Habitat use of anadromous and amphidromous sturgeons in North America: A systematic review

Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences
By: , and 

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Abstract

Sturgeons are among the most endangered fishes in the world. Identifying habitat use characteristics to inform restoration projects is crucial for recovery. However, small sample sizes, inadequate replication of studies, and limited spatial extents complicate our ability to effectively apply the findings of single studies to endangered species conservation across the larger riverscape. We synthesized information from amphidromous and anadromous sturgeons in North America to identify species-specific knowledge gaps and conduct a quantitative comparison of species–habitat relationships. We provided a qualitative summary of substrate use and synthesized estimates of depth and velocity during spawning and non-spawning activity. Generalized patterns among species were identified, such as spawning in fast water on hard substrate and then using slow water with soft substrate areas when not spawning. We noted species-specific variability during spawning that may be attributed to historical maximum length, egg characteristics, and watershed features. This study provides some of the first estimates of habitat use that can be adapted for many populations. Results can contribute to empirically grounded decision-support tools used to prioritize information needs for recovery.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Habitat use of anadromous and amphidromous sturgeons in North America: A systematic review
Series title Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences
DOI 10.1139/cjfas-2023-0222
Volume 81
Issue 5
Year Published 2024
Language English
Publisher Canadian Science Publishing
Contributing office(s) Coop Res Unit Seattle
Description 17 p.
First page 508
Last page 524
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