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Ecosystems

Genetics and Genomics

Island applesnail shells. Photo credit: Cassie Thibodeaux, USGS National Wetlands Research Center
USGS geneticists work to provide answers to questions of genetics for use in making sound management decisions on fish and wildlife, including their habitat and conservation. More about USGS Genetics and Genomics >>

 

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  Research for Resource Management
Genetics and genomics USGS biology research is supported by the USGS Biology Science Programs*.

Key Largo woodrat

Conservation
Genetics

Researchers apply the tools and concepts of genetics to the conservation of biological resources.
black-footed ferret

Epidemiology of Fish/Wildlife Diseases

Wildlife health experts apply the latest tools of molecular biology and genetics to address the ecology of infectious diseases affecting both fish and wildlife.
Largemouth bass. Photo credit: USGS Picturing Science

Environmental Toxicology

Toxicologists use genomics to develop, apply, and validate methods for assessing the effects of contaminants and other environmental stressors on wild populations.
Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). Photo credit: Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University, Alabama, USA

Genetically Engineered Organisms

Researchers are investigating the utility of genetic engineering for use in controlling or eradicating invasive species.
Beach goers at West Beach in Porter County, Indiana

Genetics in Water Quality and Public Health Microbiology

Researchers use microbial and molecular techniques as tools to manage beach water quality and to protect the public from swimming-related illnesses such as gastroenteritis.
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Genetics Simulators/
Protocols

Burmese python in Everglades National Park. Photo by Roy Wood, National Park Service

Genetics Science in Invasive Species Research

USGS geneticists employ molecular tools and techniques to assist in identification, monitoring, and managing non-native species.
 
See all Genetics and Genomics Research Activities.
 
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*Research summaries are contributed by USGS scientists and information specialists from across disciplines. The majority of summaries are currently from the USGS Biological Resources Discipline. See all genetics and genomics research summaries listed in the Site Map.

Science Feature

Genetic variation in westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi): implications for conservation

Photo: Westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi) in the North Fork Flathead River, British Columbia, Canada.
Photo: Westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi) in the North Fork Flathead River, British Columbia, Canada. Photo credit: Mike Ready , USGS.

Twenty-five populations of westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi) from throughout their native range were genotyped at 20 microsatellite loci to describe the genetic structure of westslope cutthroat trout. The most genetic diversity (heterozygosity, allelic richness, and private alleles) existed in populations from the Snake River drainage, while populations from the Missouri River drainage had the least. Read More >>


 

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globe icon What's New: Fort Collins Molecular Genetics Fact Sheet (pdf)

 


Capabilities

USGS scientist sampling American ginseng for genetic analysisUSGS genetics and genomics capabilities develop at science centers where scientists use the latest methods and equipment to provide services for partners and customers.

  • Science Centers - centers across the U.S. with genetics and genomics expertise
  • Scientists - contact information, expertise, and research links
  • Methods & Equipment - DNA/automated sequencers, mass spectrometers, and more
  • Services - biomarker development, genome analysis, and more

Contact Us

For questions or comments about USGS genetics and genomics, please contact:

USGS Genetics and Genomics Coordinator
Kay M. Briggs
Phone: 703-648-4046

Scientists may be contacted through the Genetics and Genomics Scientists page or by the USGS Employee Directory.

     
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This page was last updated April 20, 2011 9:50 EDT