Atlantic salmon reintroduction into Lake Ontario: Strategies for enhancing stocking outcomes

Session: 08a. - Restoration of Native Fishes

Christian Therrien, University of Western Ontario, [email protected]
Carlie Muir, University of Western Ontario, [email protected]
Aimee Lee Houde, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, [email protected]
Kayla Gradil, University of Western Ontario, [email protected]
Kimberly Mitchell, University of Western Ontario, [email protected]
Yolanda Morbey, University of Western Ontario, Dept. of Biology, [email protected]
Bryan Neff, University of Western Ontario, [email protected]

Abstract

Atlantic salmon were once abundant in Lake Ontario and supported one of its most valuable fisheries, but these fish were extirpated from the lake a century ago. The successful reintroduction of Atlantic salmon into Lake Ontario has become a top priority for management agencies and conservation groups, as it would enhance the recreational fisheries and provide a step towards the recovery of lost biodiversity. Here I discuss our work towards improving the success of this reintroduction program through source population selection and modifying rearing and release environments. I provide data linking reintroduction outcomes to interspecies competition with other salmonids, thermal performance curves, stream microhabitat, and tolerance for introduced prey items. I discuss how these data help inform best practices that improve the likelihood of successful reintroduction, and close by discussing our ongoing research in this area.

1. Keyword
salmon

2. Keyword
conservation

3. Keyword
Great Lakes basin