Title
Turbidity reduces hatching success in threatened spotted gar (Lepisosteus oculatus)
Author(s)
Gray, S. M.;Chapman, L. J.;Mandrak, N. E.
Published
2012
Publisher
Environmental Biology of Fishes
Abstract
Turbidity, and associated sedimentation, is increasing in aquatic ecosystems globally and is thought to be a major driver of aquatic biodiversity loss. In this study, hatching success of Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus), a Threatened species in Canada, is reported for eggs held under clear and turbid conditions. Spotted Gar embryos were held in either clear or mildly turbid water (similar to 5 NTU). Fertilized eggs held in turbid water exhibited a final 24 % reduction in hatching success by the end of the hatching period. Turbidity is identified as a potential threat for this species in Canada. The decrease in hatching success found here indicates that this early life history stage is particularly vulnerable to disturbance by turbidity and sedimentation.
Keywords
Abiotic turbidity;Sedimentation;Freshwater fish;Egg survival;Conservation;FRESH-WATER FAUNA;SUSPENDED SEDIMENT;EGGS;LARVAE;LAKE;GROWTH;RISK;LOUISIANA;IMPACTS
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PUB13908