1
|
Roberts BH, Morrongiello JR, Morgan DL, King AJ, Saunders TM, Banks SC, Crook DA. Monsoonal wet season influences the migration tendency of a catadromous fish (barramundi Lates calcarifer). J Anim Ecol 2024; 93:83-94. [PMID: 37984847 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.14019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Many animals exhibit partial migration, which occurs when populations contain coexisting contingents of migratory and resident individuals. This individual-level variation in migration behaviour may drive differences in growth, age at maturity and survival. Therefore, partial migration is widely considered to play a key role in shaping population demography. Otolith chemistry and microstructural analysis were used to identify the environmental- and individual-specific factors that influence migratory behaviour in the facultatively catadromous barramundi (Lates calcarifer) at two distinct life history stages: firstly, as juveniles migrating upstream into fresh water; and secondly, as adults or sub-adults returning to the estuarine/marine spawning habitat. Monsoonal climate played an important role in determining the migration propensity of juveniles: individuals born in the driest year examined (weak monsoon) were more than twice as likely to undergo migration to freshwater than those born in the wettest (strong monsoon) year. In contrast, the ontogenetic timing of return migrations to the estuary by adults and sub-adults was highly variable and not strongly associated with the environmental parameters examined. We propose that scarce resources within saline natal habitats during lower rainfall years may provide an ecological incentive for juveniles to migrate upstream, whereas more abundant resources in higher rainfall years may promote resident life histories within estuaries. We conclude that inter-annual climatic variation, here evidenced by monsoonal strength, likely plays an important role in driving the persistence of diversified life histories within wild barramundi populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brien H Roberts
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Fisheries Research, Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - John R Morrongiello
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David L Morgan
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
- CSIRO Environment, Albury, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Fisheries Research, Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Primary Industries, Port Stephens Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sam C Banks
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Primary Industries, Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Porter M, Barton DP, Hearnden M, Randall J, Crook DA, Shamsi S. Relationships between local variability in parasite communities of the black-spotted croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) (Teleostei: Sciaenidae) and host population structure and seasonality. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10291. [PMID: 37357255 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37428-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated spatial and temporal variability in parasite communities from the commercially important tropical marine fish the black-spotted croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) (Teleostei: Sciaenidae) to examine its population structure off the coast of the Northern Territory, Australia. Differences in parasite assemblage between four locations, across three seasons of the year, were used to evaluate the degree of connectivity of the sciaenid across coastal study areas. Analysis of parasite prevalence and mean intensity in these fish suggested the four sampling sites are distinct host populations. Across time, parasite assemblages at the four sites were distinct during the mid-dry (April-August) and build-up (September-November) seasons. During the wet season (December-March) there was substantial overlap in the parasite assemblages at three of the four sites indicating that fish population mixing may be occurring. Parasite assemblages at one nearshore site remained distinct across spatial and temporal scales. Our findings support the utility of parasitic organisms for elucidating the population structure of host species and reiterate the need to account for both spatial and temporal variability when performing stock discrimination analyses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Porter
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia.
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia.
| | - Diane P Barton
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Mark Hearnden
- Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Northern Territory Government of Australia, Darwin, NT, 0801, Australia
| | - Jo Randall
- Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Northern Territory Government of Australia, Darwin, NT, 0801, Australia
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT, 0810, Australia
- Arafura Timor Research Facility, Australian Institute of Marine Science, Brinkin, NT, 0810, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT, 0810, Australia
- Department of Primary Industries, Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera, NSW, 2700, Australia
| | - Shokoofeh Shamsi
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mayne B, Espinoza T, Crook DA, Anderson C, Korbie D, Marshall JC, Kennard MJ, Harding DJ, Butler GL, Roberts B, Whiley J, Marshall S. Accurate, non-destructive, and high-throughput age estimation for Golden perch (Macquaria ambigua spp.) using DNA methylation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9547. [PMID: 37308782 PMCID: PMC10260977 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36773-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Age structure information of animal populations is fundamental to their conservation and management. In fisheries, age is routinely obtained by counting daily or annual increments in calcified structures (e.g., otoliths) which requires lethal sampling. Recently, DNA methylation has been shown to estimate age using DNA extracted from fin tissue without the need to kill the fish. In this study we used conserved known age-associated sites from the zebrafish (Danio rerio) genome to predict the age of golden perch (Macquaria ambigua), a large-bodied native fish from eastern Australia. Individuals aged using validated otolith techniques from across the species' distribution were used to calibrate three epigenetic clocks. One clock was calibrated using daily (daily clock) and another with annual (annual clock) otolith increment counts, respectively. A third used both daily and annual increments (universal clock). We found a high correlation between the otolith and epigenetic age (Pearson correlation > 0.94) across all clocks. The median absolute error was 2.4 days in the daily clock, 184.6 days in the annual clock, and 74.5 days in the universal clock. Our study demonstrates the emerging utility of epigenetic clocks as non-lethal and high-throughput tools for obtaining age estimates to support the management of fish populations and fisheries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Mayne
- Environomics Future Science Platform, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre, Crawley, WA, Australia.
| | - Tom Espinoza
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Department of Primary Industries, Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera, NSW, Australia
| | - Chloe Anderson
- Environomics Future Science Platform, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Darren Korbie
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jonathan C Marshall
- Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Australian Rivers Institute and Griffith School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Mark J Kennard
- Australian Rivers Institute and Griffith School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Doug J Harding
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gavin L Butler
- NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries), Grafton, NSW, Australia
| | - Brien Roberts
- Fisheries Division, Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Josh Whiley
- Australian Rivers Institute and Griffith School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Sharon Marshall
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Porter M, Barton DP, Shamsi S, Crook DA, Randall J. Deciphering the complex trophic relationship of the black-spotted croaker (Teleostei: Sciaenidae) and its parasites using stable isotope analysis. CAN J ZOOL 2023. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2022-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The stable isotope values of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) have been widely used in ecological studies to decipher the trophic relationships and interactions that occur between living organisms. The aim of this study is to determine the trophic relationship between a commercially important tropical Australian marine fish (Protonibea diacanthus) (Lacepède, 1802) (Sciaenidae) and its associated parasites, through stable isotope analysis of nitrogen and carbon (δ15N and δ13C). We examined the stable isotope ecology of four parasitic organisms: adult ectoparasitic copepods and endoparasitic adult digeneans and nematodes and plerocercoids. Nitrogen in endoparasites was consistently depleted when compared with the host, however digeneans expressed nitrogen signatures almost equivalent to those of the host. Ectoparasitic copepods were the only parasite that was substantially enriched in nitrogen compared to the host. All adult parasitic organisms were carbon depleted when compared with the host tissue associated with the site of infection, however plerocercoids were enriched. Our findings emphasize the complexity of parasite-host interactions and the varying values of isotopic discrimination between parasite type, life cycle stage, and location in host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Porter
- Charles Sturt University Faculty of Science, 110481, School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Diane P Barton
- Charles Sturt University Faculty of Science, 110481, School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shokoofeh Shamsi
- Charles Sturt University Faculty of Science, 110481, School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Charles Darwin University, 10095, Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, 356586, Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jo Randall
