The distribution, abundance, feeding habits and growth rates of fish early life stages within Gerlache Strait, Antarctica will be examined in relation to physical and biological processes. This project is part of the interdisciplinary program RACER (Research on Antarctic Ecosystem Rates). Samples were collected during one month long cruises during October-November 1989 (spring), and December 1991-January 1992 (summer) and April-May 1992 (early winter). Young fish assemblages were sampled with vertically and horizontally stratified zooplankton tows and oblique tows. Laboratory work will include stomach content analysis and growth rate determination using otolith daily growth rings. This project is the first detailed description of larval fish assemblages in nearshore Antarctic Peninsula waters. It will permit evaluation of the importance of the highly productive coastal area relative to offshore waters in supporting ichthyoplankton assemblages and mechanisms affecting larval dispersal. It will add information on higher trophic levels in this highly productive regions of the coastal ecosystem. It will also provide basic biological information on the young stages of commercially and ecologically important fish stocks.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Office of Polar Programs (OPP)
Application #
9117832
Program Officer
Polly A. Penhale
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1992-06-01
Budget End
1995-11-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
$141,755
Indirect Cost
Name
San Jose State University Foundation
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
San Jose
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
95112