Fish Genetics Laboratory (FiskGen)

Last changed: 05 July 2021
Staff at the genetic laboratory at the Department of Aquatic Resources. Photo.

The fish genetics laboratory (FiskGen) perform genetic analyses of fish and crayfish as part of environmental monitoring and research projects. Most studies carried at FiskGen focus on identifying the genetic population structure of resource species and endangered species. The laboratory is situated at the Institute of Freshwater Research, Drottningholm.

Most fish and shellfish species are divided into genetically distinct populations (local stocks). Knowledge of species’ genetic structure is important both for long-term sustainable fish management and for preserving genetic diversity in our fish fauna.

Effects of fish stocking

We also study genetic and ecological effects of fish stocking, and investigate how fishing may affect important traits. We further monitor the genetic status of endangered species and cultivated stocks, together with our clients and in collaboration with our ageing laboratories.

Read more about how SLU uses the results from our genetic studies in fisheries management and research.

Microsatellites

At FiskGen, we use so-called microsatellites as genetic markers. We analyze salmon, trout, pikeperch, catfish (wels), whitefish, vendace, crayfish and flounder. There is often access to genetic reference data sets from previous studies, which provides increased opportunities to study various questions.

Get your fish analyzed at our genetics laboratory!

At FiskGen, we perform genetic analyzes on behalf of authorities like the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, county administrative boards and municipalities, fisheries conservation area associations, fish farms and others.  Feel free to contact us regarding your questions where a genetic analysis may be relevant, and for price information!


Contact

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