- Charles Darwin University, 10095, Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, 8002, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abecia JE, Luiz OJ, Crook DA, Banks SC, Wedd D, King AJ. Sex and male breeding state predict intraspecific trait variation in mouth-brooding fishes. J Fish Biol 2022; 101:550-559. [PMID: 35638470 PMCID: PMC9544576 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sex-specific reproductive roles contribute to sexual dimorphic morphological trait variations. In uniparental mouth-brooding fishes, the mouth performs a reproductive function in addition to its key roles in feeding and respiration, resulting in the potential for sex-specific functional performance trade-offs. Trait differences related to parental care may occur when the individual matures or be restricted to periods when the parent is mouth-brooding. This study explored sexual dimorphism and morphological trait adaptations related to feeding, breeding, respiration and locomotion performance in two paternal mouth-brooding freshwater fishes (Glossamia aprion and Neoarius graeffei). Eight morphological traits were evaluated for sexual dimorphism (non-brooder males vs. females) and male breeding state differences (brooders vs. non-brooders). Male breeding state was a significant predictor of trait variation in both species. Brooders differed in buccal volume and in several feeding and locomotory traits compared to non-brooder males. Non-brooder males had bigger buccal volumes and relative eye diameters (G. aprion) and larger relative gape sizes (N. graeffei) compared to females, a potential response to both mouth-brooding and feeding requirements. Although there were clear trait differences between brooder and non-brooder males, further research is required to confirm whether individuals return to their former morphology once mouth-brooding has ceased or if trait differences are maintained post-brooding. This study highlights the importance of considering the potential impacts of intraspecific trait variation on the performance of critical life functions, such as feeding, respiration and locomotion across the life history.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine E. Abecia
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
| | - Osmar J. Luiz
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
| | - David A. Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
- Centre for Freshwater EcosystemsLa Trobe UniversityAlburyVictoriaAustralia
| | - Sam C. Banks
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
| | - Alison J. King
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin UniversityCasuarinaNorthern TerritoryAustralia
- Centre for Freshwater EcosystemsLa Trobe UniversityAlburyVictoriaAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Butler ECV, Harries SJ, McAllister KA, Windsor JO, Logan M, Crook DA, Roberts BH, Grubert MA, Saunders TM. Influence of life history variation and habitat on mercury bioaccumulation in a high-order predatory fish in tropical Australia. Environ Res 2022; 212:113152. [PMID: 35341754 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Mercury distribution and bioaccumulation in aquatic ecosystems of tropical Australia is poorly characterised. Barramundi (Lates calcarifer), a widespread high-order predator in both fresh and coastal marine waters of the region, fulfils requirements for a bio-indicator of mercury contamination. In a study of the Mary River system of the Northern Territory, total mercury in the muscle tissue of 300 specimens gathered over four years (2013-2017, across both wet and dry seasons) was determined by direct combustion-atomic absorption spectrometry. Source of nutrition and trophic position of barramundi in the food web was also estimated via carbon and nitrogen isotopes (δ13C and δ15N), respectively, in tissue by stable isotope mass spectrometry, and determination of strontium isotopes (87Sr/86Sr) in otoliths by laser ablation-ICPMS differentiated between freshwater and saltwater residence. Results showed that fish moving into freshwater floodplain wetlands concentrated mercury in muscle tissue at approximately twice the level of those that remained in saline habitats. Resolving life histories through otolith analyses demonstrated diversity in mercury bioaccumulation for individual fish of the same migratory contingent on the floodplains. Although trophic level (δ15N), capture location, source of nutrition (δ13C), and age or size partly predicted mercury concentrations in barramundi, our results suggest that individual variability in diets, migration patterns and potentially metabolism are also influential. Using a migratory fish as a bio-indicator, and tracking its life history and use of resources, proved valuable as a tool to discern hot spots in a coastal waterway for a contaminant, such as mercury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward C V Butler
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia.
| | - Simon J Harries
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Kirsty A McAllister
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Jonathan O Windsor
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Murray Logan
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia; Department of Primary Industries, Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brien H Roberts
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Mark A Grubert
- Fisheries Division, Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Fisheries Division, Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Luiz OJ, Olden JD, Kennard MJ, Crook DA, Douglas MM, Saunders TM, Wedd D, Adair B, King AJ. Substantial intraspecific trait variation across a hydrological gradient in northern Australian fishes. Ecosphere 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Osmar J. Luiz
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Julian D. Olden
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Australian Rivers Institute Griffith University Nathan Queensland Australia
| | - Mark J. Kennard
- Australian Rivers Institute Griffith University Nathan Queensland Australia
| | - David A. Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin Northern Territory Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems La Trobe University Wodonga Victoria Australia
| | - Michael M. Douglas
- School of Biological Sciences, School of Agriculture and Environment The University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Thor M. Saunders
- Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Brendan Adair
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Alison J. King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin Northern Territory Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems La Trobe University Wodonga Victoria Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hahlbeck N, Tinniswood WR, Sloat MR, Ortega JD, Wyatt MA, Hereford ME, Ramirez BS, Crook DA, Anlauf-Dunn KJ, Armstrong JB. Contribution of warm habitat to cold-water fisheries. Conserv Biol 2022; 36:e13857. [PMID: 34766374 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A central tenet of landscape ecology is that mobile species depend on complementary habitats, which are insufficient in isolation, but combine to support animals through the full annual cycle. However, incorporating the dynamic needs of mobile species into conservation strategies remains a challenge, particularly in the context of climate adaptation planning. For cold-water fishes, it is widely assumed that maximum temperatures are limiting and that summer data alone can predict refugia and population persistence. We tested these assumptions in populations of redband rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss newberrii) in an arid basin, where the dominance of hot, hyperproductive water in summer emulates threats of climate change predicted for cold-water fish in other basins. We used telemetry to reveal seasonal patterns of movement and habitat use. Then, we compared contributions of hot and cool water to growth with empirical indicators of diet and condition (gut contents, weight-length ratios, electric phase angle, and stable isotope signatures) and a bioenergetics model. During summer, trout occurred only in cool tributaries or springs (<20 °C) and avoided Upper Klamath Lake (>25 °C). During spring and fall, ≥65% of trout migrated to the lake (5-50 km) to forage. Spring and fall growth (mean [SD] 0.58% per day [0.80%] and 0.34 per day [0.55%], respectively) compensated for a net loss of energy in cool summer refuges (-0.56% per day [0.55%]). In winter, ≥90% of trout returned to tributaries (25-150 km) to spawn. Thus, although perennially cool tributaries supported thermal refuge and spawning, foraging opportunities in the seasonally hot lake ultimately fueled these behaviors. Current approaches to climate adaptation would prioritize the tributaries for conservation but would devalue critical foraging habitat because the lake is unsuitable and unoccupied during summer. Our results empirically demonstrate that warm water can fuel cold-water fisheries and challenge the common practice of identifying refugia based only on summer conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick Hahlbeck
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - William R Tinniswood
- Klamath Watershed District Office, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Jordan D Ortega
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Matthew A Wyatt
- Klamath Watershed District Office, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA
| | - Mark E Hereford
- Klamath Watershed District Office, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA
| | - Ben S Ramirez
- Klamath Watershed District Office, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Kara J Anlauf-Dunn
- Corvallis Research Lab, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Jonathan B Armstrong
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Crook DA, Morrongiello JR, King AJ, Adair BJ, Grubert MA, Roberts BH, Douglas MM, Saunders TM. Environmental drivers of recruitment in a tropical fishery: Monsoonal effects and vulnerability to water abstraction. Ecol Appl 2022; 32:e2563. [PMID: 35138679 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Fisheries and natural water resources across the world are under increasing pressure from human activity, including fishing and irrigated agriculture. There is an urgent need for information on the climatic/hydrologic drivers of fishery productivity that can be readily applied to management. We use a generalized linear mixed model framework of catch curve regression to resolve the key climatic/hydrological drivers of recruitment in Barramundi Lates calcarifer using biochronological (otolith aging) data collected from four river-estuary systems in the Northern Territory, Australia. These models were then used to generate estimates of the year class strength (YCS) outcomes of different water abstraction scenarios (ranging from 10% to 40% abstraction per season/annum) for two of the rivers in low, moderate, and high discharge years. Barramundi YCS displayed strong interannual variation and was positively correlated with regional monsoon activity in all four rivers. River-specific analyses identified strong relationships between YCS and several river-specific hydrology variables, including wet and dry season discharge and flow duration. Water abstraction scenario models based on YCS-hydrology relationships predicted reductions of >30% in YCS in several cases, suggesting that increased water resource development in the future may pose risks for Barramundi recruitment and fishery productivity. Our study demonstrates the importance of the tropical monsoon as a driver of Barramundi recruitment and the potential for detrimental impacts of increased water abstraction on fishery productivity. The biochronological and statistical approaches we used have the potential to be broadly applied to inform policy and management of water resource and fisheries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, La Trobe University, Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
