From scales to survival: Unveiling the secrets of Atlantic salmon’s adaptive capacity at Pint of Science 2025
As part of the “Nature's treasures in the West of Ireland” event, Dr Joshka Kaufmann, Research Scientist at the Marine Institute, will uncover the fascinating story about the evolution of the Atlantic salmon. Drawing on long-term data collected at the Marine Institute’s research facilities in Newport, Dr Kaufmann will share insights into how this iconic fish species is adapting to environmental changes.
The event will take place in Mulranny Arts Centre as part of the Pint of Science Festival 2025 – an annual event series that brings scientists and the public together to discuss cutting-edge research in a casual setting.
With an increased environmental stress, populations of many natural and domesticated animals have been under pressure or in decline. Dr Kaufmann’s research explores how the Atlantic salmon adapts to environmental changes, driven by human activity.
Using a large archive of fish scales, records spanning 70 years, and advanced sequencing technologies, he seeks to understand how the Atlantic salmon has adapted over time and what that means for its populations in the coming decades.
“Each salmon scale holds decades of hidden history. And in that history, we are hoping to find the clues to protect salmon in a changing world,” says Dr Kaufmann.
Pint of Science is an annual event series bring scientists and communities together, facilitating science communication by showcasing research at local pubs and cafes.
Dr Kaufmann will share the stage with Caroline Schofield, Artist & Eco-Psychology Practitioner at Guided By Nature; Environmentalist Roderick O'Sullivan; and Lars Moeslund, Speaker at Mulranny Art Centre.
ENDS
About the Marine Institute
The Marine Institute is Ireland’s scientific agency responsible for supporting the sustainable development of the State’s maritime area and resources. The Institute conducts applied research and provides scientific knowledge, advice and services to government, industry and other stakeholders and users. www.marine.ie