4d.Progress report.
This report serves to document research and other related activities conducted under a Specific Cooperative Agreement between ARS and the University of Wisconsin Great Lakes WATER Institute (UWM-GLWI). Additional details of research xan be found inthe report for the parent CRIS 3655-31000-019-00D, "Improving Great Lakes Aquaculture Production." • The UWM-GLWI personnel facilitated the search to hire the USDA, ARS Scientist. The interview for Dr. Brian S. Shepherd was conducted September, 2005. Dr. Shepherd was hired as the lead ARS scientist and started December, 2005.

• In 2006, genomic DNA was collected from 16 different yellow perch populations and genetic analyses are underway to determine the genetic diversity of these populations. Preliminary data indicate that Lake Michigan yellow perch show lower genetic diversity than Chesapeake Bay (Maryland) yellow perch;.
2)Genetic analysis of 8 loci (8 microsatellites) from the DNA of 4 additional populations has been completed and data are currently being analyzed;.
3)40 new microsatellites have been sequenced and we are determining their utility as markers for genetic analyses;.
4)Two cDNA libraries have been constructed yellow perch tissues and products (ESTs) are now being sequenced and annotated.

• We are continuing research to optimize survival and growth of developing yellow perch. Our intensive Aquaculture Technology (IAT) approach is a work in progress with emphasis on improving early life stage survival and the development of commercial diets fed at the on-set of first feeding. The results from this research will improve production of perch fingerlings and provide a more cost-effective approach to yellow perch aquaculture.

7.List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: List your peer reviewed publications below).
WATER Institute personnel presented several research reports on the following topics:

1. Binkowski, F.P. 2006. Intensive aquaculture technology (IAT) for yellow perch. Michigan Aquaculture Association Annual Meeting, February 9-10, East Lansing, MI.

2. Nuese, J.C. 2006. Development and maintenance of yellow perch broodstock. Michigan Aquaculture Association Annual Meeting, February 9-10, East Lansing, MI.

3. Yeo, S.E. 2006. Yellow perch production and costs. Michigan Aquaculture Association Annual Meeting, February 9-10, East Lansing, MI.