Nate and Suzie sit down with Brant Fisher, a Non-game Aquatic Biologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Brant brings a wealth of knowledge about the often-overlooked species that quietly keep Indiana’s waterways thriving—from freshwater mussels and darters to mudpuppies and rare invertebrates. He shares how these creatures act as early warning indicators for water quality and why biodiversity matters more than most people realize.

This conversation shines a light on the hidden world beneath the surface, revealing how small and unassuming species play an outsized role in the health of our aquatic ecosystems. Brant also discusses the ongoing challenges non-game species face, like the harvesting of shells for jewelry and the complexity of mussel reproduction. He offers practical steps we can take going forward to support conservation efforts. Develop a deeper level of appreciation for Indiana’s non-game aquatic life.  

Brant Fisher, originally from western Pennsylvania is a nongame aquatic biologist with the Indiana DNR. Brant monitors species that are not typically fished for sport like mussels, darters, crayfish, and freshwater jellyfish. When doing mussel surveys,  these biologists will often crawl through rivers and streams while scanning the bottom with their hands. Brant has worked at educational events in the past where he teaches about aquatic ecosystems. Brant has also collaborated with Purdue and other environmental nonprofits to support mussel restoration and research projects.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

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