330 - Larval Crustaceans with Sierra Wachala

This week, Conrad had the pleasure of speaking with Madison Casey, a first-year Master's student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the Learning from Anatomy, Morphology, and Phylogenetics Lab (LAMP). In their conversation, Madison shared the valuable perspectives she gained from her various fisheries jobs before pursuing her Master’s. These experiences were instrumental in shaping her career aspirations. They delved into her research on the reproductive ecology of Silver Carp and Bighead Carp in the Platte River and its major tributaries. Additionally, Madison gave insight into being a woman in the fisheries world and advised on finding a graduate program. We hope you enjoy this week’s episode and share a few laughs along with Madison and Conrad! Takeaways: - Remember where you came from. - A bad day of fishing is still better than a good day in the office.   #Carp “Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own, and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”  

In this episode Alanna chats with PhD student and plankton specialist Sierra Wachala. Sierra has studied larval shrimp in South Carolina, mysids in Wisconsin, and now lobster larvae in Massachusetts. The two also discuss Sierra's time as a NOAA Hollings Scholar, a research exchange to Alaska, and living and working in the field of marine science with severe allergies. Tune in if you are interested in learning about how rabbits play a critical role in a method for gut content analysis!   Main point: "Larvae matter!"   Find Lindsay on Instagram at @sisi_plankton_scientist and by email at [email protected]   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, Preston chats with the new Executive Director of The American Fisheries Society (AFS), Jeff Kopaska. They cover the unprecedented challenges Jeff has faced in his first year in the new role and the success of the San Antonio meeting in August. Jeff then discusses his innovative vision for how AFS can evolve to continue to meet the needs of its diverse membership base and to support federal employees in the current unpredictable political climate. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "Relationships are everything!" Jeff's email address: [email protected]  AFS' webpage: https://fisheries.org/    Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

Brendan is joined by Luc LaRochelle, a PhD Candidate at Carleton University where he's working with Dr. Steven Cooke and Dr. Andy Danylchuk.  Luc gives an update on what he's been up to since his last appearance on the podcast, starting off with a novel biologging tool he's created as part of his Ph.D work.  In addition, they discuss the who what and when of the novel biologger, work on gear size, the impacts of livewell additives, and some interesting barotrauma studies. Luc would love your input on his novel biologger, check out the paper here: https://doi.org/10.1051/alr/2023019 . Check out Jamie's fizzing paper here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/fme.12780  Check our Barb Elliot's Fizzing video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w1DMIL0b6E    Remember to have fun fishing and treat your fish well!  Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, join Conrad as he reconnects with his good friend George, the new owner of The Tackle Shop in Falmouth, Maine. In their engaging conversation, they dive into the impact of the striper fishery's status on George's business, emphasizing the vital role conservation plays in ensuring its longevity. They discuss how being a well-informed fisherman is key to effective conservation of our fisheries, noting that it’s as much a responsibility of fishermen as it is for enforcement agencies to make information accessible. George shares insights on how diversifying fisheries not only benefits conservation efforts but also serves as an effective business strategy. The discussion also touches on George's past research on bonefish, highlighting how fishing can be a long-term research project where observation and being in the moment are key. Together, they explore their deep passion for fishing and the profound connections it fosters, making it a truly special experience to share with others. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Takeaway: Have more of a conservation-minded outlook in whatever you do.   #striper #stripedbass #tackleshopmaine #bonefish   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, Alanna hosts shark scientist Lindsay Graff. Lindsay has worked with countless shark species globally, from the Bahamas, South Africa, and Fiji, to Cape Cod. Lindsay is currently pursuing her PhD, with her dissertation research focusing on post-release behavior of young-of-year white sharks, sand tiger sharks, and dusky sharks. You may be familiar with Lindsay through her recent Washington Post article, "A half century after Jaws, the truth is clear." Alanna and Lindsay talk shark research, portrayal of sharks in the media, and the future of sharks in public opinion.   Main point: "The ocean doesn't belong to us, it sustains us."   Find Lindsay on Instagram at @lindslougraff and by email at [email protected]   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, Elise (IG: @elisemobranchii) chats with Cardiff University PhD researcher Chessie Mason as they discuss Chessie's career in shark research. They cover her role as the former Outreach Coordinator at the Bimini Biological Field Station, her Masters and ongoing PhD research in ecotoxicology, and the study she co-led with Project SIARC which was focused on using TEK from Welsh fishers to understand changes in angelshark populations in Wales over time!   Main point: Consider the perspectives of the people you work and interact with!   Project SIARC publication: https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pan3.70044 Find Chessie on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Francesca-Mason-3 Project SIARC on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectSIARC Zoological Society of London (ZSL) on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialzsl/ Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries- podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity that those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

August 9th, 2025, marked the 75th anniversary of US President Harry Truman signing the Federal Aid in Sportfish Restoration Act into law. To help listeners better appreciate the impact the act has had on fish conservation activities throughout its 75 year history, Preston sits down with Paul Wilkes from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. They discuss how Paul eventually shifted to the grants and funding realms of fisheries management, and how that ultimately led to his transition to working with the USFWS. They spend the bulk of the episode covering the Sportfish Restoration Act, its history, and a few of the immense benefits that the act provides anglers, managers, and fish populations. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "Take a breath, remember our history, but always be planning for the future." Paul Wilkes' email address: [email protected]  SFR Partner With A Payer website: https://partnerwithapayer.org/sport-fish-restoration-at-75/    Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

Brendan is joined by Dr. Premek Hamr, a Canadian researcher who has dedicated much of his life's work to Canadian crayfish.  They discuss how he got his start in Tasmania on the largest Freshwater Crayfish in the world, to his work in Canada where he has specialized in life history characteristics of this understudied infraorder of amazing animals.  His work most recently has focused on invasive crayfish in Ontario, specifically Red Swamp, White River, and other invasives.  Listen in to hear about the Canadian crayfish wars as these species battle for supremacy, as well as some information about how the crayfish wars go overseas. You can find Premek on Bluesky (‪@drecrevisse.bsky.social‬) or Linkedin on if you have any Crayfish questions, he'd love to chat!  Check out the Ontario Guide to Crayfish on the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters website here: https://www.invadingspecies.com/download/guide-to-ontarios-crayfishes/    Remember to love and respect nature!  Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, Conrad reconnects with his good friend Andre Ascura, a current researcher at Haskin Shellfish Research Laboratory. Andre discusses his journey toward securing a Ph.D., highlighting the challenges he has faced and the similarities between his path and Conrad's. He reflects on his military experience, emphasizing how it shaped his leadership skills and discipline—qualities that have been vital in the marine science field. Additionally, Andre shares his experiences at Haskin Research Laboratory, detailing the exciting projects he’s worked on and the significance of mentorship in his career. Looking ahead, he shares his aspirations for his Ph.D. and the passion projects he hopes to undertake. We hope you enjoy this week’s insightful episode!   Main Point: Important science isn't defined by what makes the headlines, but by the communities it aims to serve. “Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”