Suitability of compensatory saltmarsh habitat for feeding and diet of multiple estuarine fish species |
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| Authors: | Thomas Stamp Elizabeth West Steve Colclough Shaun Plenty Benjamin Ciotti Tim Robbins Emma Sheehan |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Biological and Marine Sciences (Faculty of Science and Engineering), University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK;2. Devon and Severn Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority, Brixham Laboratory, Freshwater Quarry, Brixham, UK;3. Institute of Fisheries Management c/o 20, Chatham, UK;4. SLR Consulting Ltd, Bradford on Avon, UK;5. Domestic Fisheries & Reform Team Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, (DEFRA), York, UK |
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| Abstract: | Saltmarsh provides essential fish feeding and nursery habitat but has globally declined by 50%. We used a statistical block design to compare fish feeding activity within human-engineered or “re-aligned” saltmarsh to established saltmarsh. Linear and multivariate modelling highlighted that Thinlip Mullet (Chelon ramada) and European Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) feeding rates were 16% and 31% lower within re-aligned than established saltmarshes, whereas Gobies (Pomatoschistus spp.) fed at the same rate as in both habitats. Analysis of European bass and Goby gut contents highlighted that important detritivorous prey species were up to 85.6% lower in re-aligned sites. Lower vegetation density may have negatively affected the feeding ecologies of fishes within re-aligned sites. However, due to the ecological value and potential for further improvement or habitat development, continued assessment of the beneficial effects of re-aligned sites for fisheries and net gain perspectives is needed. |
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| Keywords: | essential fish habitat habitat restoration net gain nursery Re-aligned habitat saltmarsh |
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