Habitat Use by Adult Paddlefish in the Upper Mississippi River

摘要

Seventeen paddlefish were tracked in Pools 12 and 13 of the upper Mississippi River during summer 1980 and spring and summer 1981. Interpool movement occurred during spring high-water periods when dam gates were lifted to create a free-flowing river. Habitat use varied by season; selection was greatest for tailwater and channel habitats, although strong association with one backwater slough was evident. Paddlefish often congregated near man-made structures that created eddies and reduced current velocities.