A Fish's Gotta Eat, Don't He

[Loren]

Bill,

We talk a lot on this board about fish (duhhhhh) and about artificial fish food, but not much about the real thing. Any microbiological studies on the Hootch? I want to know what are the major species (x% Caddis, y% mayflies - and species of them). Do these studies show any stress or lack of it (for example, how are the stoneflies doing and other pollution sensitive species)?
While I got you here, what kind of caddis builds the "stick" houses I see all over the rocks at Jones Bridge? Color of the adult?

Loren

[Bill Couch]

Loren,
I'll have to refer you to Lisa Bohm (770 781 6888, call after March, she is getting married and is on leave), river biologist for insect info. She is conducting an informal bug survey of the river in conjunction with Chris Scalli. This is the first one I know of in 30 years.

On your first question, fish need to eat to grow, but they can go without food for long periods of time without dying. Lisa conducted a series of electrofishing samples and did stomach samples. These indicated fish ate very little during the December/January period and lost weight. This is fairly common.

Bill

[Bill Couch]

I should have mentioned. I have had the entire hatchery (all the fish) off feed for 6 weeks without knowingly starving any of them. I'm sure they could go lots longer.
Bill