Project
A plain-language, systematic overview of sea lamprey chemosensory cues and their potential management applications
Sea lamprey are destructive non-native fish in the Great Lakes that are controlled with selective pesticides and barriers. While these methods are usually highly effective, they may not always be sufficient due to environmental or societal factors. Research into sea lampreys’ olfaction and behavior has identified new potential techniques, which may supplement current control methods. We propose to create an easy-to understand fact sheet with plain language and visuals, summarizing how sea lamprey use odors to find spawning sites, mates, and avoid risk. It will also explain how this information could be used to improve trapping, disrupt spawning, and redirect sea lamprey. The fact sheet will aid when engaging with stakeholders. Think tank discussions among sea lamprey control agents and researchers will be organized to explore additional applications. This project aims to make this research more accessible to control agents, helping them better understand and potentially apply these tactics for management.