Theses and Dissertations Collection

Suppression programs targeting undesirable fish species are difficult and effort intensive, often requiring substantial effort by management agencies. Before suppression programs can be implemented, it is necessary to gain an in-depth understanding of the invader’s ecology to increase the effectiveness of removal efforts. This is especially true in the Green River system, Wyoming, where invasive Burbot have the potential to negatively influence native fishes and socially important fisheries. This thesis evaluated the efficacy of using angling data to monitor invasive Burbot Lota lota populations in the Green River basin and described the potential response of Burbot populations to various management scenarios. In addition, I evaluated the movement dynamics of Burbot in the Green River. My research suggests that angler-supplied Burbot are a cost-effective data source for monitoring Burbot populations. Results indicate that exploitation of mature Burbot must reach 33% to suppress lentic portions of the Green River Burbot population. Additionally, adfluvial Burbot in the upper Green River system seem to spawn near Fontenelle Reservoir. Focusing removal effort on this portion of the Green River could increase the efficiency of a suppression program.