344- Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Apicomplexan Blood Parasites Infecting Coral Reef Fishes with Natalie Ritter

This week, Conrad had the pleasure of speaking with his good friend, Natalie Ritter. Natalie is currently pursuing her master's degree in marine and environmental science at the University of the Virgin Islands. Her research focuses on the biodiversity and taxonomy of Apicomplexan blood parasites that infect coral reef fishes. They speak on the accessibility of scientific information and the benefit of a variety of different media types to spread scientific awareness. We hope you enjoy this week's episode.  Takeaway: Everything is connected. #reefish #parasites #virginislands “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).”

Joining Alanna on the podcast this week is Dr. Emily Lester, a marine ecologist with an interest in coral reef ecosystems, predator-prey dynamics, and anthropogenic changes to animal behavior. Emily shares her experience working with the whale sharks of Ningaloo and explains the process to becoming a Fulbright researcher. Listeners will get a sneak peak of Emily's newest research on meeting goals in global shark conservation!   Main point: "The best conservation happens when people and nature both win"   Find Emily through instagram @emily_lester or bluesky @emilylester.bsky.social   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 catches up with Andrew Bade, the supervisor of the Warmwater and Coldwater Fisheries Management Programs for Connecticut DEEP. They discuss Andrew's education and career journeys, before diving into the history of introduced Smallmouth Bass in Connecticut. Andrew focuses in and shares the unique and cyclical history of Smallmouth Bass in one of Connecticut's lakes, as well as the current management strategies they are implementing to restore this popular fishery. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "Learn the history of your fisheries." Andrew's email address: [email protected]   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).

For the final episode of 2025 The Fisheries Podcast brings you an absolutely delightful conversation between Brendan and Dr. Nicholas Mandrak of the University of Toronto Scarborough on binomial nomenclature, the Committee on Names of Fishes, and most importantly, how and why fish get and keep and or change their scientific and or common names! Dr. Mandrak is a legendary scientist in Canadian circles, having co-authored over 250 primary publications, over 100 government reports, 40 COSEWIC reports, and five books, including the newly revised Royal Ontario Museum Field Guide to Ontario Fishes. He is Program Director of the Conservation and Biodiversity stream of the professional M.Env.Sci. program at UTSC. Nick is also a Research Associate of the Royal Ontario Museum and South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity. He is a member, and former Co-Chair, of the Freshwater Fishes Species Specialist Subcommittee of COSEWIC. His research interests are the biodiversity, biogeography, and conservation of freshwater fishes, with emphasis on endangered and invasive fishes.  You can find more information about Nick's work on his lab website here: https://mandraklab.ca/  Main Point: Freshwater fish conservation matters, get in touch with your local representatives to remind them of this fact!  Here's to a happy New Year and we'll be serving a fresh catch of episodes to your ears in 2026!    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, Conrad speaks with his friend Ryan Burch of @talesofthe48. Ryan is on an inspiring journey, traveling across the lower 48 states in a truck camper with his dog. His mission? To create a documentary about catching a fish on the fly in each state he visits. In the spirit of the holiday season, Ryan reflects on the kindness he's encountered from people across the first 24 states. He shares heartwarming stories that showcase not only the fish he has caught but also the hospitality and generosity of strangers. Ryan discusses the blend of science and art in his fishing adventures, highlighting remarkable individuals he has met along the way—all with unique tales and wisdom passed down through generations. Throughout his journey, Ryan has found that his interactions with nature celebrate the power of human connection and the joy of discovery. This experience has transformed his perspective on humanity, deepening his appreciation for the kindness he has witnessed and the fortunate experiences he's had. Join us for this heartfelt episode, where we explore how fishing can foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us! Main Point: It's okay to not be the best or super good at things you're pursuing.  Find Ryan through Instagram @talesofthe48 or contact him through email [email protected]    #TalesOfThe48 #FishingAdventure #FishingDocumentary #RoadTrip #JoyOfDiscovery #CamperLife #FlyFishing #Orvis #OrvisFlyFishing #TroutFishing #OrvisGear #FlyTying #TroutSeason #storytelling     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 chats with Dr. John Mohan, a Conservation Biologist in Protected Resources at the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, about his work using chemical tracers such as trace elements and isotopes in fisheries science. The two chemistry fans talk about applications in species such as striped bass, Atlantic croakers, Pacific bluefin tuna, and a variety of sharks. John provides a crash course in chemical tracers for those interested in using these tools, and gives excellent advice for scientists of all stages.   Main point: "Go with the flow"   Find John through instagram @phdude_fishecology and 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, a busy 2025, a lack of sleep, and possible procrastination result in Preston having to do a solo episode. He provides updates on his career journey since he was last on the show as a guest in late 2023. He then opens up about some of the personal challenges going on at home and he wraps up by giving out some of his top book recommendations in several science-y categories.    Main point: "Never hesitate to reach out for help." Preston's Instagram: @hokie_fish_biologist   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, Elise (IG: @elisemobranchii) hosts Dr. David Shiffman (@whysharksmatter), an interdisciplinary ocean conservation scientist whose research focuses on the ecology and conservation of chondrichthyan fishes, to talk about this week's COP20 CITES shark and ray proposals! David is a public science engagement specialist, an award-winning writer and educator, and author of the book “Why Sharks Matter: A Deep Dive with the World's Most Misunderstood Predator”. He currently works as an ocean conservation policy and communications consultant in Washington, DC, but you can also find him on social media @whysharksmatter, where he’s always happy to answer questions about sharks, careers in marine biology, and ocean conservation. Main Point: Learn how to write professional emails! You can learn more about CITES here!: https://news.mongabay.com/2025/11/for-sharks-on-the-brink-of-extinction-cites-appendix-ii-isnt-protective-enough-commentary/ https://therevelator.org/cites-sharks/ 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).

Brendan is joined by Dr. Kathryn Peiman to discuss the history of non-native salmonids in the Lake Ontario, and her current work on an opinion piece regarding the stocking of Chinook salmon in the Great Lakes.  Tune in to learn about the history of how long ago these fishes found themselves in Lake Ontario, how many times it's been tried, and the impacts that managing Lake Ontario for these salmonids has had on how we use Lake Ontario.  They cover the impacts of stocking, how Alewife have driven Lake Ontario's species assemblage and biodiversity, and some changes Dr. Peiman thinks would be worth trying out to benefit the Lake as a whole.   You can find Dr. Peiman's Instagram page here - https://www.instagram.com/naturetidbits and her youtube page here - https://www.instagram.com/naturetidbits , please check them out!  Remember to be willing to engage with people that have different opinions than yourself! Make the effort to understand where they're coming from. 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's episode showcases the result of when two dedicated fisheries biologists and passionate anglers come together to record a podcast. Conrad had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Erin Wilson, an avid multispecies angler and fisheries biologist. Erin has leveraged her passion and skills in her career, discussing how instrumental being an angler has been for her success in the fisheries world. She shared insights from her remarkable master's studies, highlighting her first chapter on muskie movement ecology, and the second chapter focused on the use of biologgers. Additionally, she touched on the power of communication and the valuable lessons learned from engaging with expert knowledge holders in her field. Erin also emphasized the significance of current technologies and her concerns in the fishing world as we move forward. We hope you learn just as much from this conversation as Conrad did this week. Takeaway: Follow what you want to do in life, what you're good at, and what you're passionate about, and don't let anyone deter you along the way.    #muskie #muskellung #acoustictelemetry #movementecology #fisheriesbiology #biologgers #muskiefishing #sciencecommunication “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).”