Spatiotemporal Distribution and Population Characteristics of a Nonnative Lake Trout Population, with Implications for Suppression

Abstract

We evaluated the distribution and population characteristics of nonnative lake trout Salvelinus namaycush in Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park, Montana, to provide biological data in support of a potential suppression program. Using ultrasonic telemetry, we identified spatial and temporal distribution patterns by tracking 36 adult lake trout (1,137 relocations). Lake trout rarely occupied depths greater than 30 m and were commonly located in the upper hypolimnion directly below the metalimnion during thermal stratification. After breakdown of the metalimnion in the fall, lake trout primarily aggregated at two spawning sites. Lake trout population characteristics were similar to those of populations within the species’ native range. However, lake trout in Lake McDonald exhibited lower total annual mortality (13.2%), later maturity (age 12 for males, age 15 for females), lower body condition, and slower growth than are typically observed in the southern extent of their range. These results will be useful in determining where to target suppression activities (e.g., gillnetting, trap-netting, or electrofishing) and in evaluating responses to suppression efforts. Similar evaluations of lake trout distribution patterns and population characteristics are recommended to increase the likelihood that suppression programs will succeed.

Received March 24, 2009; accepted November 23, 2010

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank B. Michels, T. McMahon, C. Kruse, J. Tilmant, C. Muhlfeld, and R. Hunt for their assistance and technical advice. J. Giersch, M. Meeuwig, K. Hunter, J. Rasmussen, D. Pewitt, C. Penne, M. Jaeger, P. Gerrity, G. Ludwig, J. Frederick, D. Downing, D. Hickey, and T. Stuth provided field assistance. J. Flesch provided laboratory assistance. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided field equipment and personnel support. This project was funded by the U.S. National Park Service. Any use of trade, product, or firm names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.