Abstract
We evaluated the migratory patterns of white-spotted charr in eastern Hokkaido, Japan using: (1) field observation of fish, (2) salinity-recording archival tags, and (3) analysis of otolith Sr and Ca concentrations. Field observations suggest that the majority of anadromous white-spotted charr outmigrate to the sea in spring (April to June) and ascend the river between late summer and autumn (August to November). Salinity records from archival tags revealed a fluctuating pattern consisting of both low and high values within a month, indicating frequent short-term movements between freshwater (including non-natal rivers) and brackish/salt water habitats. Otolith Sr:Ca ratios exhibited a sharp rise at about 40–50% of the otolith radius, which was followed by several spikes consisting of both low and high values, indicating that fish migrated between freshwater and marine environments multiple times during their life history. However, the peaks in Sr:Ca ratios were generally associated with annulus zones on the otolith, indicating that the anadromous migration was generally an annual event.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
