Eco-evolutionary dynamics in Pacific salmon and trout
Growing recognition that evolution can proceed rapidly has created an interest in understanding the consequences of evolutionary change for populations, communities, and ecosystems. Empirical support for such “eco-evolutionary dynamics” has emerged from several model systems, including several fish systems. Here I introduce salmonid fishes as a promising system for studying eco-evolutionary dynamics and feedbacks. I begin by highlighting aspects of the biology of salmon and trout that have implications for the study of eco-evolutionary dynamics. I will then present a series of case studies to demonstrate the ecosystem-level consequences of selection on salmon body size as well as the ecological consequences of partial migration in a Pacific trout. I will conclude with a discussion of the applied consequences of eco-evolutionary dynamics, including for harvested populations and hatchery-supplemented salmon complexes.
Host: Robert Arlinghaus