Seasonal Use of a New England Estuary by Foraging Contingents of Migratory Striped Bass

• DOI: 10.1577/t08-222.1
• Publication Date: 2009-12-10T18:32:47Z
• Authors: Sarah M. Pautzke; Martha E. Mather; John T. Finn; Linda A. Deegan; Robert M. Muth
• Keywords: Morone saxatilis; Morone

Abstract Using acoustic telemetry on migratory striped bass Morone saxatilis in Plum Island Estuary (PIE), Massachusetts, we found that (335–634 mm total length) tagged the spring and summer of 2005 ( n = 14) 2006 46) stayed estuary for an average 66.0 d 72.2 2006. Striped spent most time two specific reaches: middle Sound lower Rowley River. In both years, three different use‐groups were observed PIE. Short‐term visitors 24) only briefly (range 5–20 d). Two groups seasonal residents more than 30 d, either River or 22). Within PIE, seasonal‐resident may be foraging contingents learn how to feed efficiently parts estuary. These distinct within‐estuary use patterns could have implications condition prey impact.