Early Genetic Research Findings
The most obvious and striking result from our initial genetic analysis is that the Fall River contains two very genetically distinct populations of rainbow trout. These races essentially behave as independent populations with very little genetic exchange. By cross referencing the genetics with movement and collection location data, we determined that one population corresponds to fish that reproduce in Bear Creek and the other is fish that spawn within the spring-fed system.
Another interesting result is that these two populations are not only genetically differentiated, but the genetic patterns demonstrate they are also adaptively differentiated with distinct growth rates. Fish from the Bear Creek population contain gene variants that will make them grow faster than the spring-fed population. This is likely necessary to compensate for the colder water temperatures experienced by Bear Creek fish early in their life.
Wild Trout Monitoring Program
Moving Forward
These results are only the tip of the iceberg as far as what will be unveiled as our genetic data collection and analysis are expended. California Trout and the Fall River Conservancy are committed to ensuring that important research like this continues on the Fall River so that we can better understand the ecological issues with real science findings. To ensure this happens, California Trout has secured funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to continue this important work in the next couple of years.
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