Response of walleye and yellow perch to water-level fluctuations in glacial lakes
The influence of water levels on population characteristics of yellow perch, Perca flavescens (Mitchill), and walleye, Sander vitreus (Mitchill), was evaluated across a range of glacial lakes in north-eastern South Dakota, USA. Results showed that natural variation in water levels had an important influence on frequently measured fish population characteristics. Yellow perch abundance was significantly (P<0.10) greater during elevated water levels. Yellow perch size structure, as indexed by the proportional size distribution of quality- and preferred-length fish (PSD and PSD-P), was significantly greater during low-water years, as was walleye PSD. Mean relative weight of walleye increased significantly during high-water periods. The dynamic and unpredictable nature of water-level fluctuations in glacial lakes ultimately adds complexity to management of these systems.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2014 |
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Title | Response of walleye and yellow perch to water-level fluctuations in glacial lakes |
DOI | 10.1111/fme.12047 |
Authors | D.J. Dembkowski, Steven R. Chipps, B. G. Blackwell |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Fisheries Management and Ecology |
Index ID | 70193802 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Coop Res Unit Leetown |