Freshwater fish are the lifeblood of many rural, northern and Indigenous communities, and are central to the social and cultural lives of millions of Canadians. This important resource contributes to our economy both directly (fish sales and tourism, for example) and indirectly (through vital “ecosystem processes” that lead to savings in health and infrastructure costs).

Yet, freshwater fish stocks are under threat. It is called “the invisible collapse,” and is happening around the world. To mitigate this threat, Canada needs effective and timely conservation and management interventions. However, if our action is based on incomplete — or worse, inaccurate — data, management of our resources will be ineffective at best and could have unexpected negative results–even the collapse of important fish populations.

Our current capture-based sampling methods cannot effectively assess and monitor freshwater ecosystems. Canada’s 200+ freshwater fish species are spread across 2 million lakes and countless tributaries. With existing technologies, to inventory even one waterbody or assess the health of one group of fish takes significant time and money. Even with that investment, the data will be incomplete and potentially even misleading.

Our genomics approach will be a game changer for the management of this critical natural resource. For the first time, we will have the ability to carry out a complete and accurate assessment of Canada’s freshwater fish. Government, NGOs, fish culture facilities, and environmental consultants will save millions of dollars directly and indirectly.

Most importantly, we can ensure our freshwater fish resources will be sustainable for generations to come.