Lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens and shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus environmental life history revealed using pectoral fin‐ray microchemistry: implications for interjurisdictional conservation through fishery closure zones
Abstract
This study inferred that the majority of shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus captured in the upper Mississippi River probably originated from locations outside the upper Mississippi River (Missouri River, middle Mississippi River); whereas, lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens exhibit infrequent movement outside of the upper Mississippi River, but may move throughout these interconnected large rivers at various life stages. By using pectoral fin‐ray microchemistry (a non‐lethal alternative to using otoliths), it is suggest that interjurisdictional cooperation will probably be needed to ensure sustainability of the S. platorynchus commercial fishery and the success of A. fulvescens reintroduction in the upper Mississippi River. Additionally, fin‐ray microchemistry can provide invaluable data to make informed management decisions regarding large river fishes, that cross jurisdictional boundaries or that move outside of closure zones, without causing further mortality to compromised fish populations (e.g. threatened and endangered species).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 2016
- Source ID
- 10.1111/jfb.13242
Entities
People
- G. W. Whitledge
- Q. E. Phelps
- R. N. Hupfeld
Organizations
- Southeast Missouri State University
- Southern Illinois University
- United States Army Corps of Engineers
- United States Fish and Wildlife Service