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Effects of biotic and abiotic factors on the distribution of trout and salmon along a longitudinal stream gradient

Environmental Biology of Fishes
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10641-004-2591-4

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Abstract

We examined the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on the distribution, abundance, and condition of salmonid fishes along a stream gradient. We observed a longitudinal change in fish distribution with native cutthroat trout, Oncorhynchus clarki utah, and introduced brown trout, Salmo trutta, demonstrating a distinct pattern of allopatry. Cutthroat trout dominated high elevation reaches, while reaches at lower elevations were dominated by brown trout. A transition zone between these populations was associated with lower total trout abundance, consistent changes in temperature and discharge, and differences in dietary preference. Variation in cutthroat trout abundance was best explained by a model including the abundance of brown trout and diel temperature, whereas variation in brown trout abundance was best explained by a model including the abundance of cutthroat trout and discharge. These results suggest the potential for condition-mediated competition between the two species. The results from our study can aid biologists in prioritizing conservation activities and in developing robust management strategies for cutthroat trout. ?? Springer 2005.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Effects of biotic and abiotic factors on the distribution of trout and salmon along a longitudinal stream gradient
Series title Environmental Biology of Fishes
DOI 10.1007/s10641-004-2591-4
Volume 72
Issue 4
Year Published 2005
Language English
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Environmental Biology of Fishes
First page 379
Last page 391
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