Walleye Population Genetics in the Great Lakes

A variety of genetic marker systems have been used to delineate the hierarchical genetic structure of walleye in the Great Lakes, and have closely followed advances in available tools (biochemical and DNA markers) and analytical techniques.  Geographic genetic patterning within and among the Great Lakes reflect the interplay between postglacial events and phylogeographic ancestry of founding lineages, as well as the subsequent expansion and divergence of regional and local stocks in response to habitat availability and conditions.  More recently, habitat alteration, stocking, and localized overharvest have all affected genetic signatures of populations within each Great Lake.  Population genetic analyses have been used to evaluate stock structure, contributions of genetic populations to commercial and recreational mixed-stock fisheries, assess stocking success, and support rehabilitation efforts.  This talk provides an overview of the many diverse studies that have examined the genetic structure and diversity of walleye in the Great Lakes, as well as applications of genetic data for evaluating and guiding contemporary and future management.