| | - John R Morrongiello
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, La Trobe University, Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan J Adair
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Mark A Grubert
- Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Brien H Roberts
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Michael M Douglas
- NESP Northern Australia Environmental Resources Hub, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
While mouthbrooding is not an uncommon parental care strategy in fishes, paternal mouthbrooding only occurs in eight fish families and is little studied. The high cost of paternal mouthbrooding to the male implies a low risk of investment in another male's offspring but genetic parentage patterns are poorly known for paternal mouthbrooders. Here, we used single-nucleotide polymorphism genetic data to investigate parentage relationships of broods of two mouthbrooders of northern Australian rivers, mouth almighty Glossamia aprion and blue catfish Neoarius graeffei. For N. graeffei, we found that the parentage pattern was largely monogamous with the brooder male as the sire. For G. aprion, the parentage pattern was more heterogeneous including observations of monogamous broods with the brooder male as the sire (73%), polygyny (13%), cuckoldry (6%) and a brood genetically unrelated to the brooder male (6%). Findings demonstrate the potential for complex interrelationships of male care, paternity confidence and mating behaviour in mouthbrooding fishes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine E Abecia
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia.,Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, La Trobe University, Albury/Wodonga Campus, Vic 3690, Australia
| | - Osmar J Luiz
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia.,Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, La Trobe University, Albury/Wodonga Campus, Vic 3690, Australia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia
| | - Sam C Banks
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Saboret G, Buckle DJ, King AJ, Douglas MM, Crook DA. Partial migration in diadromous fishes drives the allocation of subsidies across the freshwater-marine ecotone. Animal Migration 2021. [DOI: 10.1515/ami-2020-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Migratory animals can act as cross-boundary subsidies sustaining ecosystem functioning, such as diadromous fishes that migrate between fresh water and seawater and carry nutrients and energy across the freshwater-marine ecotone. Frequency and timing of migration are however highly variable within and among populations. We hypothesized that in catadromous fishes (i.e., diadromous fishes that grow in freshwater and spawn in the sea, such as eels), the import of subsidies by migratory juveniles could outweigh the export of subsidies by adults due to skipped spawning migration. We used the diamond mullet Planiliza ordensis, as a model species, and determined life-history traits using a combination of length-to-age data, acoustic telemetry and otolith (fish ear stone) microchemistry. We used a mass balance approach to model individual mass acquisition and allocation, and extended our model to other life-history strategies. Our results showed high intra-population variation of migratory behaviour in P. ordensis, with few individuals migrating every year to spawn. We estimated that an individual P. ordensis acted as a net 42.6g biomass subsidy in fresh water, representing a retention of more than 50% of the juvenile mass at freshwater entry. Our model predicts that skipped spawning is likely to alter the allocation of subsidies in diadromous species, highlighting the important effects of individual variation in migratory behaviour on fluxes of energy and nutrient at ecosystem scales. We encourage future studies to consider how variation in migratory behaviour is likely to affect the direction and magnitude of biomass fluxes across ecotone boundaries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire Saboret
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods , Charles Darwin University , Darwin , 0810, NT , Australia ; Master Biosciences, ENS de Lyon, Département de Biologie , 46 allée d’Italie, 69007 Lyon , France ; Department of Surface Waters, EAWAG, Center for Ecology, Evolution and Biogeochemistry , 6047 Kastanienbaum , Switzerland
| | - Duncan J. Buckle
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods , Charles Darwin University , Darwin , 0810, NT , Australia
| | - Alison J. King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods , Charles Darwin University , Darwin , 0810, NT , Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems , La Trobe University , Albury-Wodonga, 3690, New South Wales , Australia
| | - Michael M. Douglas
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods , Charles Darwin University , Darwin , 0810, NT , Australia
- School of Biological Sciences , The University of Western Australia , 6009, Western Australia , Australia
| | - David A. Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods , Charles Darwin University , Darwin , 0810, NT , Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems , La Trobe University , Albury-Wodonga, 3690, New South Wales , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hammer MP, Taillebois L, King AJ, Crook DA, Wedd D, Adams M, Unmack PJ, Hoese DF, Bertozzi T. Unravelling the taxonomy and identification of a problematic group of benthic fishes from tropical rivers (Gobiidae: Glossogobius). J Fish Biol 2021; 99:87-100. [PMID: 33583039 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Flathead gobies (genus Glossogobius) include c. 40 small- to medium-sized benthic fishes found primarily in freshwater habitats across the Indo-Pacific, having biodiversity value as well as cultural and economic value as food fishes, especially in developing countries. To help resolve considerable confusion regarding the identification of some of the larger-growing Glossogobius species, a systematic framework was established using nuclear genetic markers, mitochondrial DNA barcoding and phenotypic evidence for a geographically widespread collection of individuals from the waterways of tropical northern Australia. Species boundaries and distribution patterns were discordant with those previously reported, most notably for the tank goby Glossogobius giuris, which included a cryptic species. Genetic divergence was matched with accompanying unique visual characters that aid field identification. Additional taxonomic complexity was also evident, by comparison with DNA barcodes from international locations, suggesting that the specific names applicable for two of the candidate species in Australia remain unresolved due to confusion surrounding type specimens. Although flathead gobies are assumed to be widespread and common, this study demonstrates that unrealised taxonomic and ecological complexity is evident, and this will influence assessments of tropical biodiversity and species conservation. This study supports the need for taxonomic studies of freshwater fishes to underpin management in areas subject to significant environmental change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Hammer
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Laura Taillebois
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Mark Adams
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J Unmack
- Centre of Applied Water Science, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Doug F Hoese
- Australian Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Terry Bertozzi
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Roberts BH, Morrongiello JR, Morgan DL, King AJ, Saunders TM, Crook DA. Faster juvenile growth promotes earlier sex change in a protandrous hermaphrodite (barramundi Lates calcarifer). Sci Rep 2021; 11:2276. [PMID: 33500452 PMCID: PMC7838401 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81727-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between growth and sexual maturation is central to understanding the dynamics of animal populations which exhibit indeterminate growth. In sequential hermaphrodites, which undergo post-maturation sex change, the size and age at which sex change occurs directly affects reproductive output and hence population productivity. However, these traits are often labile, and may be strongly influenced by heterogenous growth and mortality rates. We analysed otolith microstructure of a protandrous (i.e., male-to-female) fish (barramundi Lates calcarifer) to examine growth in relation to individual variation in the timing of sex change. Growth trajectories of individuals with contrasting life histories were examined to elucidate the direction and extent to which growth rate influences the size and age individuals change sex. Then, the relationships between growth rate, maturation schedules and asymptotic maximum size were explored to identify potential trade-offs between age at female maturity and growth potential. Rapid growth was strongly associated with decreased age at sex change, but this was not accompanied by a decrease in size at sex change. Individuals that were caught as large females grew faster than those caught as males, suggesting that fast-growing individuals ultimately obtain higher fitness and therefore make a disproportionate contribution to population fecundity. These results indicate that individual-level variation in maturation schedules is not reflective of trade-offs between growth and reproduction. Rather, we suggest that conditions experienced during the juvenile phase are likely to be a key determinant of post-maturation fitness. These findings highlight the vulnerability of sex-changing species to future environmental change and harvest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brien H Roberts
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia.
