Genomics Program

Genetics: Sample projects

Tracking red drum stock enhancement.
Using microsatellite genetic markers, we successfully identify recaptured hatchery offspring by comparing their DNA to the broodstock. By the same process, we can also differentiate them from wild fish, providing valuable information about the success of a stock enhancement program. A related project is examining the effective population size of the Charleston Harbor red drum population using red drum samples from 1992 to 2003. Contact: Mike Denson or Stacey Robbins.

Relevance of marine reserves in conservation of our marine resources.
Using groupers as representative of top predators and grunts as representative of their prey, we use DNA markers to evaluate how populations are interrelated along the U.S. east coast and in the Caribbean. This information is then used to supplement the current fishery management practices of marine reserves. Contact: Robert Chapman.

Population structure of marine fish.
We showed that the red porgy along the coast from North Carolina to Texas are genetically similar, and using archived otoliths, that the genetic makeup of the population has not changed significantly since 1973. Contact: Robert Chapman or Pat Harris.