Bureau of Reclamation

Description

Monitoring of the genetics of the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow (RGSM) has been ongoing since 1999, using nine microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial ND4 gene. From these nine microsatellite loci and ND4 gene, genetic diversity metrics are calculated and recommendations for genetic management decisions are made. The ongoing silvery minnow genetic monitoring program is a requirement in the 2016 Final Biological and Conference Opinion for Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Non-Federal Water Management and Maintenance Activities on the Middle Rio Grande in New Mexico (BO). Development of high throughput markers will help meet the BO requirement. This effort is also in response to the recommendations of the Peer Review Panel that examined the RGSM genetic monitoring program in 2016. The principal place of performance will be the University of New Mexico. The purpose of this project is the development of a Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) panel via Restriction Site-Associated DNA Sequencing that will allow for a thorough evaluation of various genetic metrics within silvery minnow. The project objectives are to: 1. Develop a SNP panel that provides sufficient loci to monitor genetic diversity (spatiotemporal), effective population size, population structure, and relatedness within or among in situ and ex situ populations. 2. Develop sex-specific markers that will allow genetic determination of sex. 3. Provide plans, updates, and reports for review and approval, including a draft study plan, oral presentations, and draft/final reports.

Who can apply

• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

Contact

Ossie Taylor <br/>Grants Management Specialist <br/>Phone 801-524-3806
otaylor@usbr.gov