NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: Inuvialuit Settlement Region

Tags: biology, genetics, taxonomy, arctic char, aquaculture

Objective(s): The project will develop new, improved lines of arctic Charr for the aquaculture industry by sampling arctic charr from sites throughout the Canadian arctic, characterizing the charr physiologically and genetically, and selectively breeding for traits desirable for hatchery culture (improved survival at higher temperatures and salinities). Genetic characterization will facilitate future stock identification. HTC/HTO's will be partners in the project.

Project Description: The project will develop new, improved lines of arctic charr for the aquaculture industry by sampling arctic charr from sites throughout the Canadian arctic, characterizing the charr physiologically and genetically, and selectively breeding for traits desirable for hatchery culture (improved survival at higher temperatures and salinities). Genetic characterization will facilitate future stock identification. HTC/HTO's will be partners in the project. Sample sites will be accessed by boat, small aircraft, or snow machine, as necessary. At sites, movement for collections proceed by boat or snow machine, as necessary. The technique of cryopreservation (freezing) of gametes in a dry shipper will be used. Two populations from any of the following watersheds will be sampled based on consultation with members of the local HTC and success at finding arctic charr in spawning condition (small lakes near Holman, the Kuuk, the Kagloryauk, the Naloagyok). Personnel will arrive in Holman in mid September depending on the timing of reproduction by the charr. Field work at a site will likely take 7-21 days, depending on timing, weather etc. Charr will be captured using gill nets or trap nets. Gametes will be collected and either superchilled or crypopreserved for transportation south. Adults may be sacrificed and placed on ice for later morphological and genetic characterizations, as well as for screening of parasites. Local guides will be employed to assist with sampling. Educational opportunities are possible through our University field course or through distance education courseware developed through our Bioednet Department.