Abstract

Lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) is a semi-pelagic species that is broadly distributed in the temperate regions of the North Atlantic. Little is known about the distribution of juveniles, therefore this study was the first attempt to determine juvenile lumpfish distribution in near-coastal and estuarine locations, as represented by the Great Bay Estuary, NH. Sampling took place in 2015 and 2016 from June through September at four different locations along the Piscataqua River and Great Bay. Juveniles were caught using dipnets, from macroalgae growing on floating docks in all four months and all locations, except for the site furthest (∼25 km) up the estuary (Great Bay site (JEL). Water temperatures ranged from 8.6 –22.3 °C and salinities ranged from 21.9 –33.95 where lumpfish were found. Juvenile lumpfish were never captured at the Great Bay sampling site, therefore it is still unclear whether or not they are using the upper portions of the Bay as a nursery ground. With the changing climate, it is important to fully investigate the abiotic factors that influence the temporal and spatial distribution of juvenile lumpfish.

Full Text
Paper version not known

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

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.