Evaluating the abiotic and biotic characteristics of Larks Lake to predict the success of a larger fishes population.

Abstract

Larks Lake, Emmett County, Michigan is a small marl lake with a littoral zone that extends throughout the depth of the lake. The Larks Lake association is interested in preserving the game fishes populations that appear to be in decline (Tip of the Mitt, 2006). A study done 20 years ago identified the lake as not able to support a healthy game fishes population (Anderson and Ridley, 1993). Through minnow trapping, and seining we observed the fishes communities throughout the lake specifically in two habitats, reedy and sandy. We also constructed a point data map of the available fish structure in the lake. Despite Anderson and Ridley’s (1993) statement that the lake could only sustain a limited game fishes population, we found an increase in the game fishes of the lake. We also sampled zooplankton to evaluate the success of an increase in bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) in the lake, and found that the lake would be able to support a maximum growth rate of larval bluegill (Dai, 1997). We determined that there has been a change in the fishes communities of Larks Lake, and that the scheduled stocking of 3500 bluegill in September 2013 will be successful.