Influence of the Abundance, Size, and Yolk Reserves of Juvenile Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) on Predation by Freshwater Fishes in a Small Coastal Stream

Abstract

Predator–prey interactions between juvenile chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) and piscivores were studied in a small coastal stream and in sections of a controlled-flow channel. The predators were primarily large [Formula: see text] rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and large [Formula: see text] coho salmon (O. kisutch). The relationship between chum salmon fry abundance and the quantity consumed by predators suggested a type II functional response. Neither prey size nor prey abundance influenced predation, but predators did select fry with relatively high yolk reserves. Our results suggest that the numbers of juvenile chum salmon needed to satiate predators and to enhance fry survival are attainable by enhancement projects located on smaller rivers and streams.