The largest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Superior, contains a plethora of species including the native lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush). A recently published research paper, conducted as part of FlowWest employee Liz Stebbins master’s thesis, describes a model built to estimate growth variation in a population of lake trout in Lake Superior. Conducted through Michigan State University’s Fisheries and Wildlife department, this study focuses on an unusual subject: data recovered from otoliths, commonly known as fish ear bones.
Similar to the annual rings of a tree, otoliths provide a window into the past, revealing crucial details about the growth history of individual fish. Liz Stebbins and her collaborators analyzed growth data derived from these otoliths, using them to construct a sophisticated model aimed at estimating growth variation within and among populations.
"In our research," explains Liz, "we aimed not only to understand how lake trout grow but also to uncover the factors influencing their growth patterns. This knowledge is crucial for effective fisheries management and conservation efforts." Now a data scientist at FlowWest, this work emphasizes the practical implications of their findings. While this study delved into the inner ear intricacies of this enigmatic species, Liz uses data science in her daily work life to study model lifecycle dynamics for salmonid conservation purposes.
Liz Stebbins' thesis-turned-publication represents a significant contribution to the field of aquatic ecology. It not only sheds light on the complex dynamics of lake trout growth but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in conservation science. Thank you Liz for your contribution to fisheries science and our data science team here at FlowWest.
The paper is available to read in the October 2024 edition of Fisheries Research.
Photo courtesy of USF&W.