| | - John R Morrongiello
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David L Morgan
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, VIC, Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Fisheries Research, Berrimah, NT, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Crook DA, Buckle DJ, Morrongiello JR, Allsop QA, Baldwin W, Saunders TM, Douglas MM. Tracking the resource pulse: Movement responses of fish to dynamic floodplain habitat in a tropical river. J Anim Ecol 2019; 89:795-807. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David A. Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia
- Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems La Trobe University Wodonga Vic. Australia
| | - Duncan J. Buckle
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia
| | - John R. Morrongiello
- School of Biosciences Parkville University of Melbourne Parkville Vic. Australia
| | | | - Wayne Baldwin
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources Berrimah NT Australia
| | - Thor M. Saunders
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources Berrimah NT Australia
| | - Michael M. Douglas
- NESP Northern Australia Environmental Resources Hub School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Luiz OJ, Crook DA, Kennard MJ, Olden JD, Saunders TM, Douglas MM, Wedd D, King AJ. Does a bigger mouth make you fatter? Linking intraspecific gape variability to body condition of a tropical predatory fish. Oecologia 2019; 191:579-585. [PMID: 31583451 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-019-04522-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In gape-limited predators, gape size restricts the maximum prey size a predator is capable to ingest. However, studies investigating the energetic consequences of this relationship remain scarce. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that gape-size variability influences individual body condition (a common proxy for fitness) in one of the largest freshwater teleost predators, the barramundi. We found that individual barramundi with larger gapes relative to body size had higher body condition values compared to conspecifics with smaller gapes. Body condition was highest soon after the wet season, a period of high feeding activity on productive inundated floodplains, and body condition decreased as the dry season progressed when fish were restricted to dry season remnant habitats. The increased condition obtained during the wet season apparently offsets weight loss through the dry season, as individuals with large gapes were still in better condition than fish with small gapes in the late-dry season. Elucidation of the links between intraspecific variability in traits and performance is a critical challenge in functional ecology. This study emphasizes that even small intraspecific variability in morphological trait values can potentially affect individual fitness within a species' distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osmar J Luiz
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia.
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia
| | - Mark J Kennard
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Julian D Olden
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia
- Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Michael M Douglas
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Darwin, NT, 0810, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Roberts BH, Morrongiello JR, King AJ, Morgan DL, Saunders TM, Woodhead J, Crook DA. Migration to freshwater increases growth rates in a facultatively catadromous tropical fish. Oecologia 2019; 191:253-260. [PMID: 31278439 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-019-04460-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Diadromy is a form of migration where aquatic organisms undergo regular movements between fresh and marine waters for the purposes of feeding and reproduction. Despite having arisen in independent lineages of fish, gastropod molluscs and crustaceans, the evolutionary drivers of diadromous migration remain contentious. We test a key aspect of the 'productivity hypothesis', which proposes that diadromy arises in response to primary productivity differentials between marine and freshwater habitats. Otolith chemistry and biochronology data are analysed in a facultatively catadromous tropical fish (barramundi, Lates calcarifer) to determine the effect of freshwater residence on growth rates. Individuals that accessed freshwater grew ~ 25% faster on average than estuarine residents in the year following migration, suggesting that catadromy provides a potential fitness advantage over non-catadromous (marine/estuarine) life histories, as predicted by the productivity hypothesis. Although diadromous barramundi exhibited faster growth than non-diadromous fish, we suggest that the relative reproductive success of diadromous and non-diadromous contingents is likely to be strongly influenced by local environmental variability such as temporal differences in river discharge, and that this may facilitate the persistence of diverse life history strategies within populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brien H Roberts
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia.
| | - John R Morrongiello
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - David L Morgan
- Freshwater Fish Group and Fish Health Unit, Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Fisheries Research, Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Berrimah, NT, Australia
| | - Jon Woodhead
- School of Earth Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Keller K, Allsop Q, Brim Box J, Buckle D, Crook DA, Douglas MM, Jackson S, Kennard MJ, Luiz OJ, Pusey BJ, Townsend SA, King AJ. Dry season habitat use of fishes in an Australian tropical river. Sci Rep 2019. [PMID: 30952875 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41387-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The modification of river flow regimes poses a significant threat to the world's freshwater ecosystems. Northern Australia's freshwater resources, particularly dry season river flows, are being increasingly modified to support human development, potentially threatening aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity, including fish. More information is urgently needed on the ecology of fishes in this region, including their habitat requirements, to support water policy and management to ensure future sustainable development. This study used electrofishing and habitat survey methods to quantify the dry season habitat use of 20 common freshwater fish taxa in the Daly River in Australia's wet-dry tropics. Of twenty measured habitat variables, water depth and velocity were the two most important factors discriminating fish habitat use for the majority of taxa. Four distinct fish habitat guilds were identified, largely classified according to depth, velocity and structural complexity. Ontogenetic shifts in habitat use were also observed in three species. This study highlights the need to maintain dry season river flows that support a diversity of riverine mesohabitats for freshwater fishes. In particular, shallow fast-flowing areas provided critical nursery and refuge habitats for some species, but are vulnerable to water level reductions due to water extraction. By highlighting the importance of a diversity of habitats for fishes, this study assists water managers in future decision making on the ecological risks of water extractions from tropical rivers, and especially the need to maintain dry season low flows to protect the habitats of native fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Keller
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia.
