Investigating the reproductive migration of adult hickory shad, Alosa mediocris / by Joshua Graham Murauskas.
| Author/creator | Murauskas, Joshua Graham author. |
| Other author | Rulifson, Roger A. (Roger Allen), 1951- degree supervisor. |
| Other author | East Carolina University. Department of Biology. |
| Format | Theses and dissertations |
| Production | 2006. |
| Description | 110 leaves : illustrations (some color), color map ; 28 cm |
| Supplemental Content | Access via ScholarShip |
| Subjects |
| Summary | The purpose of this study was to capture adult hickory shad along a presumed migration route in eastern North Carolina to identify attributes of the reproducing population and analyze changes that they experience through time and distance. Fish of a particular run were sampled at various points of its ascent in salt, brackish, and freshwater two consecutive years to investigate population demographics, changes in bioenergetics, and reproductive development. Males averaged 342 mm in length and females averaged 366 mm, and observed length increased with age. Hickory shad averaged 4.6 years old, and spawn two to five times during a lifetime, starting no sooner than age 3. Water temperatures were key in determining location during migration both years. Feeding decreased dramatically early in migration, and energy reserves depleted with time and distance upstream, with an average 45% drop in lipid content in females. On average, GSI increased 59.5% for males from the ocean to spawning grounds and 336.4% for females. Histology suggests that batch spawning occurred over a several week period. Strong relationships were found to exist between reproduction, physical characteristics, bioenergetics, and environmental conditions. The migratory behavior of hickory shad appears to be reinforced by ideal spawning habitat, juvenile nursery grounds, and food sources for incoming and outgoing adults. |
| General note | Presented to the faculty of the Department of Biology. |
| General note | Advisor: Roger A. Rulifson |
| Dissertation note | M.S. East Carolina University 2006 |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 64-77). |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Thèses et écrits académiques. |
Availability
| Library | Location | Call Number | Status | Item Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyner | University Archives | ASK AT SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DESK | ✔ Available | Request Material |
| Electronic Resources | Access Content Online | ✔ Available |