In our fish genetic laboratory (FiskGen) we carry out genetic analyzes of fish and crustaceans, both in environmental monitoring, research projects and on behalf of others. Our work is mainly focused on identifying the genetic population structure of threatened species as well as species in the fisheries sector. FiskGen is located at the Institute of Freshwater Research at Drottningholm.
Most fish species and crustaceans are divided into genetically distinct populations (local stocks). Knowledge of the genetic structure within species is important both for long-term sustainable fish management and for preserving the genetic diversity of our fish fauna.
We study the genetic and ecological effects of fish stocking. We also monitor the genetic status of endangered species and cultured strains together with our clients and in collaboration with our age analysis laboratories.
At FiskGen we use so-called microsatellites as genetic markers. The species we analyse are salmon, trout, pike-perch, Wels catfish, whitefish, vendace, crayfish and European flounder. Genetic reference data from previous studies is often available, which gives us increased opportunities to shed light on various issues.
At FiskGen we perform genetic analyses on behalf of, among others, the Swedish Marine and Water Management Agency, county administrative boards, municipalities, fishing associations, fisheries management area associations and fish farms. Please contact us if you have any questions or need a genetic examination, and for current pricing information.
At FiskGen, noble crayfish from different stocks are DNA-analyzed. The results form the basis for the management of the species. The crayfish is classified as critically endangered according to the Swedish Red List 2020 (SLU Artdatabanken 2020).
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FiskGen's laboratory analyses are based on a small piece of tissue (e.g. fin-clips or scales) that are treated so that the genetic material (DNA) becomes available for further analysis without being broken down.
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FiskGen's "genetic analyzer" analyses fragment-lengths of 96 individual samples at a time. The raw results consist of combinations of so-called alleles (variants of “genes”) carried by each studied individual.
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Stefan Palm, Researcher
Department of Aquatic Resources, Institute of Freshwater Research, SLU
stefan.palm@slu.se, +46 10 478 42 49
Linda Söderberg, Laboratory Engineer
Department of Aquatic Resources, Institute of Freshwater Research, SLU
linda.soderberg@slu.se, +46 10 478 42 68