Spectral Characteristics of Salmonid Migratory Routes from Southern Vancouver Island (British Columbia)

Abstract

Spectral irradiance was measured from 300 to 850 nm under clear and overcast skies in Saanich Inlet and Trevor Channel (Vancouver Island) using an underwater spectroradiometer. The values obtained were corrected for ocular media transmission and pigment absorption of the four visual pigments in small rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (UV, short, middle, and long wavelength sensitive), to estimate the light available to stimulate each of these photoreceptors. Light levels were compared with particle counts, Chl a, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentrations at various sites and with similar parameters previously measured for freshwater systems. There was sufficient light to stimulate all the photoreceptors down to 15 m, which was the limiting depth in Saanich Inlet for UV cone simulation and for stimulation of the β absorption band of middle wavelength cones. UV light levels diminished with increasing DOM and Chl a concentrations; however, no statistically discernable relationship was found between UV levels and Chl a concentrations with distance from the spawning rivers. Under completely overcast conditions, directionality of the sun's rays is maintained under some types of cloud cover. This indicates that navigation using polarized light may occur under variable atmospheric conditions provided enough polarized light is present in the water column.