Abstract
Growing recognition that evolution can proceed rapidly has created an interest in understanding the consequences of evolutionary change for populations, communities, and ecosystems. Empirical support for such “eco-evolutionary dynamics” has emerged from several model systems, including several fish systems. Here I introduce salmonid fishes as a promising system for studying eco-evolutionary dynamics and feedbacks. I begin by highlighting aspects of the biology of salmon and trout that have implications for the study of eco-evolutionary dynamics. I will then present a series of case studies to demonstrate the ecosystem-level consequences of selection on salmon body size. I will conclude with a discussion of the applied consequences of eco-evolutionary dynamics, including for hatchery-supplemented salmon complexes.
Stephanie M. Carlson
Department of Environmental Science, Policy, & Management
UC Berkeley, USA