Garrison Ferone
My project investigates the genetics of an endangered fish species: ‘Bacalao’ (Mycteroperca olfax) in the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador and surrounding Islands of Cocos, Costa Rica, and Malpelos, Colombia. This species is one of the most abundantly captured and sold species from the Galápagos archipelago, related to its use in a cultural dish “fanesca” in Ecuador. We aim to reveal the effects of overfishing on the genetic diversity of bacalao, by sequencing Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), and observing small genetic differences between subpopulations. We will use this information to calculate effective population size (an indicator of genetic health and a population’s ability to recover from genetic drift events) among other population genetics parameters like fixation (gene flow) and phylogenetic history (evolution of the species).
Garrison Ferone analyzing Gel’s for PCR products. ©Paúl Yépez (GSC).
This project values the inclusion of fishermen from the community, who play significant roles in sample collection, local knowledge, and transportation to the study sites. We strive to apply our research and publications towards developing a sustainable fishing plan for the Galápagos artisanal fleets; one that protects the bacalao from extinction and helps fishing communities by offering a sustainable management plan for the year-around bacalao fishery.