| | - Q Allsop
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources, Berrimah Road, Berrimah, NT, 0828, Australia
| | - J Brim Box
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Alice Springs, NT, 0870, Australia
| | - D Buckle
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - D A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - M M Douglas
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
- School of Earth and Environment, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - S Jackson
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - M J Kennard
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - O J Luiz
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - B J Pusey
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - S A Townsend
- Water Resources Division, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Palmerston, NT, 0830, Australia
| | - A J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Engineering Health Science & Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Islam MRU, Schmidt DJ, Crook DA, Hughes JM. Patterns of genetic structuring at the northern limits of the Australian smelt ( Retropinna semoni) cryptic species complex. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4654. [PMID: 29736331 PMCID: PMC5936633 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Freshwater fishes often exhibit high genetic population structure due to the prevalence of dispersal barriers (e.g., waterfalls) whereas population structure in diadromous fishes tends to be weaker and driven by natal homing behaviour and/or isolation by distance. The Australian smelt (Retropinnidae: Retropinna semoni) is a native fish with a broad distribution spanning inland and coastal drainages of south-eastern Australia. Previous studies have demonstrated variability in population genetic structure and movement behaviour (potamodromy, facultative diadromy, estuarine residence) across the southern part of its geographic range. Some of this variability may be explained by the existence of multiple cryptic species. Here, we examined genetic structure of populations towards the northern extent of the species’ distribution, using ten microsatellite loci and sequences of the mitochondrial cyt b gene. We tested the hypothesis that genetic connectivity among rivers should be low due to a lack of dispersal via the marine environment, but high within rivers due to dispersal. We investigated populations corresponding with two putative cryptic species, SEQ-North (SEQ-N), and SEQ-South (SEQ-S) lineages occurring in south east Queensland drainages. These two groups formed monophyletic clades in the mtDNA gene tree and among river phylogeographic structure was also evident within each clade. In agreement with our hypothesis, highly significant overall FST values suggested that both groups exhibit very low dispersal among rivers (SEQ-S FST = 0.13; SEQ-N FST= 0.27). Microsatellite data indicated that connectivity among sites within rivers was also limited, suggesting dispersal may not homogenise populations at the within-river scale. Northern groups in the Australian smelt cryptic species complex exhibit comparatively higher among-river population structure and smaller geographic ranges than southern groups. These properties make northern Australian smelt populations potentially susceptible to future conservation threats, and we define eight genetically distinct management units along south east Queensland to guide future conservation management. The present findings at least can assist managers to plan for effective conservation and management of different fish species along coastal drainages of south east Queensland, Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Rakeb-Ul Islam
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Daniel J Schmidt
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Jane M Hughes
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Koster WM, Crook DA, Dawson DR, Gaskill S, Morrongiello JR. Predicting the Influence of Streamflow on Migration and Spawning of a Threatened Diadromous Fish, the Australian Grayling Prototroctes Maraena. Environ Manage 2018; 61:443-453. [PMID: 28374227 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-017-0853-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of effective strategies to restore the biological functioning of aquatic ecosystems with altered flow regimes requires a detailed understanding of flow-ecology requirements, which is unfortunately lacking in many cases. By understanding the flow conditions required to initiate critical life history events such as migration and spawning, it is possible to mitigate the threats posed by regulated river flow by providing targeted environmental flow releases from impoundments. In this study, we examined the influence of hydrological variables (e.g., flow magnitude), temporal variables (e.g., day of year) and spatial variables (e.g., longitudinal position of fish) on two key life history events (migration to spawning grounds and spawning activity) for a threatened diadromous fish (Australian grayling Prototroctes maraena) using data collected from 2008 to 2015 in the Bunyip-Tarago river system in Victoria. Our analyses revealed that flow changes act as a cue to downstream migration, but movement responses differed spatially: fish in the upper catchment showed a more specific requirement for rising discharge to initiate migration than fish in the lower catchment. Egg concentrations peaked in May when weekly flows increased relative to the median flow during a given spawning period. This information has recently been incorporated into the development of targeted environmental flows to facilitate migration and spawning by Australian grayling in the Bunyip-Tarago river system and other coastal systems in Victoria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W M Koster
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.
| | - D A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - D R Dawson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - S Gaskill
- Melbourne Water, 990 Latrobe Street, Docklands, VIC, 3008, Australia
| | - J R Morrongiello
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kelly E, Martin PAJ, Gibson-Kueh S, Morgan DL, Ebner BC, Donaldson J, Buller N, Crook DA, Brooks S, Davis AM, Hammer MP, Foyle L, Hair S, Lymbery AJ. First detection of Edwardsiella ictaluri (Proteobacteria: Enterobacteriaceae) in wild Australian catfish. J Fish Dis 2018; 41:199-208. [PMID: 28836666 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The bacterium Edwardsiella ictaluri is considered to be one of the most significant pathogens of farmed catfish in the United States of America and has also caused mortalities in farmed and wild fishes in many other parts of the world. E. ictaluri is not believed to be present in wild fish populations in Australia, although it has previously been detected in imported ornamental fishes held in quarantine facilities. In an attempt to confirm freedom from the bacterium in Australian native fishes, we undertook a risk-based survey of wild catfishes from 15 sites across northern Australia. E. ictaluri was detected by selective culturing, followed by DNA testing, in Wet Tropics tandan (Tandanus tropicanus) from the Tully River, at a prevalence of 0.40 (95% CI 0.21-0.61). The bacterium was not found in fishes sampled from any of the other 14 sites. This is the first report of E. ictaluri in wild fishes in Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Kelly
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - P A J Martin
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - S Gibson-Kueh
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - D L Morgan
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - B C Ebner
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- TropWATER, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia
- CSIRO Land & Water, Atherton, Qld, Australia
| | - J Donaldson
- TropWATER, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia
- CSIRO Land & Water, Atherton, Qld, Australia
| | - N Buller
- Animal Health Laboratories, Department of Agriculture and Food of Western Australia, South Perth, WA, Australia
| | - D A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT, Australia
| | - S Brooks
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - A M Davis
- TropWATER, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia
- CSIRO Land & Water, Atherton, Qld, Australia
| | - M P Hammer
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - L Foyle
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia
| | - S Hair
- Animal Health Laboratories, Department of Agriculture and Food of Western Australia, South Perth, WA, Australia
| | - A J Lymbery
- Freshwater Fish Group & Fish Health Unit, Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Taillebois L, Barton DP, Crook DA, Saunders T, Taylor J, Hearnden M, Saunders RJ, Newman SJ, Travers MJ, Welch DJ, Greig A, Dudgeon C, Maher S, Ovenden JR. Strong population structure deduced from genetics, otolith chemistry and parasite abundances explains vulnerability to localized fishery collapse in a large Sciaenid fish, Protonibea diacanthus. Evol Appl 2017; 10:978-993. [PMID: 29151854 PMCID: PMC5680636 DOI: 10.1111/eva.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As pressure on coastal marine resources is increasing globally, the need to quantitatively assess vulnerable fish stocks is crucial in order to avoid the ecological consequences of stock depletions. Species of Sciaenidae (croakers, drums) are important components of tropical and temperate fisheries and are especially vulnerable to exploitation. The black‐spotted croaker, Protonibea diacanthus, is the only large sciaenid in coastal waters of northern Australia where it is targeted by commercial, recreational and indigenous fishers due to its food value and predictable aggregating behaviour. Localized declines in the abundance of this species have been observed, highlighting the urgent requirement by managers for information on fine‐ and broad‐scale population connectivity. This study examined the population structure of P. diacanthus across north‐western Australia using three complementary methods: genetic variation in microsatellite markers, otolith elemental composition and parasite assemblage composition. The genetic analyses demonstrated that there were at least five genetically distinct populations across the study region, with gene flow most likely restricted by inshore biogeographic barriers such as the Dampier Peninsula. The otolith chemistry and parasite analyses also revealed strong spatial variation among locations within broad‐scale regions, suggesting fine‐scale location fidelity within the lifetimes of individual fish. The complementarity of the three techniques elucidated patterns of connectivity over a range of spatial and temporal scales. We conclude that fisheries stock assessments and management are required at fine scales (100 s of km) to account for the restricted exchange among populations (stocks) and to prevent localized extirpations of this species. Realistic management arrangements may involve the successive closure and opening of fishing areas to reduce fishing pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Taillebois
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia.,North Australia Marine Research Alliance Arafura Timor Research Facility Brinkin NT Australia
| | - Diane P Barton
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia.,Department of Primary Industry and Resources Northern Territory Government Berrimah NT Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia
| | - Thor Saunders
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources Northern Territory Government Berrimah NT Australia
| | - Jonathan Taylor
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources Northern Territory Government Berrimah NT Australia
| | - Mark Hearnden
- Department of Primary Industry and Resources Northern Territory Government Berrimah NT Australia
| | - Richard J Saunders
