Tom Sheldon
Email: tommysheldon@hotmail.com
My general research interests lie in the evolution and ecology of fishes. As such, I am working on a project that will answer several questions regarding both the biogeography and ecology of deepwater sculpin (Myoxocephalus thompsoni), a small species of freshwater fish which has received very little attention in the past.
I am investigating the origin of deepwater sculpin based on the genetic structure of deepwater sculpin populations and their relationship to fourhorn sculpin (including freshwater fourhorn populations). I hope to determine the genetic structure of stocks and populations within the deepwater sculpin. Because the distribution of deepwater sculpin depends not only on events from the past, such as glacial advances and recessions, but also on conditions of the present-day habitat, I am also gathering ecological data from sampled lakes. Little is known of the habitat of deepwater sculpin and further knowledge in this area will lead to improved conservation efforts of the species.
My research has the potential to uncover more details of the distribution, as well as identify the geographic genetic structure and ecological requirements of deepwater sculpin populations, thereby beginning the steps to conservation of an important glacial relict.
In the future, I hope to continue contributing to both the knowledge and conservation of freshwater fishes within Canada, while conducting field-oriented research.