Segregation in spawning and early life history among polymorphic Arctic charr, Salvelinus alpinus, in Thingvallavatn, Iceland

Abstract

The relationships among time of spawning, incubation temperature, timing of first feeding and early growth were examined in four sympatric morphs of Arctic charr in Thingvallavatn, Iceland. Large benthivorous charr spawn in July‐August at sites with cold ground‐water flow. Planktivorous and piscivorous charr spawn in September‐November and are not confined to ground‐water sites. The spawning of small benthivorous charr overlaps with that of other morphs. Progeny of large benthivorous charr start feeding 2‐3 months earlier than the progeny of autumn spawners. This results in differential size distribution and growth rates of young in the spring.