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Spatially explicit measures of production of young alewives in Lake Michigan: Linkage between essential fish habitat and recruitment

Estuaries and Coasts
By: , , , , , , and 
https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02691690

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Abstract

The identification and protection of essential habitats for early life stages of fishes are necessary to sustain fish stocks. Essential fish habitat for early life stages may be defined as areas where fish densities, growth, survival, or production rates are relatively high. To identify critical habitats for young-of-year (YOY) alewives (Alosa pseud oharengus) in Lake Michigan, we integrated bioenergetics models with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to generate spatially explicit estimates of potential population production (an index of habitat quality). These estimates were based upon YOY alewife bioenergetic growth rate potential and their salmonine predators’ consumptive demand. We compared estimates of potential population production to YOY alewife yield (an index of habitat importance). Our analysis suggested that during 1994–1995, YOY alewife habitat quality and yield varied widely throughout Lake Michigan. Spatial patterns of alewife yield were not significantly correlated to habitat quality. Various mechanisms (e.g., predator migrations, lake circulation patterns, alternative strategies) may preclude YOY alewives from concentrating in areas of high habitat quality in Lake Michigan.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Spatially explicit measures of production of young alewives in Lake Michigan: Linkage between essential fish habitat and recruitment
Series title Estuaries and Coasts
DOI 10.1007/BF02691690
Volume 26
Issue 1
Year Published 2003
Language English
Publisher Springer
Contributing office(s) Great Lakes Science Center
Description 9 p.
First page 21
Last page 29
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
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