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and AquacultureJames Cook University Douglas QLD Australia.,Animal Science Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Stephen J Newman
- Western Australian Fisheries and Marine Research Laboratories Department of Fisheries Government of Western Australia North Beach WA Australia
| | - Michael J Travers
- Western Australian Fisheries and Marine Research Laboratories Department of Fisheries Government of Western Australia North Beach WA Australia
| | | | - Alan Greig
- School of Earth Sciences The University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Christine Dudgeon
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory School of Biomedical Sciences The University of Queensland St. Lucia QLD Australia
| | - Safia Maher
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory School of Biomedical Sciences The University of Queensland St. Lucia QLD Australia
| | - Jennifer R Ovenden
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory School of Biomedical Sciences The University of Queensland St. Lucia QLD Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Koster WM, Dawson DR, Liu C, Moloney PD, Crook DA, Thomson JR. Influence of streamflow on spawning-related movements of golden perch Macquaria ambigua in south-eastern Australia. J Fish Biol 2017; 90:93-108. [PMID: 27734494 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study, linkages were examined between movement and spawning behaviour for golden perch Macquaria ambigua in a lowland river by integrating acoustic telemetry and egg and larval drift sampling over 4 years. Movement was strongly seasonal, being most prevalent during the spawning season (spring to early summer), and occurred primarily downstream into the lower river reaches during elevated flows. A very strong association was found between the occurrence of spawning and long-distance M. ambigua movement. The results also revealed that targeted environmental water allocation can promote movement and spawning of this species. By integrating multiple analytical approaches and focusing on key life-history events, this study provides an improved picture of the life history and flow requirements of M. ambigua. The findings can help guide the development of effective environmental flow recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W M Koster
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - D R Dawson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - C Liu
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - P D Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - D A Crook
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - J R Thomson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Taillebois L, Dudgeon C, Maher S, Crook DA, Saunders TM, Barton DP, Taylor JA, Welch DJ, Newman SJ, Travers MJ, Saunders RJ, Ovenden J. Characterization, development and multiplexing of microsatellite markers in three commercially exploited reef fish and their application for stock identification. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2418. [PMID: 27635362 PMCID: PMC5012413 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Thirty-four microsatellite loci were isolated from three reef fish species; golden snapper Lutjanus johnii, blackspotted croaker Protonibea diacanthus and grass emperor Lethrinus laticaudis using a next generation sequencing approach. Both IonTorrent single reads and Illumina MiSeq paired-end reads were used, with the latter demonstrating a higher quality of reads than the IonTorrent. From the 1–1.5 million raw reads per species, we successfully obtained 10–13 polymorphic loci for each species, which satisfied stringent design criteria. We developed multiplex panels for the amplification of the golden snapper and the blackspotted croaker loci, as well as post-amplification pooling panels for the grass emperor loci. The microsatellites characterized in this work were tested across three locations of northern Australia. The microsatellites we developed can detect population differentiation across northern Australia and may be used for genetic structure studies and stock identification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Taillebois
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia; North Australia Marine Research Alliance, Arafura Timor Research Facility, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Christine Dudgeon
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
| | - Safia Maher
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University , Darwin , Northern Territory , Australia
| | - Thor M Saunders
- Fisheries Research, Northern Territory Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries , Berrimah , Northern Territory , Australia
| | - Diane P Barton
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia; Fisheries Research, Northern Territory Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Berrimah, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Jonathan A Taylor
- Fisheries Research, Northern Territory Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries , Berrimah , Northern Territory , Australia
| | | | - Stephen J Newman
- Western Australian Fisheries and Marine Research Laboratories, Department of Fisheries, Government of Western Australia , North Beach , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Michael J Travers
- Western Australian Fisheries and Marine Research Laboratories, Department of Fisheries, Government of Western Australia , North Beach , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Richard J Saunders
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, James Cook University, Douglas, Queensland, Australia; Animal Science, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer Ovenden
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Taillebois L, Crook DA, Saunders T, Williams SM, Ovenden JR. The complete mitochondrial genome of the grass emperor, Lethrinus laticaudis (Perciformes: Lethrinidae). Mitochondrial DNA B Resour 2016; 1:277-279. [PMID: 33644359 PMCID: PMC7871818 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2016.1166076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The grass emperor Lethrinus laticaudis is a coral reef fish that has high value to fisheries and is vulnerable to overharvesting. The complete mitochondrial genome was assembled from approximately 5.5 million reads produced by Illumina MiSeq. The 16,758 bp consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes and two ribosomal RNA genes (12S and 16S). The genes and RNAs order and orientation on as well as the A + T base content (50.7%) was similar to what is found in other Teleosts. A phylogenetic tree with the most closely related species available in GenBank was built to validate L. laticaudis mitogenome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Taillebois
- North Australia Marine Research Alliance, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - David A. Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Thor Saunders
- Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries, Northern Territory Government, Berrimah, NT, Australia
| | - Samuel M. Williams
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Jennifer R. Ovenden
- Molecular Fisheries Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cooke SJ, Martins EG, Struthers DP, Gutowsky LFG, Power M, Doka SE, Dettmers JM, Crook DA, Lucas MC, Holbrook CM, Krueger CC. A moving target--incorporating knowledge of the spatial ecology of fish into the assessment and management of freshwater fish populations. Environ Monit Assess 2016; 188:239. [PMID: 27004432 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5228-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater fish move vertically and horizontally through the aquatic landscape for a variety of reasons, such as to find and exploit patchy resources or to locate essential habitats (e.g., for spawning). Inherent challenges exist with the assessment of fish populations because they are moving targets. We submit that quantifying and describing the spatial ecology of fish and their habitat is an important component of freshwater fishery assessment and management. With a growing number of tools available for studying the spatial ecology of fishes (e.g., telemetry, population genetics, hydroacoustics, otolith microchemistry, stable isotope analysis), new knowledge can now be generated and incorporated into biological assessment and fishery management. For example, knowing when, where, and how to deploy assessment gears is essential to inform, refine, or calibrate assessment protocols. Such information is also useful for quantifying or avoiding bycatch of imperiled species. Knowledge of habitat connectivity and usage can identify critically important migration corridors and habitats and can be used to improve our understanding of variables that influence spatial structuring of fish populations. Similarly, demographic processes are partly driven by the behavior of fish and mediated by environmental drivers. Information on these processes is critical to the development and application of realistic population dynamics models. Collectively, biological assessment, when informed by knowledge of spatial ecology, can provide managers with the ability to understand how and when fish and their habitats may be exposed to different threats. Naturally, this knowledge helps to better evaluate or develop strategies to protect the long-term viability of fishery production. Failure to understand the spatial ecology of fishes and to incorporate spatiotemporal data can bias population assessments and forecasts and potentially lead to ineffective or counterproductive management actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Eduardo G Martins
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel P Struthers
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lee F G Gutowsky
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Power
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Susan E Doka
- Great Lakes Laboratory for Fisheries and Aquatic Science, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Burlington, ON, Canada
| | | | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Martyn C Lucas
- School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | | | - Charles C Krueger
- Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, Lansing, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Crook DA, Lowe WH, Allendorf FW, Erős T, Finn DS, Gillanders BM, Hadwen WL, Harrod C, Hermoso V, Jennings S, Kilada RW, Nagelkerken I, Hansen MM, Page TJ, Riginos C, Fry B, Hughes JM. Human effects on ecological connectivity in aquatic ecosystems: Integrating scientific approaches to support management and mitigation. Sci Total Environ 2015; 534:52-64. [PMID: 25917446 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the drivers and implications of anthropogenic disturbance of ecological connectivity is a key concern for the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem processes. Here, we review human activities that affect the movements and dispersal of aquatic organisms, including damming of rivers, river regulation, habitat loss and alteration, human-assisted dispersal of organisms and climate change. Using a series of case studies, we show that the insight needed to understand the nature and implications of connectivity, and to underpin conservation and management, is best achieved via data synthesis from multiple analytical approaches. We identify four key knowledge requirements for progressing our understanding of the effects of anthropogenic impacts on ecological connectivity: autecology; population structure; movement characteristics; and environmental tolerance/phenotypic plasticity. Structuring empirical research around these four broad data requirements, and using this information to parameterise appropriate models and develop management approaches, will allow for mitigation of the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on ecological connectivity in aquatic ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory 0909, Australia.
