Recent Colonization of a Major Salmon-Producing Lake in British Columbia by Pacific Lamprey (Lampetra tridentata)

Abstract

Pacific lamprey (Lampetra tridentata) were first observed in Babine Lake, the largest natural lake wholly contained in British Columbia, in 1963 and are currently found along approximately 15% of the length of the lake near the outlet. The number of spawning adults in 1982 was estimated to be 7281. Since Babine Lake is a major nursery area for sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka), the colonization of this lake by a parasitic lamprey is of concern, particularly if the species can become nonanadromous. The colonization may be beneficial if a commercial fishery can be sustained and if the species does not begin to feed in freshwater. The reason for the recent colonization is unknown but it coincides with increased human manipulation of fishes and habitat, including the removal of a major rock slide, 65 km downstream of the lake.