Genomic Signatures of Selection in Yellow Perch Populations with Variable Growth Trajectories and Mortality Rates

Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) are an important sport fish and prey component of fish communities across the Midwestern United States.  This species also exhibits striking differences in growth trajectories and mortality rates that can affect their recreational and ecological value.  The goal of this project was to use genomic techniques to investigate the genetic basis of variation in growth patterns among populations of yellow perch sampled from four lakes in South Dakota.  We used restriction-site associated DNA sequencing to genotype thousands of genetic markers in each population.  We then paired these genotypes with length-at-age data to determine whether certain genetic markers were associated with growth.  Additionally, we tested for signatures of natural selection to determine whether significant adaptive divergence existed among populations.  Our results represent an important initial step towards determining the genetic basis of growth and mortality variation in this recreationally and ecologically valuable species.