| | - Winsor H Lowe
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | | | - Tibor Erős
- Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Tihany, Klebelsberg, K.u. 3., H-8237, Hungary
| | - Debra S Finn
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; Departamento de Recursos Hídricos y Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Bronwyn M Gillanders
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences and The Environment Institute, DX 650 418, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Wade L Hadwen
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Chris Harrod
- Instituto de Ciencias Naturales Alexander Von Humboldt, Universidad de Antofagasta, Avenida Angamos, 601 Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Virgilio Hermoso
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Simon Jennings
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Lowestoft Laboratory, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK; School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Raouf W Kilada
- Biology Department, University of New Brunswick (Saint John), Canada
| | - Ivan Nagelkerken
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences and The Environment Institute, DX 650 418, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Michael M Hansen
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade, Bldg. 1540, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Timothy J Page
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Cynthia Riginos
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Brian Fry
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Jane M Hughes
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bond NR, Balcombe SR, Crook DA, Marshall JC, Menke N, Lobegeiger JS. Fish population persistence in hydrologically variable landscapes. Ecol Appl 2015; 25:901-13. [PMID: 26465032 DOI: 10.1890/14-1618.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Forecasting population persistence in environments subjected to periodic disturbances represents a general challenge for ecologists. In arid and semiarid regions, climate change and human water use pose significant threats to the future persistence of aquatic biota whose populations typically depend on permanent refuge waterholes for their viability. As such, habitats are increasingly being lost as a result of decreasing runoff and increasing water extraction. We constructed a spatially explicit population model for golden perch Macquaria ambigua (Richardson), a native freshwater fish in the Murray-Darling Basin in eastern Australia. We then used the model to examine the effects of increased aridity, increased drought frequency, and localized human water extraction on population viability. Consistent with current observations, the model predicted golden perch population persistence under the current climate and levels of water use. Modeled increases in local water extraction greatly increased the risk of population decline, while scenarios of increasing aridity and drought frequency were associated with only minor increases in this risk. We conclude that natural variability in abundances and high turnover rates (extinction/recolonization) of local populations dictate the importance of spatial connectivity and periodic cycles of population growth. Our study also demonstrates an effective way to examine population persistence in intermittent and ephemeral river systems by integrating spatial and temporal dynamics of waterhole persistence with demographic processes (survival, recruitment, and dispersal) within a stochastic modeling framework. The approach can be used to help understand the impacts of natural and anthropogenic drivers, including water resource development, on the viability of biota inhabiting highly dynamic environments.
Collapse
|
28
|
Morrongiello JR, Walsh CT, Gray CA, Stocks JR, Crook DA. Environmental change drives long-term recruitment and growth variation in an estuarine fish. Glob Chang Biol 2014; 20:1844-1860. [PMID: 24510897 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
How individuals respond to environmental change determines the strength and direction of biological processes like recruitment and growth that underpin population productivity. Ascertaining the relative importance of environmental factors can, however, be difficult given the numerous mechanisms through which they affect individuals. This is especially true in dynamic and complex estuarine environments. Here, we develop long-term otolith-based indices of recruitment and growth for estuary perch Percalates colonorum (Bemm River, Australia), to explore the importance of intrinsic (individual, demographic) and extrinsic (hydrologic, climatic, density-dependent) factors in driving estuarine fish productivity. Analyses involved a novel zero-inflated specification of catch curve regression and mixed effects modelling. The 39 years of recruitment and 46 years of growth data, spanning a period of environmental change including severe drought, displayed considerable inter-annual variation. Recruitment success was strongly related to high freshwater inflows during the spawning season, suggesting that these conditions act as spawning cues for adults and potentially provide favourable conditions for larvae. Individuals displayed age-dependent growth, with highest rates observed at younger ages in years characterized by warm temperatures, and to a lesser degree, greater magnitude base inflow conditions. We detected systematic among-year-class growth differences, but these were not attributable to year class strength, suggesting that environmental conditions experienced by individuals as juveniles can have long-lasting effects of greater importance to population productivity than density-dependent growth responses. The primacy of temperature in driving growth variation highlights that under-appreciated climatic variation can affect estuarine fish productivity through direct physiological and indirect food web mechanisms. We predict that climatic warming will promote individual growth in southerly populations of P. colonorum but concurrently limit recruitment due to forecast reductions in spawning season river discharge. Disparate trait responses are likely in other fishes as they respond to multiple and changing environmental drivers, making predictions of future population productivity challenging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John R Morrongiello
- Wealth from Oceans Flagship, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, GPO Box 1538, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Koster WM, Dawson DR, O’Mahony DJ, Moloney PD, Crook DA. Timing, frequency and environmental conditions associated with mainstem-tributary movement by a lowland river fish, golden perch (Macquaria ambigua). PLoS One 2014; 9:e96044. [PMID: 24788137 PMCID: PMC4008613 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tributary and mainstem connections represent important links for the movement of fish and other biota throughout river networks. We investigated the timing, frequency and environmental conditions associated with movements by adult golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) between the mainstem of the mid-Murray River and a tributary, the Goulburn River, in south-eastern Australia, using acoustic telemetry over four years (2007–2011). Fish were tagged and released in autumn 2007–2009 in the mid-Murray (n = 42) and lower Goulburn (n = 37) rivers within 3–6 km of the mid-Murray-lower Goulburn junction. 38% of tagged fish undertook mainstem–tributary movements, characterised mostly by temporary occupation followed by return of fish to the original capture river. Approximately 10% of tagged fish exhibited longer-term shifts between the mainstem and tributary. Movement of fish from the tributary into the mainstem occurred primarily during the spawning season and in some years coincided with the presence of golden perch eggs/larvae in drift samples in the mainstem. Many of the tributary-to-mainstem movements occurred during or soon after changes in flow. The movements of fish from the mainstem into the tributary were irregular and did not appear to be associated with spawning. The findings show that golden perch moved freely across the mainstem–tributary interface. This demonstrates the need to consider the spatial, behavioural and demographic interdependencies of aquatic fauna across geographic management units such as rivers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wayne M. Koster
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - David R. Dawson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Damien J. O’Mahony
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul D. Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A. Crook
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hughes JM, Schmidt DJ, Macdonald JI, Huey JA, Crook DA. Low interbasin connectivity in a facultatively diadromous fish: evidence from genetics and otolith chemistry. Mol Ecol 2014; 23:1000-13. [PMID: 24410817 DOI: 10.1111/mec.12661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Southern smelts (Retropinna spp.) in coastal rivers of Australia are facultatively diadromous, with populations potentially containing individuals with diadromous or wholly freshwater life histories. The presence of diadromous individuals is expected to reduce genetic structuring between river basins due to larval dispersal via the sea. We use otolith chemistry to distinguish between diadromous and nondiadromous life histories and population genetics to examine interbasin connectivity resulting from diadromy. Otolith strontium isotope ((87) Sr:(86) Sr) transects identified three main life history patterns: amphidromy, freshwater residency and estuarine/marine residency. Despite the potential for interbasin connectivity via larval mixing in the marine environment, we found unprecedented levels of genetic structure for an amphidromous species. Strong hierarchical structure along putative taxonomic boundaries was detected, along with highly structured populations within groups using microsatellites (FST = 0.046-0.181), and mtDNA (ΦST = 0.498-0.816). The presence of strong genetic subdivision, despite the fact that many individuals reside in saline water during their early life history, appears incongruous. However, analysis of multielemental signatures in the otolith cores of diadromous fish revealed strong discrimination between river basins, suggesting that diadromous fish spend their early lives within chemically distinct estuaries rather than the more homogenous marine environment, thus avoiding dispersal and maintaining genetic structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane M Hughes
