This study documents and analyzes the absence of genetic diversity and structure of the Mapleleaf mussel (Quadrula quadrula) in the Lake Winnipeg, Assiniboine River, and Red River drainages of Manitoba, Canada. Genotypes from six variable microsatellite loci showed that the Q. quadrula population in Manitoba was significantly differentiated from the population in the Great Lakes drainage (Ontario, Canada), supporting the existence of two Designatable Units in Canada. Conversely, there was no evidence of genetic structure within the sampled range of Q. quadrula in Manitoba. The lack of genetic structure in Q. quadrula across its distribution in Manitoba reflected its post-glacial history and use of a vagile host and necessitates that efforts should be made to ensure connectivity and maintain gene flow across the region. Given that the evidence suggests that Manitoba Q. quadrula belong to a single genetic population, movement of hatchery-propagated juvenile Q. quadrula, adult Q. quadrula, or glochidia-carrying host catfish sourced from any location in Manitoba could be used to augment declining populations or at-risk locations in Manitoba. You can read the full story here.

Central Michigan University
(August 2018 - September 2019)