scholarly journals Population Characteristics of Co-Managed White Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass in Lake McConaughy, Nebraska

2019 ◽  

White Bass (Morone chrysops) and Hybrid Striped Bass (M. saxatillis × M. chrysops) populations often coexist in the same waterbody and are known to achieve different lengths, have differing reproductive success, and provide different opportunities for anglers. However, comparative population dynamics from systems where Moronids are managed with the same regulation is often lacking. This study aimed to assess the recruitment, mortality, and growth of these species from seasonal samples collected at Lake McConaughy in 2015 and fall 2016. White Bass demonstrated highly variable recruitment in Lake McConaughy despite stocking efforts (mean recruitment variability index = 0.157). Hybrid Striped Bass year class strength was also variable, but RVI was not calculated as the number of missing year classes exceed the number of present year classes. Total annual mortality estimates for Hybrid Striped Bass (39.7%) and White Bass (41.4%) were consistent with values reported in other populations, but both species were observed to achieve uncommon longevity. Both species exhibited sexual size dimorphism, and growth was moderate and consistent with average values presented for North American populations. This study provides insight into the population dynamics of two species with trophy potential managed by the same regulation in Lake McConaughy. Differences in growth patterns indicate the current regulation affects each species differently, and managers may be able to utilize this to inform decisions about management of coexisting Moronid populations.

<em>Abstract</em>.—Striped bass <em>Morone saxatilis </em>movements and population dynamics have been well studied in midwestern impoundments; however, a paucity of information exists on hybrid striped bass in these systems. We studied palmetto bass (male white bass <em>M. chrysops </em>× female striped bass) population dynamics and seasonal movements from 2005 to 2007 at Monroe Lake, a 4,350-ha flood control impoundment in south-central Indiana. Palmetto bass were collected, measured, and aged using otoliths to assess growth and mortality. Thirty fish were tagged with radio tags in April 2006 to determine seasonal movements and distributions for 1 year. Oxygen and temperature profiles were measured throughout the year to determine available habitat. Total annual mortality was 32% (±5%). Catch-curve residuals were modeled against the number of fish stocked to investigate recruitment variability. More than 95% of the variation in year-class strength was explained by the number of age-0 fish (25–50 mm total length) stocked in early summer. We determined that optimal stocking rates were between 12 and 23 fish/ha. Fish moved more during spring (501 m/d) than other seasons (109–220 m/d). Fish were concentrated in the lower basin of the lake during summer and in the upper basin during winter. Based on minimum habitat suitability index values for temperature and dissolved oxygen, there was no optimal habitat available in winter or spring. The volume of optimal habitat increased to 22% of the lake during summer and 47% in fall. Based on our evaluation of population dynamics, seasonal movements, available habitat, and stocking efficiency, current management strategies of hybrid striped bass in Monroe Lake are adequate to sustain a healthy fishery at similar levels of mortality.


<em>Abstract</em>.—Growth of hybrid striped bass (white bass <em>Morone chrysops</em> × striped bass <em>M. saxatilis</em>) throughout North America was summarized to evaluate latitudinal differences in growth. Age was estimated from scales and otoliths (nondifferentiated) collected from 29 populations in 12 states. Hybrid striped bass populations were delineated by midwestern, southeastern, and southwestern regions. Growth among regions was compared by fitting a von Bertalanffy growth model to each population and by comparing mean length at capture (fall-sampled fish) for ages 1 and 3 and maximum ages. Midwestern populations exemplified the highest theoretical maximum length (<em>L<sub></em>∞</sub>), followed by southeastern populations, although differences were not significant among regions. Likewise, growth coefficients (<EM>K</EM>) and maximum ages did not differ among regions. Southeastern populations had greater length at age than midwestern populations but were similar to southwestern values. These results provide a framework for comparing North American hybrid striped bass populations and for managing this important sport fish in reservoir systems.


EDIS ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 2009 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Cortney L. Ohs ◽  
Christian L. Miller ◽  
R. LeRoy Creswell

FA155, a 9-page illustrated fact sheet by Cortney L. Ohs, Christian L. Miller, and R. LeRoy Creswell, describes these crosses between striped bass and white bass, commonly called sunshine bass and palmetto bass — geographical distribution and habitat, phases of production, pond, cage, and tank production, feeding, water quality, and marketing. Includes references. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation Program for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, December 2008. FA155/FA155: Candidate Species for Florida Aquaculture: Hybrid Striped Bass, Morone saxatilis x Morone chrysops (ufl.edu)


2006 ◽  
Vol 72 ◽  
pp. 135-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
VE Ostland ◽  
JA Stannard ◽  
JJ Creek ◽  
RP Hedrick ◽  
HW Ferguson ◽  
...  

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