Date of Award

6-1-1967

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Abstract

The depth distribution of goldeye, Hiodon alosoides, and yellow perch, Perea flaveseens. was studied in Moccasin Bay on the Little Missouri Arm of Garrison Reservoir, North Dakota, using a specially constructed vertical gill net (June through August, 1966). Ten other species were captured in relatively small numbers. Throughout the summer nearly all goldeye were caught at night in the upper ten feet of water. Indications were that gcldeye depth distribution was affected more by light and feeding habits than by the limnological factors measured. Small numbers of yellow perch caught in June indicated no distinct depth preference; however, all yellow perch caught during July and August were captured between 25 feet and the bottom at 5D feet. It was thought that higher temperatures prevailing in the upper waters during July and August might account for yellow perch being caught in deeper water during those months. Even though the Little Missouri River is heavily silt-laden, investigation of the river-reservoir confluence failed to reveal a density current. Extremely high turbidity levels in the upper end of the Little Missouri Arm of the reservoir may affect fish distribution.

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