Population structure and dynamics of northern pike and smallmouth bass in Coeur d’Alene Lake, Idaho.

Northwest Science
By: , and 

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Abstract

Numerous species have been introduced to Coeur d'Alene Lake, Idaho over the last century, but minimal research has been completed to understand their population dynamics. The objective of this study was to describe the population demographics and dynamics of northern pike (Esox lucius) and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), two important nonnative sport fishes in the system to provide information that will assist with guiding management decisions. The oldest northern pike was age 7 and the oldest smallmouth bass was age 11. Populations of both species exhibited very stable recruitment with a recruitment coefficient of determination of 0.99 for northern pike and 0.98 for smallmouth bass. Total annual mortality was estimated as 66% for northern pike and 42% for smallmouth bass. Growth of northern pike in Coeur d'Alene Lake was comparable to the 50–75th percentiles of growth exhibited by lentic northern pike populations across North America. Northern pike in Coeur d'Alene Lake were most similar to populations in the north-central and northeast United States with fast growth rates and short life spans. In contrast, smallmouth bass grew slowly and generally fell within the 5th percentile of lentic smallmouth bass populations in North America. Smallmouth bass in Coeur d'Alene Lake were similar to other populations in northern regions of the United States displaying slow growth rates with high longevity. Results of this study provide important insight on nonnative northern pike and smallmouth bass population dynamics.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Population structure and dynamics of northern pike and smallmouth bass in Coeur d’Alene Lake, Idaho.
Series title Northwest Science
DOI 10.3955/046.089.0308
Volume 89
Issue 3
Year Published 2015
Language English
Publisher Bioone
Contributing office(s) Coop Res Unit Seattle
Description 17 p.
First page 280
Last page 296
Country United States
State Idaho
Other Geospatial Coeur D'Alene Lake
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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