A multi-metric approach to characterize variability in Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) use of Lake Ontario and two barrier-protected coastal wetlands

Abstract

Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) inhabit both nearshore and coastal wetland habitats of the Laurentian Great Lakes throughout their lifetime and are known to exhibit different movement life histories. However, uncertainty persists in the spatial extent of this variation and in the duration of habitat use. To explore these uncertainties, we used a multi-metric approach that included water and otolith microchemistry and tissue stable isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N). The ratio of manganese to calcium in otoliths was used to identify transitional movements between nearshore Lake Ontario and wetland habitats while carbon and nitrogen tissue isotope ratios revealed variable duration of wetland inhabitance. Our research suggests that the multi-metric approach was useful for addressing questions that could not be answered by one method alone. Our results demonstrate individual differences in duration of coastal wetland habitat residence among Yellow Perch, which may influence their susceptibility to recreational harvest. As Yellow Perch are an important species of consideration for management agencies such as the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, exposing such diversity is important when considering the potential for differential contributions of individuals with variable movement life histories to overall population stability and resilience over time.