Bioenergetics Model for Larval and Juvenile Walleyes: An in Situ Approach with Experimental Ponds

Abstract

Abstract We used an in situ approach to redefine allometric parameters of consumption and metabolism in a percid bioenergetics model for young-of-year (age-0) walleyes Stizostedion vitreum (0.0021–0.8237 g wet weight; 8–49 mm total length) in ponds across a range of densities (10–50 fish·m–3). Of three methods used to estimate evacuation rates, only the one based on whole-gut fullness of larvae and stomach fullness of juveniles in food-free enclosures proved reliable, The intercepts for allometry of maximum consumption and resting metabolism for age-0 walleyes were higher than the intercepts for adults; however, slopes of age-0 and adult allometry were similar. Activity costs (ACT = ratio of active metabolism to resting metabolism) for age-0 walleyes varied across body weights and with fish density; patterns of activity costs at different fish densities reflected patterns of food availability. Activity and p-values (proportion of maximum consumption realized) were correlated with powers of zooplankton bio...