Hydrodynamic impacts on walleye (sander vitreus) egg and larval distribution and survival in

The primary determinant of fish population size accessible for fisheries is the survival beyond the egg and larval stages. To estimate the number of fish available for harvest therefore, modelers must be able to accurately predict the percent of fish that survive these early life stages. Many species, such as walleye, must reside in nursery areas to survive the larval stage and current flow is a major factor determining their retention in these areas. This internship will study the effects of currents on survival and swimming ability of larval walleye to allow better prediction of survival during storm events and other variations in water flow. The Ministry of Natural Resources, the partner organization for this work, will then be able to use these data to better construct models of year class strength when determining fishing limits and population health.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Dennis Higgs

Student:

Sarah Humphrey

Partner:

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University:

University of Windsor