<em>Mytulus edulis </em>, commonly known as the blue mussel, is an important filter feeder in the Gulf of Maine, as well as a valued commercial fishery. Following fertilization, blue mussel larvae progress through several stages, including, trochophore, veliger, and pediveliger, a process which can last up to 35 days. During this time, the larvae remain in the water column. Tracking the microscopic larvae that drift with ocean currents and travel long distances is very difficult. Environmental RNA (RNA) from water samples has the potential to provide information on their life-history stage as gene expression profiles can differ significantly. In this study we identified and tested potential biomarkers for the larval stage of the blue mussel. The potential biomarkers were tested on blue mussel larvae and adult RNA as well as water samples. We have identified a potential marker that is specific to blue mussels with high expression levels in all larval stages. Blue mussels are economically and ecologically important. Developing molecular biomarkers is an important tool for assessing larval dispersal and connectivity which could enhance our understanding of conserving and managing this important fishery.

Primary Presenter: Aubrey Mitchell, Maine Maritime Academy (aubreymitchell1@icloud.com)

Authors:

Aubrey Mitchell, Maine Maritime Academy  (aubreymitchell1@icloud.com)

LeAnn Whitney, Maine Maritime Academy, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Science  (LeAnn.whitney@mma.edu)