Biological Productivity and Sustainability of Apex Predator Fish Species in Horseshoe Lake: Final Report

Biological Productivity and Sustainability of Apex Predator Fish Species in Horseshoe Lake: Final Report

Marcus Rice, Ajay Venkat, Lucas Young, Jack Moreau, Mac Marzolini, Beth Bekele

Horseshoe Lake Property Owners' Association (HLPOA), Jeff Muirhead

Tom Whillans, Trent School of the Environment

TP-4771

2018

Online

Minden Hills

Environmental Science
Biology
Fisheries
Natural Resource Management

The aim of this report will be addressed and accomplished through researching various characteristics (e.g. seasonal water level fluctuations and nutrient composition) of Horseshoe Lake and apex predatory fish that were identified by HLPOA. The report will first review the partnership programs involved in monitoring the health of Horseshoe Lake, particularly through analyzing parameters like total phosphorus (TP), calcium, turbidity, etc. Studies done on oligotrophic lakes with similar characteristics will also contribute to determining the survivability of certain apex predatory fish. The report will then review the life history of the apex predatory fish, which will help determine what type of lake ecosystems they can best adapt to. The effects of fishing pressures will also be identified for the purpose of contributing an understanding of tolerance levels of these fish. Lastly, an analysis of the benefits of wetlands for the survivability of these fish species will be provided to help determine if the provincially significant wetland (PSW) located within Horseshoe Lake will contribute to fish health.