Research summary
Canada is home to myriad fish species that have important commercial, recreational and cultural value. But human activities and climate change threaten these species. As Canada Research Chair in Responses of Fish to a Changing Environment, Dr. Patricia Schulte is using techniques from genomics, epigenomics, biochemistry and physiology to understand what makes fish species (or individuals within a species) vulnerable or resilient to environmental change.
She and her research team want to learn more about the genetic differences that may contribute to resilience. They are examining the epigenetic mechanisms that help fish species adapt to changing environments. They will use the knowledge they gain to make conservation hatcheries better at supporting wild fish populations and to increase the efficiency, sustainability and resilience of aquaculture operations and reduce pressures on wild fish. Ultimately, their work will contribute to the scientific knowledge needed to preserve Canada’s fish resources into the future.