Individual-based model simulations of a zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) induced energy shunt on walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) populations in Oneida Lake, New York

Authored by Kenneth A Rose, LG Rudstam, JL Forney, ES Rutherford, EL Mills, CM Mayer

Date Published: 1999

DOI: 10.1139/cjfas-56-11-2148

Sponsors: United States Department of Energy (DOE) Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)

Platforms: No platforms listed

Model Documentation: Other Narrative

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) recently invaded North American aquatic ecosystems and are hypothesized to impact lakes by increasing water clarity through filtration and shunting energy from pelagic to benthic pathways (ES effect). We used an individual-based model of Oneida Lake, New York, walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) populations to simulate ES effects on percids by lowering zooplankton density and production rates and increasing benthos rates. We performed 50-year simulations involving both zooplankton and benthos changes together and each change alone. We also performed simulations to determine robustness of model predictions under different assumed levels of zooplankton and benthos, increased forage fish and mayflies, and walleye stocking. Predicted ES effects were elimination of walleye high-recruitment years, resulting in a 30\% reduction in adult walleye abundance. Yellow perch adult abundance increased by 6\% due to reduced walleye predation. Neither component (zooplankton or benthos) of ES generated the same total response for yellow perch as both components together. Simulated walleye stocking and increased forage fish density had little effect on model predictions. Increased mayfly densities offset predicted ES effects by buffering predation on juvenile percids. Model predictions of ES impacts on percids generally were consistent with observed changes in Oneida Lake since zebra mussel arrived.

Tags

invasion growth Density Survival Colonization Communities Abundance Huron Saginaw bay Great-lakes