Part I – The European catfish (S. glanis) in peri-Alpine lakes: the research program SILAC

The European catfish (Silurus glanis) recently invaded large peri-Alpine lakes suggesting potential impacts possibly cascading up to the alterations of native fish populations. We implemented a research program (SILAC project) based on 4 working packages (WP) to initiate investigations regarding the ecological risk of S. glanis in large peri-Alpine lakes specifically focusing on Lake Bourget and Lake Geneva.

-	WP1 (Spatial Colonization) addresses the spatial distribution of the catfish at the population and individual levels using eDNA and telemetry sensors (PSAT tags) respectively. 

-	WP2 (Population dynamics) estimates demographic parameters (eg growth, fertility)that can be compared among ecosystems and feed population dynamics models

-	WP3 (Trophic Ecology) focuses on the trophic interactions (i.e. predation) catfish can have with native species and seeks at identifying lake habitats (pelagic / littoral) exploited by this species. Both stomach contents and stable isotope analyses are involved in this assessment.

-	WP4 (Socio-economic implications) evaluates the socio-economic implications of the development of S. glanis in the studied eocsystems. Different scenarios are elaborated supporting the quantification of the economic values of the catfish.
Bottom lines standing nearshore in Lake Bourget and waiting for catfish catches
Diversified meals of catfish in Lake Bourget: crayfish (O. limosus) and perch (P. fluviatilis) are dominant prey. A couple of rare prey are also identified such as pike (E. luscius, here jaws) or even snake (N. Maura)

Research consortium

Victor Frossard (PhD, CARRTEL, PI)

Chloé Vagnon (PhD candidate, CARRTEL)

Jean Guillard (Res. Ing., CARRTEL)

Chloé Goulon (Ing., CARRTEL)

Isabelle Domaizon (PhD, CARRTEL)

Marine Vautier (Ing., CARRTEL)

Franck Cattenéo (PhD., HEPIA)

David Grimardias (Ing. HEPIA)

Carole Ropars (PhD, AgroSup)

Sterenn Lucas (PhD, Agrosup)

Funding:

Région Auvergne – Rhône-Alpes (Pack Ambition Recherche)