Population Genetic Analysis for Improved Management of Herring in the Baltic Sea

Title: Population Genetic Analysis for Improved Management of Herring in the Baltic Sea

Description: Herring is a vital species for the ecosystem and fisheries in the Baltic Sea. However, stocks have declined by up to 80% since the 1970s, threatening both the species and the ecosystem's sustainability. Genetic information on the populations is scarce, making it difficult to develop effective management strategies. Using advanced population genetics techniques, this project will create detailed genetic maps of herring stocks in the Baltic Sea. The aim is to identify the genetic structure of populations, trace migration patterns, and monitor genetic diversity over time. By combining data from previous genetic studies with new sample collections, the project enables a broader analysis of both common and rare populations. The research will contribute to adapting management models to the genetic structure of herring stocks, improving long-term sustainability for both fisheries and the ecosystem. The outcomes will provide a basis for dynamic, genetically informed decisions, including warning systems for detecting threats to the populations' genetic health.