Factors influencing thiamin concentrations in lake trout

Abstract

Firstly, I would like to thank my major advisor Dr. Jacques Rinchard, for his dedication, time and commitment to his students. He has pushed me both academically and intellectually to become a better version of myself. Next, I would like to thank the rest of my graduate committee Drs. Brian Lantry, Donald Tillitt, and Matthew Altenritter who contributed to the conceptualization and execution of this thesis. Special thanks to the dedicated professionals at the United States Geological Survey - Lake Ontario Biological Station including Dr. Brian Weidel and Scott Minikiem, Dr. Michael Connerton from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, all those who assisted with annual lake trout and prey fish surveys, and finally to the staff at the Allegheny National Fish Hatchery for providing lake trout on short notice. This work would not be possible without their hard work and perseverance. The undergraduate laboratory assistants in Dr. Rinchard’s lab, including Jarrod Ludwig and Lillian Denecke deserved recognition for their dependability and diligence in assisting with laboratory work. Finally, financial assistance was provided by the Brockport Distinguished Professor Award, the Department of Environmental Science and Ecology, and the Great Lakes Research Consortium. On a personal note, I would like to thank my friends Kylee Wilson, Kyle Morton and the rest of the Altenritter’s lab for providing substantial moral support, thoughtful conversations and fond memories that made my time at Brockport special. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents Kim and Chris Heisey for the sacrifices they ii made to make my educational journey a reality. Their love and support made this thesis possible and for that I have immense gratitude.