic regions under divergent selection will be identified through analysis of low-coverage whole genome sequencing data from species and discrete populations in the great lakes cisco species complex. These data can used to build new tools for the rapid identification of stocks and SEX, and for evaluating the success of hybridization among species. This information also supports a critical need identified by regional managers for a better understanding of the taxonomic relationships among great lakes ciscoes.third, high-coverage whole genome sequencing will be used to determine the role of selection and hybridization in historical and contemporary diversity within the great lakes cisco species complex. Understanding these evolutionary processes will shed light on how species have adapted to rapid environmental changes and how hybridization has impacted genetic diversity and species integrity. This knowledge is vital for predicting future trends and planning long-term conservation strategies.fourth, a robust, collaborative network of local researchers who specialize in genomics, bioinformatics, and coregonine science will be built. This network will also enhance the regional capacity for tackling complex scientific questions and applying findings to real-world management and conservation challenges in the great lakes. Scientists from USGS and UM seas will mentor, train, and support a postdoctoral scientist in data analysis, contextualizing results within ongoing research on coregonine ecology, and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals.