Feeding competition between larval lake whitefish and lake herring
The potential for competition for food between larval lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) and lake herring (C. artedi) 1- to 8-wk of age was explored in a series of 1-h laboratory feeding studies. Feeding started at 2-wk post-hatch. Learning and fish size appear to be more important than prey density at the onset of feeding. Species differed in their feeding behavior and consumption noticeably by 5-wk and substantially by 8-wk. Lake whitefish generally were more aggressive foragers than lake herring, attacking and capturing more prey. At high plankton density at 8-wk, lake herring feeding was depressed in mixed-fish treatments. This difference in competitive food consumption between the two coregonids occurs at a critical life stage, and when combined with other biotic and abiotic factors, may have a significant impact on recruitment.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1995 |
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Title | Feeding competition between larval lake whitefish and lake herring |
Authors | Jacqueline F. Savino, Patrick L. Hudson |
Publication Type | Book Chapter |
Publication Subtype | Book Chapter |
Index ID | 70006444 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Great Lakes Science Center |