Utilization of the Crayfish Orconectes limosus as Forage by White Perch (Morone americana) in a Maine Lake

Abstract

Abstract White perch (Morone americana) under 201 mm long from a lake containing the crayfish Orconectes limosus ate mostly insects. Perch from 201 to 280 mm long fed upon insects, fish, and crayfish. White perch over 280 mm fed mainly upon crayfish. Young-of-the-year O. limosus were rarely utilized as forage by white perch. White perch under 201 mm long from a lake not having crayfish fed mostly upon insects but also ate fish. Perch over 200 mm long were almost exclusively piscivorous, the main forage fish being the rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax).