Population status of Lake Sturgeon in eastern Lake Erie

Session: 08b. - Restoration of Native Fishes

Jonah Withers, US Fish and Wildlife Service, jonah_withers@fws.gov
Lori Davis, Lori_Davis@fws.gov
Nicholas Markley, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Nicholas_Markley@fws.gov
Rachel Neuenhoff, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Rachel_Neuenhoff@fws.gov
Michael Clancy, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, michael.clancy@dec.ny.gov
Donald Einhouse, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, donald.einhouse@dec.ny.gov
John Sweka, US Fish and Wildlife Service, John_Sweka@fws.gov

Abstract

Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescencs) were historically abundant throughout the Laurentian Great Lakes; particularly within Lake Erie. Overexploitation, migration impediments, habitat alterations, and water quality issues are attributed to the dramatic decline in abundances of lake sturgeon within Lake Erie beginning in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Over the past century, lake sturgeon abundance within Lake Erie has been relatively unknown and thought to be greatly diminished. Recent efforts have identified a remnant population of lake sturgeon within the eastern basin of Lake Erie. Gillnet sampling and acoustic telemetry have helped elucidate life history aspects of this remnant population including spawning habitat, age distribution, movement, and residency that can be used to assess the populations status. 

1. Keyword
Lake Erie

2. Keyword
assessments

3. Keyword
fish management

4. Additional Keyword
Lake Sturgeon