Two people are standing in a small aluminum rowing boat on the reeds near the shore. In the background is a building with a white facade and signs warning of pipes in the water. The water reflects both the boat and the signs, and the surroundings consist of lush trees and reeds.
The Institute of Freshwater Research in Drottningholm. Photo: Teresa Soler, SLU

The Institute of Freshwater Research

Page reviewed:  14/03/2025

The Institute of Freshwater Research is one of three divisions within the Department of Aquatic Resources. We are based at Drottningholm, on the shores of Lake Mälaren.

Our work

  • Monitoring and advice: We monitor fish populations and provide advice on species regulated at both national and international levels.
  • Environmental studies: We research environmental issues such as eutrophication and acidification and assess the effects of liming.
  • Field services: Our research vessel R/V Asterix and electrofishing boat Elritsan are available for hire for sampling and hydroacoustic surveys.
  • Genetic analysis: We offer genetic analyses of fish and shellfish on request.

Information that creates opportunities

We maintain extensive datasets from test fishing and hydroacoustic surveys, with evolving sampling methods. Our open-access data, combined with long-term series, enable high-quality research.

Research focus

In our research, we test and develop future monitoring methods, study the genetic impacts of management methods, explore how climate and environment affect fish populations, and investigate the genetic mechanisms behind organisms' adaptation to their habitat.

Collaborate with us

We work with a range of national and international partners and always welcome new collaborations. Get in touch if you're interested in partnering with us or exploring job opportunities.

Research facilities at the Institute of Freshwater Research

Fish genetics laboratory (FiskGen)

  • Genetic analysis of fish and shellfish.

Age analysis laboratory

  • Over 10,000 samples analysed annually, including salmon, sea trout, eel, and inland lake species.

Experimental systems

  • Indoor aquariums, outdoor ponds, and troughs for controlled studies.

Our research vessels

  • R/V Asterix operates in major lakes and coastal areas.
  • Elritsan enables gentle electrofishing surveys.

Biological archive and Library

  • Archive with over one million biological samples and an extensive reference library.

Contact us

Head of Division

Johan Östergren, acting head of division, 010-478 42 62.

Units

  • Large lakes, deputy head of division: Patrik Bohman, 010-478 42 17.
  • Environmental monotoring, deputy head of division: Mikael Andersson, 010-478 42 53.
  • Salmonids, temporary head of division: Johan Östergren, 010-478 42 62.
  • Data collection and biological analysis, deputy head of division: Magnus Dahlberg, 010-478 42 22.
  • Eel biology, deputy head of division: Josefin Sundin, 010-478 42 24.

Visitor's address

Institute of Freshwater Research, SLU, Stångholmsvägen 2, 178 93 Drottningholm, Sweden. Find your way (Google-maps).

How to find us

The Institute of Freshwater Research is located at Stångholmsvägen 2, Drottningholm. Find your way (Google-maps).