Seasonally dynamic diel vertical migrations of mysis (Mysis relicta), coregonines (Coregonus spp.), and siscowet lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in the pelagia of Western Lake Superior


TitleSeasonally dynamic diel vertical migrations of mysis (Mysis relicta), coregonines (Coregonus spp.), and siscowet lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in the pelagia of Western Lake Superior
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsAhrenstorff, TD, Hrabik, TR, Stockwell, JD, Yule, DL, Sass, GG
JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society
Volume140
Pagination1504-1520
Date Published2011/12
Abstract

Diel vertical migrations are common among many aquatic species and are often associated with changing light
levels. The underlying mechanisms are generally attributed to optimizing foraging efficiency or growth rates and
avoiding predation risk (µ). The objectives of this study were to (1) assess seasonal and interannual changes in vertical
migration patterns of three trophic levels in the Lake Superior pelagic food web and (2) examine the mechanisms
underlying the observed variability by using models of foraging, growth, and µ. Our results suggest that the opossum
shrimp Mysis diluviana, kiyi Coregonus kiyi, and siscowet lake trout Salvelinus namaycush migrate concurrently
during each season, but spring migrations are less extensive than summer and fall migrations. In comparison with
M. diluviana, kiyis, and siscowets, the migrations by ciscoes C. artedi were not as deep in the water column during
the day, regardless of season. Foraging potential and µ probably drive the movement patterns of M. diluviana,
while our modeling results indicate that movements by kiyis and ciscoes are related to foraging opportunity and
growth potential and receive a lesser influence from µ. The siscowet is an abundant apex predator in the pelagia
of Lake Superior and probably undertakes vertical migrations in the water column to optimize foraging efficiency
and growth. The concurrent vertical movement patterns of most species are likely to facilitate nutrient transport in
this exceedingly oligotrophic ecosystem, and they demonstrate strong linkages between predators and prey. Fishery
management strategies should use an ecosystem approach and should consider how altering the densities of long-lived
top predators produces cascading effects on the nutrient cycling and energy flow in lower trophic levels.

URLhttp://www.d.umn.edu/biology/documents/Ahrenstorff2.pdf
DOI10.1080/00028487.2011.637004
Refereed DesignationRefereed
Status: 
Published
Attributable Grant: 
RACC
Grant Year: 
Year1
Acknowledged VT EPSCoR: 
Ack-No