A Comparison of Seasonal Lipid Changes in Two Populations of Brook Char (Salvelinus fontinalis)

Abstract

Seasonal variations in lipid storage and use in female brook char Salvelinusfontinalis were compared between two native populations from contrasting central Pennsylvania streams. One population was sampled in Cherry Run, a freestone stream with low productivity. The other sampled population was from Fishing Creek, a limestone stream with high productivity. Results were correlated to reproduction. Fecundity differed between the populations. Char from Fishing Creek produced significantly more eggs. Both populations were examined for seasonal changes in lipid content of muscle tissue, viscera and ovaries. Fish from Cherry Run exhibited seasonal lipid changes in muscle and viscera. Lipid changes were associated with reproductive output. Total lipids in all body components were higher in char from Fishing Creek.