Fish Genomic Analyses

We provide practical genomic services to support fisheries and aquatic environmental assessment, monitoring, and research. Our work is typically delivered in collaboration with trusted partners, agencies, and other technical specialists. Some steps can be completed in-house, while others are completed externally depending on project needs, equipment requirements, and QA/QC standards.

Services include:

eDNA program design, sampling, qPCR analysis, and reporting: Environmental DNA can be collected from water samples using field filtration methods, followed by DNA extraction from the filter. Species-specific qPCR assays can then be used to test for the presence or absence of target fish, amphibians, pathogens, or invasive species. This is useful for detecting rare species, confirming occupancy, monitoring restoration sites, or screening large areas with minimal disturbance.

Sex determination (when physical traits are absent): Fin clips or other tissue samples can be analyzed using PCR-based markers to determine genetic sex. This can support hatchery programs, broodstock assessment, population monitoring, or studies where sex ratios are important but external characteristics are unreliable.

Species confirmation: Tissue samples, fin clips, eggs, larvae, or uncertain field identifications can be tested using species-specific PCR assays. This is useful for confirming difficult identifications, hybridization concerns, early life stages, or visually similar species.

Genetic Stock Identification support: We also provide data analysis and interpretation support for Genetic Stock Identification projects, helping summarize, visualize, and report genetic assignment results for fisheries management, monitoring, or environmental assessment.

Our role is to connect field ecology, molecular methods, and clear reporting so that genomic tools are applied appropriately, transparently, and in a way that supports practical decision-making.