Jacqueline Pallard, former M.Sc. Student
Previous Education:
Bachelor of Science in Applied Animal Biology (University of British Columbia)
Post Graduating Position:
TBD.
Thesis Title:
Assessing factors limiting the abundance of Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus), a species at risk, in the foothills of Alberta (link to thesis).
Research Description:
My interests lie in how the distribution and abundance of aquatic species are changing as a result of ecological and anthropogenic stressors. The increase of stressors, such as habitat alteration, interspecific competition, and angling pressure, can result in drastic population declines and consequently the loss of a species. One such species which has experienced widespread decline is Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus). Their decline in the foothills of Alberta has been largely attributed to habitat fragmentation, over-fishing, and competition with the non-native Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Utilizing stable isotope analysis and stream habitat data, my thesis will aim to determine the food web structure, feeding relationships, and habitat requirements of Bull Trout. We hope to identify the level at which each factor limits their abundance in the foothills of Alberta and contribute to the future management and recovery of the species.