Investigating spawning methods for two native Southwestern fishes: implications for potential live bait use

Authors: Kristopher J. Stahr

Year: 2016 (xlviii)

Abstract

Live baitfishing is an economically and socially important form of recreational fishing in the United States. However, the majority of baitfish used in the Southwest are non-native and can negatively affect aquatic ecosystems (including native fishes). In addition, anglers regularly released unused live baitfish, and baitfish can now be transported easily using equipment readily available to sportsman. Thus an imperative need exists for baitfish that do not possess the risk to native fish and aquatic ecosystems tha t non- native baitfish do. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate different methods of spawning for two native Southwestern fishes in Arizona (Sonora suckers Catostomus insignis and longfin dace Agosia chrysogaster and evaluate those species for potential live bait use. The first phase of this project focused on culture methods of Sonora suckers. In early spring 2016, twenty-three Sonora suckers were collected and transported to the Department’s Aquatic Research and Conservation Center (ARCC) for spawning. Fish were injected OvaPrim’ hormone, and several fish developed eggs and milt. Two pairs of fish ripened enough to spawn and eggs and milt were physically stripped and fertilized. Eggs were allowed to incubate within hatching jars and the majority of fish hatched after six days. Overall, our preliminary results indicate that Sonora suckers may be feasible for large- scale production. The next phase of this project is focused on developing spawning methods for longfin dace, and to continue refinement of spawning methods for Sonora suckers.