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Littoral zone fish assemblages of northern Cayuga Lake.

January 1, 2001

Fish assemblages from northern Cayuga Lake were examined for patterns in temporal structure. Fish assemblages changed significantly between seasons. Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), bluntnose minnow (Pimephales notatus), and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) formed the basis for most assemblages, but the spring assemblage was dominated by common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Correlations between community structure and abiotic factors were identified. Ten abiotic factors strongly influenced species assemblages, including phosphorus concentration, but could not fully explain differences between assemblages. Results indicate that the seasonal pattern of fish assemblage structure and abundance of fish that tend to feed in the water column were related to the annual cycle of productivity in the lake and behavioral adaptations of the fish.

Publication Year 2001
Title Littoral zone fish assemblages of northern Cayuga Lake.
Authors James E. McKenna
Publication Type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Index ID 70171314
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Great Lakes Science Center