Predictors of Walleye Growth and Survival in Michigan Hatchery Ponds

Abstract

Walleyes Sander vitreus are extensively cultured across Michigan, with highly variable success resulting in substantial differences in growth and survival. The present study was undertaken in 2005 and 2006 to determine the relationship between abiotic components (temperature, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels), prey (zooplankton and benthic macroinvertebrate) availability, and stocking density in ponds in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and the growth and survival of walleyes in these ponds. Besides fertilization of some of the ponds, there was no management of the ponds until harvest. Ponds were grouped by similarity of abiotic and biotic factors. Correlations among walleye length, weight, and stocking density, as well as between walleye percent survival and stocking density, provided contradictory results between years. Walleye growth and survival were correlated with planktonic prey densities and nutrient levels. Although these interactions among abiotic variables, prey availability, and walleye growth and survival exemplify the complexity of walleye culture at multiple geographic locations, nutrient and prey availability determine growth and survival across sites.

Received June 3, 2010; accepted February 7, 2011

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank J. Bailer, P. Atwood, J. Lampinen, and A. Carl for field and laboratory assistance. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources employees, including D. Anson, J. Baker, D. Barnard, T. Frontjes, O. Gannon, R. Histed, K. Schrouder, K. Smith, M. Smith, and J. Stark, provided information and assistance in the field. M. Monfils and two anonymous reviewers provided suggestions for improvement. Funding for this project was provided by Central Michigan University and the Saginaw Bay Walleye Club. V. Estabrook and the Michigan Water Research Center facilitated nutrient processing.