NBCFWRU- R.A. Curry

R. Allen Curry (Hons. B.E.S., M.Sc., Ph.D.)
Assistant Professor,
Biology and Forestry and Environmental Management
Professor of Recreational Fisheries Research,
New Brunswick DNRE/Cloverleaf Foundation
Assistant Director,
New Brunswick Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit

Teaching Responsibilities:
Biology 3383, Aquatic and Terrestrial Field Course (co-ordinator)
Biology 4741
Fish Biology
Biology 6910
Research Methods for Graduate Students

Research Interests:

My research programme is a mix of both applied and theoretical questions in fish ecology. Brook trout or charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) are a major focus of my research. The ecology of anadromous forms is being studied in projects tracking trout using radio and sonic techniques, as well as analyses of strontium in bone structures. The genetic composition of resident and anadromous trout within a watershed is also being determined using microsatellite DNA. Other trout projects include the impacts of recreational fisheries, agriculture, and forestry on populations and separation of stocks using otolith microstructures.

	Trophic and community structure are also being examined in studies of mercury pathways in NB lakes and fishes using rockweed (Ascophylum nodusum) in the Bay of Fundy.
Other projects include the use of invertebrates as indicators of stream health and the status of the threatened, dwarf smelt (Osmerus mordax).

Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) are another major theme of my research programme. We completed the first survey of smallmouth bass populations in NB several years ago. Since then, we have been examining the overwinter habitats and survival of young-of-the-year, interactions and potential impacts of alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) on bass, and the influence of trophic structure and complexity (stable isotopes) on bass production in lakes.

At present, I have 12 graduate students at various stages in their projects with funding sources that include an NSERC Strategic Grant and support from the New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund and J.D. Irving, Limited.