Alberta’s eastern slopes are not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also home to a rich diversity of fish species. This includes three species at risk: Athabasca rainbow trout, bull trout, and westslope cutthroat trout. Ensuring the genetic integrity of these species and their ability to adapt to environmental changes is important for maintaining healthy populations. Healthy fish populations result in healthy aquatic ecosystems.
In this blog, we explain why it is important to understand Alberta native trout genetics and emphasize the role of genetics in conservation, habitat protection, and sustainable management practices.