Abstract
ABSTRACT Growth was determined for 35 black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) populations in eastern South Dakota lakes. Black bullhead growth was highly variable among populations. Average mean lengths at ages 1–6 for all populations were 101, 155, 203, 232, 262, and 289 mm, respectively. Few populations contained fish older than age 6. Growth was negatively associated with black bullhead abundance, and positively associated with black bullhead size structure, indicating that density dependence likely is a regulating factor. Growth increased with lake depth (maximum and mean), and decreased with increasing productivity (total dissolved solids and morphoedaphic index). The black bullhead appears more likely to overpopulate in shallow, productive lakes, resulting in slower growth. In waters with lower densities of black bullheads, density independent factors may ultimately determine growth. Growth was inversely related to the size structure of predators, suggesting some predation effect. Relationships with possible competitors indicated little evidence of competition.
Published Version
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