The population biology of perch, Perca fluviatilis L., in simple fish communities with no top piscivore

Abstract

Abstract– The population dynamics of perch, Perca fluviatilis L., in the absence of a top piscivore, pike Esox lucius L., were examined in simple fish communities in shallow lakes (mean depth < 1.5 m) in northeast Scotland. Perch in Sand and Lower Lochs were unexploited, whereas perch in Loirston were exploited. Population characteristics were fast growth rates, short life span (< 6 years) and no dominant year classes in Sand and Lower Lochs. The strong 1974 year class in Loirston may have been due to intensive exploitation of older age groups. Abundance of perch, expressed as biomass, was low for European waters, namely 30 kg. ha−1 in Loirston (comprising mainly 1 ‐ to 2‐year‐old‐fish), and biomass of adults (≥ 2 years) was 8.9 kg and 4.7 kg. ha−1 in Sand and Lower Lochs respectively. Recruitment in Sand and Lower Lochs appeared to be governed by water temperature, but the overall low abundance and population stability of perch in the 3 lochs was attributed to cannibalism.