2003 Opportunities

Temperature Effect on Predator-Prey Dynamics
Project Advisor: Thomas Hurst, Ph.D.
Project:Temperature is an overriding factor affecting the physiology and ecology of fishes. In addition to limiting the swimming ability and growth of fishes, low temperature may alter the prey behavior associated with predator avoidance; activity level, tendency to school and vigilance, making them more or less vulnerable to predation. Our facilities allow us to examine experimentally the effects of temperature and other environmental factors on the interactions between predators and their prey. Opportunities exist for an intern to participate in these studies, using juvenile walleye pollock as a model prey species. Walleye pollock is a principle component of North Pacific foodwebs and supports important regional fisheries.

Turbidity Effects upon Predator-Prey Interactions
Project Advisor: Clifford Ryer, Ph.D.
Project: Turbidity is a common feature of coastal oceans, estuaries, rivers, lakes and streams. Generally speaking, turbidity has little influence upon the ability of planktivorous fish to locate and capture zooplankton prey, which are visually detected at distance on the order of tens of centimeters. In contrast, fish that prey upon planktivores typically visually detect prey at distances of meters, and are severely impaired by turbidity. Not surprisingly, planktivores are often most abundant in turbid waters, where they are able to feed, but are at lower risk of predation. However, little is known regarding whether or not planktivores have additional specific adaptations for life in turbid waters which further aid them in avoiding predation. Opportunities exist for an intern to conduct research on the effects of turbidity upon the anti-predator strategies of planktivorous marine fish.