The perks of Arctic research... eating your leftover samples!

Honourable Mention

My research is focused on the overwintering physiology of northern salmonid fishes, including Arctic char, who fast for ~10 months/year. I am interested in how they store their energy throughout the year and fuel this unique life history strategy. I investigate this by collecting Arctic char at different times of the year and comparing the energy storage of various internal organs (e.g. gastrointestinal tract and liver). My research entails field work in Ikaluktutiak (Cambridge Bay), Nunavut, where Arctic char contribute significantly to the economy, culture and subsistence of the community. My collection involves lethal sampling of the fish, without a need for the remaining meat. This image depicts the result of this; following dissections for my samples, we make a local delicacy called piffi by cutting the fish meat into small cubes on the skin and hanging it to dry. When we return back to the community, we bring the piffi to be distributed to anyone who needs it; it is a very rewarding end to my sampling and I am glad I can give back to this amazing community!