The use of artificial spawning substrates as media to support the reproduction of Eurasian perch in Lake Piediluco

Lake Piediluco is a naturally regulated lake used for hydroelectric purposes. Management of the lake and the eutrophic conditions of its waters have had a negative impact on fish populations, particularly that of Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis L.). In order to increase the natural reproduction of this species, an experimental program was undertaken from 1997 to 2003 to facilitate reproduction by providing artificial spawning substrates. In Lake Piediluco perch spawn from March to May. Egg ribbons ranged in length from 30 to 180 cm and contained from 12,740 to 205,466 eggs. The fraction of degenerated eggs ranged from 0.20% to 63.30% (average 10.20%). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of artificial substrates as suitable substrates for the reproduction of perch. Guest editors: R. L. Welcomme & G. Marmulla Hydropower, Flood Control and Water Abstraction: Implications for Fish and Fisheries