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Qld, 4111, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Morrongiello JR, Bond NR, Crook DA, Wong BBM. Intraspecific variation in the growth and survival of juvenile fish exposed to Eucalyptus leachate. Ecol Evol 2013; 3:3855-67. [PMID: 24198944 PMCID: PMC3810879 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Whilst changes in freshwater assemblages along gradients of environmental stress have been relatively well studied, we know far less about intraspecific variation to these same stressors. A stressor common in fresh waters worldwide is leachates from terrestrial plants. Leachates alter the physiochemical environment of fresh waters by lowering pH and dissolved oxygen and also releasing toxic compounds such as polyphenols and tannins, all of which can be detrimental to aquatic organisms. We investigated how chronic exposure to Eucalyptus leaf leachate affected the growth and survival of juvenile southern pygmy perch (Nannoperca australis) collected from three populations with different litter inputs, hydrology and observed leachate concentrations. Chronic exposure to elevated leachate levels negatively impacted growth and survival, but the magnitude of these lethal and sublethal responses was conditional on body size and source population. Bigger fish had increased survival at high leachate levels but overall slower growth rates. Body size also varied among populations and fish from the population exposed to the lowest natural leachate concentrations had the highest average stress tolerance. Significant intraspecific variation in both growth and survival caused by Eucalyptus leachate exposure indicates that the magnitude (but not direction) of these stress responses varies across the landscape. This raises the potential for leachate-induced selection to operate at an among-population scale. The importance of body size demonstrates that the timing of leachate exposure during ontogeny is central in determining the magnitude of biological response, with early life stages being most vulnerable. Overall, we demonstrate that Eucalyptus leachates are prevalent and potent selective agents that can trigger important sublethal impacts, beyond those associated with more familiar fish kills, and reiterate that dissolved organic carbon is more than just an energy source in aquatic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John R Morrongiello
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University Melbourne, Victoria, 3800, Australia ; eWater Cooperative Research Centre Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Schmidt DJ, Real KM, Crook DA, Hughes JM. Microsatellite markers for Australian temperate diadromous fishes Pseudaphritis urvillii (Bovichtidae) and Lovettia sealii (Galaxiidae). CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-012-9800-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
33
|
Macdonald JI, McNeil DG, Crook DA. Asteriscus v. lapillus: comparing the chemistry of two otolith types and their ability to delineate riverine populations of common carp Cyprinus carpio. J Fish Biol 2012; 81:1715-1729. [PMID: 23020570 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2012.03443.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The chemical composition of common carp Cyprinus carpio asteriscus (vaterite) and lapillus (aragonite) otoliths from the same individual and reflecting the same growth period was measured to (1) determine whether there are differences in the uptake of trace metals (Mg:Ca, Mn:Ca, Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca ) and Sr isotope ratios ((87)Sr:(86)Sr) in co-precipitating lapilli and asterisci and (2) compare the ability of multi-element and isotopic signatures from lapilli, asterisci and both otolith types combined to discriminate C. carpio populations over a large spatial scale within a river basin. Depth profile analyses at the otolith edge using laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry showed that asterisci were enriched in Mg and Mn and depleted in Sr and Ba relative to lapilli, whilst (87)Sr:(86)Sr values were nearly identical in both otolith types. Significant spatial differences among capture locations were found when all trace element and Sr isotope ratio data were aggregated into a multi-element and isotopic signature, regardless of which otolith type was used or if they were used in combination. Discriminatory power was enhanced, however, when data for both otolith types were combined, suggesting that analysis of multiple otolith types may be useful for studies attempting to delineate C. carpio populations at finer spatial or temporal scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J I Macdonald
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg, Vic 3084, Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Morrongiello JR, Bond NR, Crook DA, Wong BBM. Spatial variation in egg size and egg number reflects trade-offs and bet-hedging in a freshwater fish. J Anim Ecol 2012; 81:806-17. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2656.2012.01961.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
35
|
Schmidt DJ, Crook DA, O'Connor JP, Hughes JM. Genetic analysis of threatened Australian grayling Prototroctes maraena suggests recruitment to coastal rivers from an unstructured marine larval source population. J Fish Biol 2011; 78:98-111. [PMID: 21235548 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2010.02844.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Population genetic variation of Australian grayling Prototroctes maraena was examined to determine whether the dispersal strategy of this amphidromous species favours retention of larvae and juveniles in close proximity to their natal river, or mixing of populations via marine dispersal. Variation in microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA markers was unstructured and differentiation was indistinguishable from zero across four coastal rivers spanning approximately one-quarter of the continental range of the species. This result indicates that the marine larval and juvenile phase probably facilitates extensive gene flow among coastal rivers and agrees with a previous analysis of otolith chemistry that suggested larvae probably move into the sea rather than remain in estuaries. It appears likely that the dispersal strategy of P. maraena would enable recolonization of rivers that experience localized extinction provided that connectivity between freshwater habitats and the sea is sufficient to permit migration and that enough source populations remain intact to support viability of the wider population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D J Schmidt
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, 4111 Queensland, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Visual signals play a vital role in many animal communication systems. Signal design, however, often varies within species, raising evolutionarily important questions concerning the maintenance of phenotypic diversity. We analysed nuptial colour variation within and among nine populations of southern pygmy perch (Nannoperca australis Günther) along an environmental light gradient. Within populations, larger males were redder and blacker, and better-condition males were blacker. Among populations, red colour was positively correlated with the amount of orange-red light present, suggesting that males are likely optimizing signal conspicuousness by producing proportionally larger and redder patches in broad spectrum environments with more orange-red light. Signal contrast, in this regard, is maximized when red colour, appearing bright because of the prevalence of red wavelengths, is viewed against the water-column background. Together, our results are concordant with the sensory drive hypothesis; selection favours signal adaptations or signal plasticity to ensure communication efficacy is maximized in different light environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J R Morrongiello
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3800, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Munro AR, Gillanders BM, Thurstan S, Crook DA, Sanger AC. Transgenerational marking of freshwater fishes with enriched stable isotopes: a tool for fisheries management and research. J Fish Biol 2009; 75:668-684. [PMID: 20738564 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2009.02352.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
A promising new method of marking larval freshwater fishes with enriched stable isotopes by means of injecting the maternal parent with the marking agent was investigated. The (138)Ba:(137)Ba ratios in the otoliths of larval golden perch Macquaria ambigua were compared to determine the effect of injecting female broodstock with different dosages of enriched (137)Ba at various times before spawning. There was 100% mark success in the progeny of fish injected with 20 microg g(-1) of enriched (137)Ba 24 h before inducing spawning with hormones and 40 microg g(-1) administered at the same time as inducement of spawning. Injection of 40 microg g(-1) enriched (137)Ba 21 days before spawning resulted in only 81% mark success and suggests rapid elimination of barium in M. ambigua. Injection with enriched (137)Ba did not significantly affect the fertilization rate, number of fertilized eggs or hatching rate compared with long-term hatchery records. These results suggest that transgenerational marking is an effective and affordable means of mass-marking larval fishes. Thousands of larval fishes can be permanently marked with a unique artificial isotopic mark via a single injection into the maternal parent, thus avoiding the handling of individual fishes or having to deal with chemical baths. Because no single mark or tagging method is suitable for all situations, transgenerational marking with enriched stable isotopes provides another method for researchers and managers to discriminate both hatchery-reared and wild fishes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A R Munro
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, DX 650 418, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
King AJ, Crook DA, Koster WM, Mahoney J, Tonkin Z. Comparison of larval fish drift in the Lower Goulburn and mid-Murray Rivers. Ecol Manage Restor 2005. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-8903.2005.230-3.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
39
|
|