Dr. Bernatchez uses DNA analysis to study genetic change and evolution in fish. His work addresses important questions such as

Bernatchez's early work concentrated on the fine genetic differences within whitefish populations. He studied groups within a species which were separated geographically during the last ice age, and then subsequently reunited. Some of these groups may live in the same lakes, but occupy different ecological niches and do not interbreed. He was able to demonstrate differences between each population's genomes and the specialized niche in which each lives.

Image by: Freelance Illustration

Bernatchez's studies have practical applications. He is working to establish new blood-lines and breeding techniques for the Copper redhorse, an endangered fish species, and for Atlantic salmon and Quebec brook trout. With more than 62 species of Canadian freshwater fish species classified as threatened or endangered, his work continues to provide crucial genetic information to those managing fish populations.

A prolific writer, Bernatchez has authored or co-authored more than 80 papers and a guidebook (Guide des poissons d'eau douce du Québec et leur distribution dans l'Est du Canada, La Prairie, Éditions Broquet, 1991, L. Bernatchez and M. Giroux), soon to be released in English. He is associate editor of two major scientific journals: Evolution and Molecular Ecology.

Sources: Canada Research Chairs; NSERC News Release, March 5, 2002. Photo: ACFAS.