EVIDENCE FOR THE GENETIC BASIS AND INHERITANCE OF OCEAN AND RIVER-MATURING ECOTYPES OF PACIFIC LAMPREY (ENTOSPHENUS TRIDENTATUS) IN THE KLAMATH RIVER, CALIFORNIA

Surveys of genetic variation have improved our understanding of the relationship between fitness-related phenotypes and their underlying genetic basis. However, how this information can be used to inform conservation has been unclear in many cases. The objective of this study was to combine next-generation genetic sequencing with traditional ecological knowledge to evaluate imperiled anadromous Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) and apply the findings to conservation in the context of resolving Native American traditional food security issues. In the Klamath River of California, a previously identified Pacific lamprey ocean-maturing ecotype was distinguished by a relatively advanced maturity of female fish (e.g., large egg mass) [...]