A genetic approach to the conservation of Arctic charr in North Wales: past, present and future

Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) are one of Britain’s rarest freshwater fish species. However, little is known about the Welsh Arctic charr, commonly known as ‘Torgoch’, which are currently experiencing a rapid decline. This study will focus on a population of Arctic charr found in Llyn (lake) Padarn, which has been subjected to numerous anthropogenic stressors and are believed to be on the brink of extinction. Using twenty microsatellite markers, we aim to estimate the effective population size (N_e) of Arctic charr in Llyn Padarn using both temporal and single sample estimates. Historically, charr from Llyn Padarn were stocked into Ffynnon Llugwy-a lake now being used to re-stock Llyn Padarn. However, it is likely that Ffynnon Llugwy comprises of multiple populations. We hypothesise that N_e in Llyn Padarn is small and will show a heterozygote excess indicative of a recent population bottleneck due to the recently constructed hydropower station, and that a mixed stock analysis of Ffynnon Llugwy will reveal multiple populations. Results from this study can then be used for conservation management of the Welsh Arctic charr to ensure that this iconic species remains in the glacial lakes of North Wales.