Modelling feeding, growth, and habitat selection in larval Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua): observations and model predictions in a macrocosm environment
Authored by Oyvind Fiksen, Trond Kristiansen, Arild Folkvord
Date Published: 2007
DOI: 10.1139/f06-176
Sponsors:
Norwegian Research Council (NRF)
Platforms:
No platforms listed
Model Documentation:
Other Narrative
Flow charts
Mathematical description
Model Code URLs:
Model code not found
Abstract
Individual-based models (IBMs) integrate behavioural, physiological, and
developmental features and differences among individuals. Building on
previous process-based models, we developed an IBM of larval Atlantic
cod (Gadus morhua) that included foraging, size-, temperature-, and
food-limited growth, and environmental factors such as prey-field, turbulence, and light. Direct comparison between larval fish IBMs and
experimental studies is lacking. Using data from a macrocosm study on
growth and feeding of larval cod, we forced the model with observed
temperature and prey-field and compared model predictions with observed
distribution, diet, size-at-age, and specific growth rates. We explored
implications of habitat selection rules on predicted growth rates. We
analyze the sensitivity of model predictions by the Latin Hypercube
Sampling method and individual parameter perturbation. Food limitation
prevented larvae from growing at their physiological maximum, especially
in the period 5-17 days post hatch (DPH). Active habitat selection had
the potential to enhance larval growth rates. The model predicted
temperature-limited growth rates for first-feeding larvae (5-20 DPH)
when prey density is > 5 nauplii-L-1. After age 20 DPH, maximum modelled
growth required a diet of copepodites. Simulated growth rates were.close
to observed values except for the period just after the start of
exogenous feeding when prey density was low.
Tags
turbulence
Populations
Temperature
Sensitivity-analysis
Fish
Vertical-distribution
Georges-bank
Dependent growth
Foraging
behavior
Error analysis