Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Variables that may indicate habitat quality were measured to assess the relative value of shallow subtidal vegetated habitats to age-1 copper rockfish (Sebastes caurinus). All habitats studied appeared beneficial to fish with respect to the particular variable measured. Relative growth rate was significantly higher in kelp than in other habitats while energy content was highest in eelgrass. Though fish in eelgrass had lower growth rates, they were significantly larger, and had high densities. Mixed kelp and eelgrass habitat was suboptimal with respect to growth and energy content but also had high densities. Fish in mixed habitat moved the least both within and to other habitats while the opposite occurred in eelgrass. Diets were similar for fish in kelp and eelgrass habitats and daily ration did not differ significantly between habitats. Thus, observed differences in the variables measured were not related to food but may instead be dependent on non-exploitative interactions.
Publication Date
12-17-2001
Recommended Citation
Byerly, Michael M., "The ecology of age-1 copper rockfish (Sebastes caurinus) in vegetated habitats of Sitka Sound, Alaska" (2001). Fisheries . 133.
https://ualaska.researchcommons.org/uaf_fisheries_facpubs/133
Handle
http://hdl.handle.net/11122/6770