Using adaptive resolution imaging sonar to investigate Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis Gray, 1835) behaviour on its only spawning ground in the Yangtze River

• DOI: 10.1111/jai.13406
• Publication Date: 2017-05-30T07:23:47Z
• Authors: T. Chang; P.-C. Lin; X. Gao; F. Liu; Z.-H. Duan; H.-Z. Liu
• Keywords: Yangtze river; Three gorges

The present study investigated the presence of Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis on its only remaining spawning ground (below Gezhauba Dam), and monitored behaviour under different environmental conditions from 24 December 2015 to 23 January 2016. A fixed ARIS (Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar) system was used a total 72 were detected during nine observations. Detections initially recorded few A. in early days late-December 2015, with an increase recordings, leading peak early-January 2016 declining thereafter. Water temperature slowly decreased period 18.1 15.7°C. During middle this decline observations peaked, suggesting that could have optimal range. Per Unit Effort (DPUE) higher night hours, peaking before dawn, circadian rhythm. Sturgeon not observed investigation period. delay decrease water caused by Three Gorges Reservoir numbers reproductively mature individuals are suspected contributed failure natural breeding.