Giant Alien Freshwater Fish Aggregations
Author Information
Author(s): Boulêtreau Stéphanie, Cucherousset Julien, Villéger Sébastien, Masson Rémi, Santoul Frédéric
Primary Institution: Université de Toulouse, UPS, INP, UMR 5245 EcoLab
Hypothesis
What ecological effects do aggregations of giant alien freshwater fish have on their environment?
Conclusion
The aggregations of Wels catfish can significantly impact freshwater ecosystems by releasing high levels of nutrients.
Supporting Evidence
- The aggregations were consistently observed at the same location during multiple surveys.
- The average total biomass of the aggregations was estimated at 651 kg.
- These aggregations can release up to 70 mg P m−2 h−1 and 400 mg N m−2 h−1.
Takeaway
A lot of big fish gathered in one place can help plants grow by giving them nutrients through their waste.
Methodology
Seventeen snorkelling surveys were conducted to observe the aggregations in the Rhône River.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific location and may not represent other environments.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on aggregations of Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) in the Rhône River.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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