Using integral projection models to explore management strategies for silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)

Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) are planktivorous fish that were originally introduced to the United States for use in fish production ponds and have since escaped these enclosures and are invading the Mississippi River Basin. The silver carp invasion of the Illinois River has a myriad of negative effects on native ecosystems. In this paper, we introduce key dependencies that are likely important in the population dynamics of silver carp: length-dependent egg production and density-dependent growth. Using movement data between two adjacent pools of the Illinois River, we conduct numerical simulations to explore the theoretical effect of harvesting and the use of movement barriers. Results of our model provide insights on how the number of silver carp may respond to movement barriers placed between adjacent harvesting sites.