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Sprint swimming performance of wild bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus)

January 1, 2008

We conducted laboratory experiments to determine the sprint swimming performance of wild juvenile and adult bull trout Salvelinus confluentus. Sprint swimming speeds were estimated using high-speed digital video analysis. Thirty two bull trout were tested in sizes ranging from about 10 to 31 cm. Of these, 14 fish showed at least one motivated, vigorous sprint. When plotted as a function of time, velocity of fish increased rapidly with the relation linear or slightly curvilinear. Their maximum velocity, or Vmax, ranged from 1.3 to 2.3 m/s, was usually achieved within 0.8 to 1.0 s, and was independent of fish size. Distances covered during these sprints ranged from 1.4 to 2.4 m. Our estimates of the sprint swimming performance are the first reported for this species and may be useful for producing or modifying fish passage structures that allow safe and effective passage of fish without overly exhausting them. ?? 2008 by the Northwest Scientific Association. All rights reserved.

Publication Year 2008
Title Sprint swimming performance of wild bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus)
Authors M.G. Mesa, J. Phelps, L.K. Weiland
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Northwest Science
Index ID 70032867
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse