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Fish stranding in freshwater systems: sources, consequences, and mitigation
Alexander Nagrodski1, Graham D Raby, Caleb T Hasler
1Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and the Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada. anagrodski@gmail.com
Journal of Environmental Management
|April 7, 2012
Summary
Fish stranding occurs due to rapid water level changes from human activities and natural events. More research is needed on stranding
Area of Science:
- Aquatic Ecology
- Fisheries Management
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Fish stranding is a significant issue caused by fluctuating water levels.
- Anthropogenic factors, particularly hydropower and irrigation, are primary drivers.
- Natural events like floods and droughts also contribute to fish stranding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on freshwater fish stranding.
- To identify sources, consequences, and mitigation strategies for fish stranding.
- To highlight knowledge gaps in understanding fish stranding impacts.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of peer-reviewed articles on fish stranding.
- Analysis of the proportion of studies focusing on anthropogenic versus natural causes.
- Synthesis of information on stranding consequences and mitigation techniques.
Main Results:
- ~65.5% of studies focused on hydropower and irrigation-related stranding.
- Anthropogenic sources accounted for 81.8% of literature, natural sources for 19.9%.
- Sublethal effects, long-term population dynamics, and ecosystem impacts of stranding are poorly understood.
Conclusions:
- While fish mortality from stranding is documented, sublethal and population-level impacts require further investigation.
- Understanding stranding causes is crucial for developing sustainable mitigation strategies.
- Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps for effective fisheries and ecosystem management.
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