What is the main aim or goal of your project?:
The aim of the project was to examine the parameters described above and examine how these endpoints changed over the natural reproductive cycle of the stickleback. This enabled us to develop tools to understand the reason(s) behind reproductive problems of stickleback which have been exposed to an exogenous hormone and/or effluent.
Why is the project important?:
G. aculeatus is an ideal environmental monitoring species, because lab tests can be performed and used to detect industrial or municipal pollutants in water systems; therefore, the project is important in the fields of fish health and estuarine conservation.
What drew you to the project?:
With my interest in ecology and environmental studies, combined with field and lab work, this project was a great fit for me. The opportunity to work for the Canadian Rivers Institute also drew me to the project.
What is the most significant thing about your project?:
With the growing concern of pollutants entering our water systems on PEI, this work could possibly identify their effects on life in our rivers and estuaries. This project will also lead into honours work, which will examine the effects of sewage effluent on G. aculeatus.
What is the most fun thing you've done this summer so far?:
The field component of my work has been fun, which involved collecting sticklebacks from the Stanley Bridge estuary with a seine net and taking them back to the lab for various experiments. I also had opportunities to help my labmates with their projects as well, both in the field and in the lab.
What is the most exciting thing you've done so far?:
The opportunity to undertake my own research project has proven to be both exciting and rewarding. The experience that I have received has been invaluable and will hopefully lead to further opportunities in the future.
