Objective:
1. Initiate a genomics program that will enable the future development of a genetically-defined/improved broodstock(s) of yellow. Specifically, genomic DNA from geographically-distinct populations of yellow perch will be collected and genetic diversity will be determined using microsatellite analyses. 2. Develop molecular and proteomic tools needed to advance the genetic improvement of yellow perch. Sub-objective 2.A. ¿ Develop molecular tools needed for germplasm improvement. Sub-objective 2.B. ¿ Develop proteomic tools needed for germplasm improvement. 3. Characterize physiological mechanisms that influence growth in yellow perch. 4. Improve culture technologies for year-round fingerling production and 1-year grow-out for yellow perch. Sub-objective 4.A. ¿ Improving early life-history survival through dietary stimulation of the endocrine system. Sub-objective 4.B. ¿ Improving nutrition for perch grow out.

Approach:
For objective 1, we will collect genomic DNA samples (fin clips) from reproductively active male and female from populations in the mid-Atlantic region to the mid-West region (as far west as North Dakota) of the U.S. Genomic DNA will be extracted from all fin clips and used directly for microsatellite PCR using existing microsatellites. PCR products will be run on an ABI 3730 capillary Prism Analyzer and fragments binned into size categories for allele calling. We will analyze microsatellite alleles for both intra and inter-population characteristics such as levels of inbreeding, genetic diversity within a strain, and the genetic relatedness between different strains. For objective 2, we will generate expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and microsatellite markers (genetic markers) from cDNA libraries. These molecular genetic tools, and the attendant assays to quantify expression of genes of interest (e.g., real-time PCR), will enable us to distinguish broodstock strains, evaluate desired broodstock characteristics, and enhance future selection efforts via marker assisted selection. We will also develop proteomic tools that will enable us to measure and characterize the function of critical proteins (hormones) that underlie traits of economic interest. Hormones will be sequentially purified via low-pressure chromatography (size exclusion) and ultimately via reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Hormone identity will be confirmed by electrophoresis and western blotting and mass spectrometry. We shall also produce antibodies to these hormones and, once produced, we will then develop assays to measure blood levels of these hormones in yellow perch. For objective 3, using a number of established bio-assays, we will use these purified hormones to determine how they regulate various physiological sectors in yellow perch. Once the hormone measurement assays are developed, we will then study how they are tied to important physiological traits in our broodstock. Collectively, this information can be used to make more informed decisions in a genetic selection program, as well as diversify our scientific approach to improve yellow perch germplasm. For objective 4, we will develop unique dietary approaches to improve early life-history survival. This is a proof-of-concept study to improve larval survival and swimbladder inflation through dietary stimulation of the endocrine system. For juvenile and adult perch, there is no perch-specific diet and many finfish diets are increasingly using protein sources from plants in dietary formulations. Such sources of protein also possess antinutrients (e.g., phytates) which can block absorption of essential nutrients needed for proper growth and development. To address this, we are formulating diets with various sources of plant protein as well as augmenting these diets with additional amounts of essential nutrients to ensure that the animals are not nutrient-deprived.