You are here: home » Stressors » Land & Resource Use » Fisheries
Fisheries Research at Hollings Marine Laboratory
Overview
Overharvesting of fish and the human activities that alter the ecosystems upon which our natural resources depend is a huge concern for HML scientists. Fisheries research coupled with sound management decisions helps to preserve valuable economic resources and a cultural heritage extending back hundreds of years. Research activities at HML focus on providing the science to support management decisions. The most direct and comprehensive program in fisheries issues is concentrated in the SCDNR genetics laboratory. This lab focuses on genetic stock identification-using DNA technology to identify the genetic connection between fish populations, in order to define management units. The lab has evolved to capabilities in assessing the impact of hatchery operations on wild stocks and the evaluation of the genetic impacts of Marine Protected Areas on multi-species assemblages. In the near future, in conjunction with the Marine Genomics Program, the lab will initiate research programs directed at understanding the eco-genomic implications of human activities on recreationally and commercially important species.