Browse All Research Projects

Fluorochemicals are a class of structurally diverse synthetic compounds that contain a carbon-fluorine backbone.

Freshwater mussels are one of the most critically imperiled groups of organisms worldwide. Encouraging mussel reproduction in a controlled setting has become an area of interest due to their widespread population declines and regional extinctions (Williams et al., 1993; Lydeard et al., 2004; Strayer et al., 2004; Haag 2012; Lopes-Lima et al., 2017). With constantly evolving techniques, rearing...

The USGS has developed the Rapid environmental (e)DNA Assessment and Deployment Initiative & Network (READI-Net) to accelerate the implementation of environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis as a best practice for the early detection of aquatic biological threats. READI-Net provides tools and a strategy to collect and deliver early detection data for natural resource managers and public health protection...

Mass removal of the invasive silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and bighead carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis (collectively referred to as bigheaded carp) is a primary management action in the United States to contain population growth and reduce upstream dispersal. Efficient capture and removal techniques are required to achieve this goal, and the USGS is working to develop and evaluate such...

Effects-directed analysis (EDA) reverse-engineers environmental toxicity testing by measuring effects on cells first, and identifying the particular chemicals later. In this publication, we reviewed published information on EDA methods to improve future methods.

Early development is a sensitive window for estrogenic endocrine disruption in largemouth bass. Atrazine treatments caused changes to gene expression patterns that were both similar to estrogen and distinct from estrogen.

Freshwater mussel conservation efforts depend on identifying habitat characteristics that are suitable for mussel reintroduction and restoration. CERC scientists are conducting research to understand how physical habitat dynamics affect the distribution of mussels and suitable habitat in streams and rivers.

Reconnection of floodplains to their rivers has been considered a fundamentally beneficial ecological practice.

In the last few decades, thiamine deficiency has been observed in fish and wildlife in the Great Lakes, Alaska, Sweden and several other areas in North America and Europe. Thiamine is an essential vitamin needed for cell function. Thiamine deficiency has been linked to neurological disorders, immunosuppression, and lower reproductive viability. These disorders potentially reduce populations of...

CERC fish biologists study migrations, reproductive cues, and spawning behaviors of reproductive wild and hatchery-origin pallid sturgeon (HOPS) in the Missouri River Basin.

This project centers on assimilation of data, interpretation of results, updating quantitative models, and providing policy-neutral, high-quality information to the agencies and stakeholders in the Missouri River Basin.

CERC biologists focus on improving understanding of biomechanics of eggs, free embryos, and larvae through direct observation and measurement. An improved understanding of biomechanics – how biotic conditions and processes interact with physical processes to result in changes in survival – is necessary to create quantitative links between management actions and population-level results.