Genetics 102

FINDINGS IN WISCONSIN HAVE IMPLICATIONS FOR STOCKINGS EVERYWHERE

- Jordan Weeks

In my last submission I discussed some basic genetic terms and concepts. This article will focus on Wisconsin’s muskellunge genetic management plan framework and finish with the results of one small genetics study.

An article written in 2010 by a myriad of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) personnel and published in Fisheries, outlines the process. Titled “Implementation of Genetic Practices in a Muskellunge Propagation and Stocking Program,” researchers Martin Jennings, Brian Sloss, Gene Hatzenbeler, Jeffrey Kampa, Timothy Simonson, Steven Avelallemant, Gary Lindenberger, and Bruce Underwood address the potential of genetic risks associated with propagation of muskellunge in Wisconsin.

While this study focuses on Wisconsin’s musky program, the same concepts hold true anywhere muskellunge are stocked.

Fish are propagated and stocked for a number of reasons. Often, stocking is driven by public expectation. “To address the ongoing potential for genetic risks in Wisconsin muskellunge propagation program, the WDNR developed a comprehensive set of recommendations to conserve genetic diversity and evaluated the extent to which the recommendations can be implemented,” the study said. With over 700 muskellunge waters, Wisconsin is rich with opportunity often a direct result of stocking.

“Stocking has a long history in Wisconsin and is a highly visible component of the management program,” the report said. WDNR staff have been leaders and pioneers in the musky propagation field for a very long time. However, much of that excellent work was historically focused on producing the largest fall fingerling fish to maximize survival. Genetic concerns were not well understood due to historically cumbersome and very expensive techniques.

“Prior to widespread discussion and acceptance of genetic