Distribution patterns of young of the year (YOY) native and non-native salmonid species in Mamachi Creek, Hokkaido, Japan

Abstract

Information on young of the year (YOY) salmonid habitat is required to devise effective salmonid management methodology. In this study, we clarified the relationships between habitat characteristics and distribution patterns of YOY native salmonid species (white-spotted charr Salvelinus leucomaenis and masu salmon Oncorhynchus masou) and YOY non-native brown trout Salmo trutta by field survey. YOY brown trout was abundant where river scale was larger than habitat where YOY white-spotted charr were abundant. YOY masu salmon appeared frequently in the stream. Our results showed apparent habitat segregation between YOY white-spotted charr and YOY brown trout.