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2007 Fish & Game research scholarship has been awarded to Rasmus
Gabrielsson to support his research into the wildlife monitoring
of brown trout migration & recruitment patterns in central Otago
using natural trace element and isotope markers.
Mr Gabrielsson is completing his Masters in wildlife
management at Otago University. He has previously completed both
a BSc in Ecology and a Post Graduate Diploma in wildlife management
at Otago University.
Mr Gabrielsson explains the objective of his
thesis is, “to investigate linkages of brown trout migration
and recruitment in three lakes and associated tributaries in central
Otago. Using a micro chemical analysis of the trace elements in
trout otolith (ear stones) I can track trout migration and recruitment
patterns making it possible to predict likely impacts to the fishery
of further hydro development and water takes (irrigation) in the
catchments. The goal is to construct a comprehensive recruitment
and movement map for the brown trout in upper Clutha River catchments
providing a guideline to direct future conservation and protection
work on spawning habitat and migration routes”, he said.
“Growing up on a Swedish farm I have always
had a close bond to nature and its animals. My passion for outdoor
recreation, like hunting and fishing led to further interests in
natural sciences. These interests also lead to my discovery of New
Zealand 1999. Once here the lifestyle, nature and wildlife together
with a certain “kiwi girl” led me to leave my Army Officers
career in Sweden for an education in wildlife research and management
here in New Zealand.”
Fish & Game New Zealand offers an annual
academic scholarship to research the scientific, management, social,
cultural and political issues related to our freshwater sports-fish
and game birds. The $10,000 scholarship is awarded in one of two
categories; research into natural and physical sciences of fish
and game, or research into social, cultural or political issues
in context of fish and game. Applications for the Fish & Game
New Zealand Research Scholarship may be made on the form provided
by the New Zealand Vice-Chancellors Committee.
“Many thanks to Fish & Game for supporting
my research and awarding me with this scholarship. As we are expecting
our first child this scholarship is greatly appreciated and could
not have come at a better time.”
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