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https://knowledgecommons.lakeheadu.ca/handle/2453/2151
Title: | Factors that predict brook trout distribution, thermal habitat, and abundance in Northwestern Ontario streams |
Authors: | Picard, Christopher Robert |
Keywords: | Brook trout Ontario, Northwestern. |
Issue Date: | 1995 |
Abstract: | Predictive models were developed to improve the understanding of stream-resident brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) populations and habitat in northwestern Ontario, and to facilitate protection of stream-resident brook trout from the adverse impacts of timber harvest. Geology-based models correctly predicted trout presence/absence in 75%-80% of streams studied in 1993. However, correct prediction rates declined to 50%-65% when these models were transferred to independent data collected in 1992 and 1994. Combining data from all years produced models that correctly predicted trout presence/absence in 70%-80% of streams. Univariate geology models were best at predicting trout presence (up to 85% correct predictions). One-third of the trout streams data had maximum summer temperatures >22deg.C , and thus are considered marginal. Using the combined data, models with geology and climate variables explained up to 24% of the variation associated with stream temperatures. Stream temperatures were negatively related to brook trout abundance in the combined data. Stability of stream temperatures accounted for 25% of the variation in trout biomass (kg/ha). These models could be used by fisheries managers to implement current guidelines protecting brook trout habitat from the effects of timber harvest. |
URI: | http://knowledgecommons.lakeheadu.ca/handle/2453/2151 |
metadata.etd.degree.discipline: | Biology |
metadata.etd.degree.name: | Master of Science |
metadata.etd.degree.level: | Master |
metadata.dc.contributor.advisor: | Momot, Walter T. Bozek, M. |
Appears in Collections: | Retrospective theses |
Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
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PicardC1995m-1b.pdf | 15.21 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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