factors that predict brook trout distribution, thermal habitat, and abundance in northwestern ontario streams
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.
collections
- retrospective theses [1604]